Law office of Kathryn Roberts, Esquire

Facing criminal charges can be one of the most overwhelming experiences of your life. Whether it’s a DUI, drug possession, assault, or theft charge, the stakes are high. A conviction can lead to jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects your future employment and personal life. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced Allentown criminal defense lawyer by your side, fighting for your rights and protecting your future. Understanding the Criminal Justice System in Allentown The criminal justice system is complex, with strict procedures and deadlines that must be followed. Without legal representation, you risk making costly mistakes that could jeopardize your case. A skilled defense attorney understands the local courts, prosecutors, and judges in Allentown and can develop a strategic defense tailored to your situation. At Allentown Criminal Law , we have extensive experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. We know how to challenge the prosecutio...

Being charged with homicide or attempted homicide is one of the most serious legal situations anyone can face. In Pennsylvania, the consequences of such charges can range from life imprisonment to the death penalty. If you or a loved one is facing these accusations, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to building a strong legal defense. Allentown Criminal Law has the expertise to navigate these high-stakes cases and protect your rights. Degrees of Homicide in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania law recognizes different levels of homicide, each carrying severe penalties: First-Degree Murder – This involves intentional, premeditated killing. A conviction can lead to life in prison without parole or even the death penalty. Second-Degree Murder – Also known as felony murder, this occurs when a person dies during the commission of another felony (e.g., robbery). A conviction results in automatic life imprisonment. Third-Degree Murder – This is an intentional killing that la...

When a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order is issued in Pennsylvania, it can have serious consequences beyond just restricting contact with the alleged victim. For parents, one of the most significant concerns is how a PFA order might impact child custody and visitation rights. If you are facing a PFA order in Allentown or anywhere in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to understand how it could affect your parental rights and what legal options you have to protect your relationship with your child. How a PFA Order Can Impact Custody and Visitation A PFA order can dramatically change existing custody and visitation arrangements. Here’s how: Temporary Custody Modifications – When a temporary PFA order is granted, the judge may include terms that temporarily strip the accused of custody rights or restrict visitation. This is often done to protect the petitioner and any children involved until a final hearing is held. Loss of Physical and Legal Custody – If a final PFA order is issued, the court ...

In recent years, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed the way we travel, offering convenience, affordability, and a potential solution to the ongoing problem of drunk driving. Many believe that with rideshare apps available at their fingertips, DUI rates should be decreasing significantly. After all, if you can call a ride home after a night of drinking, there’s no reason to risk getting behind the wheel, right? While rideshare services have certainly helped in the fight against DUI-related accidents, the reality is more complex. DUI arrests still happen, rideshare drivers are not immune to intoxication, and in some cases, the presence of rideshare options has led to riskier behavior among passengers. So, the question remains: are we really safer with rideshare apps? The Impact of Rideshare Services on DUIs There is no denying that rideshare services have had a positive impact on reducing some DUI-related incidents. Studies in various cities have shown a correlation b...

Legal battles can be daunting, especially if you're facing serious charges. However, the law is complex, and within that complexity lie hidden legal loopholes that can make or break a case. A skilled defense attorney understands these intricacies and can leverage them to protect your rights and secure a more favorable outcome. Understanding Legal Loopholes Legal loopholes are gaps, inconsistencies, or ambiguities in the law that can be used to benefit a defendant. While they may sound like questionable legal tactics, they are legitimate aspects of the legal system. Attorneys often use these loopholes to challenge evidence, reduce charges, or even get cases dismissed. For instance, a procedural error made by law enforcement during an arrest or investigation can serve as a strong legal loophole that a defense attorney might use. If your rights were violated at any point, it could render the case against you weak or inadmissible in court. Common Legal Loopholes in Criminal Defense Her...

In Pennsylvania, you may have heard the terms DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) used interchangeably. However, it's important to understand that DUI is the only legal term used in the state. DUI refers to operating a vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, you can also be charged with a DUI if impaired by drugs, whether prescription, recreational, or over-the-counter. Pennsylvania’s law focuses on impairment, whether from alcohol or substances. On the other hand, DWI is a term often used in other states, particularly those that differentiate between alcohol-related offenses and other intoxicants. In Pennsylvania, all impaired driving offenses fall under the DUI category, regardless of whether alcohol, drugs, or both are involved. Facing a DUI charge can result in severe penalties such as license suspension, fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time. It’s crucial to consult with an experi...

Introduction Assault charges in Pennsylvania carry serious consequences that can impact various aspects of your life. Among the different types of assault, simple assault is a common yet often misunderstood charge. It's essential to comprehend the differences between simple assault and aggravated assault to fully understand the potential legal outcomes. What Is Simple Assault in Pennsylvania? In Pennsylvania, simple assault is defined as an attempt to cause, or knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person. This can include negligently causing injury with a deadly weapon and putting someone in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. Examples of simple assault might be a physical altercation where someone is punched, threats of harm, or attempts to injure. The legal definition of simple assault can be found in the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, Title 18, Section 2701. Common Scenarios Leading to Simple Assault Charges Simple assault charges c...