Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are public defenders “real attorneys”?
    1. Yes! Every attorney in our office has graduated from an accredited law school and has been admitted by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to practice in the Courts of Pennsylvania. Public Defenders gain experience in criminal law quickly due to their focus on criminal defense work.


  • The police asked me to return a phone call or come to the station about an incident, what should I do?
    1. PRIOR to speaking with law enforcement, you should contact a criminal defense attorney. You may also call our office to speak with an attorney for incidents that have not yet been charged or are still being investigated.


  • My significant other is contacting me but there is an active Protection From Abuse (PFA)/ bail condition order prohibiting me from contacting them, what should I do?
    1. Despite the other party initiating contact, DO NOT respond to them until the Judge allows you to contact them. DO NOT try to contact your significant other through a third-party.


  • What should I do if there is a warrant out for my arrest?
    1. Unfortunately, that means that you are subject to arrest on sight and brought before a judge to address the warrant. It is always advisable to contact an attorney or our office under these circumstances, as it is better to turn yourself in to address the warrant rather than being arrested by the police.


  • What should I do if I bail out of prison and need representation?
    1. Our office automatically represents all incarcerated individuals. If you are released and your case is still active, please reapply for our representation at the Office of Bail Administration.


  • Do you represent people regarding custody, family issues, landlord-tenant disputes, immigration issues, etc.?
    1. Our office only represents individuals with pending criminal legal matters. You may qualify for services through MidPenn Legal Services.


  • Can my charges be expunged?
    1. Unfortunately, no. Generally, convictions cannot be expunged. Charges that do not result in convictions (such as successful completion of the ARD program or dismissal of charges) are eligible for expungement. Certain felony convictions may be eligible for sealing from public view after ten years of the successful completion of a sentence. Certain misdemeanor convictions may be eligible for sealing from public view after seven years of the successful completion of a sentence. Our office does not assist with expungement or sealing at this time.


  • Can I buy or carry a firearm with my criminal charges?
    1. Probably not. Most convictions and unresolved criminal charges will disqualify an individual from possessing or purchasing a firearm. Consult an attorney or our office about your specific situation.