Criminal Defense Attorney in Wilkes-Barre

Experienced Help When You Are Facing Criminal Charges

If you have been arrested, charged, or learned that you are under investigation, you are likely worried about your future and unsure what to do next. As a criminal defense attorney Wilkes-Barre, Bernard J. Brown, Attorney at Law is here to protect your rights and guide you through every stage of the process. We concentrate on defending people in Pennsylvania state and federal courts who are facing both misdemeanor and felony charges.

Our firm is led by Attorney Bernie Brown, who has more than 15 years of experience in criminal defense and has handled thousands of cases across Pennsylvania. Clients come to us because we prepare thoroughly, advocate strongly in the courtroom, and work to give them clear information so they can make informed choices. When you reach out to us, you can talk confidentially with a criminal attorney about what happened, what may come next, and how we may be able to help.

Call (570) 676-1553 to schedule your consultation today, or get in touch with us online using our easy-to-use online contact form.

Facing Charges in Wilkes-Barre: How Our Firm Can Help

By the time you search for a criminal attorney, you or a loved one may already be in a very difficult position. You might have just been released after an arrest in Wilkes-Barre, received a summons to appear in a Magisterial District Court, or been contacted by law enforcement about an investigation. In each of these situations, what you do and what you say now can affect your freedom, your record, and your future opportunities.

We understand that criminal accusations can put your job, professional license, immigration status, and family relationships at risk. Our role is to step in as your advocate and guide. We help you understand the charges, communicate with police or prosecutors when that is appropriate, and prepare for key hearings such as arraignments and preliminary hearings. From the first consultation, we focus on your questions and concerns so you do not have to face the system alone.

Cost and logistics are often major worries. Our services are affordable, and we offer convenient virtual consultations so you can speak with us privately from your home or another safe location. Whether you live in the city or elsewhere in this part of Pennsylvania, we work to make it as straightforward as possible to get legal advice quickly.

Why Clients Trust Our Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Team

When your freedom and record are at stake, you need more than a general practice lawyer. You need a criminal defense lawyer who has devoted years to learning the law, handling complex cases, and appearing in courtrooms across Pennsylvania. Attorney Bernie Brown has more than 15 years of experience doing exactly that, and our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases in state and federal courts.

Our work is focused on criminal defense, and our clients benefit from that concentration. Attorney Brown holds certifications that permit him to conduct death penalty cases in both Pennsylvania state courts and federal courts. This type of qualification reflects the ability to manage some of the most serious and demanding matters the system can bring, and it supports our approach to serious felony defense for clients whose lives can be dramatically affected by the outcome.

Our firm is rooted in a long tradition. It was founded by Attorney Brown’s grandfather, and that legacy reflects a deep connection to Pennsylvania’s legal community. Over decades, our office has seen how courts operate in this region, how prosecutors approach different types of cases, and how juries respond to evidence. We draw on that background when we build strategies for the people we represent.

Attorney Brown is also a board-certified criminal law leader who belongs to respected professional organizations, including the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Participation in these groups helps us stay current with developments in criminal law and practice, which can influence how we challenge evidence, argue motions, and present defenses. Our past work has resulted in a success rate that is reported as over 90 percent. Results always depend on the specific facts and law in each case, but that record reflects the effort we put into every matter we accept.

Our Approach to Building a Strong Defense

Every case begins with a careful review of the accusation and the government’s evidence. We look closely at police reports, charging documents, and any available recordings, and we examine how the investigation was conducted. We pay particular attention to constitutional issues such as traffic stops, searches of homes or vehicles, and any statements you may have made so we can identify potential violations of your rights.

From there, we work to investigate and challenge the facts that the prosecution relies on. This may involve reviewing physical evidence, examining digital records, identifying witnesses, and studying how the evidence was collected and stored. Our goal is to test the strength of the government’s case at every stage so that weaknesses are not overlooked.

Preparation is central to our work. Whether a case is likely to be resolved through negotiations or proceeds to trial, we prepare as if it may ultimately be argued in front of a judge or jury. We develop defense themes, anticipate the prosecution’s arguments, and think through how best to present your side of the story. When a trial becomes necessary, we are ready to advocate for you in the courtroom and challenge the prosecution’s version of events.

Throughout the process, we keep communication clear and straightforward. We explain your options in plain language and talk through the potential consequences associated with each choice. You are involved in key decisions, such as whether to pursue certain motions, consider proposed plea agreements, or go to trial. Our role is to provide practical advice and strong advocacy so you can decide how you want to move forward.

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle in Pennsylvania Courts

People who contact us often want to know whether we have handled cases similar to theirs. Over the course of thousands of matters, we have represented clients charged with a wide range of offenses in Pennsylvania courts. This includes both misdemeanors and felonies that can carry serious penalties.

Charges We Commonly Defend

We regularly defend cases such as driving under the influence, drug possession or distribution, assault and other alleged violent conduct, and theft or property offenses. We also represent individuals accused of sex offenses, white collar or financial crimes, and probation or parole violations. Each category of charge presents different legal issues, and our experience across these areas helps us identify relevant defenses and options.

Some cases involve particularly severe potential consequences, including lengthy prison sentences. Because Attorney Brown is certified to conduct death penalty cases in state and federal forums, our firm is familiar with the level of scrutiny and preparation required in high-stakes matters. While many cases do not involve that level of penalty, this background informs how we approach serious felony indictments and complex investigations.

Whether you are dealing with a first-time misdemeanor or a multi-count felony case, we treat your matter with the seriousness it deserves. We understand that any criminal conviction can affect your life for years to come, and we work to address both the immediate charges and their potential long-term impact.

What To Expect After an Arrest or Charge

Understanding the path ahead can reduce some of the fear that comes with a criminal accusation. In Pennsylvania, cases that begin with an arrest or a summons often include a preliminary arraignment and preliminary hearing in a Magisterial District Court that serves the area where the alleged offense occurred. For matters arising around this region, this can mean appearing in a district court in Luzerne County.

At the preliminary hearing stage, the judge decides whether there is enough evidence for the case to move forward to the Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas. If the case is held for court, future proceedings such as formal arraignment, pretrial conferences, motions, and trial are usually scheduled there. The timing of these steps can vary based on the nature of the charges, the court’s calendar, and other factors, but deadlines for certain actions are often short.

You can take several practical steps to protect yourself during this time. It is important to exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing the facts of the case with law enforcement or other people who may later be called as witnesses. Preserving documents, text messages, social media content, and contact information for potential witnesses can also be helpful. Contacting a defense attorney Wilkes-Barre as early as possible gives you an opportunity to receive advice tailored to your situation before key decisions are made.

When we represent you, we appear with you at important hearings, help you understand what is happening in court, and advise you about options such as filing motions, requesting hearings, or considering offers from the prosecution. Our goal is to help you navigate each stage strategically, with a clear understanding of the risks and potential benefits associated with every decision.

Local Insight in Wilkes-Barre & Across Pennsylvania

Criminal cases do not unfold the same way everywhere. Local rules, practices, and expectations influence how matters are handled in courtrooms. Because our firm’s history runs deep in Pennsylvania, and because we regularly appear in courts that serve this region, we bring practical local insight to the clients we represent.

Many of our cases involve hearings in Magisterial District Courts that serve Wilkes-Barre, followed by proceedings in the Luzerne County Court of Common Pleas when charges move forward. We are familiar with the procedures these courts follow, how schedules are managed, and how certain issues are commonly addressed. That familiarity can help us anticipate how a court may view particular requests, such as scheduling changes or certain types of motions.

Some cases are filed in federal court rather than state court, often when the alleged conduct involves federal statutes or multi-state investigations. We handle criminal matters in federal forums that serve this part of Pennsylvania as well. The rules and sentencing structures in federal cases differ from state cases, so working with a criminal lawyer who understands both systems can be important when federal charges are a possibility.

Whether your matter stays in local district court, proceeds to the Court of Common Pleas, or involves a federal indictment, we draw on our long-standing presence in the area and our statewide practice to help you understand what to expect and how best to respond.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Right After I Am Arrested in Wilkes-Barre?

After an arrest, the most important step is to protect your rights. You have the right to remain silent, and using that right can prevent statements from being misunderstood or used against you later. You also have the right to speak with a lawyer, and contacting a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible allows you to get guidance that is specific to your situation.

If you are released, keep track of all paperwork you receive, including notices that list your charges and upcoming court dates. Avoid discussing details of the case on social media or with anyone who may end up testifying. When you call our firm, we talk with you about what has already happened, explain the next steps in the court process, and help you prepare for hearings that may be coming soon.

How Can Your Firm Help If I Am Facing Felony Charges?

If you are facing felony charges, you are dealing with the possibility of substantial penalties, including lengthy periods of incarceration. Our firm can help by carefully reviewing the evidence, identifying legal and factual defenses, and developing a strategy that addresses both the charges and the potential consequences. We examine how the investigation was conducted, whether your rights were respected, and whether the prosecution can meet its burden of proof.

Attorney Bernie Brown’s certifications to conduct death penalty cases in state and federal courts reflect training and experience with very serious matters. That level of preparation helps us approach complex felony cases in a structured and thorough way. We work to present your side of the story, negotiate when that is appropriate, and prepare for trial if that becomes necessary, always with the goal of pursuing the best result that the law and the facts allow.

Can I Talk To You About My Case Without Showing Up In Person?

Yes, you can speak with us without coming to the office. We offer virtual consultations so you can talk privately with a criminal law attorney Wilkes-Barre from your home, workplace, or another location that is comfortable for you. This can be particularly helpful if you have transportation issues, health concerns, or simply prefer not to travel while you are dealing with the stress of criminal charges.

During a virtual consultation, we discuss your situation in detail, answer your questions about the process, and explain how we may be able to assist. These meetings are treated with the same confidentiality as in-person visits. Our goal is to make it as convenient as possible for you to get reliable legal advice when you need it.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Criminal Defense Lawyer?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the nature of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the amount of work that may be required in court. For example, a straightforward misdemeanor charge with limited evidence may require less time than a multi-count felony case that is likely to go to trial. Because of these variations, fees are generally discussed on a case-by-case basis.

At our firm, we know that cost is a major concern for many clients, and we work to keep our services affordable. During your initial consultation, we talk openly about fees and about what work is involved so you have a clear understanding of what to expect. Our goal is to provide high-quality criminal defense representation that is accessible to the people who need it.

Will My Case Go To Trial, Or Can It Be Resolved Sooner?

Not every criminal case goes to trial, but some do. Whether your case proceeds to a trial depends on factors such as the strength of the evidence, the legal issues involved, your goals, and any offers the prosecution may make. Some cases are resolved through negotiations or pretrial motions that may lead to a reduction or dismissal of certain charges, while others require a judge or jury to decide the outcome.

We prepare every case as though it may go to trial. That level of preparation can improve our ability to negotiate and also means we are ready to present your defense in court if that is the path you choose. We explain the options at each stage, discuss the potential risks and benefits, and support you in deciding whether to pursue a negotiated resolution or ask the court to decide the case.

How Often Will I Hear From Your Firm About My Case?

You should expect regular communication about important developments in your case. We work to keep you informed when court dates are scheduled, when motions are filed, and when the prosecution makes any significant decisions or proposals. We also contact you when we need more information from you or when your input is required for strategic choices.

Beyond those updates, you are welcome to reach out with questions or concerns as your case moves forward. We believe that clients are better able to make decisions about their defense when they understand what is happening and why. Our focus on client empowerment means we take the time to explain the process and respond to your questions in clear, straightforward language.

Do You Handle Federal Criminal Cases In Addition To State Charges?

Yes, we handle both state and federal criminal cases. Some situations, such as certain drug offenses, fraud allegations, or matters that cross state lines, may be investigated or charged in federal court. Federal cases follow different procedures and sentencing frameworks than state cases, and familiarity with those differences is important when planning a defense.

Attorney Brown’s certifications and experience include work in federal forums that serve this region of Pennsylvania. When federal charges are filed or appear likely, we help clients understand how that system works, what additional risks they may be facing, and what options might be available for responding to those charges. Our experience with both systems allows us to provide guidance tailored to the specific court that is handling your case.

Talk With Our Criminal Defense Team About Your Case

If you or a family member is facing criminal charges, you do not have to work through the situation on your own. As a criminal defense attorney Wilkes-Barre with more than 15 years of focused experience and thousands of cases handled, our firm is prepared to analyze your situation carefully and advise you about your options in Pennsylvania state and federal courts. We bring rigorous preparation, strong courtroom advocacy, and a commitment to clear communication to every matter we accept.

Your first step can be as simple as a confidential conversation. We offer virtual consultations and work to keep our services affordable so that people in this area can access quality legal defense when it matters most. When you contact us, we listen to your concerns, explain what to expect, and discuss how we may be able to help protect your rights and your future.

To speak with our team at Bernard J. Brown, Attorney at Law about your criminal case, call (570) 676-1553.