Law office of Kathryn Roberts, Esquire

Drug offenses in Pennsylvania can carry severe consequences, ranging from hefty fines to lengthy prison sentences. The penalties depend on factors like the type of drug, the amount involved, and whether the offense is possession, trafficking, or manufacturing. Controlled substances like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and even prescription drugs without authorization can lead to charges that impact your life significantly. For example, simple possession of a controlled substance may result in up to a year in jail and a fine of $5,000. However, drug trafficking or manufacturing can escalate to felony charges, with penalties reaching decades in prison and fines as high as $250,000. Defending against drug charges requires a strong legal strategy tailored to your case. Possible defenses might include challenging the legality of the search and seizure, proving lack of knowledge about the drugs, or questioning the chain of custody for evidence. In some cases, rehabilitation programs may of...

  What is DUI and Why It Matters Definition of DUI Driving Under the Influence (DUI) refers to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both. This legal offense not only endangers the driver but also poses a significant risk to pedestrians and other motorists. Legal Consequences of a DUI Arrest A DUI arrest can lead to severe legal consequences, including hefty fines, license suspension, mandatory educational programs, and even imprisonment. Additionally, a DUI conviction will likely appear on your criminal record, impacting various aspects of your life. Impact on Personal and Professional Life Beyond legal ramifications, a DUI conviction can have lasting effects on your personal and professional life. It can result in job loss, difficulty finding new employment, higher insurance premiums, and strained personal relationships. Common Reasons for DUI Arrests Failing a DUI Test: Breathalyzer and Field Sobriety Tests One of the most common reasons for a DUI arrest is ...

In Pennsylvania, a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order is a legal measure designed to protect individuals from abuse, harassment, or threats. If you are served with a PFA order, it’s critical to understand its consequences and the serious implications of violating it. Violating a PFA order can result in both criminal and civil penalties. The severity of the penalty depends on the nature of the violation. Common violations include contacting the protected party, being physically near them, or failing to surrender firearms. A violation can lead to criminal charges, such as contempt of court, which may carry significant penalties, including fines, probation, and even jail time. In some cases, if the violation is serious enough, such as committing physical violence, the person violating the PFA can be arrested immediately. If convicted, the defendant could face up to six months in prison and fines up to $1,000. Additionally, violating a PFA can damage your credibility in future legal matters...

Introduction In Pennsylvania, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense with significant repercussions. Understanding the legal implications of a felony DUI conviction is crucial, as it can profoundly affect various aspects of your life. This blog delves into what constitutes a felony DUI in Pennsylvania, the differences between misdemeanor and felony DUI charges , and the far-reaching consequences of a felony conviction. What Constitutes a Felony DUI in Pennsylvania? A DUI offense in Pennsylvania becomes a felony under certain conditions. Typically, a DUI is escalated to a felony if it is the third offense within a ten-year period or if the DUI results in serious bodily injury or death. The criteria are strict, reflecting the state's commitment to penalizing repeat offenders and those whose actions have severe consequences. Difference Between Misdemeanor and Felony DUI The distinction between misdemeanor and felony DUI charges is crucial. A misdemeanor DU...

Facing criminal charges can be one of the most challenging experiences of your life, but you don’t have to go through it alone. A criminal defense lawyer plays a critical role in protecting your rights, building a strong defense, and guiding you through the legal process. In Allentown, Attorney Kathryn Roberts provides personalized legal representation for individuals facing charges such as DUI, drug offenses, domestic violence, or theft. Her role begins with thoroughly understanding your case, reviewing evidence, and identifying any flaws or violations of your rights during the arrest or investigation. A skilled criminal defense lawyer negotiates with prosecutors to reduce charges, minimize penalties, or even have the case dismissed when possible. Should your case proceed to trial, your attorney will fight tirelessly to present your side of the story and challenge the prosecution's claims. Having an experienced lawyer like Kathryn Roberts on your side means having someone who kno...