You deserve to have someone fighting to protect your rights and keep you out of jail. That’s what Michael Fienman, founder of Fienman Defense, is here for.

To get your fair shot in court, contact Fienman Defense through the online form or call (215) 345-4284. Our Bucks County office is conveniently located at 196 W. Ashland St., Suite 410, in the heart of Doylestown.

What to Expect During the Criminal Court Process

If you or a loved one have never been charged with a crime before, here’s an overview of the legal process. You may try to navigate the system yourself at first or rely on a public defender.

At Fienman Defense, we have time to take on your case, dive into the facts, and fight hard for the best possible outcome. We’ve been doing just that for years.

Arrest

There are several ways you can find yourself facing criminal charges.

Reasonable Suspicion

Sometimes, police will arrest someone immediately because they know enough to suspect that person committed a crime. A good example is driving under the influence. Officers might pull you over for erratic driving and notice other signs of intoxication. They’ll arrest you for a DUI there on the spot.

After Thorough Investigation

But that isn’t always the case. Sometimes an arrest comes after a thorough criminal investigation and obtaining an arrest warrant. In some cases, the police may arrest you after a grand jury investigates possible illegal activity.

Going to Jail

After the police arrest you, they’ll book you into jail. The Bucks County Jail is located at 1730 S. Easton Rd., Doylestown. Depending on the circumstances, the police may immediately release you. However, for more serious crimes, you’ll need to obtain bail.

Preliminary Hearing

When you get out of jail, you’ll receive paperwork telling you when to appear in court. The preliminary hearing is a very important part of the criminal justice system.

You should have a criminal defense lawyer represent you at this hearing because it’s your first chance to fight the charges. Without an aggressive defense, the judge may drop the charges.

Probable Cause

The preliminary hearing isn’t a full trial. The judge doesn’t decide if you’re guilty but instead determines if there’s probable cause for the charges against you to move forward.

Your lawyer can strive to show there isn’t probable cause. This also is an opportunity for your lawyer to push for reduced charges or Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition.

Arraignment

If the prosecutor succeeds in proving they have probable cause, then the next step is your arraignment. Yours will usually take place within 30 days of your preliminary hearing.

When a Bucks County criminal defense lawyer represents you, you don’t have to go to the arraignment. Your lawyer can file a Waiver of Arraignment for you.

Independent Investigations

Throughout this process, we will be investigating the charges against you. We’ll gather evidence independently from the prosecution. This is one of the reasons we highly recommend hiring a criminal defense law firm. You want someone on your side reviewing the evidence and assessing the strongest defenses.

Motions

Before trial, we may file several motions. It’s common for us to file motions about the evidence involved in your case. We may try to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence or evidence that isn’t relevant. Depending on what we’ve learned about your case, we may file a motion to dismiss.

Plea Bargain or Trial

If we fail to get your case dismissed, your options are to consider a plea deal or prepare for trial. We’ll explain when pleas are possible and in your best interests.

In some cases, we can negotiate a lenient sentence if you agree to plead guilty. But we’re also prepared to take your case to court. Mr. Fienman has trial experience and will aggressively defend you before a judge and jury.

Acquittal or Sentencing

Acquittal

If you win at trial, you’re acquitted, which means the judge or jury decided you were innocent. Who decides your case depends on the type of trial. In a bench trial, the judge decisions. But you’re entitled to a jury trial where a group of your peers decides.

Sentencing

If the judge or jury finds you guilty, the next step is sentencing. Throughout the criminal court process, you’ll know what you’re up against. We always explain the possible outcomes, including the potential maximum sentence.

We always strive to mitigate the consequences of a conviction, including helping you avoid jail time or obtain your freedom as soon as possible.

Criminal Charges We Handle in Bucks County

Bucks County Courts

The court that handles your case depends on whether you’re dealing with a summary offense, misdemeanor, or felony. The Bucks County Magisterial District Courts deal with summary offenses, which are the lowest level of crimes in Pennsylvania. There are 20 Magisterial District Courts, which each have their own Magisterial District Judge.

If you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony, you’ll go to the Court of Common Pleas at 55 E. Court St., Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

Our Bucks County law office is close to the Court of Common Pleas, and Mr. Fienman has good working relationships with the court clerks, magistrates, judges, and prosecutors.

We Represent Defendants All Over Bucks County

Bucks County Criminal Defense

Client Reviews

Experience was excellent, Mike answered any and all questions I had and handled everything. Made me feel like I got my money's worth, an experienced attorney who is good at his job.

Danile D.