Classification of Crimes, Statute of Limitations, and Criminal Records
Classification of Crimes, Statute of Limitations, and Criminal Records
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Pennsylvania Criminal Statutes of Limitations
Pennsylvania statutes of limitations limit how long prosecutors have to file criminal charges. If the state fails to bring a case within the specified time period, the defendant could get the case dismissed.
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Expunging or Sealing Adult Criminal Records in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, some criminal records can be expunged or sealed so that the general public will not be able to access them. But not all records are eligible.
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Pennsylvania Misdemeanor Crimes by Degree and Sentences
Learn how criminal sentencing works in Pennsylvania; the maximum sentences for first-, second-, and third-degree misdemeanors; and sentencing alternatives to jail.
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Pennsylvania Felony Crimes by Degrees and Sentences
Learn the basics of how criminal sentencing works in Pennsylvania, the maximum sentences you could receive for different categories of felonies, when mandatory minimum sentences apply, and sentencing alternatives to prison.
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How to Handle a Bench Warrant or Failure to Appear in Pennsylvania
If you fail to appear for court in a civil or criminal case in Pennsylvania, the court can issue a bench warrant for your arrest.
DUI, Driving & Alcohol Related Crimes
DUI, Driving & Alcohol Related Crimes
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Driving on a Suspended License in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, your driving privileges may be suspended or revoked for several reasons. If you drive on a suspended or revoked license, you may be charged with a crime. Fines and sometimes a jail sentence can be the result.
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Pennsylvania Minor in Possession of Alcohol Laws
A minor in Pennsylvania may not buy (or attempt to buy), possess, or knowingly and intentionally transport alcohol; or knowingly use false identification (or other misrepresentations) to obtain alcohol.
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Pennsylvania Public Intoxication Laws
In Pennsylvania, public intoxication is a crime, but only if the defendant endangers or inconveniences other people.
Marijuana and Drug Possession and Sale
Marijuana and Drug Possession and Sale
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Possession of a Controlled Substance in Pennsylvania
All states regulate the possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), though each differs in its exact definition of CDS and the penalties for illegal possession. Pennsylvania classifies not only well-known drugs like marijuana, heroin, and cocaine as CDS, but also the compounds used to manufacture them.
Theft-Related Crimes
Theft-Related Crimes
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Pennsylvania Laws on Misdemeanor and Felony Theft and Shoplifting
A person who commits theft or a related offense in Pennsylvania can face serious felony penalties, including lengthy terms of imprisonment and robust fines. Learn just how quickly a theft adds up to possible prison time.
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In Pennsylvania, a person commits forgery if he does any of the following with the intent to defraud or injure another person:
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Burglary and Criminal Trespass in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, it is illegal to enter onto private property without permission. As discussed below, burglary, home invasion, and trespass laws strive to protect people and their property from these intrusions.
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Auto Theft Laws in Pennsylvania
Like many states, a conviction for motor vehicle theft or a related crime in Pennsylvania can result in a lengthy prison sentence and substantial fines. Learn what the penalties are for auto theft, carjacking (robbery), and joyriding.
Weapon and Gun Laws
Weapon and Gun Laws
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Learn about Pennsylvania’s rules on the possession and use of stun guns and Tasers.
Harassment, Bullying and Violent Crimes
Harassment, Bullying and Violent Crimes
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Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, assault is a crime that can be a misdemeanor or a felony. A person commits an assault when they inflict (or attempt to inflict) a physical injury on another person.
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Disorderly Conduct in Pennsylvania
Fighting or yelling obscenities in public could get you arrested for disorderly conduct. Learn how Pennsylvania penalizes behavior that disturbs the peace.
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Pennsylvania Domestic Violence Laws
Pennsylvania domestic violence laws do not require the victim to file charges.
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Cyberbullying and Cyberstalking Laws in Pennsylvania
Learn how Pennsylvania's criminal harassment and stalking laws apply to cyberbullying and the potential punishment for a conviction.
Sex Crimes
Sex Crimes
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Pennsylvania Sexting Laws for Teens and Minors
Sexting is the sending of nude or suggestive photographs by text message, and, when teenagers do it, it can be illegal. Pennsylvania lawmakers have enacted a specific law that makes teen sexting a crime, but a less serious one than child pornography. However, depending on the circumstances, teen sexting could also be considered child pornography or obscenity.
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Transmitting an STD in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, people who know that they are infected with HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and engage in sexual conduct or bite or spit on people can be charged with reckless endangerment, aggravated assault, or even attempted murder.
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Prostitution, Pimping, and Pandering Laws in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, pandering is also known as “promoting prostitution.” According to the State of Pennsylvania’s criminal law, the following acts constitute pandering/promoting prostitution:
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Pennsylvania Statutory Rape Laws
A person who commits statutory rape or a related crime in Pennsylvania can face serious criminal penalties, including lengthy terms of imprisonment and substantial fines.