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Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Perry County, Juniata County, and New Bloomfield, PA

Czekaj Law, LLC provides experienced, aggressive criminal defense.

Being charged with a crime is confusing and intimidating. A Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney from Czekaj Law, LLC helps you navigate the legal process for the best possible outcome. We represent clients throughout Central Pennsylvania, including Perry County, Juniata County, and New Bloomfield.

It is in your best interest to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest. Please do not answer any questions from police officers until you have a defense lawyer by your side.

Call a New Bloomfield criminal defense lawyer from Czekaj Law, LLC today at 717-275-9770 for a free, no-risk consultation.

Recent Client Testimonial

“I would like to thank Tim Czekaj he did a great job representing me in my case goin above and beyond expectation. He deliberated in a way that got me exactly the agreement I wanted. I would def hire him again and recommend him to anyone needing a good friend in the courtroom.” – ES

Why Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in PA?

You have several options after you’re arrested, including pleading guilty – and giving up any chance to defend yourself – or trusting your future to a public defender.

Public Defender vs. Private Criminal Lawyer

While public defenders can be excellent attorneys, they are overworked and lack the resources to give your defense top priority.

Your best option is working with a private, experienced criminal defense lawyer with the knowledge and resources to devote to your case.

Why Choose Czekaj Law?

When you call Czekaj Law, LLC, you have the peace of mind that comes with:

  • One-on-one strategy with your attorney
  • Responsive communication
  • Resources to hire experts
  • Timely updates regarding your case
  • Information regarding your charges and potential penalties
  • Defense strategy recommendations

Even being accused of a crime has a devastating effect on your life. Imagine what a conviction will do, from ruining your reputation to separating you from your loved ones.

We Fight to Help You Avoid Harsh Penalties

A criminal defense lawyer fights to keep you from going to jail, losing your license, or suffering other harsh penalties.

Our legal team seeks the best possible resolution for your case, including:

  • Plea bargains to a lesser charge
  • Suppression of evidence obtained illegally
  • Participation in a diversionary program, such as Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition
  • Addiction treatment for individuals with substance abuse
  • Driving awareness course
  • House arrest

Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition

You could be eligible for participation in the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program if:

  • You were charged with a non-violent crime
  • You have a limited or no criminal record

You may participate in one of these programs in exchange for no jail time. You could expunge your record upon completion of the program.

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle

The criminal attorneys at Czekaj Law, LLC handle all criminal cases, from minor traffic infractions to serious felony offenses. We frequently work on the following types of criminal cases:

With experience in local courts, we know how to navigate the complex criminal justice system in Perry County, Juniata County, New Bloomfield, and throughout Central Pennsylvania.

Penalties You’ll Face for a Criminal Conviction

When you are facing criminal charges, you must take action to defend yourself. If you are found guilty, your entire life could be dramatically affected.

The direct penalties for a criminal conviction include:

  • Jail or prison time
  • Fines
  • Community service
  • Probation requirements
  • Parole requirements
  • Sex offender registration
  • Loss of gun rights
  • Temporary loss of voting rights
  • Issues with citizenship and immigration

Collateral Consequences

These are just a few of the criminal penalties associated with criminal convictions. There are collateral consequences if you are found guilty, including:

  • Child custody issues
  • Trouble finding affordable, safe housing
  • Trouble finding or keeping a job
  • Reputational damage
  • Driver’s license suspension or revocation
  • Suspension or revocation of professional licenses

Pennsylvania Criminal Court Process

If you’re facing criminal charges, you’re likely feeling confused and unsure of what to expect next. We invite you to call Czekaj Law for a free consultation. In the meantime, we hope you find the information below helpful.

Arrest: Remain Silent and Ask for a Lawyer

In Pennsylvania, a police officer can arrest you in any of the following circumstances:

  • They have probable cause that you committed a crime
  • They have witnessed what they believe was a crime
  • They have a warrant for your arrest

Once arrested, before any questioning can occur, the officer must notify you of your rights in what is called a Miranda Warning. These rights include the right to remain silent at this time and the right to have an attorney represent you.

It is in your best interest to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can after an arrest.

Preliminary Hearing and Arraignment: Bail & Potential Dismissal

Your preliminary arraignment is your first court appearance. During this time, your attorney will request bail and a court date for your preliminary hearing. Suppose you have already been released on bail. In that case, you will receive a summons in the mail with a date, time, and location for your preliminary hearing.

It is critical for your defense that you have an experienced criminal defense attorney with you for the preliminary arraignment and hearing. The preliminary hearing is the first opportunity for you and your lawyer to hear and assess the state’s evidence against you.

Insufficient Case Could Lead to Case Dismissed

If the state fails to present a sufficient case against you, your defense lawyer can attempt to have the case dismissed. However, you will be scheduled for an arraignment if the case against you moves forward after the preliminary hearing.

The court reads the charges against you, followed by your plea. We recommend that you plead “not guilty” unless we have negotiated a favorable plea agreement to a lesser offense.

Pre-Trial Motions and Plea Agreements: Discovery Phase

Before your trial begins, the prosecution must produce “discovery,” in which they share all of their documented evidence against you with your criminal defense attorney. Discovery allows your attorney to review everything that the Commonwealth has against you.

Negotiating a Plea Agreement

With this knowledge, your defense attorney can determine the best strategy for your defense and discuss any possible plea agreements that you should consider.

Your criminal defense attorney can advise you whether it will be best to take your chance with a jury trial or negotiate an agreement with the prosecution. Ultimately, you decide to proceed to trial or accept a deal where you may plead guilty to a lesser offense.

Either way, your defense attorney fights for the best possible outcome and will clearly explain the pros and cons of any bargain offered by the prosecutor.

Trial: Challenge the Prosecution’s Case

If your case goes to trial, Pennsylvania law allows you to be tried before a jury and in a timely fashion. The judge determines what evidence is allowed, but a criminal defense lawyer challenges any evidence obtained illegally.

You and your criminal lawyer do not have to prove that you are innocent. The prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of the charges.

Your attorney may question the validity of the prosecution’s case. In some trials, we retain experts to refute the prosecution’s evidence or provide alternative conclusions.

Sentence and Appeals

If you are found guilty after a trial, you will then face sentencing. Your criminal defense attorney can file several motions with the court, including an amended sentence or a new trial.

Your defense attorney can appeal the sentence by filing an argument that questions the court’s conduct or another legal defense.

A Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer may help you receive a reduced or lighter sentence. After you finish your sentence, our expungement lawyer may be able to get the conviction expunged from your criminal record. Czekaj Law, LLC works tirelessly on your behalf with tough but compassionate legal representation.

Fight the Charges with a Criminal Defense Attorney

Give yourself the best chance to clear your name and stay out of jail or prison. A criminal lawyer in Juniata County, Perry County, New Bloomfield, or anywhere in Central Pennsylvania can help you understand the process clearly and get you the best outcome.

Your Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney protects your rights immediately. Let us build a robust defense to fight the charges against you.

Call Czekaj Law, LLC at 717-275-9770 today or use our contact form to request your free, confidential consultation.