As a parent, you want the best for your child. You want them to grow up happy, healthy, and successful. You also want them to stay out of trouble and avoid any legal problems. But sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Your child may make a mistake, get involved with the wrong crowd, or face false accusations. Suddenly, you are faced with a nightmare scenario: your child is accused of a crime. This is a terrifying and stressful situation for any parent. You may feel angry, scared, confused, or helpless. You may wonder what will happen to your child, how this will affect their future, and what ..read more

Understanding Sex Crimes in Chester County, Pennsylvania Sex crimes are among the most serious offenses in the criminal justice system, carrying significant legal consequences and a lasting impact on the lives of everyone involved. In Chester County, Pennsylvania, as in many other regions, these crimes remain an important focus for law enforcement and the community at large. Recent Data on Sex Crimes Chester County, like many areas, experiences various sex-related crimes. According to recent data provided by the Chester County’s District Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement agencies, on ..read more

Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Pennsylvania When facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, hiring the right criminal defense lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. However, not all lawyers are created equal, and spotting red flags early on can prevent future headaches. Below are crucial warning signs to look out for during your search for legal representation. Expertise Verification Hiring an attorney who is not well-versed in criminal defense or does not have a solid track record can be detrimental. Here’s how to verify expertise ..read more

What Is a Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) in Pennsylvania? In Pennsylvania, the term “Sexually Violent Predator” (SVP) carries significant legal and social implications. It’s a designation that can have far-reaching consequences for offenders even after they have served their time. But what does the term mean, and how is someone determined to be an SVP? Here’s what you need to know about the policies and processes that define and identify a Sexually Violent Predator in Pennsylvania. Legal Definition of a Sexually Violent Predator A Sexually Violent Predator in Pennsylvania is a person with the ..read more

Can You Beat a Statutory Rape Charge in Pennsylvania if Unaware of the Minor’s Age? Facing a statutory rape charge in Pennsylvania is a serious matter. The law is clear that sexual activity with a minor is illegal, but what if you were unaware of the minor’s age? Could you have a defense? The legal system provides for situations where a defendant can prove they had no intention to commit the crime because they were mistaken about a key fact – in this case, the age of the minor. Mistake of Fact Defense The “mistake of fact” defense arises when a defendant can show they had a reasonable belief t ..read more

Invasion of privacy is a serious offense that can have devastating consequences for your reputation, your relationships, and your future. If you or a loved one has been accused of invasion of privacy, you need to act quickly and seek the help of an experienced and aggressive attorney. Ciccarelli Law Offices is a team of dedicated and compassionate lawyers who specialize in invasion of privacy cases. We can help you understand the charges, the evidence, the possible penalties, and the legal process. We can also protect your rights, challenge any unlawful or improper actions, and argue for the ..read more

The Policy of Jury Selection Pennsylvania law emphasizes the importance of a fair and impartial jury. According to Title 42, Chapter 45, it is the policy of the Commonwealth that all persons entitled to a jury trial—whether in a civil action or criminal proceeding—have the right to jurors selected at random from a representative cross-section of the eligible population of the county1. This policy ensures that jurors are diverse and unbiased. Qualifications of Jurors To understand how to persuade a jury, let’s first explore the qualifications of jurors in Pennsylvania: Eligibili ..read more

Unlawful Contact with a Minor in Pennsylvania: Elements and Defenses When navigating the sensitive legal landscape surrounding interactions between adults and minors, it’s crucial to understand the specifics of the law. In Pennsylvania, unlawful contact with a minor is a serious offense with clearly defined legal elements and potential defenses. Elements of the Offense Unlawful contact with a minor in Pennsylvania involves several specific elements that must be present for a conviction: Age Difference: The adult engaging in the contact must be at least four years older than the minor. Knowled ..read more

When facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, hiring the right criminal defense lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. However, not all lawyers are created equal, and spotting red flags early on can prevent future headaches. Below are crucial warning signs to look out for during your search for legal representation. Expertise Verification Hiring an attorney who is not well-versed in criminal defense or does not have a solid track record can be detrimental. Here’s how to verify expertise: Incomplete Case History: If you are unable to find substantial public reco ..read more

The Hidden Danger: Marijuana in Your Car and DUI Arrests Introduction As marijuana legalization continues to evolve across the United States, it’s essential to understand the legal implications of possessing and transporting cannabis. In West Chester, Pennsylvania, where marijuana laws are strict, leaving marijuana in your car can have serious consequences. Let’s delve into why this seemingly harmless act can lead to a DUI arrest. The Legal Landscape Marijuana Possession Laws in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania classifies marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance. Possessing any amount of mar ..read more