CASE RESULTS
The Zuckerman Law Firm LLC prides itself on helping good people navigate through the justice system with the goal of minimizing penalties. The results listed below are real case results on criminal and traffic cases handled by the Zuckerman Law Firm throughout Allegheny County and Western Pennsylvania, and does not include results on every case handled by the firm. Names and case details are omitted to protect client confidentiality. Facts and circumstances differ on each case, and past results do not guarantee future results. The Zuckerman Law Firm makes no promises or guarantees regarding the outcome of any criminal or traffic case, and those viewing this page must not assume a favorable outcome in his or her case based upon past results alone.
DECEMBER 2020
DUI - 1st Offense General Impairment (Washington): Client facing max sentence of up to 6 months in jail, 12-month license suspension. Result: Filed omnibus pretrial motions seeking dismissal of charges for insufficient evidence. Trial judge GRANTED motion, and charge was dismissed.
DUI - 2nd Offense Highest Tier (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 90-day jail sentence, max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for case to be treated as 1st offense, for the 4-day DUI Alternative to Jail Program and 6 months probation.
F2 Receiving Stolen Property of Firearm (Allegheny): Client facing permanent felony record and max sentence of up to 10 years in jail. Result: Filed omnibus pretrial motions seeking dismissal of charges for insufficient evidence. Days prior to trial, Commonwealth agreed to drop all charges against client.
DUI - High Rate of Alcohol, 2nd Offense (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 30-day jail sentence and max of up to 6 months in jail. Result: Agreement negotiated for 30 days of house arrest and 6 months probation.
Registration and Inspection Violations (Allegheny): Client seeking to avoid traffic charges and fines. Result: Case dismissed.
Simple Assault and Harassment (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and permanent record. Result: Charges withdrawn.
Speeding 55mph over in a Work Zone (Westmoreland): Client facing 5 points, 15-day mandatory suspension for work zone violation, 15-day mandatory suspension for exceeding 31mph over the limit, possible physical examination, and additional sanctions for exceeding 6 points. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement to reduce to 15mph over in a non-work zone, eliminating mandatory 30-days worth of suspensions, and reducing points from 5 to 3.
Speeding 35mph over (Beaver): Client facing 5 points, mandatory PennDOT departmental hearing, possible physical examination and loss of driving privileges for 15 days. Result: Case dismissed.
DUI General Impairment and Obstruction of Administration of Law Enforcement (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2.5 years in jail and permanent record. Result: Filed pretrial motions requesting dismissal of obstruction offense. Thereafter, negotiated client’s entry into the ARD program for 12 months of probation. Client will become eligible to have record expunged after completing program.
DUI-Drugs (3 counts), DUI General Impairment - Alcohol, Reckless Driving (Beaver): Client facing max sentence of up to 6 months in jail, total license suspension of 15 months. Result: Tentative agreement negotiated for client’s admission into the ARD program on a DUI General Impairment offense for 6 months of probation. No license suspension or jail time.
Defiant Trespass and Light Violation (Westmoreland): Client facing summary trespass conviction that cannot be expunged for minimum period of 5 years. Result: Trespass offense dismissed, guilty plea to traffic lighting violation, no points.
Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Butler): Client facing permanent record and max sentence of up to 13 months in jail. Result: Negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only.
Registration and Unlawful Activities (Lawrence): Trucking company facing over $5,000 in fines. Result: Hearing held where registration offense dismissed, saving company from $4,000 in fines. Guilty of unlawful activities carrying fines/costs of approx $650. Total savings of approximately $4,350.
NOVEMBER 2020
Possession With Intent to Deliver, Possession of Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 7 years in jail and permanent felony record. Result: Negotiated withdrawal of PWID charge at magistrate level. Plea agreement reached for Probation Without Verdict on misdemeanor drug charges, which will allow client to avoid conviction upon successful completion of probation.
Simple Assault, Terroristic Threats and Harassment (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 7 years in jail and permanent record. Result: Agreement reached for client to complete mental health evaluation and treatment for a future withdrawal of all charges.
Speeding 33mph over (Cambria): Client facing 5 points, mandatory PennDOT departmental hearing, possible physical examination and loss of driving privileges for 15 days. Result: Case dismissed.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Westmoreland): Client facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. Result: Negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct offense for fines/costs.
Overtaking School Bus (Beaver): Client facing 60-day license suspension and 5 points if convicted. Result: Negotiated reduction to offense carrying no points or suspension.
Agg Assault - Attempt SBI, Agg BI on Enumerated Person, Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 20 years in jail. Result: At preliminary hearing, lead count of F1 Agg Assault Attempt SBI was withdrawn, saving client from potential state prison sentence in standard guideline ranges. All other counts pending.
Promoting Prostitution (Beaver): Client facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail and permanent conviction on record. Result: Negotiated offer for admission into ARD program for 90 days of probation. Charges will be dismissed and eligible for expungement if program successfully completed.
Stop Sign Violation (Allegheny): Client facing 3 points if convicted. Result: Citation dismissed.
Driving on Suspended License - 6th Offense, Required Financial Responsibility, 5 other citations (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 30-day jail sentence, maximum jail sentence of up to 6 months, 15 months worth of license suspensions, and fines exceeding $1,500. Result: All charges dismissed.
2 cases - Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing 120-days of mandatory jail time and 2-year license suspension upon conviction. Result: Not guilty on one case, negotiated reduction to Traffic Control Devices violation on other case, no jail time or suspension.
Fraudulent Use Plate, Speeding 21mph over, Inspection and Registration (Allegheny): Client unrepresented and found guilty at magistrate level. Hired firm to file summary appeal of convictions, as 4 points imposed on driving record. Result: Negotiated reduction to 5mph over and registration violations, carrying no points, saving approx $500 in fines/costs.
Reckless Driving, Required Financial Responsibility, Careless Driving and 5 other offenses (Allegheny): Client unrepresented and found guilty at magistrate level. Hired firm to file summary appeal of convictions. Client facing 9 month license suspension, 3 points and fines. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated resolution for withdrawal of Reckless Driving and Required Financial Responsibility, reducing license suspension anywhere from 6-9 months. Guilty plea to other offenses carrying 3 points and fines.
F3 Theft by Deception (Washington): Client facing max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Negotiated admission into the ARD program for 1 year of probation, client eligible for record expungement upon completion of program.
2x Simple Assault by Physical Menace, 2x Recklessly Endangering Another Person (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 4 years in jail and a permanent record. Result: Negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct and a local ordinance violation. All misdemeanor offenses withdrawn.
Possession With Intent to Deliver, Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 8 years in jail along with a permanent felony record. Result: Agreement reached where felony PWID charge withdrawn, client plead to misdemeanor possession offense for 12 months Probation Without Verdict. Upon successful completion of probation, charges will be dismissed and expunged from criminal record.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client who is eligible to regain driving privileges facing 60-day jail sentence and an additional 12-month license suspension. Result: Agreement reached for reduction to 1511A offense carrying no jail time or license suspension.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client who is eligible to regain driving privileges facing 60-day jail sentence and an additional 12-month license suspension. Result: Agreement reached for reduction to 1501A offense carrying no jail time and no suspension for first offense.
Speeding 28mph over (Allegheny): Client facing 5 points. Result: Agreement reached for 5mph over and no points.
M3 Defiant Trespass (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. Result: Negotiated reduction to two summary offenses for fines only.
DUI-D First Offense, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Reckless Driving (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 2.5 years in jail, 18 month license suspension and criminal record that cannot be expunged. Result: Tentative agreement reached for withdrawal of Controlled Substance, Paraphernalia and Reckless Driving charges with guilty plea to DUI for 40 days house arrest, 6 months probation and reduced suspension of 12 months with ignition interlock license eligibility.
Strangulation and Simple Assault (Washington): Client incarcerated facing max sentence of up to 12 years in jail and permanent record. Result: Agreement reached for withdrawal of charges, client released from jail.
OCTOBER 2020
Bad Checks (Butler): Client facing max sentence of up to 5 years in jail and permanent record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to repay restitution in return for future withdrawal of charges. Outcome pending.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client who owes fines on prior DUI case facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated reduction to 1501A violation, carrying no jail time or license suspension for first offense, reducing fine from $500 to $200.
Driving on a Suspended License (Allegheny): Client who is close to regaining driving privileges facing additional 12-month suspension. Result: Case dismissed.
2x Simple Assault and 2x Harassment (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of 4 years of jail time. Result: Agreement negotiated for client to complete anger management counseling for future withdrawal of charges.
Joint Representation of Co-Defendants - M1 Retail Theft (Allegheny): Clients facing max sentence of up to 5 years in jail and permanent record. Result: Agreement reached where charges dismissed based upon completion of classes/community service.
Impersonating Law Enforcement and Terroristic Threats (Cambria): Client facing max sentence of up to 7 years in jail and permanent record. Result: Agreement reached for client to complete counseling in return for a future reduction to a summary disorderly conduct. Outcome pending.
DUI Refusal Breath (Beaver): Client facing 72-hour mandatory minimum jail sentence and max sentence of up to 6 months of jail time. Result: Agreement negotiated for client to receive 5 days of house arrest and 6 months probation, avoiding all jail time.
Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Beaver): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement to complete drug and alcohol assessment in return for future reduction to summary disorderly conduct. Outcome pending.
Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service in return for future withdrawal of charges. Outcome pending.
2x Possession of a Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client with no prior criminal record facing permanent misdemeanor conviction and max sentence of up to 3 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete community service in return for reduction to summary disorderly conduct offenses. Final outcome pending.
Speeding 25mph over (Allegheny): Client facing 5 points. Result: Negotiated reduction to 5 mph over, no points.
Driving on a Suspended License non-DUI Related 6th Offense (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 30 day jail sentence, max sentence of up to 6 months in jail, and fine of up to $1,000. Result: Negotiated reduction to 1511A violation, carrying no jail time or license suspension, reducing fine from $1000 to $25.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related and Rear Lights (Allegheny): Client facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated reduction to 1511A violation, carrying no jail time or license suspension, reducing fine from $500 to $25.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client who owes fines on prior DUI case facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and 12-month license suspension. Result: Negotiated reduction to 1511A violation, carrying no jail time or license suspension, reducing fine from $500 to $25.
Minor Prohibited from Operating Vehicle with Alcohol, Speeding 16mph over and Underage Drinking (Westmoreland): Client facing 90-day license suspension for minor prohibited charge, 4 points and summary convictions that cannot be expunged for 5 years. Result: Attorney Milardo reached deal for guilty plea to speeding 5mph only. Minor prohibited and underage charges dismissed. No license suspension or points.
Protection From Abuse (Allegheny): Client facing publicly searchable PFA order applicable for up to 3 years. Result: Negotiated temporary extension of PFA for 6 months with future dismissal of order if no contact.
Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Beaver): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. All misdemeanor drug charges withdrawn.
F3 Insurance Fraud (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 7 years in jail, fine of up to $5000 plus court costs. Result: Negotiated agreement to withdraw criminal charges upon payment of civil penalty only.
Required Financial Responsibility, Speeding 19mph over and Registration (Allegheny): Client facing 90-day driver’s license suspension, 4 points, and over $600 in fines/costs. Result: Agreement reached for plea to one alternative offense carrying no license suspension or points, reducing fines from $600 to $150.
Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Underage Drinking (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Agreement reached for client to complete 20 hours of community service in return for future withdrawal of charges. Outcome pending.
2nd Offense DUI - Highest Tier (Washington): Client facing 90-day mandatory minimum jail sentence, max of up to 5 years. Result: Tentative agreement reached for 90-days of house arrest and probation.
Public Drunkneness and Disorderly Conduct (Allegheny): Client facing summary offenses with max fines/costs of over $900 and summary convictions that could not be expunged for 5 years. Result: Agreement reached to complete community service for a future withdrawal. Outcome pending.
Driving on a Suspended License 6th or Subsequent Offense (Allegheny): Client charged with 6th 1543A offense facing mandatory 30-day jail sentence, maximum jail sentence of 6 months, additional 12-month suspension and a $1,000 fine. Result: Agreement reached to reduce offense to 1511A, eliminating all jail time and license suspension, reducing fine to $25.
DUI-D and Driving on a Suspended License (Allegheny): Client with substantial criminal record facing max sentence of up to 6 months in jail, mandatory 72-hour jail sentence upon conviction. Result: Agreement reached for client to complete DUI Alternative to Jail Program, 6 months probation. Suspended license charge withdrawn, reducing license suspension from 24 months to 12 months with Ignition Interlock License Eligibility.
Strangulation and Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client with no prior record facing permanent felony record and max sentence of up to 12 years of jail time. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated plea agreement where felony Strangulation charge withdrawn and client entered guilty plea to simple assault for 15 months of probation.
2 cases - Simple Assault, Harassment and Criminal Mischief; Strangulation, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and Terroristic Threats (Allegheny): Client facing maximum sentence of up to 4 years on first case and 17 years on 2nd case. Result: Attorney Zuckerman argued for dismissal of 2nd case on first court listing. Agreement reached and finalized on first case for client to complete drug and alcohol evaluation for a withdrawal. All charges were withdrawn!
Driving on a Suspended License (Allegheny): Client facing an additional 1-year license suspension when otherwise eligible to regain driving privileges. Result: Client was able to regain license and Attorney Milardo secured dismissal of charge.
Accident Involving Damage to Unattended Vehicle (Allegheny): Client facing 4 points and $300 fine if convicted. Result: Charge reduced to alternative offense carrying no points and reducing fine to $150.
SEPTEMBER 2020
Driving on a Suspended License and Speeding 21 mph over (Allegheny): Client who is eligible to regain his license would face an additional 12-month license suspension for the suspended license charge, and an additional 60-day suspension for the speeding offense if points imposed. Result: Attorney Zuckerman waived client’s appearance in court and negotiated agreement for withdrawal of the suspended license charge and reduction of the speeding offense to 5mph over. No points or license suspension.
Summary Harassment (Westmoreland): Client and ex charged with summary harassment offenses in connection with domestic incident, facing max sentence of up to 90 days in jail and fines/costs of approximately $450. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated resolution with officer and magistrate for dismissal of client’s charges.
M2 Criminal Mischief (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and a permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction of offense to a summary criminal mischief for fines/restitution only. Misdemeanor offense withdrawn and client will become eligible for summary expungement in 5 years.
M3 False ID to Law Enforcement and Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 18 months in jail, along with a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 60 days. Result: Agreement reached for guilty plea to summary disorderly conduct and the suspended license offense for 60 days of house arrest and 6 months probation. All misdemeanor offenses withdrawn.
Simple Assault by Physical Menace, Terroristic Threats and Harassment (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of over 7 years in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Case dismissed.
M3 Harassment (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated agreement for client to complete treatment in return for future reduction to a summary disorderly conduct. Outcome pending.
F3 Theft by Unlawful Taking, F3 RSP and Unlawful Use of Computer (Washington): Client facing max sentence of up to 12 years in jail and a permanent felony record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution in return for offer for admission into ARD program, allowing client to avoid a criminal record.
Strangulation and Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client facing a max sentence of up to 10 years in jail and a permanent felony record. Result: Case dismissed.
Speeding 40mph (Allegheny): Client facing 5 points, a mandatory PennDOT Departmental hearing and potential 15-day license suspension upon conviction. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to 10mph over, reducing points from 5 to 2, and eliminating the PennDOT hearing/suspension.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and a $500 fine. Result: Attorney Zuckerman reached agreement for reduction to 1501A, Driving Without a License, eliminating 60-day jail sentence, 12 month suspension, and reducing fine by $300.
Driving on a Suspended License (Westmoreland): Client facing 12-month license suspension and $200 fine upon conviction. Result: Case dismissed.
DUI Highest Tier With Minor in Vehicle (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum jail sentence of 72 hours, a 12-month license suspension and possible grading amendment to a 1st Degree Misdemeanor punishable by up to 5 years in jail. Result: Resolved case as an ungraded misdemeanor offense for the DUI Alternative to Jail Program, 100 hours of community service, and 5 months of probation.
Speeding 22mph over in Work Zone (Washington): Client facing 4 points on driving record and an additional 15-day license suspension for exceeding 11mph in an active work zone. Result: Case dismissed.
M2 Fleeing & Eluding and Recklessly Endangering Another Person (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 4 years in jail and a permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete safe driving course in return for reduction to summary disorderly conduct. Case closed, and client eligible to expunge Fleeing/REAP counts.
DUI - General Impairment With Accident (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 48 hour jail sentence, 12-month license suspension and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated admission into the ARD program, with all proceedings handled remotely. No jail time, suspension reduced to 60 days, and client eligible for future record expungement.
DUI - Highest Tier (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 72 hour jail sentence, 12-month license suspension and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated admission into the ARD program, with all proceedings handled remotely. No jail time, suspension reduced to 60 days, and client eligible for future record expungement.
M3 Harassment (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 1 year in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated agreement for client to pay $500 in restitution in return for full withdrawal of charges.
Reckless Driving, Required Financial Responsibility, and Accident with Unattended Vehicle (Allegheny): Client facing a total 9 month license suspension and 4 points on driving record if convicted of all traffic charges. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution in return for future reduction to a Traffic Control Devices violation, which will eliminate all license suspensions and points. Fines will also be reduced by approximately $400-500. Outcome pending.
2nd Offense Highest Tier DUI (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 90-day jail sentence, 18-month license suspension, and max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Pursuant to Com v. Chichkin, negotiated resolution where case treated as a 1st Offense DUI, with a deviation into the middle tier, for the DUI Alternative to Jail program, 6 months probation, and the license suspension reduced to 12 months.
M3 Harassment (Westmoreland): Client facing criminal record and max sentence of up to 1 year in jail. Result: Agreement reached for future ARD admission, avoiding jail time and leading to future record expungement.
Driving on a Suspended License - 6th Offense (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 30-day jail sentence, maximum jail sentence of 6 months, and a $1,000 fine. Result: Case dismissed.
Underage Drinking (Allegheny): Client facing summary conviction that cannot be expunged until turning 21 years of age, along with fines and costs exceeding $500. Result: Case dismissed.
DUI Middle Tier Offense (Indiana): Client facing mandatory minimum 48-hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated entry into the ARD Program. No jail time, license suspension reduced to 30 days, and eligible for criminal record expungement.
AUGUST 2020
Open Container and 3 Traffic Offenses (Allegheny): CDL holder facing insurance increases and convictions that can impact employment in future. Result: All charges dismissed.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and a $500 fine. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for reduction to 1501A, Driving Without a License, eliminating 60-day jail sentence, 12 month suspension, and reducing fine by $300.
Overtaking a School Bus (Westmoreland): Client facing 60-day mandatory license suspension and 5 points on driving record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman litigated hearing and argued for a dismissal based upon a technical error. Court agreed to delay verdict for 90 days and if no further issues, charge to be reduced to eliminate suspension.
Insurance Fraud and Criminal Attempt Theft (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 12 years in jail and permanent felony conviction. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated a withdrawal of the criminal charges in return for client paying a civil penalty.
DUI Middle Tier Offense with Accident (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 48-hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated entry into the ARD Program with all proceedings being handled remotely. No jail time, license suspension reduced to 60 days, and eligible for criminal record expungement.
Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Allegheny): Client with no prior record facing max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete parenting classes in return for a future reduction to a summary disorderly conduct charge. Outcome pending.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and a $500 fine. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for reduction to 1501A, Driving Without a License, eliminating 60-day jail sentence, 12 month suspension, and reducing fine by $300.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and a $500 fine. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for reduction to 1543A, a non-DUI related suspension, eliminating 60-day jail sentence and reducing fine by $300.
M1 Carrying a Firearm Without a License (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 5 years in jail and a permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman reached agreement for a full withdrawal of the charge.
F3 Fleeing and Eluding, REAP and Reckless Driving (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 9 years in jail along with an 18-month license suspension. Result: Plea agreement reached for a guilty plea to the Fleeing charge for 1 year of probation, license suspension reduced from 18 months down to 12 months.
Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client facing maximum sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Agreement reached for client to complete Batterer’s Intervention Program in return for reduction to summary disorderly conduct offense. Outcome pending.
2nd Offense Highest Tier DUI .16% BAC and above (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 90-day jail sentence, max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Agreement reached where client received 90 days of house arrest and 18 months probation.
Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months and a permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement for reduction to a summary disorderly conduct. All misdemeanors withdrawn.
M1 Retail Theft and Conspiracy (Allegheny): Client with no prior record facing permanent theft conviction on record carrying max sentence of up to 5 years. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement for client to complete retail theft educational course for a full withdrawal of the charges.
F2 Forgery, F3 Access Device Fraud and M1 Criminal Attempt Theft (Allegheny): Client with no prior criminal history facing max sentence of up to 22 years in jail and a permanent felony record. Result: Agreement reached for plea to summary disorderly conduct, all felony and misdemeanor offenses withdrawn, with client paying a minimal fine.
Speeding 28mph over (Allegheny): Client facing 5 points if convicted. Result: Negotiated reduction to 5mph over, no points.
DUI - Middle Tier (Washington): Client facing mandatory minimum 48-hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated entry into the ARD Program. No jail time, license suspension reduced to 30 days, and eligible for criminal record expungement.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and a $500 fine. Result: Attorney Zuckerman reached agreement for reduction to 1501A, Driving Without a License, eliminating the mandatory jail sentence, license suspension and reducing fine by $300.
Possession With Intent to Deliver Heroin, Possession of a Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client with no prior criminal history facing permanent felony record and max sentence of up to 8 years in jail upon conviction. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated withdrawal of felony drug offense at preliminary hearing phase. Outcome pending on misdemeanor drug possession and paraphernalia charges at Court of Common Pleas.
Terroristic Threats and M3 Disorderly Conduct (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 8 years in jail and permanent criminal record if convicted. Result: Agreement negotiated for client to complete treatment in return for a reduction to a summary disorderly conduct. Outcome pending.
Overtaking a School Bus (Allegheny): Client facing 60-day mandatory license suspension and 5 points on driving record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to Traffic Control Devices violation, eliminating all points and suspensions.
Corruption of Minors (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Attorney Zuckerman reached agreement for client to complete treatment in return for a future plea to a disorderly conduct offense. Outcome pending.
Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Butler): Client unrepresented at preliminary hearing phase, where charges proceeded to higher court. Firm hired for representation at Court of Common Pleas. Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months and a permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman reached agreement for misdemeanors to be withdrawn in return for guilty plea to summary disorderly conduct for a fine only.
Public Drunkenness, Disorderly Conduct and Underage Drinking (Allegheny): Client facing multiple summary convictions that could not be expunged for minimum period of 5 years and fines/costs in excess of $1,200 if convicted. Result: All charges dismissed.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and a $500 fine. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for reduction to 1543A, a non-DUI related suspension, eliminating 60-day jail sentence and reducing fine by $300.
Reckless Driving (Allegheny): Vehicle operator facing mandatory 6-month license suspension if convicted. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement for charge to be withdrawn, which was finalized in September.
DUI Highest Tier (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 72-hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated entry into the ARD Program with all proceedings being handled remotely. No jail time, license suspension reduced to 60 days, and eligible for criminal record expungement.
DUI General Impairment with Accident (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 48-hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated entry into the ARD Program with all proceedings being handled remotely. No jail time, license suspension reduced to 60 days, and eligible for criminal record expungement.
Underage Drinking (Allegheny): College student facing summary conviction that cannot be expunged until turning 21 years of age and fines/costs of over $500. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement leading to dismissal of charge.
Indecent Exposure (Allegheny): Client with no prior criminal record facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated for client to complete treatment in return for future plea to summary offense only for fines/costs. Outcome pending.
Strangulation and Simple Assault (Cambria): Client with no prior criminal record facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 12 years in jail. Result: Attorney Milardo successfully pursued withdrawal of all charges at preliminary hearing.
F2 Agricultural Crop Destruction, F3 Agricultural Vandalism and F3 Criminal Mischief (Fayette): Client facing max sentence of up to 27 years in jail and a permanent felony record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated Rule 586 Settlement where all charges withdrawn after client paid restitution.
Simple Assault and Harassment (Cambria): Client with no prior criminal record facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Case dismissed at preliminary hearing.
2nd Offense Highest Tier DUI BAC .16% and Above (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 90-day jail sentence and maximum sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Plea agreement reached where client received 90-days of house arrest and 18 months probation. No jail time served.
DUI-D (Armstrong): Client facing max sentence of up to 6 months in jail, mandatory minimum sentence of 72 hours. Result: Per client’s request, agreement reached for 72 hour mandatory minimum sentence in the Armstrong County Jail, to which client was released thereafter.
Simple Assault, Propulsion of Missiles, and 1st Offense Highest Tier DUI (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 4.5 years in jail if convicted of all offenses. Result: At prelimninary hearing, agreement reached where the Simple Assault and Propulsion of Missiles offenses were withdrawn, shaving up to 4 years off of a potential sentence. DUI charge waived to the Court of Common Pleas for further disposition.
Possession of Small Amount of Marijuana, Poss Drug Paraphernalia and Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 19 months in jail if convicted, and a 60-day mandatory minimum jail sentence for the suspended license violation. Result: Agreement reached where drug offenses withdrawn, client plead guilty to suspended license and summary disorderly conduct, receiving 60-days of house arrest. All misdemeanors withdrawn.
JULY 2020
Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, False Reports to Law Enforcement, Driving Without a License (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 4 years in jail if convicted. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement where client will plead guilty to two reduced counts of summary disorderly conduct if client obtains drug and alcohol evaluation. Outcome pending.
Unlawful Sale/Transfer of Firearm and Unsworn Falsification to Authorities (Allegheny): Client facing felony charge and a total max sentence of up to 8 years on all counts if convicted. Result: Charges dismissed after preliminary hearing was held.
M3 Accident With Attended Vehicle, Driving on a Suspended License and Required Financial Responsibility (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 18 months in jail and a 27-month license suspension. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement to a summary disorderly conduct and Driving Without a License charge, eliminating all license suspensions.
F1 Corrupt Organizations, F3 Theft, F3 Receiving Stolen Property, additional counts (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 27 years in prison in connection with multi-county theft ring. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement where F1 Corrupt Organizations charge withdrawn, client plead to F3 Theft charges for 5 years of probation, with permission for early termination of probation after 3 years.
F3 Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 2x M1 Endangering Welfare of Child (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 17 years in jail, permanent felony record and likely loss of employment if convicted. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated agreement for client to complete rehabilitation and parenting classes in return for a future plea to summary disorderly conduct. Final disposition pending.
Strangulation, Unlawful Restraint, Simple Assault x2, Animal Cruelty (Allegheny): Client facing probation/parole violation, max sentence of up to 19 years in jail, and a felony conviction. Result: Case dismissed.
Overtaking School Bus (Allegheny): Client facing 60-day mandatory license suspension and 5 points. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement for plea to traffic control devices, eliminating all points and suspensions.
Traffic Control Devices (Allegheny): CDL holder seeking to avoid any traffic violations for employment purposes. Result: Attorney Milardo reached deal for client to complete online safe driving course in return for dismissal of charge.
Simple Assault and Harassment (Allegheny): Couple both facing Simple Assault and Harassment charges in connection with a domestic violence allegation, facing max sentence of up to 27 months in jail and permanent record. Result: Case dismissed for insufficient evidence.
Racing on Highways and Careless Driving (Clarion): Client facing 6-month mandatory license suspension and 3 points upon conviction. Result: Attorney Zuckerman waived client’s appearance and reached agreement where client plead to careless driving and traffic control devices, avoiding 6-month license suspension.
Speeding 5mph over (Greene): For employment purposes, client seeking to avoid speeding conviction on record. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for client to complete safe driving class for full withdrawal of speeding offense.
Following Too Closely, Careless Driving and Registration (Greene): Client facing 6 points in connection with auto accident. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement, eliminating all points.
Railroad Violation and Careless Driving (Allegheny): Out-of-state CDL holder facing serious traffic violation and potential license suspension for the railroad offense. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement leading to withdrawal of railroad offense in return for guilty plea to careless driving.
Possession of Small Amount of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Washington): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated agreement at preliminary hearing for reduction to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. Client eligible to expunge drug charges.
Public Drunkenness, Disorderly Conduct and Obstructing Highways (Allegheny): College student facing publicly searchable convictions that cannot be expunged for 5 years and fines/costs of over $1,000 if convicted. Result: Attorney Zuckerman reached agreement for client to complete 10 hours of community service for a future withdrawal of all charges, with no fines/costs being imposed. Final outcome pending.
DUI Highest Tier 1st Offense (Washington): Client facing 72 hour mandatory minimum and max sentence of up to 6 months in jail, along with a 12-month license suspension. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated resolution for admission into the ARD Program, carrying no jail time, a reduced 60-day suspension, and eligibility to have criminal record expunged.
Accident Involving Damage to Unattended Vehicle/Property (Allegheny): Client plead guilty to offense without understanding full range of consequences. Hired law firm for summary appeal. Client is a CDL holder who received a 1-year CDL disqualification and 4 points on his driving record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman prepped for trial, speaking with various witnesses. Ultimately, he negotiated a resolution whereby client paid restitution in return for a reduction to an equipment violation. The 1-year disqualification and points were removed from the driving record!
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and additional 12 month suspension. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to Driving Without a License, carrying no jail time or suspension.
Possession of Small Amount of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement at preliminary hearing for reduction to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. Client eligible to expunge drug charges.
Possession of Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia (Washington): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated agreement at preliminary hearing for reduction to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. Client eligible to expunge drug charges.
2nd Offense, Highest Tier DUI BAC .16% or above (Allegheny): Client originally charged with a 2nd offense highest tier DUI facing 90-day mandatory minimum jail sentence, 18 month license suspension, max sentence of up to 5 years in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo successfully petitioned court for 90-days of house arrest and 18 months probation.
2nd Offense, Highest Tier DUI BAC .16% or above (Allegheny): Client originally charged with a 2nd offense highest tier DUI facing 90-day mandatory minimum jail sentence, 18 month license suspension, max sentence of up to 5 years in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Due to Chichkin decision, Attorney Zuckerman advocated for amendment of charge to a 1st Offense DUI for the DUI Alternative to Jail Program and 6 months of probation. Total probationary sentence reduced from 5 years to 6 months, suspension reduced from 18 months to 12 months. Client may become eligible for record sealing if no new arrests within 10 years of conviction.
F3 Possession With Intent to Deliver, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Speeding 16mph over (Allegheny): College student with no prior criminal record facing permanent felony on record and max sentence of up to 8 years in jail. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated agreement where charges reduced to two counts of summary disorderly conduct and speeding. All felony and misdemeanor drug charges withdrawn!
Driving on a Suspended License (Butler): Client who is close to regaining license is facing additional 12-month license suspension if convicted. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement to Failure To Exhibit License Upon Demand offense, carrying no suspension.
Bond Hearing (Allegheny): Commonwealth filed motion to revoke client’s bond for violation of bond conditions. Result: Request to revoke bond denied, client remains out of jail on bond.
Summary Retail Theft (Allegheny): Juvenile client facing conviction on criminal record for retail theft that could not be expunged for 5 years. Result: Attorney Zuckerman negotiated resolution with judge and officer for dismissal of offense.
Speeding 30mph over (Allegheny): Client facing 5 points on driving record, and would exceed 6 point threshold requiring points examination. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for plea to 5mph over, avoiding all points.
Disregarding Traffic Lane (Allegheny): Out-of-state CDL driver facing conviction for charge classified as a serious traffic offense for CDL drivers. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for amendment to turnpike violation, to which there is no corresponding offense in home state, allowing client to avoid points and serious traffic violation.
Institutional Vandalism, Criminal Mischief - 3 counts, and Defiant Trespass (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 3 years and 9 months in jail, permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement to reduce charges to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. Client eligible to expunge all other charges from criminal record.
Corruption of Minors (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 5 years in jail based upon allegations of sexual-related misconduct. Result: Attorney Zuckerman reached plea deal to one count of M3 Harassment for 12 months of probation. No Megan’s Law registration.
Driving on a Suspended License, Driving at Safe Speed, other citations (Westmoreland): Client facing additional 13-months worth of suspensions if convicted. Result: Attorney Zuckerman worked with client who regained license before hearing. Agreement reached to amend charge to Driving Without a License and two other violations carrying no points or suspension. Client regained driving privileges for first time in 5 years!
Speeding 17mph over (Allegheny): Client facing 4 points. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement for 5mph over, no points.
Speeding 30mph over (Washington): Client facing 5 points on driving record, and would exceed 6 point threshold requiring points examination. Result: Waived client’s appearance in court, saving client from having to attend hearing. Attorney Milardo reached agreement for plea to 10mph over, reducing points from 5 to 2, keeping client under 6 point threshold.
2nd Offense, Highest Tier DUI .16% and above (Beaver): Client facing mandatory minimum of 90 days in jail, max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Agreement reached for 90-days of house arrest and 18 months probation.
Unlawful Dissemination of Intimate Image (Cambria): Client with clean record facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and a permanent conviction on record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to pay restitution in return for plea to summary disorderly conduct.
Underage Drinking (Allegheny): Client facing publicly searchable summary conviction that could not be expunged until client turned 21 years of age, along with fines and court costs of approximately $600. Result: Waived client’s appearance in court, found not guilty.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Indiana): Client facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and additional 12-month license suspension. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to Driving Without a License, carrying no jail time or license suspension.
JUNE 2020
False Reports to Law Enforcement (Washington): Client facing 2nd degree misdemeanor charge punishable by max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and a permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct offense for fines/costs only.
F2 Theft by Unlawful Taking, F2 Receiving Stolen Property, M3 Loitering and Prowling at Nighttime, Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client facing multiple felony charges carrying max of up to 20 years in jail. Result: At preliminary hearing, agreement negotiated for felony charges to be amended to 1st-Degree Misdemeanors, along with withdrawal of the Loitering and Paraphernalia charges. Waived right to have preliminary hearing and awaiting final disposition at the Court of Common Pleas.
2nd Offense DUI Highest Tier (Butler): Client originally charged with a 2nd offense DUI-D facing 90-day mandatory minimum jail sentence, 18 month license suspension, max sentence of up to 5 years in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Due to Chichkin decision, charge amended to a 1st Offense, Highest Tier carrying mandatory 72-hour jail sentence. Attorney Milardo reached plea agreement to 14-days of house arrest and probation. No jail time, license suspension reduced to 12 months. Client may become eligible for record sealing if no new arrests within 10 years of conviction.
Driving on a DUI Suspended License and 3x Driving Without License (Washington): Client facing mandatory 60-day jail sentence and up to 18 months worth of license suspensions if convicted of charges as filed. Result: Agreement negotiated where client plead guilty to one count of Driving Without a License. Other counts amended to Traffic Control Devices violations. End result allows client to avoid all jail time and license suspensions.
M1 Retail Theft (Allegheny): Client facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete course and pay restitution for a future withdrawal of charge. Outcome pending.
M1 Retail Theft (Allegheny): Client facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Case dismissed pursuant to agreement reached at magistrate level.
2nd Offense DUI-D and Possession of Controlled Substance (Allegheny): Client originally charged with a 2nd offense DUI-D facing 90-day mandatory minimum jail sentence, 18 month license suspension and max sentence of up to 5 years in jail. Result: Due to Chichkin decision, charge amended to a 1st Offense, Highest Tier carrying mandatory 72-hour jail sentence. Attorney Milardo reached plea agreement to DUI and Drug Possession charge for the DUI Alternative to Jail Program and 12 months of non-reporting probation. No jail time, license suspension reduced to 12 months. Client may become eligible for record sealing if no new arrests within 10 years of conviction.
2nd Offense General Impairment DUI (Allegheny): Client originally charged with a 2nd offense DUI facing mandatory minimum 5 day jail sentence, 12 month license suspension, and max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Due to Chichkin decision, charges amended to an ungraded misdemeanor 1st offense DUI as a result of prior ARD. Attorney Milardo reached plea agreement reached for mandatory 6-months probation only, fine reduced from $1,000 to $300. Client eligible for record sealing in 10 years.
M1 2nd Offense DUI - Highest Tier, M3 Accident with Attended Vehicle, multiple traffic offenses (Allegheny): Client originally facing a 90-day mandatory minimum jail sentence, up to 2.5 years worth of license suspensions for a DUI where a hit and run accident occurred. Result: Plea agreement negotiated for guilty plea to DUI offense only for 90-days of house arrest, 18 months of probation and an 18 month license suspension. No jail time and hit and run offense withdrawn, saving client from additional probation and license suspensions.
Public Drunkenness (Allegheny): Client facing summary conviction that cannot be expunged for minimum period of 5 years, along with fines and court costs of approximately $450. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete drug and alcohol evaluation and comply with treatment recommendations in return for future dismissal of charge.
Summary Retail Theft (Allegheny): Client facing retail theft conviction on criminal record that cannot be expunged for minimum period of 5 years, along with fines and court costs exceeding $400. Result: Case dismissed before court hearing based upon agreement reached for client to complete course and pay restitution.
Overtaking School Bus (Washington): Client facing mandatory 60-day license suspension and 5 points on driving record if convicted. Result: Negotiated amendment to Careless Driving, eliminating license suspension and reducing points from 5 to 3.
Junior Driver - Speeding 28mph and Stop Sign (Allegheny): Junior driver found guilty at magistrate level. Due to exceeding 26mph over, a mandatory 90-day license suspension and 5 points on driving record. Result: Negotiated reduction of speeding offense to 5mph over, eliminating all points and license suspensions. Stop sign offense withdrawn.
Speeding 26mph (Allegheny): Client plead guilty to offense at magistrate level, receiving 5 points on driving record. Firm hired to file summary appeal on client’s behalf. Result: Negotiated agreement to 5mph over offense, eliminating all points.
Driving on a Suspended License (Allegheny): Client found guilty of driving on a suspended license at magistrate level due to missing hearing. Firm hired to file summary appeal on client’s behalf. Result: Negotiated agreement for withdrawal of the suspended license charge in return for guilty plea to traffic control devices violation only, no points or suspension.
Overtaking School Bus (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory 60-day license suspension and 5 points on driving record if convicted. Result: Negotiated amendment to amber signal violation, carrying no points or suspension.
Careless Driving (Butler): Client facing 3 points. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated amendment to offense carrying no points.
Speeding 35mph over (Allegheny): Client facing 5 points, a mandatory PennDOT Departmental Hearing and likely 15-day license suspension. Result: Negotiated resolution to 10mph over, eliminating PennDOT Hearing and license suspension, reducing points from 5 to 2.
F3 Carrying a Firearm Without a License, DUI, Possession of a Controlled Substance (Washington): Client facing permanent felony record, max sentence of up to 7 years in jail, mandatory minimum 72-hour jail sentence on the DUI offense and a 12 month license suspension. Result: Negotiated tentative written plea offer for the firearm offense to be withdrawn in return for a guilty plea to DUI and Possession for 14-days house arrest and probation.
Burglary, Criminal Trespass, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Disorderly Conduct (Washington): Client facing permanent felony record, max sentence of up to 20 years in jail, and a guideline range sentence of 9-16 months of incarceration. Result: Case dismissed at magistrate level.
Possession of a Small Amount of Marijuana & Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 13 months of probation. Result: Agreement reached for client to complete 20 hours of community service in return for a full withdrawal of charges.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and an additional 12-month license suspension. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for continuance of hearing to allow time for client to apply for interlock license. If obtained by time of review hearing, charge will be reduced to a 1501A Driving Without a License Offense, carrying no suspension or jail time for a first offense.
HOV Lane Violation (Allegheny): Client with a clean driving history sought to avoid offense being added to driving record. Result: Agreement reached for client to complete online safe driving class in return for a dismissal of the citation. Outcome remains pending.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Westmoreland): Client facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and an additional 12-month license suspension. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to 1501A Driving Without a License offense, carrying no suspension or jail time for a first offense.
DUI - Highest Tier and Accident with Unattended Vehicle (Armstrong): Client facing 72-hour mandatory minimum jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and 8 points on driving record. Result: Negotiated agreement for entry into ARD program for no jail time, 60-day license suspension and no points.
F3 Insurance Fraud, M1 Theft by Deception (Butler): Client facing max sentence of up to 12 years in jail. Result: Negotiated plea agreement to M1 attempted theft for 1 year of probation. Felony charge withdrawn.
Motion to Modify Bond (Allegheny): Client’s bond revoked due to alleged violation of bond conditions. Result: Successfully argued for release to inpatient rehab facility.
APRIL & MAY 2020 (NOTE: Many cases delayed due to COVID-19 pandemic)
DUI-D and Driving on a Suspended License (Fayette): Client facing 72 hour mandatory minimum jail sentence and up to 2 years of license suspensions. Result: Negotiated admission into ARD program, no jail time, 12 months probation and 60-day license suspension.
Driving on a Suspended License DUI Related (Armstrong): Client facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence and 12-month license suspension upon conviction. Result: Negotiated tentative agreement for continuance of case to allow client to comply with restoration letter. Likely resolution to 1511A violation carrying no points or jail time.
Motion for Early Release (Washington & Westmoreland): Client seeking early release from two county jail sentences. Result: Both motions granted and client paroled early from jail sentence.
MARCH 2020 (NOTE: Many cases delayed due to COVID-19 pandemic)
Motion to Lift Detainer (Allegheny): Filed motion to pursue client’s release from incarceration due to multiple technical and conviction based violations. Result: Motion granted, client released from incarceration to return home.
DUI - Drugs (Fayette): Client facing 72-hour mandatory minimum jail sentence, 12 month license suspension, max of up to 6 months in jail. Result: Negotiated tentative offer for future admission into the ARD program. Outcome pending.
DUI Highest Tier, 1st Offense (Washington): Client facing 72-hour mandatory minimum jail sentence, 12 month license suspension, max of up to 6 months in jail. Result: Negotiated tentative offer for future admission into the ARD program. Outcome pending.
F3 Theft by Deception (Allegheny): Client facing permanent felony record and max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement for client to repay restitution and complete drug and alcohol evaluation for a future reduction to a summary disorderly conduct charge. Outcome pending.
F3 Criminal Mischief (Allegheny): Client facing permanent felony record and max sentence of up to 7 years in jail. Result: Case dismissed.
Overtaking School Bus (Allegheny): Client facing 5 points and a mandatory 60-day license suspension upon conviction. Result: Agreement negotiated for client to complete safe driving class for reduction to offense carrying no points or suspension. Outcome pending.
Overtaking School Bus (Westmoreland): Client facing 5 points and mandatory 60-day license suspension upon conviction. Result: Negotiated reduction to Careless Driving offense, reducing points from 5 to 3 and eliminating license suspension.
Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated agreement for client to complete anger management counseling in return for reduction to a summary disorderly conduct. Outcome pending.
Driving on a Suspended License (Allegheny): Client facing an additional 12-month driver’s license suspension upon conviction. Result: Assisted client in reviewing his restoration letter, allowing him to regain license quickly. On hearing date, charges dismissed. Client obtained driver’s license for the first time in 7 years.
FEBRUARY 2020
Manufacturing Controlled Substance, Possession With Intent to Deliver, Possession and Paraphernalia (Washington): Client charged with over 100 felony and misdemeanor counts in alleged mushroom grow operation. Result: Filed Omnibus Pretrial Motion challenging legality of search of residence. On motion hearing date, offer made for probation without verdict on one count of possession of a small amount of marijuana and one count of paraphernalia for 1 year of probation. Hundreds of felony/misdemeanor charges were withdrawn, and upon successful completion of probation on the two counts, those charges to be dismissed and client eligible to have criminal record expunged.
DUI - Highest Tier, Accident Involving Damage to Attended Vehicle (Indiana): Client facing 4th lifetime offense, but 1st DUI within 10 years. Facing max sentence of up to 18 months, 72 hour mandatory minimum and 24 months worth of license suspensions. Result: Negotiated plea to middle tier, first offense DUI carrying 48 hour mandatory minimum. On date of sentence, successfully argued for house arrest instead of jail time. 12 month license suspension.
DUI - Highest Tier with Accident (Allegheny): Client with highest rate of alcohol involved in accident with injury to others facing mandatory 72 hours of jail time, 12 month license suspension and max sentence of up to 6 months in jail. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program, no jail time, 60 day suspension and record will be expunged once program completed successfully.
DUI - Middle Tier 1st Offense (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 48 hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and max sentence of 6 months. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program for no jail time, 30 day license suspension, with record to be expunged once program completed successfully.
Safe Speed, Limitation on Left Side of Road, Disregard Traffic Lane (Greene): Client facing 6 points if convicted on all offenses. Result: Not guilty of all counts.
Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Reckless Driving (Washington): Client facing permanent criminal record, max sentence of up to 13 months and a mandatory 6-month suspension if conviction on all charges. Result: Negotiated agreement for plea to summary disorderly conduct. All misdemeanors and reckless driving offense withdrawn.
Criminal Attempt Burglary, Criminal Trespass, Stalking, Loitering & Prowling at Nighttime (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence in excess of 17 years and permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated tentative agreement for client to complete counseling in return for reduction to summary offenses only. Outcome still pending.
Driving on a Suspended License (Washington): Client facing an additional 12-month license suspension and mandatory 60 day jail sentence. Result: Case dismissed.
Reckless Driving (Allegheny): Client facing 6-month license suspension upon conviction. Result: Negotiated reduction to traffic control devices violation, carrying no points or suspension.
Driving Without a License (Westmoreland): Client with international driver’s license found guilty in abstentia. Although there is no license suspension for a 1st offense, Uber/Lyft will not hire client to drive due to conviction appearing on record. Result: Negotiated agreement for a withdrawal of the Driving Without License charge.
DUI - 1st Offense Highest Tier (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum jail sentence of 72 hours of incarceration, 12 month license suspension and max sentence of up to 6 months. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program for 12 months probation, 60 day license suspension, and no jail time.
DUI - 1st Offense Middle Tier (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum jail sentence of 48 hours of incarceration, 12 month license suspension and max sentence of up to 6 months. Result: Negotiated reduction of tier to a lowest tier offense based upon chemical test deviation. ARD for 12 months of probation and no license suspension.
Insurance Fraud and Theft by Deception (Westmoreland): Client facing loss of employment, permanent felony record and max sentence of over 9 years in jail if convicted. Result: Negotiated offer for admission into ARD program on 1 year of probation, with charges to be expunged upon successful completion of program.
Possession of Controlled Substance (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 1 year and permanent criminal record. Result: Agreement negotiated for 6 months of probation without verdict, which will allow client to pursue record expungement upon successful completion of probation.
Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years and permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated agreement for client to complete anger management classes for future withdrawal of charges. Case pending.
Driving on a DUI Suspended License (Washington): Client facing 60-day mandatory jail sentence, 12 month license suspension, and $500 fine upon conviction. Result: Original agreement involved reduced plea to Driving Without License charge if client came to court with a license in hand. However, on hearing date, MDJ elected to dismiss charge altogether.
Careless Driving and Roadways Laned for Traffic (Allegheny): 3 points and over $500 in fines/costs upon conviction. Result: Not guilty of both counts.
Reckless Driving (Allegheny): Client facing 6-month license suspension upon conviction. Result: Agreement reached to plea to amended charge carrying no license suspension.
Driving Without a License (Westmoreland): Client found guilty in abstentia at magistrate level, retained firm to appeal conviction. Facing conviction on driving record that would impact employment opportunities. Result: Negotiated agreement for withdrawal of offense.
1st Offense DUI - Middle Rate Alcohol (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 49 hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and 6 month maximum jail sentence. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program on a lowest tier charge, eliminating jail time and any license suspension. Charges will be dismissed upon successful completion fo the program.
Insurance Fraud and Theft by Deception (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 10 years in jail and a permanent criminal record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated entry into ARD program, where charges will be dismissed and expunged upon successful completion of program.
Possession of a Controlled Substance & Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client charged with possession of heroin facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and a permanent record. Result: Negotiated probation without verdict plea agreement. Upon successful completion of probation, charges will be dismissed and client will be eligible to expunge criminal record.
Possession of Fake ID (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to $500 plus court costs and publicly searchable conviction that cannot be expunged for 5 years. Result: Not guilty.
Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail and permanent record. Result: Case Dismissed
1st Offense DUI - Refusal of Blood Draw (Armstrong): Client facing mandatory minimum 72 hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and 6 month maximum jail sentence. 2nd lifetime offense for the client, but first offense within last 10 years. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program, eliminating jail time, reducing suspension to 60 days, and leading to future record expungement.
1st Offense DUI - Highest Rate Alcohol (Armstrong): Client facing mandatory minimum 72 hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and 6 month maximum jail sentence. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program, eliminating jail time, reducing suspension to 60 days, and leading to future record expungement.
Safe Speed and Following Too Closely (Lawrence): CDL holder facing 5 points and negative employment impact if convicted. Result: Attorney Milardo litigated full hearing where client was found not guilty of both offenses.
1st Offense DUI -Drugs (Allegheny): Client facing mandatory minimum 72 hour jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and 6 month maximum jail sentence. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program, eliminating jail time, reducing suspension to 60 days, and leading to future record expungement.
JANUARY 2020
Simple Assault and Harassment (Allegheny): Client involved in domestic incident facing permanent criminal record and max sentence of up to 27 months in jail. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program on 2 year probationary period where client will be eligible to expunge record upon successful completion of program.
Speeding 25mph over (Allegheny): Client facing 5 points on driving record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to 5mph over, eliminating points.
Public Drunkenness (Allegheny): Client who lives out of town facing publicly searchable conviction that cannot be expunged for 5 years along with max fines/costs of up to $450. Result: Granted permission by court to waive client’s appearance at hearing. Not guilty.
Underage Drinking (Allegheny): Client facing publicly searchable conviction that cannot be expunged until turning 21 years of age, max fines and costs of approximately $650. Result: Agreement negotiated for client to complete 20 hours of community service for future withdrawal.
Conspiracy, Forgery, Theft, Receiving Stolen Property, Access Device Fraud (Washington): Client facing maximum sentence in excess of 28 years in jail. Result: Plea agreement negotiated for 5 years of probation.
Simple Assault and Harassment (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 27 months in jail and permanent misdemeanor conviction on criminal record. Result: Non-jury trial held where court found client NOT GUILTY of 2nd degree misdemeanor Simple Assault offense. Client found guilty of summary harassment offense and given 90-days of non-reporting probation.
Public Drunkenness (Allegheny): Client facing publicly searchable summary conviction and max fine/costs of up to $450. Result: Agreement reached for dismissal of charge.
Accident Unattended Vehicle (Allegheny): Client facing 4 points on driving record. Result: Charge reduced to traffic control devices violation for no points.
Reckless Driving (Allegheny): Client facing 6-month license suspension and fines/costs of approximately $350. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for reduction to a traffic control devices offense. No license suspension or points.
Red Light violation (Allegheny): Client facing 3 points on driving record. Result: Charge reduced to traffic control devices, no points.
Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Mercer): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months and permanent criminal record, possible loss of license as an out of state driver. Result: Negotiated reduction to 2x summary disorderly conduct charges for fines/costs only. All misdemeanor drug charges withdrawn.
Driving on a Suspended License, Non-DUI Related, 6th or subsequent offense (Allegheny): Habitual offender facing mandatory minimum 90-day jail sentence, max jail sentence of up to 6 months. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to 1501A offense at summary appeal hearing, eliminating the jail time requirement and additional 12-month license suspension.
Driving on Suspended License DUI Related (Allegheny): Client facing 60-day mandatory minimum jail sentence, 12 month license suspension and $500 fine plus costs. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated reduction to Driving on a Suspended License Non-DUI related, eliminating jail time and reducing fine from $500 to $200, plus costs. License suspension extended by 12 months.
DUI Drugs - 1st Offense (Armstrong): Client facing mandatory minimum 72 hour jail sentence and max sentence of up to 12 months in jail. Result: Negotiated tentative written plea offer for recommended house arrest and probation sentence. Outcome still pending.
Home Insurance Fraud and Theft by Deception (Armstrong): Client facing max sentence of up to 12 years in jail. Result: Charge dismissed
Simple Assault by Physical Menace, M3 Disorderly Conduct, and Harassment (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of 3 years and 3 months, permanent criminal record upon conviction. Result: Negotiated agreement at MDJ level for client to complete anger management counseling in return for reduction to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. Outcome still pending.
Driving on a Suspended License (Westmoreland): Client facing 12-month license suspension upon conviction. Result: Negotiated reduction to Driving Without a License offense, eliminating suspension.
F3 Fleeing and Eluding Police, Racing on Highways and Reckless Driving (Allegheny): Client facing up to 2 years worth of license suspensions, permanent felony record and max sentence of up to 7.5 years in jail. Result: Racing on highways offense dismissed at preliminary hearing, eliminating 6-month suspension. Attorney Milardo negotiated plea agreement to M3 Disorderly Conduct charge and Reckless Driving for 1 year of probation. License suspensions reduced from 2 years to 6 months, no jail time, and client will be able to pursue record sealing of misdemeanor charge in 10 years.
Reckless Driving (Allegheny): Client facing 6-month license suspension and fines/costs of approximately $350. Result: Attorney Milardo reached agreement for reduction to a traffic control devices offense. No license suspension or points.
Summary Defiant Trespass (Allegheny): Client facing fines/costs of up to $450 and max sentence of 90 days in jail. Result: Client found not guilty at summary appeal hearing.
Careless Driving (Allegheny): Client facing 3 points. Result: Due to victim taking an unreasonable position on case, Attorney Milardo proceeded to full hearing on matter. At conclusion of hearing, court found client guilty of a lesser offense of traffic control devices, eliminating any points.
DUI 1st Offense Middle Tier, 2nd Offense Driving on Suspended License DUI Related with BAC above .02% (Allegheny): Client facing 6-month mandatory minimum jail sentence at suspended license offense, 48 hour mandatory minimum jail sentence at DUI count, and maximum possible sentence of 18 months of jail. Result: Negotiated agreement where client received total of 90 days of house arrest and 6 months of probation.
1st DUI - Middle Tier (Indiana): Client facing 48-hour mandatory minimum sentence, max sentence of 6 months and 12 month license suspension. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated tentative written agreement for entry into ARD program. Upon entry and successful completion, there will be no jail sentence, criminal record will be expunged, and license suspension will be reduced to 30 days.
Retail Theft and Corruption of Minors (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 10 years in jail and permanent criminal record. Result: Agreement negotiated for client to complete retail theft educational course in return for full withdrawal of charges.
Unlawful Sale/Transfer of Firearm and Unsworn Falsification (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 8 years in jail and permanent felony record. Result: Charges dismissed by magistrate after preliminary hearing.
Aggravated Assault and Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 12 years in jail. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated successful withdrawal of criminal charges based upon completion of anger management counseling.
Unlawful Restraint, Simple Assault and Strangulation (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 11 years in jail, permanent felony record. Result: negotiated agreement for client to complete Batterer’s Intervention Program in return for plea to summary harassment offense only for fines/costs. Outcome still pending.
Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months and permanent criminal record. Result: Client to complete drug and alcohol evaluation in return for future withdrawal of charges.
Simple Assault and Harassment (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 27 months in jail and a permanent record. Result: Client to complete mental health and anger management counseling for a future withdrawal of charges. Outcome still pending.
F3 Theft and Receiving Stolen Property (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 7 years in jail and permanent felony record. Result: Client admitted into ARD program on 2 years of probation, eligible for record expungement if program successfully completed.
Criminal Mischief (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 2 years in jail. Result: Case dismissed.
Reckless Driving and Traffic Control Device with Hazardous Condition offense (Allegheny): Client facing 6 month license suspension and 2 points on driving record. Result: Attorney Milardo negotiated resolution where Reckless Driving reduced to a Careless Driving offense and the Traffic control device violation was dismissed. No license suspension but 3 points imposed for Careless Driving.
Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Westmoreland): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated tentative plea offer for probation without verdict, which will lead to dismissal of criminal charges upon successful completion of short probationary period.
Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 13 months and permanent criminal record. Result: Negotiated reduction to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. Misdemeanor drug offenses withdrawn.
Furnishing Alcohol to Minors, Possession of Fake ID, and Underage Drinking: Client facing max sentence of up to 27 months and permanent record. Result: Charges dismissed pursuant to agreement.
Roadways Laned for Traffic (Allegheny): Out of state CDL driver facing points in home state, serious traffic conviction for CDL purposes. Result: Negotiated resolution to a vehicle code violation that carries no points.
DUI (Armstrong): Client facing 72-hour mandatory jail sentence, max sentence of up to 6 months, on a 1st DUI and 2nd offense for sentencing purposes. Result: Negotiated entry into ARD program for 4 months of probation.
Strangulation and Simple Assault (Allegheny): Client facing max sentence of up to 12 years in jail, permanent felony record. Result: Agreement reached for client to have no violent contact for full withdrawal of charges. Outcome still pending.
Public Drunkenness & Public Urination (Allegheny): Client facing publicly searchable summary convictions and max fines/costs exceeding $1000. Result: Charges dismissed.