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# The Fishman Law Firm

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Pages
- [Criminal Defense Lawyer In Philadelphia, PA](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/criminal-defense-lawyer-in-philadelphia/): Relying on an untrained attorney or attempting to manage a criminal case alone might have disastrous outcomes. There are many rules and processes that must be adhered to in the complex criminal court system of Philadelphia. With the help of our experienced defense lawyer, your case may be presented in the best possible light because prosecutors are active in their pursuit of convictions.
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/privacy-policy/): At The Fishman Firm, your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit our website or engage with our services. By using our website, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.
- [The Fishman Firm Education Scholarship](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/scholarship/): To make things a little easier for students and their families, we are pleased to offer an annual $1,000 scholarship to an individual who is currently attending or planning to attend an accredited United States college or graduate school in the near future.
- [Pennsylvania Law Blog](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/blog/): Philadelphia’s Unlicensed Open-Carry Gun Ban Was Struck Down: What Commonwealth v. Sumpter Means for Your § 6108 Charge
- [Sitemap – Fishman Firm (Criminal Defense Attorney in Philadelphia)](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/sitemap/)
- [Thank You](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/thank-you/): Thank You for Contacting The Fishman FirmSomeone from our staff will be in touch with you soon. Address The Fishman Firm, LLC 211 North 13th Street, Suite 801 Philadelphia, PA 19107Hours Monday-Friday: 8:30am - 6:00pm Saturday: By Appointment Sunday: By AppointmentPhone Office: ​267-758-2228 Fax: 215-755-9100 International +1 267-758-2228
- [Firearm Defense Attorney in Philadelphia](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/firearm-defense/): Possession of a firearm or gun has become one of the most serious offenses in Philadelphia as the District Attorney tries to curb the gun violence in the city. It is often the first step taken toward any violent offense.  While you are subject to incarceration merely for possession of a firearm without a license to carry, the penalties escalate dramatically for every offense committed while in possession of a firearm, even if the gun is never discharged. Due to recent legislation, possession of a firearm during the commission of most violent crimes and possession with intent to deliver drugs triggers mandatory minimum sentences where the judge has no discretion but to impose significant state incarceration. For example, if you are convicted of robbery, burglary, rape, aggravated assault, attempted murder or other violent crimes and you are in possession of a firearm, the court must impose a mandatory sentence of 5 years of incarceration. In victim crimes such as those mentioned above, the 5 year mandatory sentence even applies if an object that the victim believes is a firearm is used during commission of the crime. For example, if you rob a store or individual using a replica firearm, a BB gun or even a fake gun that is believed to be a firearm, the sentencing guidelines require that the mandatory be imposed. These are mandatory minimums so the judge can, and often does, impose significantly longer sentences depending on the violent nature of the crime, your criminal background and whether you chose to go to trial or resolve the matter by way of a plea.
- [Criminal Defense Services](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/philadelphia-criminal-defense-lawyer/): If you or someone you care about has been arrested in Philadelphia, then you deserve the best defense. You deserve The Fishman Firm. No matter what the circumstances may be, you can meet with Philadelphia criminal lawyer Brian Fishman for FREE.
- [Stories of Success](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/success-stories/): By Brian Fishman|2024-02-09T10:57:04+00:00June 1st, 2019|Categories: Success Stories, DUI|Tags: criminal defense attorney, DUI, DUI defense attorney, DUI in Montgomery County, Preliminary Hearing|
- [Lawyer for Sex Crimes in Philadelphia](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/sex-crimes-lawyer-philadelphia/): There is no criminal charge that can have a more profound effect on your life than a sex offense. While you will serve life in prison if convicted of first- or second-degree murder, a strong argument can be made that those penalties are lighter than those faced by some convicted sex offenders.  If convicted of a serious sex offense, not only are you facing significant jail time but upon release, the community stigma, inability to obtain employment or to be around minor children, and the requirements of Megan’s Law, can make society your own prison and a living nightmare.
- [Criminal Lawyer for Theft Charges in Philadelphia](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/theft-offense-attorney-philadelphia/): Brian M. Fishman of The Fishman Firm, LLC is a Philadelphia theft lawyer who has represented hundreds of clients charged with various theft offenses. He is an aggressive advocate who is committed to providing his clients with individualized legal counsel in all criminal matters. He has successfully handled many criminal cases involving theft, including:
- [Robbery Lawyer in Philadelphia](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/robbery/): Individuals charged with robbery and theft are rarely caught at the scene of the crime.  Robbery trials, therefore, often hinge on eyewitness testimony.  That is, you are charged with robbery merely because the victim says you are the one that robbed them.  Robberies are traumatic events that generally last seconds, often involve a weapon and catch their victim off guard.  Therefore, while robbery victims insist that the defendant sitting at the defense table is the perpetrator, careful and deliberate cross-examination can demonstrate that the victim truly is not sure who robbed them.  And, if there is no corroborating evidence such as proceeds recovered off of you upon arrest or from your home or car, a robbery case is extremely defendable.  Scientifically, eyewitness testimony has proven to be the least reliable and trustworthy trial evidence.  Yet, individuals are convicted everyday based solely on the word of another.  Philadelphia robbery attorney Brian M. Fishman of The Fishman Firm has won many acquittals in serious robbery cases simply by calling into question the victim’s ability to observe the perpetrator at the time of the robbery.  It is easy to sit in a well-lit courtroom and look across at the only man sitting next to the defense lawyer, and identify that person as the assailant.  But, many times, the defendant is only there due to prior faulty or suggestive identification procedures by police during a photo array, a post-incident identification or a lineup.
- [Philadelphia Homicide Attorney](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/philadelphia-homicide-attorney/): If you or a loved one have been arrested and charged with homicide, the intentional killing of another person, you need the immediate assistance of a Philadelphia homicide attorney. Convictions for homicide and related offenses are obviously life-changing and carry the longest sentences of any crimes, including life imprisonment without the eligibility for parole for first- and second-degree murder. In addition, Pennsylvania still has the death penalty that prosecutors can pursue in the most egregious cases.
- [Philadelphia Attorney for Driving Under the Influence (DUI)](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/philadelphia-dui-attorney/): DUI seems like a fairly straightforward offense:  Were you driving? If so, were you under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time? However, it is not nearly that simple. There are so many intricacies in what, at first blush, appears to be an easily understood offense. It is important that you have an experienced Philadelphia DUI lawyer review your case and the allegations against you before making any decisions on how to proceed. Philadelphia DUI attorney Brian M. Fishman has both prosecuted and defended hundreds of DUI-DWI cases.
- [Drug Crime Lawyer in Philadelphia](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/drug-crime-lawyer/): Drug crime lawyer, Fishman has represented many students from local universities that were charged with drug possession and has successfully petitioned to have them entered into diversion programs, such as ARD or AMP, where they never face trial and avoid a conviction by complying with certain pre-trial conditions such as attending classes, paying fines and costs, completing community service or attending drug and alcohol treatment.  It is a call no student wants to make to their parents.  But, Brian M. Fishman has helped many families through this difficult time.
- [Philadelphia Lawyer for Domestic Violence & Protection from Abuse](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/domestic-violence-lawyer/): Philadelphia domestic violence lawyer Brian M. Fishman has helped many clients understand their rights when it comes to domestic violence proceedings. Domestic violence cases can be complicated, and the consequences can be severe if you’re convicted.  Attorney Fishman was a prosecutor in Philadelphia for over four years and worked in the Family Violence & Sexual Assault Unit of the District Attorney’s Office.  Therefore, he has vast experience in this area of criminal law.
- [Burglary Defense Lawyer in Philadelphia](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/burglary/): The basic definition of burglary is the unlawful entry of an occupied building or structure that is not open to the public with the intent to commit a crime therein. There are different degrees of burglary depending on the type of structure and whether anyone was actually present when the structure was entered.
- [Philadelphia Detainer Petition and Parole Attorney](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/detainer-petition-parole-attorney-philadelphia/): If you are on county parole or probation and your probation officer has reason to believe you have violated the terms of probation, the officer may request the court to place a detainer on you. This means that if you are not in custody, a warrant will be issued for your arrest and you will be taken into custody.
- [Post-Conviction Relief (PCRA) Attorney in Philadelphia](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/post-conviction-relief-attorney-philadelphia/): It takes a bold and determined attorney to file a PCRA, and Attorney Brian M. Fishman is not afraid to take on that challenge. PCRA stands for Post-Conviction Relief Act, and it is generally filed if the direct appeal challenging your conviction was unsuccessful in the Pennsylvania Superior and/or Supreme Court. The Superior Court will not address certain issues on direct appeal unless a full record has been developed in the trial court, and the most common of those issues is ineffective assistance of counsel. If you believe your attorney provided ineffective assistance of counsel, The Fishman Firm, LLC, can file a PCRA on your behalf to challenge that and other issues.
- [Philadelphia County Juvenile Delinquency Lawyer](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/juveniles-delinquency-lawyer-philadelphia/): The Fishman Firm, LLC, a criminal defense law firm located in Philadelphia, PA, has represented hundreds of juveniles faced with criminal charges in delinquency court. The firm serves clients in Philadelphia County and the surrounding areas. Attorney Brian M. Fishman is a trial attorney who focuses his practice on criminal defense. He has helped hundreds of clients, adults, and juveniles, defend their rights inside and outside of the courtroom.
- [Expungement](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/expungement-lawyer-philadelphia/): Expungement means to purge or remove any information of past criminal charges from law enforcement records or any other official database that may be in possession of the information. In order to have your criminal record expunged, you must file a formal petition with the court in the county where you were charged requesting that the desired records be removed or deleted. Generally, a hearing will be scheduled on your petition to determine if expungement is appropriate and whether the prosecution opposes your petition. If your case is withdrawn by the prosecution, dismissed by the court or you are found not guilty after trial, do not assume that the charges will automatically be removed from your record. While the appropriate disposition will be recorded, evidence of the arrest and the charges will remain on your record and accessible by current or prospective employers, the military, and the public to view unless a petition is filed and order is signed granting expungement.
- [Philadelphia Criminal Attorney for Bail & Nebbia Hearings](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/bail-hearings-attorney-philadelphia/): As a criminal defense attorney, success is often measured by how quickly a client is released from prison. Therefore, when we receive a call that a client has been arrested, our first thought is how to gain your freedom and reunite you with your family. If arrested for a misdemeanour offence such as DUI, possession of drugs, theft or a similar non-violent offence, individuals are often released without the need to pay bail. You will be released on ROR (Released on your Own Recognizance), SOB (Sign on Bond) or ROSC (Released on Special Conditions). All are essentially promises to come to court or risk a warrant being issued for your arrest. Failure to appear in court often leads to higher bail if arrested in the future.
- [Asset Forfeiture Attorney in Philadelphia](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/asset-forfeiture-attorney-philadelphia/): The Fishman Firm, LLC, is a criminal defense law firm located in Philadelphia, PA. Attorney Brian M. Fishman has defended hundreds of clients facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania. He has a special interest in asset forfeiture law, and has successfully represented many clients who were at risk of losing their home, money or vehicle due to related drug charges.
- [Criminal Appeals Lawyer in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/criminal-appeals-attorney-philadelphia/): When you or a loved one is in need of a criminal appeals lawyer, it’s an emotional time. The need for an appeal means someone has already been convicted and sentenced.  It seems that all hope is lost.  Therefore, having an attorney who understands the delicate nature of appeals and the complicated process can help ease the stress.
- [Attorney](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/attorney-brian-fishman/): Brian Fishman has been practicing law in Philadelphia for over twelve years. His practice has been dedicated almost exclusively to criminal law although he also handles personal injury, civil rights matters, and family law cases. Brian has been admitted to practice in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey and in federal court in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Brian received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University in Ithaca, NY where he studied Psychology.
- [Contact Us](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/contact/): CONTACT THE FISHMAN FIRM
Criminal cases are complicated.
Brian Fishman is here to help you every step of the way. Disclaimer: By providing a telephone number and submitting the form, you consent to be contacted by SMS text message from The Fishman Firm, LLC. Message frequency may vary. Message & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out of further messaging. Reply HELP for more information. You may refer to our Privacy Policy by clicking here: https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/privacy-policy/ × Address The Fishman Firm, LLC 100 South Broad Street Suite 1910 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19110 Hours Monday-Friday: 8:30am - 6:00pm Saturday: By Appointment Sunday: By AppointmentPhone Office: ​267-758-2228 Fax:  (800) 577-1716 International +1 267-758-2228
- [Home](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/): Former prosecutor and DUI lawyer Brian Fishman founded the Fishman Firm intending to provide unparalleled legal representation to individuals in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties charged with criminal offenses. Whether you're a college student charged with drug possession lawyer, a resident arrested for DUI, an individual arrested for sexual assault, or a convicted felon charged with firearm charges or possession with intent to deliver, Brian Fishman has the knowledge, the experience, and the resources to obtain the best possible results in your case. Contact DUI attorney Brian Fishman today.

## Posts
- [Philadelphia’s Unlicensed Open-Carry Gun Ban Was Struck Down: What Commonwealth v. Sumpter Means for Your § 6108 Charge](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/commonwealth-v-sumpter-6108-philadelphia/): In Commonwealth v. Sumpter (2025), a PA court struck down Section 6108 as applied to unlicensed open carry in Philadelphia. What it means for your charge.
- [Pennsylvania Rule 600: Calculating the 365-Day “Mechanical Run Date” for Case Dismissals](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/pennsylvania-rule-600-mechanical-run-date/): PA Rule 600 requires Philadelphia prosecutors to bring cases to trial within 365 days. Brian Fishman explains excludable time and how to secure a dismissal.
- [The 2026 Philadelphia Appellate Guide: Timelines and Grounds for Reversal](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/philadelphia-criminal-appeal-timeline-2026/): The 2026 Philadelphia criminal appeal process typically requires filing a Notice of Appeal within 30 days of sentencing. However, exceptions apply, and it may also be possible to seek a reversal under the Post-Conviction Relief Act (PCRA) after 30 days. Potential grounds for reversal include, but are not limited to, abuse of discretion by the trial judge, ineffective assistance of counsel, or newly discovered evidence that was unavailable during the initial trial.
- [PA Clean Slate 3.0: Who Qualifies for Automatic Record Sealing in Philadelphia in 2026?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/clean-slate-3-0-record-sealing-pennsylvania/): Under Pennsylvania’s new clean slate law (commonly referred to as “Clean Slate 3.0”), certain offenses are eligible for automatic record sealing after a specified waiting period. Certain other offenses can be sealed upon petition, while others remain completely ineligible. A limited number of non-convictions are eligible for expungement under Clean Slate 3.0 as well.
- [Philadelphia Expungement Guide 2026: New Clean Slate Laws and Eligibility Criteria](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/philadelphia-expungement-clean-slate-2026/): When you get arrested for a crime in Pennsylvania, your arrest can stay with you for the rest of your life. Having an arrest on your permanent record can impact nearly all aspects of your life—from your career (and your personal finances) to your parental rights.
- [Pennsylvania Probation & Parole Violations: Consequences & Legal Defenses](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/probation-parole-violations-pennsylvania/): If you are on probation or parole in Pennsylvania, violating the terms of your probation or parole can have serious consequences. As a result, it is important to make sure you comply—and, if you make a mistake, it will be important for you to speak with a PA criminal attorney as soon as possible.
- [What You Need to Know if You Are Facing a DUI in Pennsylvania: 2025 Year in Review](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/facing-a-dui-in-pennsylvania-2025-year-in-review/): But while you might not want to deal with your DUI during the holidays, a DUI is not something you can ignore. If you are facing a DUI in Pennsylvania this holiday season, the articles we published throughout 2025 share some important information you need to know:
- [Can You Get a DUI on Private Property in Pennsylvania?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/can-you-get-a-dui-on-private-property-in-pennsylvania/): If you are facing a DUI charge in Pennsylvania, you need to fight your DUI by all means available. All Pennsylvania DUI charges carry steep penalties, and having a DUI conviction on your permanent record can have a variety of other serious consequences as well. With this in mind, if you got arrested for driving under the influence on private property, can you use this to fight your DUI?
- [Can My Employer Fire Me Because of a DUI in Pennsylvania?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/can-my-employer-fire-me-because-of-a-dui-in-pennsylvania/): If you are facing a DUI charge in Pennsylvania, your employer could find out about your DUI through various means. Regardless of how your employer learns about your DUI, it can fire you because of your DUI if it chooses to do so. Some of the ways that employers can learn about their employees’ DUIs include:
- [What Not to Expect from Your Philadelphia DUI Lawyer](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/what-not-to-expect-from-your-philadelphia-dui-lawyer/): Last month, we published an article titled, What Can (and Should) You Expect from Your Philadelphia DUI Lawyer?. In that article, we discussed reasonable expectations in DUI cases, and we covered some of the reasons why it is important to hire an experienced DUI lawyer regardless of the facts of your case.
- [What Can (and Should) You Expect from Your Philadelphia DUI Lawyer?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/what-can-and-should-you-expect-from-your-philadelphia-dui-lawyer/): If you are facing a DUI in Philadelphia, there are several reasons why you will want to hire an experienced DUI lawyer to represent you. This is true even if you got caught driving drunk.
- [Will You Lose Your Driver’s License After a DUI Arrest in Pennsylvania?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/will-you-lose-your-drivers-license-after-a-dui-arrest-in-pennsylvania/): If you are facing a driving under the influence (DUI) charge in Pennsylvania, you are facing several serious consequences. Depending on the circumstances of your case, this could include loss of your driving privileges. Under Pennsylvania law, driver’s license suspensions in DUI cases can range from 12 to 18 months, and they come with financial costs and various practical challenges as well.
- [Fighting a Pennsylvania DUI When You Admitted to Drinking and Driving](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/fighting-a-pennsylvania-dui-when-you-admitted-to-drinking-and-driving/): Even in this scenario, you can—and should—fight your DUI charge in Pennsylvania. Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense under Pennsylvania law; and, whether you have been charged with General Impairment, High BAC, or Highest BAC, you are facing serious penalties. But, even if you admitted to drinking and driving, you have defenses available, and an experienced DUI defense lawyer will be able to help make sure you do not face unnecessary consequences.
- [Arrested for Drunk Driving in Pennsylvania? 5 Reasons Why It’s Worth Fighting Your DUI](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/fight-dui-charge-pennsylvania/): While it might not seem like it’s worth trying to fight your DUI charge—especially if you got caught driving drunk—the reality is that there are several important reasons not to give up without a fight. Not only can a DUI conviction have several serious consequences, but you also have several options for avoiding these consequences.
- [DUI Repeat Offenders: Facing a Second (or Subsequent) Drunk Driving Charge in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/second-dui-repeat-offender-pennsylvania/): Not only can all types of in-state DUI convictions lead to being charged as a repeat offender, but out-of-state DUI convictions can lead to being charged as a repeat offender as well. If you have a prior out-of-state DUI from the past 10 years, this will factor into your case just as it would if you had received your DUI in Pennsylvania.
- [What Happens After a DUI Arrest in PA?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/what-happens-after-dui-arrest-pa/): So, what happens after a DUI arrest in PA? Once you have been arrested, your case will move quickly. As a result, you need to be proactive about protecting yourself and avoid oversights and mistakes that could jeopardize your defense.
- [What Are Your Legal Rights in a Pennsylvania DUI Case?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/legal-rights-in-a-pennsylvania-dui-case/): If you are facing a DUI case in Pennsylvania, understanding your legal rights is important. Not only do you need to protect your legal rights going forward; but, if police or prosecutors have violated your legal rights already, this could provide you with a defense in court.
- [What Are the Potential Outcomes of a DUI Case in Philadelphia?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/potential-outcomes-of-a-dui-case-in-philadelphia/): With this in mind, generally speaking, the potential outcomes of a DUI case in Philadelphia are:
- [What You Need to Know if You Are Facing a DUI in Pennsylvania: 2024 Year in Review](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/dui-in-pennsylvania-2024-year-in-review/): Once you plead guilty, your case is effectively over. The judge will sentence you, and you will have a DUI conviction on your permanent record. Regardless of the facts of your case, you have defenses available, and you owe it to yourself (and your family) to fight your DUI by all means available. To find out why pleading guilty is a mistake you can’t afford to make, read Why You Should Never Plead Guilty to DUI in Pennsylvania.
- [DUI Charge in Pennsylvania: What Are the Steps?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/dui-charge-in-pennsylvania-next-steps/): If you are facing a DUI charge in Pennsylvania, you need to know what to expect during your case. Making informed decisions about your defense would be best, which necessarily involves understanding how your case will proceed.
- [7 Ways to Keep Evidence Out of a DUI Case in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/how-to-keep-evidence-out-of-a-dui-case/): In many cases, avoiding a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) involves working to keep the prosecution’s evidence out of court. If prosecutors have the evidence they need to meet their burden of proof, then keeping their evidence out of court may be the only way to avoid a conviction.
- [DUI Arrest in Pennsylvania: What To Do](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/dui-arrest-in-pennsylvania/): After a DUI arrest in Pennsylvania, you need to be very careful to protect yourself. There are both steps you need to take and mistakes you need to avoid—and if you say or do the wrong thing, you could face unnecessary consequences.
- [Pennsylvania DUI Laws: What You Need to Know After a Drunk Driving Arrest](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/pennsylvania-dui-laws-what-you-need-to-know/): With that said, there are no guarantees. Pennsylvania DUI laws are strict, and arrests lead to convictions in many cases. But, you do have options available, and you can choose the best option for your case with the help of an experienced DUI defense attorney.
- [What Are Your Options in Your Philadelphia DUI Case?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/philadelphia-dui-what-are-your-options/): If you are facing a Philadelphia DUI (driving under the influence) charge, it is critical to make sure that you are considering all of the options you have available. Even for first-time offenders, DUIs carry steep penalties (including possible jail time in some cases), and having a DUI conviction on your record can negatively impact your life in a variety of ways. Choosing the best way to approach your case is essential—and the best approach depends on the specific circumstances at hand.
- [Pennsylvania DUI Defense: The Ultimate Guide](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/pennsylvania-dui-defense-ultimate-guide/): Keep reading to find out what you need to know from DUI defense lawyer and former Philadelphia prosecutor Brian Fishman:
- [DUI Jury Trials in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know if You’ve Been Arrested](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/dui-jury-trials-in-pennsylvania/): When you are facing a DUI charge in Pennsylvania, you need to do everything you can to protect yourself. DUIs carry steep penalties under Pennsylvania law, and schools, employers, lenders, professional associations, and other entities will all look unfavorably on a DUI conviction.
- [Plea Bargain, ARD, or Trial? Deciding How to Handle Your Pennsylvania DUI Case](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/plea-bargain-ard-trial/): One of the most important decisions you need to make is how to handle your DUI case. Should you seek a plea bargain? Should you consider Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)? Or, should you focus on fighting your DUI in court?
- [DUI Arrest in Pennsylvania: 10 Costly Mistakes to Avoid](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/10-costly-mistakes-after-a-dui-arrest/): When dealing with a DUI arrest in Pennsylvania, mistakes can prove incredibly costly. If you aren’t careful, you could end up facing unnecessary penalties—or you could even end up facing a conviction when you were entitled to walk free. All DUI defendants in Pennsylvania have defenses available, and failing to defend yourself effectively could have drastic and long-term impacts on many aspects of your life.
- [DUI Consequences for Doctors and Other Medical Professionals in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/dui-for-medical-professionals-in-pa/): Facing a DUI in Pennsylvania presents significant risks regardless of what you do for work. But, for doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, the risks can be far greater. Getting arrested for DUI can put your license in jeopardy; and, even if you can protect (or restore) your license, having a DUI on your record can have long-term consequences for your career.
- [Why You Should Never Plead Guilty to DUI in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/never-plead-guilty-to-dui-in-pennsylvania/): If you are facing a DUI charge, you are probably ready to move on with your life. Dealing with a DUI can be stressful, and the last thing you want to do is make your life even more stressful by preparing for a trial (the outcome of which is inherently uncertain). As a result, you might be thinking about pleading guilty so that you can move on.
- [What You Need to Know if You Are Facing a DUI in Pennsylvania: 2023 Year in Review](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/what-you-need-to-know-if-you-are-facing-a-dui-in-pennsylvania-2023-year-in-review/): While facing a DUI charge is always serious, several factors can increase the penalties for a DUI in Pennsylvania. These include factors both related and unrelated to your drunk driving arrest. If you are facing additional fines; additional jail time; or consequences related to your job, education, or military service, it will be even more important for you to work with an experienced DUI defense lawyer. Learn more: 7 Factors that Can Increase the Penalties for a DUI in Pennsylvania.
- [How Hard Is It to Fight a DUI charge in Pennsylvania?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/how-hard-is-it-to-fight-a-dui-charge-in-pennsylvania/): When you are facing a DUI charge in Pennsylvania, you need to do everything you can to avoid unnecessary consequences. A DUI conviction can change your life for years to come, and the financial costs alone can quickly add up to thousands of dollars. But do you need to hire a lawyer to represent you, or can you handle your DUI case alone?
- [7 Reasons to Hire a DUI Defense Lawyer Even if You Were Driving Drunk](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/7-reasons-to-hire-a-dui-defense-lawyer-even-if-you-were-driving-drunk/): If you got caught driving drunk in Pennsylvania, it might seem like hiring a DUI defense lawyer isn’t worth it. You made a mistake, got caught, and now it’s time to face the consequences. Right?
- [DUI Arrests Present Substantial Risks for College Students in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/dui-case-risks-for-college-students-in-pennsylvania/): Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania can have serious consequences. This is true regardless of whether you are under 21. In Pennsylvania, DUI is a serious crime, and underage “zero tolerance” DUI cases are treated like DUIs involving a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.10%.
- [What questions should you ask during your first consultation with a PA criminal defense lawyer?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/what-questions-can-and-should-you-ask-during-your-initial-consultation-with-a-pennsylvania-criminal-defense-lawyer/): Even if you are confused about your situation and worried about your future, knowing what questions to ask can be difficult. The criminal justice system is complicated, and without a law degree and years of legal experience, you cannot know all the intricate issues involved in defending against criminal charges. In other words, if you don’t know what questions to ask, you shouldn’t feel embarrassed—and you certainly are not alone. Here are ten questions you may want to ask during your initial criminal defense consultation:
- [What Are the Different DUI Levels in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/what-are-the-different-dui-levels-in-pennsylvania/): You can face different DUI charges in Pennsylvania based on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). The higher your BAC, the more serious the charge—and the greater the penalties on the table.
- [Can Prosecutors Prove DUI Without a BAC in Pennsylvania?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/can-prosecutors-prove-dui-without-bac-in-pennsylvania/): When the police pull you over on suspicion of drunk driving in Pennsylvania, they will typically ask you to take a breath test. If you take a breath test, the police can record your blood alcohol concentration (BAC)—and if your BAC is over the legal limit, prosecutors can use this to prove that you were under the influence behind the wheel.
- [What Happens if You Cause an Accident While Driving Under the Influence in Pennsylvania?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/happens-if-you-cause-an-accident-while-driving-under-the-influence-in-pennsylvania/): One of the biggest risks of driving under the influence (DUI) is causing an accident that results in serious or fatal injuries. This risk is the reason why driving under the influence is illegal, and it is the reason why Pennsylvania’s penalties for DUI convictions are so severe.
- [What are Your Options if You Admitted to Driving Drunk in Pennsylvania?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/admitted-to-driving-drunk-in-pennsylvania/): Let’s say you got pulled over for driving under the influence (DUI), and let’s say that you admitted to being drunk behind the wheel. If you confessed to a DUI, is your case over? Is it time to plead guilty and try to move on with your life?
- [How Can Dash Camera Footage Help (or Hurt) Your Defense in a Pennsylvania DUI Case?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/how-can-dash-camera-footage-help-or-hurt-your-defense-in-a-pennsylvania-dui-case/): In Pennsylvania, all police cars are equipped with dash cams (or, officially, “Mobile Vehicle Recorders”). This means that if you are facing a DUI charge, your traffic stop and arrest were most likely caught on video.
- [7 Ways to Reduce the Costs of a DUI in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/ways-to-reduce-the-costs-of-dui-pennsylvania/): In a recent article, we discussed seven factors that can increase the costs of a DUI in Pennsylvania. In that article, we covered issues like having a prior record or having an open container in your vehicle. But, while there are several factors that can increase the costs of a DUI, there are steps you can take to reduce the costs of your DUI arrest in Pennsylvania as well.
- [7 Factors that Can Increase the Penalties for a DUI in Pennsylvania!](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/factors-increase-the-penalties-for-dui-pennsylvania/): When you get a DUI in Pennsylvania, the penalties you are facing depend on the facts of your case. While the penalties for a standard first-time DUI involving a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of less than 0.10 percent are minor by comparison, the consequences of having a DUI conviction on your record can increase the costs of your drunk driving arrest substantially. As a result, it is important to hire an experienced defense lawyer regardless of the circumstances of your case.
- [DUI Accidents (and Arrests) Increase During the Holiday Season in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/dui-accidents-arrests-increase-during-holiday-season-pennsylvania/): In Pennsylvania, DUI accidents—and DUI arrests—increase during the holiday season. As one local news outlet reported the day before Thanksgiving (which is commonly referred to as “Blackout Wednesday”), “PennDOT, police and emergency responder agencies today reminded motorists that the holiday season is one of the most dangerous times for crashes caused by driving under the influence.”
- [5 Ways to Establish “Reasonable Doubt” in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/5-ways-to-establish-reasonable-doubt-in-pennsylvania/): As a criminal defendant in Pennsylvania, you are entitled to the presumption of innocence. You are innocent until proven guilty; and, to prove your guilt, prosecutors must establish that you committed a crime “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
- [Can You Get a DUI Charge Reduced in Philadelphia?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/get-dui-charge-reduced-in-philadelphia/): If you are facing a DUI in Philadelphia and it doesn’t look like you will be able to successfully fight your charge in court, one option you may have is to negotiate a plea bargain. By negotiating a plea bargain, you can get your DUI charge reduced, and this can significantly mitigate the consequences of your arrest.
- [12 Facts that Will NOT Protect You From a DUI Conviction in Pennsylvania](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/facts-not-protect-you-from-dui-conviction-pennsylvania/): In a recent article, we discussed 12 facts that can determine the outcome of a DUI case (or other criminal cases) in Pennsylvania. We talked about how even the smallest details can matter, and we emphasized the importance of discussing all of the details with your defense attorney.
- [FAQs: What Do You Need to Know When Facing a DUI Charge in Philadelphia?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/need-to-know-when-facing-a-dui-charge/): When facing a DUI charge in Philadelphia, you need to make smart decisions. You need to avoid costly (and potentially irreversible) mistakes, and you need to be confident that you are acting with your long term best interests in mind.
- [What Are My Rights if Philadelphia Prosecutors Withhold Exculpatory Evidence?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/what-are-my-rights-if-philadelphia-prosecutors-withhold-exculpatory-evidence/): When you are facing criminal charges in Philadelphia, you have the constitutional right to a fair trial. This means you have the right to ensure that the judge or jury hears all of the evidence that is favorable to your defense.
- [10 Questions to Ask Before You Hire a Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyer](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/10-questions-to-ask-before-you-hire-a-philadelphia-criminal-defense-lawyer/): Facing criminal charges in Philadelphia is a serious matter, and avoiding unnecessary consequences requires experienced legal representation. When choosing a criminal defense lawyer, you need to choose wisely, as relying on inexperienced counsel could negatively impact your life for years to come.
- [How Does the Attorney-Client Privilege Work in Pennsylvania Criminal Cases?](https://www.thefishmanfirm.com/how-does-attorney-client-privilege-work-pennsylvania-criminal-cases/): When you are facing criminal charges, it is extremely important that you avoid giving too much information to the prosecution. With rare exceptions, once you say something you can’t take it back—even if you didn’t realize you were putting your defense at risk.