When you think of the stereotypical inmate, perhaps just from watching television shows, do you imagine a man? You may be clinging to a stereotype that is quickly becoming outdated. Studies have shown that the rate at which women find themselves behind bars is...
How confident is that eyewitness?
Eyewitness testimony is something of a paradox in the legal system. While it often inspires the trust of the jury, the reality is that it is often wrong. Many people who wind up behind bars when they never broke the law are only there because an eyewitness picked them...
Pennsylvania’s new Clean Slate law
There are many ways a criminal conviction can have impacts on a person long into the future. One is through the mark being convicted of a crime puts on one’s record. Such a mark can have impacts on a person’s employment options and a range of other aspects...
Man arrested for domestic assault after altercation with woman
For residents of State College, Pennsylvania, being arrested for assault can have a profound impact on the rest of their lives. This is especially true when there are allegations of domestic assault and a man is accused of assaulting a female. The penalties that...
Can a misdemeanor conviction get me expelled from college?
If you are young and just starting your life at college or even just entering the workforce, you may believe that a misdemeanor conviction is not that big of a deal. If you believe that a misdemeanor is equivalent to a slap on the wrist, you should know that the...
Do I need criminal defense for allegations of hazing?
In State College, people might be taking part in activities that they think are little more than time-honored rituals and are relatively harmless, but they can lead to a criminal charge if someone becomes injured or there is a complaint about it. People will...
What you need to know about police interrogations
Getting stopped by a police officer in Pennsylvania can be intimidating, particularly if the officer proceeds to question you regarding your alleged involvement in a crime. If you are stopped and questioned by a police officer, it is important that you know your...
REPORTING DRUG OVERDOSE IN AN EMERGENCY GRANTS IMMUNITY
Sometimes parties can get a little out hand, especially in college. But, loud music and damages are the least of your worries when dangerous amounts of prescription or illicit drugs are involved. When you fear a friend may have gone too far, you can request emergency...
Simple assault versus aggravated assault charges
Any time someone is accused of physically attacking another person, they may face assault charges in the state of Pennsylvania. The severity of the charges they face will depend on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Generally, an alleged assault in...
The Fourth Amendment protects against unlawful search and seizure
When an officer knocks on the front door of your house, stops you as you walk down the street or pulls you over while driving, there is a possibility that the officer will search your property for evidence of a crime. However, under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S....