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What Are Drug Offenses?

April 19, 2023
Contact Our West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes if You Have Been Charged With a Drug Crime.

Drug offense charges in the State of Pennsylvania fall into different categories, and the penalties can range from monetary fines to serious prison time. The consequences also depend on the type of drug in question and the number of offenses. Oftentimes, alleged offenders can have their penalties reduced or dismissed when they work with a…

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What Is a Pre-Trial Diversion Program?

March 21, 2023
West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Represent Clients Applying for Pre-Trial Diversion Programs.

Pre-trial diversion programs offer low-level offenders charged with misdemeanor crimes an alternative to court trial proceedings. The case is placed in diversion while the offender completes the requirements of a designated program. Upon successful completion of a diversion program, the charges may be withdrawn or dismissed and expunged from the offender’s permanent record. Having a…

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Can You Drink While on Probation?

February 21, 2023
drink while on probation

Being on probation is serious, with specific conditions that must be followed. Drinking alcohol may be permitted in some cases, but not when the person has a specific offense related to alcohol. One example of this is DUI probation. Even when it is allowed, drinking while on probation can increase the chances of committing a…

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How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Pennsylvania?

January 31, 2023
West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Represents Clients With DUI Offenses.

Driving under the influence (DUI) is illegal in all states, and in Pennsylvania, a conviction can remain on your record permanently unless you meet certain conditions for expungement. The penalties for a DUI conviction vary, depending on the number of prior convictions you have received. State DUI laws prohibit operating or in physical control of…

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Going Out This Labor Day? Here Is How You Can Avoid a DUI Charge

August 31, 2022
labor day dui

Labor Day is an occasion to honor the accomplishments of American workers. It also marks the unofficial end of summer and the opportunity to enjoy cookouts and warm beach days. Alcohol drinks may be served at these festivities. If you plan to drink this Labor Day Weekend, take steps to prevent driving under the influence…

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Can I Get a DUI for Being Under the Influence of a Prescription Medication?

July 28, 2022
medication

When you hear “driving under the influence (DUI),” it is most often associated with alcohol use. However, alcohol is not the only intoxicating substance that can lead to penalties for drivers. Being under the influence of prescription drugs while behind the wheel can also lead to a DUI charge. In Pennsylvania, driving under the influence…

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What Happens When You Violate Parole?

June 22, 2022
violate parole

Parole allows incarcerated individuals to have early release. A parole violation is a serious matter that can result in returning to prison for the remainder of the sentence. Violating parole can also mean the offender committed an additional crime, leading to more legal penalties. The return to prison could be much longer than completing the…

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How Can I Avoid a DUI Charge on Memorial Day Weekend?

May 24, 2022
memorial day

For many people, Memorial Day weekend signifies the beginning of summer, and many Americans take to the roads for vacation over the long weekend. However, more people die on Memorial Day weekend each year than any other holiday weekend combined.  The AAA estimates that over 39 million people will travel this Memorial Day weekend. The…

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What Are Juvenile Shoplifting Penalties?

April 22, 2022
West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Will Protect Your Child if They Are Accused of Juvenile Shoplifting.

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania takes juvenile shoplifting seriously, however, its penalties are designed to teach and not necessarily to punish. The goal is to demonstrate to the youth that they have made a mistake and they should not engage in that activity again. It is still a serious affair if your child has been arrested…

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How Can I Avoid a DUI Charge on St. Patrick’s Day?

March 8, 2022
West Chester DUI Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Fight for Those Charged with Drunk Driving

Although St. Patrick’s Day was intended to honor a revered priest in Ireland, it has become a drinking holiday around the world.   Parades, parties, special events at bars and clubs, and pub crawls are scheduled all over the United States for St. Patrick’s Day, and often the days around it. Many drink heavily at…

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