Criminal Defense Attorney In Abington

Serious Criminal Charges Call For Focused Legal Defense

When you are arrested, charged, or learn that you are under investigation in or around Abington, the stakes are high. Your freedom, your record, your job, and your family relationships can all be affected by what happens next. In this kind of moment, you need a criminal defense attorney Abington residents can turn to for clear guidance and strong advocacy.

At Bernard J. Brown, Attorney at Law, we devote our practice to criminal defense work in Pennsylvania state and federal courts. For more than 15 years, our attorney, Bernard J. Brown, has represented people facing misdemeanor and felony charges and has handled thousands of criminal cases. We work carefully to protect our clients' rights, explain their options in plain language, and prepare every matter as if it could go to trial. We understand how confusing and stressful the criminal process can feel. Our goal is to step in quickly, bring order to a chaotic situation, and help you make informed decisions about your future.

Contact our Abington criminal defense attorney for guidance to protect your rights and navigate the system effectively. Call now.

Why People Turn To Our Firm When Facing Criminal Charges

Choosing a lawyer is one of the most important decisions you will make after being charged with a crime. You want someone who understands Pennsylvania criminal law, knows the courts that handle matters from Abington, and has a track record that shows real experience. Our firm is built to meet those needs.

Our team is led by Attorney Bernard J. Brown, a board-certified criminal law attorney who has spent more than 15 years defending people in Pennsylvania state and federal courts. Board certification in criminal law reflects significant training and focus in this area, and it is one reason clients trust us with complex and high-stakes cases. We have handled thousands of criminal matters, which gives us a broad view of how different courts and prosecutors approach charges.

Attorney Brown also holds certifications that allow him to conduct death penalty cases in both state and federal courts. These certifications signal that he has satisfied demanding standards for handling the most serious criminal cases. Although most clients will never face such charges, this level of qualification shows the seriousness and depth of preparation we bring to every defense.

Our roots in Pennsylvania go back generations. The firm traces its tradition to the criminal defense work begun by Attorney Brown’s grandfather, and that history reflects a long-standing commitment to standing beside people accused of crimes in this state. We combine that legacy with current legal knowledge through membership in organizations such as the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Clients come to us because they want a defense lawyer Abington residents can rely on for thorough preparation and strong courtroom advocacy. We work to challenge the prosecution's case at every appropriate step, and we strive to empower clients rather than push them into decisions they do not understand.

Criminal Cases We Handle In Abington & Across Pennsylvania

If you are searching for a criminal attorney, you may be wondering whether your specific charge is something we handle. Our firm represents clients in a wide range of criminal matters that may begin in the Magisterial District Courts serving Abington or proceed to the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas, as well as in nearby federal courts when a case is charged under federal law.

We work with clients facing many types of allegations, including:

• DUI and traffic offenses, including driving under the influence, refusal cases, and serious traffic charges that can affect your license and insurance.
• Drug charges, such as possession, possession with intent to deliver, and cases involving allegations of manufacturing or distribution.
• Violent crimes, including assault offenses, robbery, and other charges, where there are claims of physical harm or threats.
• Sex offenses, which can carry significant penalties and registration requirements that affect the rest of a person’s life.
• Theft and property crimes, including shoplifting, burglary, fraud allegations, and related matters.
• White collar and financial crimes, such as embezzlement and certain fraud cases.
• Federal criminal cases, where the United States government files charges in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

Each category of case has its own potential penalties and long-term consequences. For example, some charges can affect a professional license, others may carry mandatory minimum sentences, and many can lead to immigration complications for non-citizens. Because we have handled thousands of cases, we are familiar with these collateral issues, and we pay attention to how each decision may affect a client’s broader life.

If you do not see your exact charge listed, you can still contact us to discuss your situation. Our criminal lawyer can explain whether your case falls within our practice and what the next steps may look like.

What To Do After An Arrest Or Criminal Charge

The period right after an arrest or criminal charge is often the most stressful. You may feel pressure from law enforcement, worry about talking to friends or family, and fear making a mistake that harms your case. Knowing a few basic steps can help you protect yourself until you have legal representation.

Here are important actions to consider after an arrest or charge:

• Use your right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions about the alleged offense. It is usually safer to provide only basic identifying information and politely state that you want to speak with a lawyer before any further questioning.
• Ask for an attorney clearly. Telling officers that you want a criminal defense lawyer stops most questioning until counsel is present. This is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your rights.
• Avoid discussing your case. Do not talk about the facts of your case on the phone from jail, on social media, or with friends and coworkers. Statements you make can sometimes be used against you later.
• Keep all paperwork and dates. Save any charging documents, citations, or notices you receive, and pay close attention to court dates. Failing to appear at a hearing in a Magisterial District Court or at the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas can lead to additional problems.
• Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can. Reaching out early gives your attorney more time to review the situation, advise you about immediate decisions, and begin gathering information that may be important to your defense.

Every situation is different, and these steps are not a substitute for legal advice tailored to your case. When you contact our firm, we can talk with you about what has already happened and what you should do next to safeguard your position.

How The Criminal Process Works In Pennsylvania Courts

Uncertainty about what will happen next is one of the hardest parts of facing criminal charges. While every case is unique, many matters that begin in or near Abington move through a series of stages in the Pennsylvania court system. Understanding these stages can make the process feel less overwhelming and can help you see how we work on your behalf.

For many state charges, the case begins with an arrest or the filing of a complaint. A preliminary arraignment usually follows, often in a Magisterial District Court that serves the Abington area. At this point, the court informs you of the charges and bail conditions. We can provide guidance about bail issues and help you understand what the paperwork means.

The next significant event is commonly a preliminary hearing. This hearing is often held in a Magisterial District Court and allows the prosecution to present basic evidence. The question is usually whether there is enough to send the case forward to the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas in Norristown. Our role at this stage may include questioning witnesses, challenging the sufficiency of evidence, and using the hearing to learn more about the prosecution’s case.

If the case proceeds, it is typically transferred to the Court of Common Pleas. There, the process may involve pretrial conferences, discovery, motions, plea discussions, and, in some matters, a trial. For certain offenses, especially those charged by federal authorities, cases are filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, which follows its own set of procedures and timelines.

Throughout these phases, we review the evidence closely, identify legal issues that may support motions, and prepare for the possibility of trial. Some cases resolve through negotiated agreements, while others proceed to a judge or jury. Our preparation is designed to position you as well as possible at each step, whether that involves seeking dismissal of certain counts, arguing pretrial motions, or presenting a full defense at trial.

Our Approach To Building A Strong Defense

Clients often tell us that they are afraid their case will not get the attention it deserves, or that a lawyer will simply push for a quick plea without looking deeper. Our approach is built to address those concerns. We treat each matter as a serious legal and personal problem that deserves careful review and thoughtful strategy.

We begin by listening carefully to your account of what happened, reviewing the charging documents, and examining any available reports or evidence. Understanding your perspective helps us identify issues that might not be obvious from police paperwork alone. We also look at the details of how law enforcement conducted any search, seizure, or questioning, because errors at these stages can affect what evidence may be used in court.

Where appropriate, we investigate further. This can involve studying the scene, reviewing digital information or records, or analyzing the prosecution’s evidence for inconsistencies. We consider possible defenses, from challenges to identification and credibility to legal defenses based on constitutional rights. Our goal is to uncover strengths and weaknesses that can shape the direction of the case.

Throughout the process, we explore all legal options. That can include filing motions, negotiating with prosecutors, and preparing for trial. Our readiness to try cases is supported by Attorney Brown’s certifications to conduct death penalty matters in state and federal courts and by our history of rigorous preparation. Even when a case ultimately resolves without a trial, thorough trial-oriented preparation often strengthens our position in discussions with the prosecution.

We also place a strong emphasis on client empowerment. We explain the options available, the potential consequences of each path, and the risks and benefits in terms you can understand. You remain in control of key decisions, and we provide the information and guidance you need to choose a direction that aligns with your priorities.

Working With Our Criminal Defense Firm

When you contact our firm about a criminal matter, we know that you may be anxious, busy, and unsure what to expect. We structure our services to make it as straightforward as possible to get the legal support you need while dealing with the stress of pending charges.

During an initial consultation, we talk through the charges you are facing, what has happened so far, and any upcoming court dates. We ask questions to understand the background of your case, and we discuss general options and potential next steps. This conversation is also your opportunity to ask questions about our experience, our approach, and how we would work with you.

We recognize that getting to a lawyer’s office is not always simple. To make representation more accessible, we offer convenient virtual consultations that allow you to speak with us from your home, workplace, or another private space. This can be especially helpful if you are balancing work, family responsibilities, or transportation issues while dealing with a criminal case in this part of Pennsylvania.

We understand that cost is a real concern. Our firm is committed to accessible and affordable representation, and we discuss fees clearly so that you know what to expect. The specific cost of a defense depends on factors such as the seriousness of the charges, the complexity of the case, and whether the matter is in state or federal court. During your consultation, we can explain how these factors apply to your situation.

Once we begin working together, we keep you informed. We update you about developments in your case, explain what upcoming hearings mean, and make time to answer your questions. Our clients often say that having consistent communication reduces some of the stress they feel about the process, because they are not left guessing about what is happening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Right After Being Arrested In Abington?

After an arrest in or near Abington, the most important steps are to stay calm, avoid discussing the facts of the case, and clearly state that you want a lawyer. You generally must provide basic identifying information, but you do not have to answer questions about what happened. It is usually wise to avoid making statements on recorded jail calls or social media, because those statements may later be reviewed. Keep any paperwork you receive and pay attention to the date and location of your first court appearance, which may be at a Magisterial District Court. Contacting a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible gives you the chance to get specific advice based on your situation.

Am I Going To Jail For These Charges?

Whether jail or prison time is a realistic risk depends on several factors, including the exact charges, your prior record, the strength of the evidence, and how Pennsylvania law treats the alleged offense. Some misdemeanors may allow for alternatives to incarceration, while certain felonies carry more significant potential penalties. Our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases, so we are familiar with how different charges are often treated in state and federal courts. During a consultation, we can review your charges and discuss the range of possible outcomes, along with strategies that may help reduce your exposure. While no lawyer can promise a specific result, understanding the landscape can make the situation feel more manageable.

How Can Your Experience In Pennsylvania Courts Help My Case?

Experience in Pennsylvania courts matters because each court has its own procedures, expectations, and ways that prosecutors and judges tend to approach certain cases. With more than 15 years of criminal defense practice and thousands of matters handled, our attorney has seen how a wide variety of cases move through Magisterial District Courts, the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas, and federal court. Board certification in criminal law and certifications for death penalty cases reflect a high level of focus and training in this field. This background helps us spot legal issues, anticipate procedural steps, and tailor strategies that fit local practices. For you, that can translate into more informed advice and a defense that is grounded in real-world experience with the courts that handle charges from Abington.

Will I Have To Go To Trial?

Not every criminal case goes to trial. Many matters are resolved through negotiated agreements, diversionary options where available, or other outcomes before a trial occurs. Whether a trial makes sense in your case depends on the evidence, the available defenses, the potential penalties, and your own priorities. Our approach is to prepare thoroughly with a trial in mind, because strong preparation can improve our position in negotiations and in court. We talk with you about the risks and benefits of trial versus other resolutions, and we work with you to decide on a path forward. You are involved in the key decisions, and we provide the information and perspective you need to choose.

How Do You Keep Clients Informed About Their Case?

We believe that clear communication is a central part of effective criminal defense. When you work with us, we explain the stages of your case, let you know what each upcoming court date is about, and provide updates when there are changes or new developments. We respond to questions and concerns, and we make use of phone, email, and, when appropriate, virtual meetings to stay in contact. Our goal is that you never feel left in the dark about what is happening or why a particular step is being taken. Many clients find that this ongoing communication reduces some of the anxiety that comes with having a case pending in court.

Can You Help If My Case Is In Federal Court?

Yes, our firm handles federal criminal cases, including those filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Federal matters often involve different procedures, timelines, and potential penalties than state cases. Attorney Brown’s certifications to conduct death penalty cases in federal court and his experience with serious federal charges help us navigate this system. If your case has been brought by federal authorities, we can discuss how federal rules apply to your situation and what steps we can take on your behalf. As with any case, we analyze the evidence, look for legal issues, and work to develop a defense strategy that fits the specific circumstances.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire Your Firm?

The cost of hiring our firm for a criminal case depends on several factors, such as the seriousness of the charges, whether the matter is in state or federal court, and how complex the facts and legal issues appear to be. Cases that involve extensive motion practice, expert witnesses, or lengthy trials naturally require more work than simpler matters. We are committed to accessible and affordable representation, and we talk openly with clients about fees so they can make informed decisions. During your consultation, we can discuss the likely scope of work in your case and explain our fee structure. Our aim is to provide high-quality defense while being straightforward about costs.

Talk With A Criminal Lawyer About Your Case

If you are facing criminal charges in Abington or have a loved one with a pending case in the area, you do not have to navigate the process alone. Speaking with a criminal lawyer Abington residents trust can help you understand the charges, the possible paths forward, and what you can do now to protect your future.

At Bernard J. Brown, Attorney at Law, we bring more than 15 years of focused criminal defense experience, thousands of cases handled, and a commitment to rigorous preparation and clear communication. We offer convenient virtual consultations and work to make quality defense representation accessible. When you contact us, we will listen to your situation, explain how we can help, and talk through your options in straightforward terms.

To discuss your case with a criminal defense attorney Abington residents can turn to for guidance, call (570) 676-1553 today.