Criminal Defense Attorney in Delaware County, PA
Looking for experienced criminal defense attorneys in Delaware County, PA, or criminal defense lawyers in Chester County, PA? Mark Hauser and his legal team have the skills and experience to provide you with an aggressive defense for any criminal charges you may be facing. As your legal advocates, they will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge any questionable evidence, and fight tirelessly for the better possible outcome. Read on to learn more about how a criminal defense lawyer can help you through this difficult time.
We Handle the Following Criminal Defense Cases
If you've been accused of a crime in Delaware County, PA, you need legal representation you can trust. The criminal defense attorneys at Mark Hauser handle cases involving:
DUI charges, including first offense, repeat offenses, and charges causing injury/death
Drug crimes such as possession, distribution, trafficking
Theft, robbery, and burglary
Assault, battery, domestic violence
Weapons charges
Sex crimes
White collar crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion
No matter how simple or complex your criminal case may be, Mark Hauser has the experience to build the strongest defense on your behalf. He will thoroughly examine the details of your particular situation to find every opportunity to get charges reduced or dismissed.
A Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help Reduce Charges & Sentencing
Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming, but an attorney can help guide you through the process and advocate for your rights. An experienced criminal defense lawyer like Mark Hauser knows how to analyze the prosecution's case for flaws, negotiate with the district attorney's office, and identify important mitigating factors that could lead to reduced charges or sentencing.
While you may feel tempted to simply plead guilty and accept your punishment, an attorney can often negotiate a better deal or even get charges dropped by finding issues with how the case was handled. Never underestimate the power of having an aggressive defense lawyer on your side - it could make all the difference in the outcome.
The Steps in a Criminal Case
If you've been arrested or charged with a crime in Delaware County, PA, you're probably wondering what comes next. Here's an overview of how a typical criminal case proceeds in Pennsylvania:
Initial Appearance
This usually occurs within 72 hours of your arrest. You'll be formally notified of the charges against you. The judge decides whether to set bail or release you.
Preliminary Hearing
Within 10 days of your arrest, the judge reviews the prosecutor's evidence and decides if there's enough to proceed. Your defense attorney can argue to get the charges dismissed at this stage.
Formal Arraignment
You'll be formally arraigned and asked to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest). Your attorney may negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor here.
Pre-Trial Motions
Your lawyer can file motions challenging evidence, requesting dismissal of charges, or seeking to suppress your statements to police.
Trial
If no plea agreement is reached, your case will go to trial before a judge or jury. Your attorney will defend you by cross-examining witnesses, objecting to evidence, and arguing for acquittal.
Sentencing
If found guilty, the judge will impose punishment within the statutory guidelines. Your attorney can argue for the lightest sentence possible.
Appeal
You can appeal your conviction or sentence if errors were made during the trial. Your defense lawyer can handle the appeal for you.
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney to guide you through every step can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney in Delaware County, PA, can vary greatly depending on your charges, the complexity of your case, your lawyer's experience level, and other factors. However, here are some general guidelines on what to expect:
Simple misdemeanor cases often range from $2,000 to $5,000 total.
More serious misdemeanor charges like DUI or assault may cost between $2,500 to $7,500.
Low-level felonies typically range from $5,000 to $15,000.
Violent or drug felony charges can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000.
Major felony cases like murder may cost up to $100,000 with experts and investigations.
Your attorney will likely require an upfront retainer and then bill you periodically as work is completed. Rates are usually based on an hourly fee. It's important to understand these costs, so be sure to discuss fees in your initial consultation.
The expense of a criminal defense lawyer is an investment in your future. An experienced attorney has the skills to negotiate reduced penalties, divert cases into treatment programs, or even get charges dismissed - saving you far greater costs over the long run. Don't let the initial price tag deter you from seeking the strong legal defense you deserve.
Are You Ready to Fight Criminal Charges in Delaware County, PA? Schedule a Consultation With Our Defense Attorney Today
Facing criminal charges in Delaware County, PA is scary. But with an aggressive criminal defense attorney in Montgomery County, PA, like Mark Hauser, you can rest assured knowing you have an experienced legal advocate fighting for your rights. Don't leave your future to chance - call Mark Hauser today at 267-584-4093 for a free case review.