Criminal Defense Lawyers Pittsburgh

Protecting Your Rights and Freedom

When your freedom and future are on the line, you need the strongest criminal defense team in Pittsburgh to stand by your side. At Very Law, we take pride in being your powerful advocates in legal battles. Our experienced criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights, providing expert legal counsel, and fighting with a determination to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Why Choose Very Law?

Proven Track Record 

Our team of top-rated criminal defense lawyers in Pittsburgh has a formidable track record of success in defending clients against a wide range of criminal charges. We have a deep understanding of the Pittsburgh criminal justice system and know how to navigate it effectively.

Strategic Approach 

We approach each case with a strategic mindset, customizing our defense strategies to fit the unique facts and circumstances of your case. Whether you are facing DUI charges, assault allegations, drug crimes, or other criminal charges, we have the skills, resources and experience to mount the most vigorous defense on your behalf.

Client-Centered Focus 

At Very Law, our clients are at the center of everything we do. We believe in open communication, accessibility, and a high level of personalized attention to each case. We will closely engage with you at every step of your case, and pursue the most effective defenses, arguments and negotiations that work in your favor.

Passion and Dedication 

We are passionate about what we do, and our defense team’s dedication to protecting your rights is exemplary. We understand how criminal charges have the potential to destroy lives, and we will leave no stone unturned to defend your freedom and fight for your rights until every single option has been exhausted.

Our Comprehensive Criminal Defense Services in Pittsburgh

DUI and Repeat DUI

In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, DUI laws are stringent, aiming to deter impaired driving and ensure public safety. The state classifies DUI offenses based on Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) levels, with different penalties for various BAC ranges, including the possibility of imprisonment. Multiple DUI convictions or DUI-related accidents resulting in injury or death can escalate to felony charges, carrying substantial prison sentences.

Potential DUI Defenses Our DUI Defense Lawyers Will Employ

Our DUI defense lawyers at Very Law employ a range of strategic defenses to protect your rights and challenge the prosecution's case. Our common defenses include questioning the validity of the traffic stop, challenging the reliability of field sobriety tests, and scrutinizing the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results, especially in cases of calibration errors. Additionally, we explore the possibility of a "rising BAC" defense, highlighting that your BAC might have increased after you were pulled over due to recent alcohol consumption.

Assault

Simple assault in Pittsburgh, PA, typically a misdemeanor, involves causing or attempting to cause bodily injury to another person intentionally, recklessly, or negligently. Convictions for simple assault can lead to fines, probation, and potentially up to two years in jail. Aggravated assault, on the other hand, involves more serious harm, the use of a deadly weapon, or an assault against certain protected individuals like law enforcement officers. Aggravated assault charges can result in felony convictions, leading to more extended prison sentences and substantial fines.

Potential Defenses Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Utilize

Our defenses may include disputing the prosecution's version of events, emphasizing self-defense if applicable, or arguing that the accused did not possess the requisite intent to commit the offense. In cases where there is a lack of credible evidence or witness testimony, we may challenge the prosecution's ability to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Additionally, we explore any potential violations of the defendant's constitutional rights, such as unlawful search and seizure or Miranda rights violations.

Armed Robbery

Armed robbery is a serious criminal offense in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and it involves the use of a weapon or the threat of violence to steal property from another person. Under Pennsylvania law, armed robbery is often charged as a first-degree felony, carrying severe penalties. If convicted of armed robbery, individuals can face substantial prison sentences, typically ranging from 10 to 20 years or more, depending on various factors such as the presence of firearms, the use of force, or injuries inflicted during the robbery.

Potential Defenses Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Use

Our criminal defense lawyers at Very Law will employ a vigorous defense strategy to combat armed robbery charges in Pittsburgh. One possible defense is challenging the identification of the accused, questioning the reliability of witness testimony, and examining any potential biases or inconsistencies. If there are doubts regarding the ownership of the alleged stolen property or whether a weapon was genuinely used or just displayed, we will seek to create reasonable doubt in the prosecution's case.

Drug Crimes

Drug crime laws in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, are designed to combat the possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking of controlled substances. The severity of penalties for drug offenses depends on various factors, including the type and quantity of drugs involved, prior criminal history, and whether the offense occurred near a school or within a designated drug-free zone. Penalties can range from probation and fines for minor offenses to lengthy prison sentences for more serious convictions.

Potential Defenses Our Drug Crime Defense Lawyers Will Utilize

Our drug crime defense lawyers at Very Law may challenge the legality of the search and seizure that led to the discovery of drugs. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during the arrest or search, evidence obtained may be suppressed, potentially leading to the dismissal of charges. We will also investigate the chain of custody of seized drugs, ensuring that the substances presented as evidence are accurately accounted for and unaltered. In cases of possession with intent to distribute, we may question the prosecution's ability to prove intent, highlighting alternative explanations for the presence of the drugs, such as personal use.

Juveniles Charged as Adults

In Pittsburgh, PA, when a juvenile is charged as an adult, they face the same legal consequences as an adult defendant. If a juvenile is convicted as an adult, they can face adult penalties, which may include incarceration in an adult correctional facility, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Due to the life-altering consequences of being charged as an adult, you should talk to our experienced criminal defense lawyers who can provide a strong legal defense to protect the juvenile's rights and future.

Potential Defenses Our Juvenile Crime Defense Lawyers Will Employ

One potential defense strategy our criminal defense lawyers at Very Law may use involves challenging the transfer of the case from juvenile court to adult court. We may argue that the transfer decision was not based on valid criteria or that the juvenile should be given the opportunity for rehabilitation within the juvenile justice system. Additionally, we may explore defenses such as questioning the evidence, witness credibility, or the legality of searches and seizures.

Disturbing the Peace

In Pittsburgh, disturbing the peace, often referred to as disorderly conduct, is a criminal offense that encompasses various disruptive behaviors that disturb public order and peace. Disturbing the peace can include actions such as fighting, using offensive language, creating a public nuisance, or causing unreasonable noise. The penalties for disturbing the peace can vary depending on the specific conduct involved and its impact on public safety and order.

Potential Defenses Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Will Utilize

Our criminal defense lawyers at Very Law will challenge the prosecution's evidence, which may include questioning the accuracy of witness statements, surveillance footage, or police reports. We will scrutinize whether the alleged behavior genuinely constituted disturbing the peace or if there were other factors at play. We may also investigate potential violations of your constitutional rights, such as unlawful search and seizure or violations of your right to free speech.

Boating Under the Influence

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) in Pittsburgh occurs when individuals operate a boat or watercraft while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for boaters is typically the same as for drivers on the road, which is 0.08% for general impairment. Penalties for BUI convictions can include fines, suspension of boating privileges, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even imprisonment.

Potential Defenses Our BUI Defense Lawyers Will Use

Our BUI defense lawyers at Very Law may challenge the legality of the boat stop, questioning whether law enforcement had a valid reason to initiate the stop or board the vessel. Additionally, we may challenge the reliability of sobriety tests conducted on the water, as they can be influenced by factors such as waves and motion. We will also scrutinize the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results.

Expungements

Expungement is a legal process in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that allows individuals to have certain criminal records erased or sealed from public view. The goal of expungement is to provide individuals with a fresh start and remove the stigma associated with a criminal record. In Pennsylvania, eligibility for expungement depends on various factors, including the type of offense, the disposition of the case (e.g., dismissal, not guilty verdict), and the amount of time that has passed since the completion of the sentence or probation.

How Our Expungement Lawyers Will Help You

Our expungement lawyers at Very Law will begin by thoroughly evaluating your eligibility for expungement. We will ensure that all necessary paperwork and documentation are prepared and filed correctly. Our experienced attorneys will advocate on your behalf during the expungement proceedings, representing your interests and presenting a strong case for the expungement of your record.

Choose the Seasoned Criminal Defense Attorneys at Very Law to Protect Your Rights

At Very Law, our experienced team of Pittsburgh, PA criminal defense attorneys is ready to provide you with aggressive advocacy grounded in personal integrity, one-on-one relationships, and a client-centric approach. No matter what type of criminal charges you are facing, we will do what it takes to protect your rights and defend your freedom. Call Very Law today at 412-430-0131 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.