The Most Common Types of Criminal Defense Cases

Sadly, crimes are committed every single day in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and in the country, in general. Criminal defense attorneys in Philadelphia have to build strong cases for their clients that have been arrested and charged with those crimes. Generally, there are a few types of criminal defense cases that are the most common.

Drug Offenses

In Philadelphia, drug offenses are highly common defense cases. There is a high incidence of drug sales on the streets as well as individuals who are looking to buy those substances.

This crime occurs when people have a substance abuse disorder and easy access to illicit drugs. Peer pressure can also contribute to younger people trying drugs for the first time and either ending up addicted or being charged with drug offenses. Of course, many people also commit drug offenses by selling illicit substances as well. If a person is caught with drugs or even paraphernalia with the intent to sell, they can be arrested and charged with a drug offense.

DUI Offenses

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prevalent as well. One of the biggest reasons why this is such a common criminal defense in Philadelphia involves she sheer number of vehicles that travel its roads on a daily basis. DUI charges can occur at any time of the year but are even more elevated during holidays and whenever there is more traffic on the roads.

Assault Offenses

Assault cases are very common in Philadelphia due to people being in such close proximity to one another. Whether it’s simply a situation on the street or people in a bar having a disagreement, assault crimes are very common. Something as mundane as one person bumping into another often results in heated words being exchanged and a fight that results in assault charges.

Domestic Violence Offenses

Philadelphia is known for having many domestic violence cases as well. This is one of the most common types of criminal defense cases in the city and in Pennsylvania as a whole. Domestic violence is a crime that involves people who have an intimate relationship or live together. The relationship usually involves close family members, spouses, unmarried couples, or roommates.

Homicide

A person can be charged with homicide, specifically, murder, if they are arrested for killing another person. Murder is a common crime in Philadelphia, making it one of the most common types of criminal defenses. It is imperative to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side if you have been charged with this serious offense as it is considered a felony that carries serious penalties and lengthy prison time.

Some of these crimes are classified as misdemeanors depending on the circumstances and whether you have a prior criminal history. Some are always classified as felonies. Regardless of the charges against you, these are all serious crimes that can adversely affect your future if you’re convicted. Contact the Law Offices of Richard J. Fuschino Jr. immediately to discuss your case with a skilled Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer.