Criminal Law in Lancaster County
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is a diverse region encompassing the city of Lancaster, numerous boroughs, and a vast rural landscape including the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Its mix of urban neighborhoods, agricultural communities, and a growing population means residents face a wide range of criminal legal matters. Whether facing a misdemeanor charge in the city or a felony allegation in one of the county's townships, the consequences under Pennsylvania law can be life-altering. An experienced Criminal Law attorney can make a critical difference in protecting your rights and navigating the local court system.
Courts Handling Criminal Law Cases in Lancaster County
Criminal Law cases in Lancaster County are primarily handled by the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas, located at 50 North Duke Street in the city of Lancaster, which presides over felony and misdemeanor trials as well as appeals. Summary offenses and preliminary hearings are typically first addressed before one of the county's magisterial district judges, who operate in various districts across the county. The Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas also houses a Drug Treatment Court and other specialty dockets designed to address underlying issues for eligible defendants.
Common Criminal Law Situations in Lancaster County
Lancaster County sees a high volume of DUI arrests, driven in part by both city nightlife and rural roadways where impaired driving is difficult to conceal from law enforcement. Drug-related offenses, including possession, delivery, and manufacturing of controlled substances, are among the most frequently prosecuted crimes in the county. Assault charges, theft offenses, domestic violence incidents, and firearm-related violations also bring a significant number of residents to seek criminal defense counsel each year.
Penalties and Outcomes in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania law, criminal penalties vary widely depending on whether the offense is classified as a summary offense, misdemeanor, or felony, with felonies of the first degree carrying up to 20 years in state prison and fines up to $25,000. Misdemeanor convictions can result in up to five years of incarceration, substantial fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licensing. Pennsylvania also imposes mandatory minimum sentences for certain drug and firearm offenses, making early legal representation essential to exploring all available defenses and alternatives.
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Why Go To Court for Criminal Law in Lancaster County
Go To Court Lawyers connects residents of Lancaster County with knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys who understand Pennsylvania criminal statutes, local court procedures, and the specific practices of the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas. With free 24/7 legal information and lawyer booking services coming soon, Go To Court is committed to making quality legal guidance accessible to everyone in the county when they need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested in Lancaster County?
If you are arrested in Lancaster County, you should exercise your right to remain silent and immediately request an attorney before answering any questions from law enforcement. Under Pennsylvania law, anything you say can and will be used against you, so it is important not to make statements, sign documents, or attempt to explain your situation without legal counsel present. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible so they can advise you on your rights, attend your arraignment, and begin building your defense.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, misdemeanors are offenses classified into three grades: misdemeanor of the first degree, which carries up to five years in prison; misdemeanor of the second degree, which carries up to two years; and misdemeanor of the third degree, which carries up to one year. Felonies are more serious and are similarly graded, with first-degree felonies carrying up to 20 years, second-degree felonies up to ten years, and third-degree felonies up to seven years in state prison. The classification of your charge directly affects the potential sentence, your eligibility for diversionary programs, and the long-term impact on your record.
Can a criminal record be expunged in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law allows for expungement of criminal records in certain limited circumstances, such as summary offenses where the individual has been free of arrest or prosecution for five years, charges that resulted in acquittal or were dismissed, and records belonging to individuals aged 70 or older who have been free of arrest for ten years. The Clean Slate Act also provides for automated sealing of certain lower-level misdemeanor convictions after ten years if the individual has no new convictions during that time. An attorney can evaluate your specific record and help you determine whether you are eligible to petition for expungement or record sealing under current Pennsylvania law.
How does a DUI charge work in Lancaster County?
In Pennsylvania, DUI charges are governed by 75 Pa. C.S. Section 3802 and are tiered based on the driver's blood alcohol content or the presence of controlled substances, with penalties increasing significantly at higher BAC levels. A first-time DUI at the general impairment tier may result in six months of probation, a fine, and mandatory alcohol safety school, while higher-tier or repeat offenses can lead to mandatory jail time, license suspension, and ignition interlock requirements. In Lancaster County, DUI cases typically begin with a preliminary hearing before a magisterial district judge before proceeding to the Court of Common Pleas, and defendants may be eligible for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program if they meet the qualifying criteria.
What is the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program in Pennsylvania?
The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition, commonly known as ARD, is a pretrial diversionary program in Pennsylvania designed for first-time, non-violent offenders who have no prior criminal record. If accepted into the ARD program by the Lancaster County District Attorney, a defendant must complete a period of supervision, pay fines and fees, and meet any other conditions set by the court, after which the charges are dismissed and the individual may be eligible for expungement. ARD is commonly used for DUI cases and certain drug offenses, and successfully completing the program allows individuals to avoid a conviction and its long-term consequences, making it a highly sought-after outcome for eligible defendants.