2016 CASE RESULTS

The results listed below are real case results on criminal and traffic cases litigated throughout Allegheny County and Western Pennsylvania in 2016. For client confidentiality purposes, the names and case details are not listed below.

DECEMBER 2016

Possession of Marijuana & Drug Paraphernalia - Allegheny: First time offender facing max sentence/probation of up to 13 months and a 6-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines and court costs only.
2nd Offense Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Repeat offender facing 1-year license suspension, criminal record, and violation of diversionary program requirements on first offense. Result: Negotiated agreement to continue counseling for future withdrawal of charges.
DUI - Highest Tier, 2nd Offense (BAC .16%+)(M1) - Allegheny: Client facing 90-day mandatory jail sentence, 18 month license suspension and max of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Negotiated withdrawal of highest tier offense. Plea to General Impairment DUI for 5 days of incarceration, with time served, and 6-months of probation.
DUI - Middle Tier, 2nd Offense (BAC .10-.16%)(M1) - Allegheny: Client facing 18 month license suspension, 30 day mandatory minimum jail sentence, and max of up to 5 years of probation/jail. esult: Negotiated reduction to lowest tier (.08-.10%) and plea for 30 days house arrest and 6 months of probation, license suspension reduced to 12 months.
Possession of Marijuana - Westmoreland: Client facing 30-day max jail sentence and 6-month license suspension upon conviction. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete drug and alcohol assessment for a reduction to a summary disorderly conduct, carrying no jail time or suspension.
Simple Assault by Physical Menace (M2) and Recklessly Endangering Another Person (M2) - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing max of up to 4 years in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement at MDJ for client to avoid contact with victim for a full withdrawal.
Endangering Welfare of Child (M1), Resisting Arrest (M2), DUI - Highest Tier, Disorderly Conduct (M3), Poss Marijuana (M) and Poss Drug Paraphernalia (M) Westmoreland: Client facing permanent criminal record, mandatory minimum 72-hour jail sentence and max sentence of up to 9 years and 7 months in jail. esult: Negotiated entry into ARD program on Resisting Arrest and DUI charges, EWOC and Drug Charges will be withdrawn.
3 cases for Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Roommates charged with underage drinking after police respond to noise complaint. esult: Negotiated agreement to complete community service for withdrawal.
Criminal Mischief (M3) - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail and permanent criminal record if convicted. esult: Case withdrawn.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Client facing 90-day license suspension and criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for withdrawal of citation.

NOVEMBER 2016

Possession of Small Amount of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Stop Sign violation - Washington: Client facing permanent criminal record, max sentence of up to 13 months in jail, a 6-month license suspension and 3 points on license. esult: Negotiated guilty plea to summary disorderly conduct and traffic control devices charge for fines/costs only, misdemeanor drug charges dropped, no points or license suspension.
Highest Tier and Lowest Tier DUI - Allegheny: Client facing mandatory minimum sentence of 90-days in jail & 18 month license suspension. esult: Negotiated plea to lowest tier DUI for 5 days of house arrest and suspension reduced to 12 months.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to complete underage drinking prevention course for withdrawal.
Fleeing & Eluding Police Officer and Driving on a Suspended License - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and 24 month license suspension. Result: Negotiated withdrawal of suspended license violation, plea to Fleeing charge for 6 months of non-reporting probation and reduction of license suspension from 24 to 12 months.
Open Lewdness, Indecent Exposure, Possession of Small Amount of Marijuana and Defiant Trespass - Allegheny: Client facing maximum jail/probationary sentence of up to 3 years and 4 months of jail time, a mandatory 6-month license suspension and a permanent criminal record. esult: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs and no license suspension.
Drug DUI - Allegheny: Client facing 72-hour mandatory minimum jail sentence, 6 months of probation and 12-month license suspension. Result: DUI charges withdrawn at preliminary hearing due to lab report showing no evidence of intoxication.
Possession with Intent to Deliver - Juvenile - Allegheny: Juvenile client facing adjudication of guilt on felony drug charges and potential placement at juvenile detention facility. Result: Negotiated consent decree to misdemeanor charge only. Upon successful completion of juvenile probation, all charges to be dismissed and client eligible for expungement after 6 months.
Motion to Reconsider Summary Appeal - Overtaking School Bus - Allegheny: Client found guilty at summary appeal hearing of Overtaking School Bus, penalized by a 60-day license suspension and 5 points. Filed a motion with the court, asking for a reconsideration of the verdict. esult: Negotiated agreement with DA for charge to be amended to Careless Driving, reducing points from 5 to 3 and eliminating license suspension.
Prohibited Offensive Weapon (M1), Accident with Attended Vehicle (M3), DUI - Highest Tier, Accident and General Impairment - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 11 years of probation/jail, mandatory 90-day jail sentence and 18 month license suspension. Result: Negotiated withdrawal of Prohibited Offensive Weapon, Accident with Attended Vehicle and Highest Tier DUI charges. Guilty plea to DUI - Accident for 30 days of house arrest, 12 month license suspension and 6 months of probation.
Speeding - 31MPH over - Allegheny: Client facing 5 points, 15 day license suspension and PennDOT departmental hearing if convicted. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated reduction to 10mph over, reducing points from 5 to 2, and eliminating license suspension/PennDOT hearing.
Simple Assault - Greene: Husband and wife charged as co-defendants in domestic incident, each facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Charges dismissed at preliminary hearing for lack of evidence.
Theft by Deception (F3), Bad Checks (M1), Receiving Stolen Property (M1) - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing max sentence of over 17 years in jail, permanent felony record, loss of employment. esult: Negotiated entry into ARD program for client for payment of restitution and 2 years of probation.
Exceeding Maximum Weight - Allegheny: Out-of-state CDL driver facing approximately $5,000 in fines and court costs for exceeding weight limits on Liberty Bridge. esult: Negotiated fine reduction to $1,000, saving client approximately $4,000.
Resisting Arrest, Defiant Trespass, misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct - Allegheny: Working professional with no criminal history facing criminal record, max sentence of up to 4 years in jail. Result: Negotiated withdrawal of all misdemeanors and plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only.
DUI by Minor - Washington: College student facing 72-hour mandatory minimum jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and criminal record. esult: Negotiated entry into ARD program on ARD general impairment offense, charges to be dismissed and expunged upon successful completion of program.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: College student facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. esult: Successfully argued for dismissal of charge as client received counseling prior to hearing.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: College student facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. esult: Negotiated agreement to complete 20 hours of community service for full withdrawal.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: College athlete facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. esult: Negotiated agreement to complete 5 hours of community service for full withdrawal.
Underage Drinking - 3 co-defendants - Washington: Represented 3 college students accused of drinking at First Niagara Pavilion, each facing a criminal record and 90-day license suspension. esult: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct at magistrate level, eliminating 90-day license suspension. Filed summary appeals on behalf of clients and negotiated agreement with ADA to complete underage drinking course for full withdrawal of charges.
Overtaking School Bus - Allegheny: Client facing 60-day license suspension, 5 points on license, and potential loss of employment. Result: negotiated plea to Traffic Control Devices violation, eliminating points and suspension and saving job.
1st DUI - Butler: Client facing 12-month suspension, 48-hour mandatory jail sentence and potential job loss with license suspension. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program on DUI General Impairment offense, eliminating license suspension. Record to be expunged upon successful completion of program.
License Suspension Appeal - Required Financial Responsibility - Allegheny: Client facing 90-day license suspension for insurance cancellation. esult: PennDOT withdrew appeal due to insufficient evidence of vehicle operation.
Underage Drinking - Washington: Repeat offender facing 1-year license suspension. esult: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct offense, eliminating 1-year suspension.

OCTOBER 2016

DUI - Middle Tier, Possession of Marijuana, Open Container - Fayette: Client facing mandatory minimum 48-hour jail sentence, max sentence of up to 10 months in jail, and license suspension of up to 21 months. Result: Negotiated ARD offer on general impairment DUI and withdrawal of open container violation, carrying no license suspension or jail time.
Driving on Suspended License DUI Related - Allegheny: Client regained his driver's license after being charged with offense. If found guilty, he would have lost his license for 12 months and was facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence. Result: Negotiated plea to failure to exhibit license upon demand, carrying no jail time or suspension, reducing fine from $500 to $25.
Disorderly Conduct - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record. esult: Negotiated agreement to complete 15 hours of community service for withdrawal.
Public Drunkenness - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record. esult: Negotiated agreement to complete 20 hours of community service for withdrawal.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to complete 10 hours of community service for withdrawal.
Driving on Suspended License DUI Related - Allegheny: Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and 12 month license suspension. esult: Negotiated plea to Driving Without License, carrying no jail time or suspension.
Speeding - 35 over - Butler: Client facing 5 points and mandatory 15-day license suspension. Result: Case dismissed.
Retail Theft - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: As client did not have any additional funds to pay restitution, our firm used part of the legal fees paid to pay approximately $140 in restitution for a reduction to a summary retail theft.
Simple Assault - Two Co-Defendants - Allegheny: Two co-defendnats retained firm for representation on domestic violence incident where each client facing a criminal record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for clients to complete marriage counseling for plea to summary disorderly conduct.
DUI - Highest Tier and Driving on Suspended License DUI Related - Beaver: Client facing cumulative mandatory minimum jail sentence of 6 months in jail, max sentence of up to 5 years. Result: Negotiated reduction of DUI from highest tier to general impairment for 5 days of house arrest. Negotiated reduction of DUI suspended license offense to non-DUI suspended license offense, eliminating 90-day jail sentence.
Bad Checks - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record for summary charge. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to pay $500 restitution for a full withdrawal of charge.
Recklessly Endangering Another Person & Public Drunkenness - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 27 months in jail. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated agreement for client to have drug and alcohol assessment for a plea to a summary public drunkenness only.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Client charged with 2nd offense facing 1 year license suspension. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct, carrying no license suspension.
DUI - Butler: Client with 2nd lifetime DUI facing mandatory minimum of 90 days in jail, a 18 month license suspension. Result: Negotiated agreement to postpone case for 4 months so that the resolution of the offense would occur more than 10 years from the last offense. This allowed case to be treated as 1st DUI. Attorney Jackson negotiated admission into ARD program on general impairment offense, carrying no jail time or license suspension.
DUI - Washington: Client facing criminal record, mandatory minimum sentence of 3 days in jail, max sentence of up to 6 months in jail, and 12 month license suspension. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program on general impairment DUI offense, carrying no jail time or license suspension.
Altered/Forged Docs - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only.
DUI - 2nd Offense Refusal- Allegheny: Client facing 90-day mandatory minimum jail sentence. Result: Negotiated reduction of highest tier charge based upon violation of US v. Birchfield. Plea to general impairment DUI for 5 days at the Renewal Center's Therapeutic Housing Center.
Speeding - 31mph over - Allegheny: Client facing 15 day license suspension and 5 points on record. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated agreement for 5mph over, carrying no points or suspension
Criminal Mischief (S) - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 90 days in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution for full withdrawal of charge.
DUI - Allegheny: Client with 3rd lifetime DUI offense facing 72 hour mandatory jail sentence and max sentence of up to 6 months in jail. esult: Attorney Jackson negotiated DUI Alternative to Jail Program.
Forgery (F2) and Attempted Theft: Client facing potential incarceration for probation violation, max sentence of up to 10 years in jail. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct only.
Simple Assault - Allegheny: Clients with clean records facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement to complete domestic abuse counseling for plea to summary disorderly conduct charge.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Lawrence: Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. Result: Negotiated plea to summary public drunkenness offense for fines/costs only.
Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 19 months in jail, and a 18 month license suspension. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated Probation Without Verdict plea for one count of possession, will lead to clean record and no license suspension.
Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Defiant Trespass, Disorderly Conduct - Washington: Client with clean record facing max sentence of 2.5 years in jail and criminal record. esult: Misdemeanor REAP charge dropped, guilty plea to summary trespass and disorderly conduct violations for fines/costs only.
Speeding - 16mph over - Allegheny: Client facing 4 points on driving record. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated plea to 5mph over, carrying no points.
Following Too Closely and Safe Speed - Allegheny: Client facing 4 points on driving record. Result: Negotiated plea to one traffic offense carrying no points.

SEPTEMBER 2016

Simple Assault - Allegheny: Client with high prior record score facing max of 2 years, and standard range sentence with a minimum of 3-12 months. Nesult: Negotiated probationary plea.
Underage - Allegheny: Client facing 1 year license suspension for 2nd underage drinking conviction. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete underage drinking course for full withdrawal.
Public Drunkenness - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 90 days in jail. Result: Case dismissed based upon agreement reached with citing officer
Simple Assault - Allegheny: Client with high prior record score who gave confession facing max sentence of up to 12 months in jail, and standard range sentence of 3-12 months of incarceration. Result: Negotiated agreement for probation only.
3 Retail Theft Cases - One 1st Degree Misdemeanor and 2 summary offenses - Mercer: Client facing max jail sentence of up to 5 years and 6 months in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to plead guilty to M3 Theft and summary offenses for a total of 1 year of probation, no jail time.
Retail Theft - Allegheny: Client charged with summary retail theft facing criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete retail theft prevention program for withdrawal of charge.
Bad Checks - Indiana: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution for a full withdrawal of charge.
Driving on Suspended License DUI Related - Allegheny: First time violator facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and an additional 12 month suspension. In between incident and court hearing, client obtained valid license. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated plea to Failure to Exhibit License Upon Demand charge, eliminating all jail time and license suspensions. Client's driving privileges remain intact.
Overtaking Emergency Vehicle, Speeding -35mph over, Careless Driving - Indiana: Client facing a 75 day license suspension, PennDOT departmental hearing, and up to 13 points on license. Result: Negotiated plea to 15mph over on speeding charge and traffic control devices violations. Eliminated 75 day suspension and reduced points from 13 down to 3 points.
Accident with Attended Vehicle - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only.
Criminal Attempt - Homicide, Aggravated Assault, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Etc - Allegheny: Plea agreement negotiated for plea to Aggravated Assault - Bodily Injury with Deadly Weapon, without agreement to sentence. Prepared sentencing memorandum and presented letters and testimony from character witnesses. Client facing max sentence of up to 10 years in jail and county sentence of 9-16 months in standard range. At sentencing, court gave 3 years of probation without jail time.
Public Drunkenness - Allegheny: College student with clean record facing criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement to complete community service for full withdrawal of charge.
Reckless Driving - Allegheny: Client facing 6 month license suspension and officer refused to negotiate reduction. Result: Proceeded to summary trial, where video surveillance presented on behalf of the client. Client convicted of careless driving, carrying 3 points but no license suspension.
DUI - Highest Tier 3rd Offense - Allegheny: Client facing 1-2 year mandatory jail sentence for 3rd DUI within last 10 years. Result: Based upon Birchfield decision, lead DUI charge was withdrawn at the preliminary hearing. Client facing prosecution for lowest tier, General Impairment DUI charge, reducing mandatory sentence to 10-20 days.
Possession With Intent to Deliver (F) - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing felony record and max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service and Drug/Alcohol Assessment for plea to three summary disorderly conduct charges for fines/costs only. If complete, felonies will be dropped.
Public Drunkenness and Open Container - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 90 days in jail. Result: Case dismissed.
Reckless Driving - Allegheny: Client convicted at Magisterial District Court who appealed conviction and 6 month license suspension. Result: Negotiated amendment to careless driving which imposes 3 points on record, but eliminates license suspension.
2 Cases - Possession With Intent to Deliver (F), Conspiracy (F), Possession of Controlled Substance (M), and two counts of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (M) - Westmoreland: Client with clean record facing maximum sentence of up to 17 years in jail, felony record and 1 year license suspension. Result: Negotiated guilty plea to two counts of Drug Paraphernalia for 1 year of probation. Felonies dropped and no license suspension.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related - Westmoreland: Client facing mandatory minimum jail sentence of 60 days and maximum of 90 days. Result: Negotiated reduction to non-DUI related suspension charge, carrying no jail time.
Prostitution (M3) - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete classes for a reduction to a summary disorderly conduct.
Driving on a Suspended License - DUI Related - Beaver: Client facing mandatory minimum jail sentence of 60 days and maximum of 90 days. Result: Negotiated reduction to non-DUI related suspension charge, carrying no jail time.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: College student facing criminal record and 90 day license suspension upon conviction. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for a full withdrawal of charge.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Juvenile client facing 90 day license suspension upon conviction. esult: Case dismissed.

AUGUST 2016

Forgery (F2) - Allegheny: Client facing probation violation and max sentence of up to 10 years in jail for allegedly passing fake money. Result: Negotiated plea to disorderly conduct for fines and court costs only.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Juvenile client facing 90 day license suspension upon conviction. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for a full withdrawal of charge.
Driving on Suspended License DUI Related - Allegheny: Client with poor driving record facing mandatory 60 day jail sentence and 12 month license suspension. Result: Negotiated plea to non-DUI related suspension for no jail time.
Unsworn Falsification to Authorities (M2) - Washington: Client accused of lying on firearms purchase application facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. esult: On date of trial, charge amended to two counts of summary disorderly conduct for 6 months of non-reporting probation. Misdemeanor charge dropped.
Stop Sign Violation - Allegheny: Client facing 3 points on license. Result: Case dismissed.
Three Counts of Driving on a Suspended License - DUI Related - Allegheny: Client with multiple counts of DSL facing mandatory 60 day jail sentence and 12 month license suspension at each count. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to regain driver's license before review hearing for amendment of charges to alternative offense carrying no jail time, suspension or points.
Receiving Stolen Property (F2), Carrying Firearm Without License (F3), Fleeing and Eluding (M2), Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle (M2) and related offenses - Allegheny: Client facing maximum sentence of over 21 years in prison. Result: Investigation revealed client did not own or possess firearm. RSP and gun charges dropped, guilty plea to Fleeing and Unauthorized Use for 6 months of probation.
DUI - 1st Offense - Indiana: Client facing a criminal record, 72 hour mandatory jail sentence and a 12 month license suspension. Result: Unique resolution for client unable to travel to Indiana County. Negotiated a Rule 586 Settlement for client to pay restitution for a full withdrawal of case.
Driving on Suspended License - DUI Related - Armstrong: Client facing mandatory minimum sentence of 60 days in jail, maximum sentence of 90 days in jail, and a 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated amendment of charge to Driving Without License, carrying no jail time or suspension for first conviction.
Improper Turn - Allegheny: Client facing 3 points on driving record. Result: Charge reduced to alternative offense carrying no points.
Resisting Arrest - Allegheny: Working professional facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for full withdrawal of charges.
Disorderly Conduct - Washington: Client with clean record facing a criminal record and max sentence of up to 90 days in jail. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to remain free from criminal activity for 90 days, in return for future withdrawal of charges.
Endangering Welfare of a Child - Butler: Client with clean record charged facing max of up to 2 years in jail. esult: Negotiated entry into the ARD program.
Disorderly Conduct - Allegheny: Working professional with clean record facing a criminal record and max of 90 days in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement to complete community service for full withdrawal.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Allegheny: Client suffered from overdose event facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. esult: Charges dismissed.
Summary Harassment and Scattering Rubbish - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 6 months in jail. esult: Proceeded to summary trial, harassment dismissed, scattering rubbish charge amended to a local ordinance violation. Currently working to expunge harassment and scattering rubbish charges.
Overtaking School Bus - Washington: Client facing loss of job due to mandatory 60 day license suspension and 5 points. esult: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. No suspension or points.
Simple Assault - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. esult: Charges dismissed at MDJ.
Underage Drinking - Washington: Multiple clients cited for underage drinking at First Niagara Pavilion, facing 90 day license suspension. esult: Negotiated reduction to a summary disorderly conduct. DC conviction being appealed to Court of Common Pleas.
1st DUI - Drug DUI & Lowest Tier (.08-.10%) - Armstrong: Client with prior out of state conviction ineligible for ARD, facing mandatory 72 hour jail sentence and 12 month license suspension. esult: Negotiated withdrawal of Drug DUI charge, plea to general impairment offense only for 6 months of probation and no license suspension.
Accident With Attended Vehicle (M3) - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail and 6 month license suspension. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution for a reduction to a disorderly conduct offense for fines/costs only. No license suspension if agreement complete.
Hindering Apprehension (F3) - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Charge reduced to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only.
Public Drunkenness & Disorderly Conduct - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing criminal record, fines and max sentence of up to 6 months in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete Drug & Alcohol Assessment and community service for full withdrawal of charges.
Theft by Computer (F3) and Theft by Deception (M1) - Allegheny: Repeat offender facing max sentence of up to 12 years in jail. esult: Felony charge dropped, negotiated guilty plea to Theft by Deception for 1 year of probation.
DUI - Highest Tier - Allegheny: Client facing mandatory minimum jail sentence of 90 days in jail for 2nd offense. Result: Highest tier offense reduced, general impairment charge held for court, reducing mandatory minimum from 90 to 5 days.
Simple Assault - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Pending - agreement pending for client to complete domestic violence counseling and drug/alcohol counseling for future withdrawal.
Driving on Suspended License - DUI Related - Allegheny: Repeat offender facing 60 day mandatory jail sentence and max of up to 90 days in jail. Result: After hearing, argued successfully for client to serve time on house arrest.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Client convicted at Magistrate's office, appealed conviction and license suspension. Result: Case dismissed after client completed underage drinking course.
Defiant Trespass (S) - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 90 days in jail. Result: Charges dismissed

JULY 2016

Speeding - 15mph over - Allegheny: Client facing 3 points on driving record. Result: Negotiated reduction to 5mph over, no points.
Bad Checks (M1) - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution for a full withdrawal of charges.
Retail Theft (F3) - Allegheny: Client facing probation violation and max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Plea to summary retail theft after client paid restitution, no jail time or probation violation.
Harassment - Allegheny: College student facing criminal record, max of 90 days. Result: Case dismissed after no contact between parties.
Speeding - 15mph over - Butler: Client facing 3 points on driving record. Result: Plea negotiated to 5mph over, no points.
Possession With Intent to Deliver and Criminal Use of a Communication Facility - Greene: Client facing maximum sentence of up to 14 years in jail based upon allegation that he appeared in a public place to sell cocaine to an undercover informant. No sale occurred and the client was arrested at gunpoint by multiple police officers. Result: Filed Pretrial Motion to Suppress evidence on the basis that the client was unlawfully arrested without probable cause to believe he had committed a crime. Court ruled in favor of the Defense, and the Commonwealth withdrew all charges thereafter.
Unlawful Sale & Transfer of Firearm and Unsworn Falsifications - Westmoreland: Client facing a loss of employment, max sentence of up to 9 years in jail. Result: Filed Omnibus Pretrial Motion to Dismiss. Before arguing motions, Court agreed to accept client into ARD with no probation or fines/costs. Resolution led to immediate dismissal of case against client, but limits ability to obtain ARD in future.
Unlawful Sale & Transfer of Firearm and Unsworn Falsifications - Butler: Client facing felony record and max sentence of up to 9 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for a withdrawal of charges on preliminary hearing date upon providing proof that prior, out-of-state criminal record was in process of being expunged.
Harassment - Allegheny: College student facing criminal record. Result: During summary trial, Attorney Jackson successfully argued to have charges dismissed against client after 90 days.
Speeding - 16mph over - Butler: Client facing 4 points on driving record. Result: Charge reduced to a 5mph over violation.
Speeding - 20mph over - Allegheny: Client facing 4 points on driving record. Result: During brief hearing, convinced Judge to convict of 5mph over, eliminating points.
Carrying Firearm Without a License (F3), Possession of a Controlled Substance (M) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (M) - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 10 years in prison. TRIAL RESULT - CLIENT FOUND NOT GUILTY OF GUN CHARGE, ACCEPTED PLEA FOR DIVERSIONARY PROGRAM ON DRUG OFFENSES
3rd Offense DUI - Highest BAC - Washington: Client incarcerated for probation violation facing mandatory minimum 1-2 year prison sentence, max sentence of up to 5 years in prison. Result: Case dismissed at preliminary hearing for lack of sufficient evidence.
Unlawful Sale & Transfer of Firearm and Unsworn Falsification - Westmoreland: Convicted felon facing max sentence of up to 9 years in prison for improperly answering questions on firearm application. Result: Negotiated plea agreement to M3 Unsworn Falsifications charge for 6 months of probation and no jail time.
Possession of Controlled Substance & Drug Paraphernalia - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail, 6-month license suspension and permanent criminal record. esult: Charges reduced to summary disorderly conduct.
DUI - Allegheny: Client with prior DUI offense facing mandatory minimum jail sentence of 90 days. Blood was drawn without a warrant in violation of recent case law. Result: Highest tier DUI charge withdrawn at preliminary hearing. Lowest Tier DUI charge remains. Reduction reduced mandatory from 90 days down to 5 days. Final resolution pending.
Retail Theft - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing possible criminal record for minimum period of 5 years. esult: Charges dismissed after completing retail theft prevention education course.
Possession of a Controlled Substance - Allegheny: Client suffered relapse after 5 years of sobriety, facing maximum sentence of up to 3 years in jail, a 12-month license suspension, and loss of job clearances. Result: Client was unrepresented and only offered a plea to 9 months of probation. Upon retaining ZLF, Attorney Zuckerman convinced the prosecution to withdraw the case based upon a violation of the PA Drug Overdose Immunity Response Law
Possession of Marijuana & Drug Paraphernalia, Reckless Driving, Careless Driving and Driving at Safe Speed - Allegheny: Client facing up to 1 year worth of license suspension, permanent criminal record, and 5 points on driving record. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct. All misdemeanor offenses dropped, no points or suspension imposed.

JUNE 2016

PFA - Allegheny: Client facing loss of ability to own firearms and searchable docket entry if final PFA entered. esult: Subpoenaed police officers & character witnesses to testify for hearing. A civil consent agreement was negotiated thereafter, dismissing the temporary PFA.
Retail Theft (F3) - Allegheny: Incarcerated client facing parole violation and max sentence of up to 7 years. Result: Negotiated summary retail theft plea for time served.
Speeding - Junior Driver Case - Allegheny: Juvenile client facing 5 points on driving record and suspension of driving privileges upon conviction. esult: Charge amended to a 5mph over offense, carrying no points or suspension.
Driving on a Suspended License & 3 other traffic offenses - Washington: Client who is close to regaining driving privileges facing 60-90 day mandatory jail sentence, additional 12-month license suspension and $500 fine on suspended license charge, with fines on other offenses. Result: Suspended license charge amended to a failure to exhibit license upon demand charge for no suspension or jail time.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. Result: Negotiated agreement to complete community service for full withdrawal.
False Reports to Law Enforcement - Mercer: Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and a crime of dishonesty on criminal record. Result: Negotiated plea to M3 Disorderly Conduct charge for 6 months of non-reporting probation with magistrate.
Unlawful Sale/Transfer of Firearm & Unsworn Falsification to Authorities - Westmoreland: Client facing max sentence of up to 9 years in jail. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to resolve warrant issued out of state in return for a reduction to a summary offense or future ARD.
Possession of Controlled Substance - 2nd Offense - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 3 years in jail and a 6-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated plea to drug paraphernalia charge for 9 months of probation and no license suspension.
Driving on a Suspended License - DUI Related - Allegheny: Client facing additional 12 month suspension and 60-90 day mandatory jail sentence. esult: Case dismissed at Summary Appeals Court
4th DUI Within Last 10 Years - DUI Accident and .08-.10% charges; Driving on Suspended License DUI Related - Allegheny: Client facing mandatory 1-2 year jail sentence and was not eligible to receive house arrest. Prosecution added DUI accident charge after preliminary hearing was waived for lowest tier offenses. Result: Client found not-guilty of DUI accident, sparing him from a 1-2 year state prison sentence. Client found guilty of lowest tier DUI charges and suspended license charge for house arrest only.
Underage Drinking, Fake ID and Disorderly Conduct - Allegheny: Client facing 6 month license suspension, max sentence of up to 9 months in jail. Result: Negotiated community service agreement for full withdrawal.
Underage Drinking & Fake Id - Allegheny: Out of state client facing 6-month license suspension and criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement to complete underage drinking program in home state for full withdrawal.
Underage Drinking & Fake Id - Allegheny: Client facing 6-month license suspension and criminal record. Result: Negotiated community service agreement for full withdrawal.
Harassment - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 90 days in jail and criminal record. Result: Client found not-guilty.
Habitual Offenders (M2) and Driving on a Suspended License - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 27 months in jail, mandatory 90-day minimum jail sentence, and $500 in fines. Result: Objected to continuance request, convincing court that client was falsely charged with Habitual Offenders charge. Case dismissed.
Retail Theft (F3) - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing convicted felon status and max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service and retail theft prevention course for a full withdrawal of case.
DUI & Endangering Welfare of Child - Armstrong: Client facing mandatory 72-hour jail sentence and max sentence of up to 4.5 years in jail. Result: Case dismissed at Magisterial District Court.
Home Improvement Fraud & Theft by Deception - Allegheny County: Client facing maximum sentence of up to 14 years in jail and permanent convicted felon status. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution for a plea to a summary disorderly conduct only.
Petition to File Summary Appeal - Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Client who missed summary appeal deadline facing 1 year license suspension and criminal record. Result: Court granted permission to file summary appeal, allowing client to challenge underage conviction.
Speeding 15mph over - Allegheny: Client living out of state with clean driving history facing 3 points on driving record. Result: Client was permitted to not have to appear, and was found not guilty.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Allegheny: College student facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for a full withdrawal of charges, will pursue expungement of criminal record.

MAY 2016

Retail Theft (F3) - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 7 years in jail and permanent convicted felon status. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution in return for a plea to a summary retail theft offense for time served.
3rd Offense DUI - Armstrong: Client with lengthy criminal record facing a 1-2 year mandatory jail sentence, and max sentence of up to 5 years in jail, for a 3rd DUI within the last 10 years. esult: Prepared and filed sentencing memorandum, and obtained character reference letters for client. Court allowed client to serve 1-2 year mandatory on house arrest with work release instead of imposing state prison sentence.
Theft by Unlawful Taking - Washington: Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. esult: Negotiated entry into ARD program, which will lead to dismissal of case.
Simple Assault and Harassment - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 27 months in jail. Result: Charges dismissed upon completion of agreement terms, pursuing expungement.
Underage Drinking - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and 1-year license suspension for 2nd offense. esult: Negotiated agreement for client to complete underage drinking course for full withdrawal of charge.
Simple Assault - Westmoreland: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. esult: Case dismissed
DUI With Drugs - Westmoreland: Client facing 12-month license suspension, 72 hour jail sentence and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program.
DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE DUI RELATED - Westmoreland: Client who is eligible to regain license facing a 60-day jail sentence and additional 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to take steps towards regaining license in return for reduction to a driving without a license offense, carrying no jail time or suspension.
RETAIL THEFT (F3) - Allegheny: College student facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete 50 hours of community service in return for a withdrawal of charge.
RETAIL THEFT (M1) & RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY (M1) - Fayette: Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated tentative ARD offer
DUI - Fayette: Client facing 72-hour mandatory sentence, 12-month license suspension and criminal record. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated tentative ARD offer
DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE DUI RELATED - Westmoreland: Client facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and additional 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated plea to driving without license suspension for no jail time or additional suspension.
DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE DUI RELATED AND POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA - Allegheny: Client facing a mandatory 60-day jail sentence, 18-month license suspension upon conviction. Result: Client completed Drug and Alcohol Assessment, charges reduced to summary disorderly conduct and driving without a license for no license suspension.
UNDERAGE DRINKING - Allegheny: High-school student facing a 90-day license suspension and juvenile record. Result: Case dismissed
THEFT BY UNLAWFUL TAKING (M1) - Allegheny: Client facing criminal record and maximum sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution in return for a guilty plea to a summary disorderly conduct only for fines & costs.
TWO CASES - DRIVING UNDER INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL & DUI DRUGS - Washington: Client facing two active DUI cases in Washington County, facing 72-hour mandatory minimum at first case and 90-day mandatory at 2nd case. Original plea offer from Commonwealth included a 30-day jail sentence. Result: Negotiated cumulative plea where client received 90 days of house arrest and probation for both cases.

APRIL 2016

ARD REVOCATION HEARING - Allegheny: Client facing her 2nd ARD revocation hearing for failing to complete program requirements. If revoked, client's case would be listed for trial, where client would face criminal record, 72-hour mandatory jail sentence and 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated 9-month extension with probation department which was granted by Court.
DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE - Allegheny: First time DUI offender facing max sentence of up to 6 months in jail, a 12 month license suspension and 72 hours in jail. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD Program, no jail time or criminal record upon completion of program, and suspension reduced to 30 days.
POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA (M) & DISORDERLY CONDUCT (M3) - Fayette: Client suffering from drug overdose charged with offenses carrying a max penalty of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Presented argument to magistrate, who dismissed charges pursuant to Drug Overdose Immunity Law
EXPUNGEMENT PETITION - Allegheny: Client with two cases seeking to expunge dismissed felony and misdemeanor charges from record. DA's office objected and hearing was scheduled. Result: After further discussion, the DA's office withdrew its objections at the hearing. Expungements granted.
UNDERAGE DRINKING - Washington: Client convicted of underage drinking at Magisterial District Court facing criminal record and 1-year license suspension. Result: Agreement negotiated for withdrawal of charges based upon completion of underage drinking course.
DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE DUI RELATED - Washington: Repeat offender facing 90 day jail sentence and fine of $500. Result: Negotiated agreement for 60 day house arrest sentence with permission for work release.
FURNISHING ALCOHOL TO MINORS (M3) - Allegheny: College student facing permanent criminal record and 6-month loss of license upon conviction. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for dismissal of case.
SIMPLE ASSAULT (M2) & HARASSMENT (M3) - Butler: Client facing max sentence of up to 3 years in jail. Result: Negotiated plea to misdemeanor disorderly conduct for 1 year of probation run concurrent to existing probation.
POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA (M) - Allegheny: Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail and permanent record. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only.
UNDERAGE DRINKING & DISORDERLY CONDUCT - Washington: Client with prior underage conviction facing 1-year license suspension. Result: Underage drinking withdrawn, plea to disorderly conduct, eliminating 1-year license suspension.
THEFT BY UNLAWFUL TAKING (F3) - Beaver: Client facing max sentence of up to 7 years in prison and permanent felony record. Result: Negotiated plea to summary criminal trespass for court costs and fines only.
POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA (M) - Allegheny: Client facing max sentence of up to 30 days in jail, 6-month license suspension and criminal record. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines only.
UNLAWFUL SALE & TRANSFER OF FIREARM (F3) & UNSWORN FALSIFICATION TO AUTHORITIES (M2) - Westmoreland: Military veteran charged with offenses after incorrectly answering questions on firearm purchase application. Result: Proceeded to a preliminary hearing, where the case was DISMISSED by the court on multiple grounds.
BAD CHECKS (M1)(Beaver): Client with no criminal record falsely accused of writing a bad check to an individual with a lengthy criminal record. Result: Charges dismissed after preliminary hearing for lack of sufficient evidence.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF (S)(Allegheny): Client with no criminal record falsely accused of causing vehicle damage. Result: Not guilty verdict after summary trial.
BURGLARY (F1) & SIMPLE ASSAULT (M2) (Allegheny): Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 22 years in jail. Result: Attorney Jackson negotiated a no-contact agreement for a future reduction of charge to a summary harassment for fines and costs only.
CARRYING FIREARM W/O LICENSE (F3), ACCIDENT W/ DAMAGE TO ATTENDED VEHICLE (M1), POSSESSION OF SMALL AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA (M), ETC (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 12+ years in jail and permanent felony record. Result: Negotiated reduction of felony gun charge to a misdemeanor offense, plea for 3 years of probation.

MARCH 2016

2ND DUI - HIGHEST TIER (Butler): Client with full time employment facing mandatory minimum of 90 days in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to plead guilty to all charges for house arrest with permission to work release, no jail time.
OVERTAKING SCHOOL BUS (Allegheny): Client with clean driving record facing 60-day license suspension and 5 points on license. Result: Negotiated plea to alternative traffic offense with no points or suspension.
DISORDERLY CONDUCT & SPEEDING -15mph over (Allegheny): College student with clean record facing criminal record for minimum period of 5 years and 3 points on driving record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for withdrawal of DC charge, and reduction to 5mph over, carrying no points.
RETAIL THEFT (M2)(Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and misdemeanor record. Result: Negotiated plea to summary retail theft for fines/costs only.
POSSESSION OF SMALL AMT MARIJUANA & PARAPHERNALIA (Westmoreland): Client facing 6-month license suspension, criminal record, and max sentence of up to 13 months in jail. Result: Negotiated Probation Without Verdict Plea on marijuana offense for 30-days probation. Upon successful completion, charges will be withdrawn and expunged from record. No license suspension.
DEFIANT TRESPASS (M3), DISORDERLY CONDUCT (M3) & DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE NON-DUI (Fayette): Client facing 12-month license suspension and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Charges withdrawn at magisterial district court.
CARELESS DRIVING (Allegheny): Client facing 3 points on driving record. Result: Negotiated reduction to alternative traffic offense carrying 0 points.
RETAIL THEFT (M2)(Allegheny): Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Plea to summary retail theft for fines/costs, ending case at magistrate level.
DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE - DUI RELATED (Allegheny): Repeat offender facing 60-90 day jail sentence and 12-month suspension. Result: Negotiated reduction to Driving on a Suspended License - Non DUI for 30 days of house arrest.
UNDERAGE DRINKING (Allegheny): College student facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for withdrawal.
UNDERAGE DRINKING (Allegheny): College student facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service for withdrawal.
SIMPLE ASSAULT (M2) & CRIMINAL MISCHIEF (M3) (Allegheny): Client with clean record facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 3 years in jail. Result: Charges dismissed, witnesses failed to appear in court.
RESISTING ARREST (M2) AND DISORDERLY CONDUCT (M3) (Indiana): Student facing max sentence of up to 3 years in jail and permanent misdemeanor record. Result: Negotiated plea to two summary offenses for fines/costs only. Misdemeanors withdrawn.
DRIVING ON SUSPENDED LICENSE DUI-RELATED (Butler): Client charged with 1st suspended license offense, facing 60-90 day jail sentence and additional 12-month suspension. Client was eligible for an ignition interlock license. Result: Negotiated plea to alternative traffic offense carrying no jail time or additional suspension. Client making arrangements to get license back.
POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE (Fayette): Client represented himself on original preliminary hearing date and was offered a jail-time only plea offer. Hired our firm thereafter. Result: Negotiated house arrest & probationary plea, no jail time.
DRIVING ON SUSPENDED LICENSE - NON-DUI RELATED (Westmoreland): Client with full-time employment and 15+ prior offenses facing 90 day jail sentence. Result: Negotiated with officer and Judge for a plea to an alternative offense carrying no jail time.
DRIVING ON SUSPENDED LICENSE DUI RELATED (Allegheny): Client facing 60-90 day jail sentence and 12-month suspension. Result: Negotiated plea to traffic offense carrying no jail time or suspension.
POSS SMALL AMT MARIJUANA & PARAPHERNALIA (Mercer): Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 13 months in jail and 6-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines and court costs only
DUI - ACCIDENT (Westmoreland): Client involved in DUI-related auto accident facing 12-month license suspension, mandatory minimum sentence of 72 hours in jail, and a max sentence of up to 6 months in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client's future entry into ARD program, eliminating jail time, reducing suspension to 60-days, and leading to the future expungement of record upon successful completion.
UNDERAGE DRINKING & FAKE ID (Allegheny): Client facing criminal record and cumulative license suspension of 6-months. Result: Negotiated agreement to complete community service and attend AA meetings for a full withdrawal of charges in future.
DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE DUI RELATED (Butler): Client with extensive driving history facing a 60-90 day jail sentence. Result: Negotiated plea to a reduced offense carrying no jail time.
DUI - DRUGS (M), DUI - LOWEST TIER, DUI - GENERAL IMPAIRMENT (Armstrong): Client with no criminal record facing max sentence of up to 6 months in jail and a 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated withdrawal of the DUI-Drug offense, eliminating a 12-month license suspension. Further negotiations on lowest tier offenses ongoing.
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT WHILE DUI (F2) & THREE COUNTS OF DUI (M) (Allegheny): Client involved in serious auto accident with no criminal history facing maximum sentence of up to 10 years and 6 months in jail, and permanent felony record. Result: Aggravated Assault charge reduced to an alternative misdemeanor offense, plea for DUI Alternative to Jail Program and probation only.

FEBRUARY 2016

PUBLIC URINATION ORDINANCE & PUBLIC DRUNKENNESS (Allegheny): Client with no criminal history facing potential criminal record. Result: Charges dismissed.
POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA (M) (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 30 days in jail and a 6-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct for a fine/costs only.
RECKLESS DRIVING (Washington): Client entered guilty plea before magistrate, without realizing that offense carries a 6-month suspension. Filed a summary appeal on his behalf. Result: Prosecution dismissed, suspension to be removed.
POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE (M), POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA (M) & POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA (M) (Mercer): Client facing maximum sentence of up to 27 months in jail and a permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated with State Trooper for a plea to a summary disorderly conduct for fines and costs only.
UNDERAGE DRINKING (Allegheny): Client facing potential criminal record and 90-day license suspension. Result: Charges dismissed.
RECKLESS DRIVING (Allegheny): Client entered guilty plea before magistrate, without realizing that offense carries a 6-month suspension. Filed a summary appeal on his behalf. Result: Prosecution dismissed, suspension to be removed.
OVERTAKING SCHOOL BUS (Allegheny): Client with no driving record facing 60-day license suspension and 5 points. Client represented himself at magistrate's office and was convicted. Filed summary appeal, and retained our firm. Result: Prosecutor refused to make plea offer. During summary trial, successfully argued for a reduction of the offense by the Judge to a reduced offense, carrying no points or suspension.
POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA (M) (Beaver): Client on probation charged with paraphernalia possession after an overdosing event. Result: After discussion with the prosecutor, charges were withdrawn under PA's Drug Overdose Response Immunity Law.
RETAIL THEFT (F3) (Beaver): Client with high prior record score facing state prison sentence in standard range of guidelines, and max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Negotiated plea to the offense as charged, with a mitigated range sentence of 6 months of house arrest. No jail time.
POSSESSION OF A SMALL AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA (M) (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 30 days in jail and a 6-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct charge for fines and court costs only.
DEFIANT TRESPASS (M3) AND DISORDERLY CONDUCT (M3) (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in prison. Result: Negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct charge for fines and court costs only.
THEFT BY UNLAWFUL TAKING (F3) AND CONSPIRACY (F3) (Washington): Client and co-defendant accused of stealing abandoned scrap metal facing max sentence of up to 14 years in jail and permanent felony record. Initial plea offer was rejected and pretrial motions filed. Result: DA's office notified of intent to proceed to trial, providing revised ARD offer. ARD offer accepted, allowing client to earn a dismissal and expungement of charges in future.
SIMPLE ASSAULT (M2) (Allegheny): Client with no criminal record facing permanent record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete anger management classes and a drug & alcohol evaluation for a future withdrawal of case.
CARELESS DRIVING CAUSING SERIOUS BODILY INJURY AND STOP SIGN VIOLATION (Butler): Client accused of causing a serious auto accident facing 3-month license suspension, a total of 6 points on his driving record, and an additional 15-day suspension for the point accumulation. Result: Negotiated reduction to alternative offenses which carry no license suspension or points.
1ST OFFENSE DUI - TWO CLIENT LIVING OUTSIDE OF PA (Allegheny): Represented two clients facing first offense DUI charges in PA, but who lived out of state. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program. Also, worked with the DA's office and the courts to allow them to schedule the arraignment, interview and ARD hearing within a 3-day window to minimize travel requirements.
PERSONAL INJURY CASE SETTLEMENT - $116,000 - AUTO ACCIDENT: Client who sustained multiple broken bones as a result of a serious auto accident. Result: Case resolved for full UIM policy limits, outstanding medical bills reduced for client.

POSSESSION OF A SMALL AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA (M) AND DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE DUI RELATED (Allegheny): Client facing permanent criminal record, max sentence of up to 30 days in jail, and a 6-month license suspension for marijuana charge. Client facing 60-day jail sentence and 12-month license suspension on the suspended license violation. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service and drug & alcohol evaluation for a reduction to a disorderly conduct and driving without a license offense. Misdemeanor to be withdrawn and no license suspension.
SIMPLE ASSAULT (M2) (Allegheny): Client with clean record facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Prosecution dismissed for lack of evidence.
POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DELIVER (F), POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE (M) AND POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA (M) (Allegheny): Client with no criminal history accused of possessing marijuana with intent to deliver, facing max sentence of up to 7 years in prison. Result: Negotiated with ADA and officer for a withdrawal of the felony PWID offense, with the misdemeanor charges to proceed to the Court of Common Pleas.

JANUARY 2016

SPEEDING - 17MPH OVER (Washington): Client with clean driving history facing 4 points on driving record. Result: Court reduced offense to 5mph over at end of hearing, carrying no points.
1ST OFFENSE DUI (M) and POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA (M) (Allegheny): Client with prior drug conviction within last 10 years facing max sentence of up to 72 hours in jail. Result: Negotiated withdrawal of paraphernalia charge at prelim, and entry into ARD at the Court of Common Pleas level.
DISORDERLY CONDUCT (S) (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 90 days in jail and a criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community services for a full withdrawal of charge.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF (S) (Allegheny): Out of state client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 90 days in jail and a criminal record. Result: Court granted request to allow client to not have to appear. Agreement negotiated for client to pay less than $100 in restitution for a dismissal of case.
UNDERAGE DRINKING, PUBLIC DRUNKENNESS AND OPEN CONTAINER LOCAL ORDINANCE (Allegheny): College student facing criminal record, 90-day license suspension. Result: Proceeded to hearing, where Judge dismissed the public drunkenness violation and client will be permitted to complete community service for withdrawal of underage offense. Found guilty of local ordinance which does not appear on background check.
UNDERAGE DRINKING (Allegheny): College student with clean record facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. Result: Negotiated community service agreement for a future withdrawal of charge.
UNDERAGE DRINKING AND PUBLIC DRUNKENESS (Allegheny): College student with clean record facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. Result: Negotiated community service agreement for a future withdrawal of charge.
UNDERAGE DRINKING (Allegheny): College student with clean record facing criminal record and 90-day license suspension. Result: Negotiated community service agreement for a future withdrawal of charge.
RECKLESS DRIVING (Indiana): Client facing a 6-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated reduction to alternative offense, carrying no points or suspension.
ACCIDENT INVOLVING DAMAGE TO ATTENDED VEHICLE (M3) (Allegheny): Client in hit and run accident facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. Result: Negotiated reduction to accident involving damage to unattended vehicle, for fines, costs and 4 points only. Misdemeanor charge dismissed.
1ST OFFENSE DUI (Allegheny): Client with prior felony record initially rejected from ARD consideration, facing 48 hour jail sentence, 12-month license suspension, and likely loss of his job. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD. No jail time and license suspension reduced to 30 days, which will enable client to keep job.
CARELESS DRIVING, DRIVING AT SAFE SPEED, ACCIDENT INVOLVING DAMAGE TO UNATTENDED PROPERTY, TWO ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC OFFENSES (Fayette): Client with CDL and standard license facing a 6-month CDL suspension, along with 9 points on his driving history. Result: Negotiated plea to three traffic offenses carrying no points or suspension of regular license or CDL.
DUI - ACCIDENT (Allegheny): Client who struck parked car occupied by adult and minors was initially rejected from ARD consideration, facing 12-month license suspension, 72-hour jail sentence and permanent criminal record. Result: Further negotiations transpired and client was granted admission into the ARD program.
UNLAWFUL SALE/TRANSFER OF FIREARM (F3) AND UNSWORN FALSIFICATION (M2) (Washington): Client facing max sentence of up to 9 years in prison. Result: Negotiated a withdrawal of the F3 charge at the preliminary hearing in return for a waiver of the M2 charge. Will proceed to future trial or work to reduce M2 charge to a summary offense in the future.
SIMPLE ASSAULT (Allegheny): Four co-defendants charged in a fight, with client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in prison. Result: Charges dismissed by mutual agreement of all persons charged.
UNDERAGE DRINKING - SUMMARY APPEAL - 2 CASES (Allegheny): Clients facing 90 day license suspension and possible criminal record. Result: Cases dismissed.
SIMPLE ASSAULT (M2) (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Case dismissed.
SPEEDING - SUMMARY APPEAL (Westmoreland): Client facing possible suspension of out-of-state driving privileges based upon speeding ticket in PA. Result: Charge dismissed.
POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE (M) and POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA (M) (Allegheny): Client with no criminal history facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail, a mandatory 6-month driver's license suspension, and a 1-year suspension of CDL. Result: Negotiated plea to paraphernalia charge for Probation Without Verdict. Upon completion, charges will be expunged from criminal record. No license or CDL suspension.
FURNISHING ALCOHOL TO MINORS (M3) (Beaver): Client facing permanent criminal record, mandatory 90-day license suspension and max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete parenting classes in return for a full withdrawal of charge.
UNLAWFUL SALE/TRANSFER OF FIREARM (F3) AND UNSWORN FALSIFICATION (M2) (Allegheny): Client charged as a result of out-of-state warrant, facing maximum sentence of up to 9 years in prison and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to turn himself in on out-of-state warrant for a future withdrawal of charges
DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE - DUI RELATED (Washington): Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated plea to Driving Without License offense, carrying no jail time or license suspension for first conviction.
UNLAWFUL SALE/TRANSFER OF FIREARM (F3) AND UNSWORN FALSIFICATION (M2) (Allegheny): Client charged as a result of out-of-state warrant, facing maximum sentence of up to 9 years in prison and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to turn himself in on out-of-state warrant for a future withdrawal of charges.
UNDERAGE DRINKING - 2 CASES (Allegheny): Two college students facing criminal record and mandatory 90-day license suspensions. Result: Charges dismissed upon successful completion of community service and underage drinking education program.
POSSESSION OF A SMALL AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA (5 Misdemeanor Counts) AND PUBLIC DRUNKENNESS (Washington): Client facing maximum sentence of up to 5 months in jail and a 6-month driver's license suspension. Result: Negotiated guilty plea to public drunkenness only for fines and costs, all misdemeanor charges dropped.
POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE AND DRUG PARAPHERNALIA (Allegheny): Client with prior criminal record facing maximum sentence of up to 18 months in jail and 6 month driver's license suspension. Result: Original plea offer involved reporting probation and loss of license. Negotiated new offer and plea to Drug Paraphernalia charge for 6 months of non-reporting probation and no license suspension.
PUBLIC DRUNKENNESS (Allegheny): Client facing criminal record for minimum period of 5 years. Result: Negotiated agreement to complete minimal amount of community service for full withdrawal.
RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY (M2) AND CONSPIRACY (M2) (Allegheny): Client facing maximum sentence of up to 4 years in jail. Result: Negotiated plea to summary disorderly conduct offense for 90 days of probation and approximately $350 in restitution.