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 Upon successful completion of a diversion program, the charges may be withdrawn or dismissed and expunged from the offender’s permanent record.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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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The lawful age to buy or drink liquor in Pennsylvania is 21. Under Pennsylvania law, it is unlawful for anybody under 21 to buy, drink, possess, or transport alcohol, malt, or mixed drinks. The punishments for a conviction are obligatory fines and loss of driving privileges. These fines and subsequent suspensions increase with each ensuing…
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