How a Good Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Reduce Your Charges

When you’re facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania—whether for assault, drug possession, theft, or DUI—every decision matters. But perhaps the most important decision is the attorney you choose to represent you. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can often do much more than defend you at trial. In many cases, the right lawyer can help you avoid the harshest penalties, reduce your charges, or even have your case dismissed entirely. Contact a trustworthy criminal defense lawyer in Philadelphia.

If you're charged, an experienced local defense lawyer can make all the difference in how your case plays out. With over 30 years of experience defending clients charged with crimes, I’ve helped people navigate all types of criminal charges and avoid harsh outcomes. Here’s how I approach all criminal cases.

Why the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer Matters

Criminal charges don't always lead to a conviction—but what happens in between can change your future. A good defense lawyer does more than argue your case in court. They understand the law, the local system, and the strategies necessary to protect your rights from day one.

Here’s what a seasoned criminal defense attorney can do to improve your outcome:

• Challenge the legality of your arrest or search (e.g., no probable cause or illegal stop)

• Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges before formal indictment

• Suppress harmful evidence that was unlawfully obtained

• Push for dismissal when there are weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s case

• Pursue diversion programs for first-time or non-violent offenders

• Advocate for reduced sentencing based on mitigating factors

In cities where prosecutors are sometimes open to plea agreements, rehabilitation programs, or conditional charges, having a well-prepared attorney is critical.

Real-World Example: How Charges Can Be Reduced

Let’s say you’re charged with felony drug possession. A skilled defense attorney might:

• Show that the drugs were found during an illegal search

• Argue that there’s no intent to distribute, which can downgrade the charge

• Negotiate a deal to enter Drug Treatment Court, leading to dismissal upon completion

• Push for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) if it’s your first offense

The result? What began as a felony charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor—or dismissed entirely.

What to Look for in a Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you’re searching for an attorney, use this checklist to evaluate your options:

Experience in Criminal Defense

• Do they focus solely or primarily on criminal law?

• Have they handled cases like yours (DUI, drug charges, assault, etc.)?

Knowledge of Local Courts

• Are they familiar with the procedures and players in courts?

• Do they have relationships with local judges and prosecutors?

Track Record of Results

• Have they successfully reduced or dismissed charges for past clients?

• Can they explain what strategies worked in similar cases?

Clear Communication

• Do they explain your options clearly and honestly?

• Are they accessible when you have questions?

Personalized Strategy

• Do they tailor their defense to your case, not just use a one-size-fits-all approach?

• Will they investigate and challenge weak evidence?

Your Case Deserves an Aggressive and Strategic Defense

The criminal justice system in Pennsylvania is complex. Sentencing guidelines are strict, and prosecutors may push hard for convictions. But that doesn’t mean your fate is sealed.

There are more alternatives and diversion options than in many other parts of the state. But to take advantage of those opportunities, you need a defense attorney who knows how to identify them—and who knows how to fight when negotiations fall short.

Why Clients Work With Me

As a defense attorney with over 30 years of experience in Pennsylvania criminal courts, I’ve built my career on protecting my clients’ freedom, rights, and records. I don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. I treat each case like it’s the most important one I’ll ever handle—because for you, it is. For serious cases, I can serve as a Philadelphia murder lawyer and on many more types of cases.

Whether your goal is to get your charges reduced, enter a diversion program, or beat the case entirely, I’m here to give you the defense you deserve. Contact Mark D. Hauser, Attorney at Law today for a confidential case evaluation.