Pittsburgh Criminal Defense Blog | Worgul, Sarna & Ness

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Is Pennsylvania a Stop and ID State? Know Your Rights During Police Encounters

Key Takeaways: Is PA A Stop and ID State? Stop and ID in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania is not a “Stop and ID” state. You are only required to provide ID during traffic stops or if detained or arrested with reasonable suspicion…

What is Pennsylvania’s 5-Day Rule for DUI Charges?

Key Takeaways: Pennsylvania’s 5-Day Rule for DUIs 5-Day Rule: DUI offenders must be released after arrest unless deemed a flight risk or danger, and charges must be filed within five days. DUI Filing Timeline: The 5-Day Rule ensures timely filings…

How to Find Out if You Have a Warrant in Pennsylvania

TL;DR: Do I Have a Warrant in Pennsylvania? Types of Warrants: In Pennsylvania, there are bench warrants (for missing court or violating orders) and arrest warrants (issued based on probable cause for criminal activity). How to Check for a Warrant:…

What to Do if a No Contact Order Is Issued Against You in Pittsburgh, PA

No Contact Order PA In Pennsylvania, a no-contact order, also known as a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order, is a court order that restricts the abuser from contacting the victim, their children, or anyone else named in the order. This…

Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law Explained: Regulations, Tiers, Requirements

What Is Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law? Pennsylvania’s Megan’s Law is the State Police’s obligation to create and maintain a sex offender registry. Such registry must include persons convicted of Certain Sexual Offenses in Pennsylvania or another jurisdiction. As of 2026, this…

What to Do if You’ve Been Arrested for Using SkipTheGames.com

When people hear the word “prostitution,” they often think of some seedy motel or dark alleyway. But nowadays, illegal escorting services are commonly found elsewhere, on the Internet. One study estimates that 80% of all sex sales now happen online….

Illegal & Legal Weapons You Can Carry in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh weapon laws are broad. Knowing your local regulations is the best defense against the justice system. The type of weapon, its status, and your location all factor in when deciding whether you were lawfully or unlawfully possessing a weapon….

How to Get a DUI Expunged in Pennsylvania

Key Takeaways: Pennsylvania DUI Expungement In Pennsylvania, certain DUI offenses can be expunged, especially for those who complete an Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition (ARD) program, which can result in automatic expungement after 10 years. DUI expungement is possible for non-convictions, summary…

Do First-Time DUI Offenders Go to Jail in Pennsylvania?

If you’ve just been arrested for driving under the influence, you’re probably asking one question above all else: Do first-time DUI offenders go to jail? Many people assume a first offense only leads to a fine or probation. But under…

When Does a State Crime in Pennsylvania Move to Federal Court?

Most criminal offenses in Pennsylvania are handled in state court. State prosecutors and judges manage the vast majority of criminal cases, from DUI and assault to theft and drug possession. However, some situations elevate a case to the federal level….