Philadelphia Criminal Defense Law Firm
If you are arrested for a crime in Philadelphia or any of the surrounding areas, then contact a criminal defense lawyer from Alva & Moscow, LLC - a Philadelphia criminal defense law firm. Our aggressive defense attorneys will investigate the charges against you, find all exculpatory evidence, and seek to suppress or exclude incriminating evidence against you.
We fight to negotiate the best possible resolution in your case. If you were falsely accused or if the prosecutor cannot prove an element of the charge, then the best result is getting the charges dropped. In the event an acceptable resolution cannot be negotiated before trial, our attorneys will be prepared to fight for the "not guilty" verdict in front of a jury. Call us today at (215) 665-1695 to schedule a consultation.
We represent clients throughout the courthouses in Philadelphia, including felony-level criminal cases in the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas (often called the "First Judicial District") and misdemeanor-level criminal cases in the Municipal Courts. Additionally, our attorneys are experienced in fighting cases in federal court, including the federal United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in the James A. Byrne United States Courthouse.
We serve those throughout the Philadelphia area, including in Chester County, Montgomery County, Delaware County and Bucks County. We can also represent clients all over Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Types of Criminal Defense Charges
A person can be charged in both federal and state court. If you face federal charges, the attorney representing you must be licensed in the appropriate court. At Alva & Moscow, LLC - Philadelphia criminal defense law firm, attorneys are licensed in Pennsylvania and New Jersey state and federal courts.
Whether in federal court or state court, and whether a felony or misdemeanor, all accusations must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Charges include:
- Homicide
- Violent Crimes
- Drug Charges
- Marijuana Offenses
- Drunk Driving / DUI
- Firearm / Weapons Charges
- Smuggling
- Sex Crimes
- Domestic Violence
- Property and Theft Offenses
- White Collar Crimes
- Serious Traffic Offenses
- Juvenile Offenses
- Internet / Cyber Crimes
If convicted, every crime will have a different penalty, including jail time, steep fines and more. An attorney familiar with the Pennsylvania criminal process can advise you on the possible punishments and help devise a strong defense strategy.
Philadelphia Criminal Defense Law Firm
Philadelphia Criminal Defense FAQs
What should I do if I have been arrested in Philadelphia?
Say nothing beyond your name and address, and ask for a lawyer immediately. Under Miranda, once you clearly request counsel, police must stop questioning you. Do not consent to a search of your phone, car, or home, and do not try to explain your side at the station. Call a Philadelphia criminal defense attorney at (215) 665-1695 before your preliminary arraignment.
How long do prosecutors have to file criminal charges in Pennsylvania?
Most Pennsylvania felonies and misdemeanors carry a five-year statute of limitations under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5552, while many misdemeanors are limited to two years. Murder, voluntary manslaughter, and several sexual offenses against minors have no time limit at all. The clock can also pause if the accused leaves the state.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania grades misdemeanors in three degrees carrying maximum sentences of one, two, and five years, and felonies in three degrees carrying seven, ten, and twenty years. Summary offenses, the lowest level, carry up to 90 days. The grading determines not just the maximum sentence but also eligibility for diversion, expungement, and firearms rights.
Will my criminal case go to trial?
Most Pennsylvania criminal cases resolve before trial through dismissal, diversion, or a negotiated plea. That does not mean trial preparation is optional. Prosecutors offer better terms to defense attorneys who are demonstrably ready to try the case, so the value of an offer usually reflects how prepared the defense is.
What happens at a preliminary hearing?
At a preliminary hearing the Commonwealth must show a prima facie case, meaning enough evidence that a crime was committed and you probably committed it. This is a lower standard than proof beyond a reasonable doubt. It is also the defense's first chance to cross-examine the Commonwealth's witnesses on the record and to get charges reduced or dismissed.
Can a criminal record be expunged or sealed in Pennsylvania?
Yes, in several circumstances. Charges that were dismissed, withdrawn, or ended in acquittal can be expunged, as can cases completed through the ARD program. Pennsylvania's Clean Slate law automatically seals many summary convictions after ten years and some second-degree and third-degree misdemeanors after ten conviction-free years. Felony convictions generally cannot be expunged without a pardon.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Philadelphia?
Fees depend on the grading of the charge, the county, and whether the case is likely to go to trial. Alva & Moscow handles most criminal matters on a flat fee quoted after we review the charges, so you know the cost up front rather than watching an hourly clock. The initial consultation is free.
Finding The Best
Attorney in Philadelphia For Your Case
If you are facing any kind of injustice, be it a wrongful criminal accusation or being injured by the negligence of another, a fearless Philadelphia attorney from Alva & Moscow, LLC can fight zealously for your rights. We can serve as your criminal defense lawyer or your personal injury attorney. We apply our principles of aggressive representation to seek the best results for you.
We represent clients throughout the Philadelphia area, including Bucks, Chester, Montgomery and Delaware Counties, as well as Pennsylvania and New Jersey.