Young persons who procure a fake identification card may find themselves in legal troubles in Pennsylvania. Some sources make it easy for those under 21 to buy a fake ID. Unfortunately, these sellers also make it easy for young persons to find themselves with a...
State College Criminal Defense Law Blog
A flawed field test means overturned convictions
When Pennsylvania residents are arrested, it must be on the basis that the officer has probable cause to believe that there has been a crime committed. However, officers sometimes end up having a mistaken belief. In those cases, suspects must be released and...
Scientists develop new THC test for police departments
Police officers in Pennsylvania and around the country generally take motorists into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence after conducting a breath test. Roadside toxicology tests are performed because the portable devices used are considered reasonably...
Understanding Pennsylvania’s ignition interlock device laws
The state of Pennsylvania has strict laws in place when it comes to drinking and driving. If you are a Pennsylvania resident, or, conversely, a college student attending school in the state, it is important to know the penalties that you may face should authorities...
Can a criminal conviction prevent you from becoming a teacher?
Teachers have some of the most important jobs in the nation, and if you are looking to become one, you may have an innate desire to help others. Having something potentially jeopardize all of the work you put into your quest to become a teacher may prove particularly...
Will a drug charge prevent me from getting financial aid?
Most students in Pennsylvania need some type of financial assistance to go to college due to the high costs of getting an education. Eligibility for financial aid depends on several factors. It is possible that if you face drug charges or get a conviction for a drug...
How much does a Pennsylvania DUI increase auto insurance rates?
A Pennsylvania drunk driving conviction may do more than embarrass you or potentially threaten your academic or professional future – it may, too, wind up costing you a significant amount of money. While you should expect to have to pay substantial fines relating to...
Students with drug convictions may still get student aid
When students in Pennsylvania face charges related to drugs and alcohol, they may worry about their student aid — and with good reason. There was a time when students could not get financial aid if they were convicted of selling or being in possession of illegal...
Public urination is not worth the risk
A little too much punch at that off-campus holiday party may turn into an emergency bathroom situation on your walk back to Penn State. Or the restroom line at a bar might be far too long for the state of your bladder. But before you give in to the urge, consider the...
The consequences of underage drinking in Pennsylvania
It is no secret that alcohol is present on college campuses in Pennsylvania and throughout the U.S. Nor should it come as a surprise that alcohol-containing beverages may end up in the hands of underage students. For students under the legal drinking age, however,...