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When Your Future Is On The Line, Turn To Us

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Huntingdon County

A Huntingdon County criminal case can begin with a police investigation, an arrest, or a formal charge. What happens next depends on the allegations, the evidence, and the stage of the case. The criminal justice process can be unfamiliar, especially if you have never faced a charge before. At Decker Bradburn, our criminal defense attorneys can explain what the court process involves and what you may need to address at each stage.

Criminal Investigations and Arrests in Huntingdon County

Police may question you, other people involved, and eyewitnesses; collect statements; search property; or review video and other evidence during an investigation. If you are arrested or charged, you may need to attend court hearings and respond to the allegations. An arrest does not prove guilt, and the prosecution must establish the required elements of the charged offense. We can review how police gathered evidence and identify possible violations of your rights.

You do not have to wait until an arrest to seek legal advice. If police want to question you about a suspected offense, our criminal defense lawyers in Huntingdon County can explain your rights and help you understand the risks of answering questions. Statements you make may later become evidence in the case against you.

The Charge Determines What the Prosecution Must Prove

Common Pennsylvania criminal charges include DUI, drug possession, theft, firearms possession, criminal trespass, assault, sex offenses, robbery, burglary, and underage drinking. Each offense has different legal requirements and possible penalties. For instance, a drug case may involve questions about who possessed the substance, while a theft case may depend on evidence of intent. A DUI case may raise questions about the traffic stop or chemical testing. A defense should address the case’s specific facts and legal issues.

The exact charge also affects the possible penalties and available defenses. Our criminal defense attorneys can assess whether the evidence supports the filed charge and whether the prosecution can prove each required element. The facts may also raise questions about whether a different charge is appropriate.

Criminal Convictions Can Affect Work, School, and Driving Privileges

If you are convicted, you may face issues with employment, professional licensing, education, or a driver’s license. College students may also face separate disciplinary action from their school. Some defendants may qualify for Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, which can offer a chance to earn dismissal of eligible charges by completing program requirements.

ARD is not available in every case. The district attorney generally decides which defendants to recommend, and participants must complete the program’s conditions. When the court dismisses charges after successful completion, Pennsylvania Rule of Criminal Procedure 320 provides for an order expunging the arrest record, subject to the rule’s requirements. Our Huntingdon County criminal defense lawyers can evaluate your eligibility and explain the potential effects before you decide whether to pursue the program.

Evidence and Court Hearings in a Huntingdon County Criminal Case

Police reports, witness statements, photographs, messages, video footage, and test results may all affect your criminal case. Some evidence may be incomplete, unreliable, or obtained unlawfully. We can examine the evidence, question witness accounts, and challenge evidence when the law allows. Depending on your case, the available options may include seeking dismissal, negotiating a resolution, or taking your case to trial.

Court hearings may address bail, disputes over evidence, or whether the case is ready to proceed. Preparing for each stage helps the defense address issues before the court. Our Huntingdon County criminal defense attorneys can also explain what to expect at upcoming hearings and help you prepare for decisions that may affect your case.

Talk With Us About Your Huntingdon County Criminal Case

Every criminal case has its own facts, evidence, and legal issues. If you are under investigation or facing criminal charges, our Huntingdon County criminal defense attorneys can review the allegations, explain your options, and help you prepare for court. Call Decker Bradburn at 814-308-8895 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation.