Being investigated for, or charged with, a crime is stressful and potentially life changing. At MacElree Harvey, our criminal defense lawyers provide the experience, skill and accessibility you need to navigate the legal system. We assess your case, explain your options and work to protect your rights while minimizing or avoiding collateral consequences.

Our criminal defense team represents clients in felony and misdemeanor cases in Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County and other counties across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as well as in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and surrounding districts. With decades of combined experience, we develop tailored defense strategies for each case, whether that means negotiation, pre-trial motions, diversionary dispositions such as ARD or treatment courts or trial before a judge or jury. We regularly handle Expungements and Record-Sealing of criminal histories.

We represent clients in Protection from Abuse (PFA) and Dependency Court matters, often collateral to our defense of an underlying criminal prosecution.

We litigate Appeals in the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, Superior Court and Commonwealth Court. We frequently represent clients investigated by Children Youth and Families and Protective Services throughout the course of those matters, including appeals to the Bureau of Hearings and Appeals.

Felony Offenses

We defend against serious charges such as:

· Homicide (Murder, Manslaughter)

· Sex Crimes (Rape, Sexual Assault, Child Pornography, Corruption of Minors)

· Aggravated Assault

· Arson

· RICO & Organized Crime charges

· Insurance Fraud

· Wire Fraud

· Mail Fraud

· Bank Fraud

· Tax Fraud

· Drug Offenses (Possession with Intent to Deliver, Drug Delivery Resulting in Death)

· Burglary

· Robbery

· Theft

Misdemeanor Offenses

We defend clients accused of:

· Simple Assault

· Recklessly Endangering Another Person

· Terroristic Threats

· Retail Theft

· Indirect Criminal Contempt

DUI & Traffic Offenses

Our attorneys handle traffic-related criminal matters, including:

· Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

· Homicide by Vehicle

· Leaving the Scene of an Accident

· Driving Under Suspension (DUS)

State & Federal Representation

We represent individuals in both Pennsylvania state criminal courts and federal courts, including state and federal grand jury investigations. Our team collaborates with investigators, forensic experts, and other professionals to build strong defenses. We aim for the best possible outcome in every case, whether that’s a declination of charges, dismissal, acquittal, favorable plea or alternative sentencing such as house arrest or in-patient treatment.

Representative Results of MacElree Harvey Defense Attorneys

· Acquittals by juries of multiple clients accused of Rape and related allegations

· Acquittal by jury of a physician accused of illegally dispensing Controlled Substances

· Acquittal by jury of a client accused of Homicide

· Acquittal of client accused of Assault

· Acquittal of client accused of Endangering the Welfare of a Child

· Exoneration of client accused of felony Insurance Fraud

· Acquittals of multiple DUI clients by judges and juries

· Successful pre-trial motions resulting in dismissal of prosecutions

· Successful appeals to administrative and appellate courts

· Multiple successful outcomes before the Bureau of Hearings and Appeals

· Favorable sentencings for clients accused of financial fraud and other serious felony offenses

· Alternative sentences (house arrest or in-patient treatment) in lieu of mandatory incarceration

FAQ: Criminal Defense in Pennsylvania

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor? Felonies are more serious criminal offenses, punishable by minimums of seven to twenty years in prison at different grades. Misdemeanors carry penalties of between one to five years at different grades. Both felonies and misdemeanors result in a criminal record.

What if the Police Officer tells me I don’t need a lawyer? Keep in mind that police officers are trained investigators who are permitted to mislead you. You should never discuss any allegations against you with a law enforcement officer without consulting with an attorney first. You have the right to remain silent under the Federal and Pennsylvania Constitutions and should exercise that right.

Do I need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty? Yes. Even if you are considering a guilty plea, a criminal defense attorney can negotiate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing or other favorable terms.

What is a pre-trial motion? A pre-trial motion is a request made before trial — for example, to suppress evidence, dismiss charges or limit testimony. Winning a pre-trial motion can be the functional equivalent to an acquittal.

What are collateral consequences? These are penalties outside of jail or fines, such as losing a driver’s license, a professional license, being denied certain jobs, immigration consequences or loss of firearm rights.

What is the difference between state and federal charges? Pennsylvania state criminal charges are prosecuted under state law in courts of common pleas. Federal criminal charges are prosecuted under federal law in the federal district courts and often involve more severe penalties and complex procedures.

Can a DUI be reduced or dismissed? Yes. DUI convictions can be avoided through acquittals, diversionary programs such as ARD or successful legal challenges to the stop, arrest, testing or other evidence. Sentence reductions are possible through alternative sentencing programs or plea negotiations.

If you’re under investigation or facing criminal charges, don’t face the system alone. Contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at MacElree Harvey today for a consultation.