What To Do When Your Child is Arrested at School in Pennsylvania
All parents dread getting a phone call from the school telling them their child is in trouble. However, when their child’s acts amount to criminal behavior, the police get involved. What Is the Pennsylvania Safe Schools Act? The Pennsylvania Safe…
What if I’m Arrested While on ARD?
TL;DR of Arrested While on ARD ARD is a diversion program for first-time offenders — complete it successfully and you can get your record expunged Conditions are strict: monthly check-ins, travel restrictions, no weapons/drugs, pay all fines, and you must…
Why Knowing the Number of PA Law Enforcement Agencies Matters
Pennsylvania has enacted laws to hold police officers accountable for misconduct, but how do citizens know that law enforcement actions are accurately reported? With PA Act 57, the legislature created a database that is supposed to track misconduct. More than…
Can My Social Media Be Used As Evidence in Court in Pennsylvania?
Yes, in many cases, your social media posts can be used as evidence against you in a criminal case. However, there are ways to protect yourself. Limiting what you post could prevent the prosecutor from finding incriminating content. Always remember…
How Your Attorney’s Experience as a Public Defender Benefits Your Case
Public defenders have hefty caseloads, and unlike private attorneys, their cases are assigned to them. This means they handle all types of cases – and a lot of them. The attorneys at Worgul, Sarna & Ness use their history at…
The Real Cost of Court Fees & Fines in Pittsburgh & Allegheny County
When people are exposed to the criminal justice system for the first time, they are usually surprised by how unfair it is – especially when it comes to money. If you’re wealthy and facing charges, some cards aren’t stacked against…
How To Get Your Record Sealed or Expunged in Pittsburgh
If you’ve served your sentence and avoided any trouble with the law, you deserve a fresh start. You may be able to prevent the public from learning about your criminal record, or it may be erased from state files. Lifting…
What Makes Someone Ineligible for ARD?
TL;DR Pennsylvania ARD Program A “Clean Slate” Opportunity: The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) is a diversion program for first-time offenders that allows you to complete probation and treatment to have your charges entirely dropped and expunged without pleading guilty. Core…
How to Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent & Get an Attorney
We have all seen the reading of a suspect’s Miranda rights on TV and maybe even in real life. The police remind us that we have certain rights, including: The right to remain silent, The right to consult with an…
Police Need a Warrant for a DUI Blood Test in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has ruled that the police cannot draw your blood without your permission–even if you are unconscious–unless they have a warrant. There are only a few, emergency situations when the police may take blood without your consent….
