What is the First Step in a Successful Defense?
For the first time offender, or a defendant who has been previously accused or convicted of a crime, it is imperative that you start building a successful defense from the moment you are arrested. Your defense to the charges you face will depend on many things, including the severity of the crime, your prior criminal record, and whether you are on parole. With the support of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can be certain that the right arguments will be taken on your behalf. At the Law Office of Barbara A. McDermott, I provide aggressive and experienced representation in every criminal matter to effectively protect the rights and interests of my clients.
You may be able to have your case dismissed at a preliminary hearing. Call me today at 215-395-6976 or contact me via e-mail for an initial consultation or case evaluation. Protect your rights with advocacy you can trust.
Preliminary Hearings
After your arrest, you will face a preliminary hearing within 3 to 10 days to determine whether you are going to trial. A preliminary hearing may take place in a police district or in a courtroom. Whether you are facing DUI charges or an allegation of homicide or abuse, this is the first time you will appear before a judge, and where a determination will be made whether the case will be held over for trial.
When facing a preliminary hearing, it is important to remember:
- This is your first opportunity to get bail reduced. If your case is held over for trial, you want to secure or reduce bail so that you will not stay in jail until the case goes to trial months later.
- The hearing sets the stage for your trial. Many people do not realize that the preliminary hearing is a critical stage in the proceedings because it is the first time the Commonwealth presents its case.
- The preliminary hearing is the first opportunity to cross-examine witnesses and pin down their stories under oath. An attorney can effectively protect your rights in this cross-examination process.
I have handled criminal defense cases involving many offenses, including, but not limited to:
- Murder
- Assault (simple or aggravated)
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Drug charges (Possession with intent to distribute, possession of a controlled substance)
- Sex crimes (rape, sexual assault)
- Kidnapping
- Carjacking
- Juvenile matters
- Domestic violence
- Gun, firearm or weapons possession
- DUI/DWI or drunk driving offenses
Contact Barbara A. McDermott, an experienced defense lawyer and former prosecutor in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, by e-mail or directly by calling 215-395-6976. Take action now to defeat your charges. I offer free initial consultations, flexible appointment times, accept credit cards for payment, and will visit you in jail if necessary. My office is conveniently located in Center City, near the Criminal Justice Center (CJC), Juvenile Court (1801 Vine Street), and City Hall.
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