Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Hello,

I was recently arrested for selling marijuana to a cop, a few times, someone snitched me out and had set up a case to get me screwed over so he could walk...

Now, the arresting officer said I could do the same thing that was done to me to get a lesser charge, meaning, drop my three accounts of felony (Intent to distribute, selling a controlled substance in a school zone (which is technically out of a school zone if going by the road signs) and possession) to misdemeanors.

After attempting to work with the arresting officer to get a "hard drug" drug dealer off the streets he stopped returning/answering my phone calls/text messages. My attorney stated, at the preliminary, that I could get ARD fore; this is my first offense in my life time. Later at the second hearing (the one where only the lawyer goes to) I was told that I can't get ARD because these are felony's. Now I'm facing 3-24 months in jail and 6 years probation, not to mention what fines they may muster up...

I am 21 years old, with no record, driving or criminal. I have a full time job that I have held for 6 years now, I am attending school (this is my second year there) with honors and a GPA of 3.9. I am a really good person who wouldn't harm a fly. My boss at work already knows about the charges and is willing to comply by stating to the magistrate that my position at this current place of employment is irreplaceable.

What else can I do? If i go to prison I could lose everything I have, school, job, apartment, dog, other animals, car...


Asked on 9/14/10, 12:06 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Ellis Klein Young, Klein & Associates

To stay out of jail (i.e. probation, house arrest) you would have to present a really good case at sentencing - bring in character witnesses, transcripts from school and anything else that you feel would be beneficial to let the judge know more about you after sentencing.

I do not know of any county in PA that would give ARD for a delivery charge. I am a former Senior Deputy D.A. and I never gave ARD for a felony like that in the 5 years that I was a prosecutor.

If you'd like to talk in more detail about your case, I can be reached at 215-639-5297.

Ellis B. Klein, Esq.

Young, Klein & Associates

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Answered on 9/19/10, 4:08 pm
Michael Berman Law Offices of Michael A. Berman

You need an attorney, and you best chances are to hire one ASAP before anything else goes on. That is my experience...the public defender will work on the case once you are set for trial, and that may be too late....

Mike

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Answered on 9/19/10, 5:08 pm
SAUL SEGAN SAUL H SEGAN ATTY AT LAW

I agree with Mr. Berman.

If you would like to speak to me, I would be happy to assist you.

I have handled many cases such as yours.

Feel free to call me at 215-732-4000. Mention Law Guru

www.saulhsegan.com is my site

Kind regards,

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Answered on 9/21/10, 4:02 am


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