Tag: criminal law
Resolution of Criminal Cases: Part III—Nolle Prosequi and Diversionary Programs
May 16, 2025Nolle prosequi refers to a prosecutor’s decision to abandon or drop a criminal case after charges have already been filed. When the police charge someone with a crime, they initiate a criminal case, but it is the prosecutor who later decides whether to pursue or discontinue those charges. From that moment, the most important consideration for the person charged is how the case will end. Generally, it will conclude in one of four ways: the Commonwealth could drop the case, or the defendant may enter a diversionary program, a plea agreement, or stand trial.
Understanding Bail: A Pivotal Early Decision in Criminal Cases
January 23, 2024The Criticality of Bail in Criminal Proceedings
Bail determination stands as one of the most critical early issues in a criminal case, often surpassing the gravity of the charges or the defense strategy planned for trial. This decisive moment occurs so early that the accused may not yet have legal representation when bail is set, impacting whether they will remain incarcerated or free while awaiting trial.
How Are Child Support Payment Amounts Determined in PA?
May 26, 2020Pennsylvania child support guidelines are complex and, while the state has a formula for calculating child support payments, there are various factors, including expenses, custodial arrangements, and other nuances that can impact how child support payment amounts are determined in the Commonwealth.
The guidelines on child support payments are based on an income shares model, with the idea that a child will get the same financial support or portion of his parents’ income as he or she would if the parents remained together. The Pennsylvania child support guidelines strive to be as fair to the child as possible, although this model can be complicated.
COVID-19 May Increase Cyberbullying in Pennsylvania
April 28, 2020With schools closed and quarantines in place due to COVID-19, there’s been a surge of increased internet use among children and adults. This increase may make youth a target for cyberbullying.
Victims of cyberbullying or those accused of cyberbullying should seek an attorney for legal advice. It’s not kid’s stuff. It’s a growing issue and the state is taking it quite seriously.