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A competent Pennsylvania criminal lawyer is one who handles all your criminal defense needs in Pennsylvania and tips the scales in your favor. So, what comes under the broad ambit of criminal defense cases? They can be broadly classified into:

1. DUI/DWI- This relates to cases when the driver of a vehicle is driving under the influence of intoxicants. This is detected when the level of alcohol in the blood is more than the specified limit. This is a criminal offense in most countries and the details of the offense depend on the jurisdiction.


2. Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition- Referred to as ARD, it is reserved for charged crimes that are relatively minor viz. DUI, Retail Theft, Theft, Criminal Mischief, and other Misdemeanors. An expert criminal lawyer can address offenders who lend themselves toward treatment and rehabilitation rather than punishment.


3. Felonies- These cases can be divided into three types depending on the depending on the offense. Under the ambit of these come third degree murder, voluntary manslaughter, aggravated assault, kidnapping, rape, involuntary manslaughter (when victim is under 12), aiding or soliciting a suicide, sexual assault, owning or operating a chop shop, interference with custody of children, possession of child pornography, homicide by vehicle, theft of trade secrets, bribery, and perjury. The sentences in these crimes depend upon the respective cases. It is hence very important to consult a Pennsylvania criminal lawyer who can evaluate the charges against you and the specific facts of your case.


4. Homicide - The cases that come under this category are related to murder, voluntary manslaughter, and involuntary manslaughter. This usually leads to death penalties. However, the proceedings in such types of cases are tried in two parts: the guilt phase and the penalty phase. An efficient Pennsylvania criminal lawyer can handle such cases for the jury to decide on 1st degree murders, only which warrants death penalties.


5. Assault- This type of criminal offence is divided into simple assault, aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person and other terroristic threats. These types of cases warrant the need of a criminal lawyer as well.


6. Drug Charges- Whether you are looking to fight tooth and nail, or prefer to cut a deal or cooperate with the authorities in drug charges in Pennsylvania, a criminal lawyer can provide you with the professional advice and direction that you need.


7. Sex Crimes- There is many factors that are considered while defending crimes related to sex. The age of the complainant, indecent sexual intercourse, deviant intercourse and so on. This differs from country to country; hence, it is necessary to hire only a trained criminal lawyer for the same.