Criminal Defense
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.
Every person accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty. You deserve zealous representation and a fair trial. The Skeen Firm is here to help ensure your rights are protected.
Know your rights! Regardless of your situation remember: SILENCE IS GOLDEN! Respectfully decline to answer any questions. If an officer keeps asking questions, ask “am I under arrest or are free to go?” If you are under arrest demand an attorney (call us at 724-550-6970) and resume declining answers. If legal issues find you, find us through our Contact page.
DUI - More Info on DUI
It’s been said that the best defense is a good offense. If you are going out and plan on consuming alcoholic beverages, make a plan. Arrange for a designated, sober driver or utilize a ride share service, such as Uber or Lyft. If you find yourself driving home after imbibing and see blue lights in your rearview mirror, remember two things.
Silence is golden. Respectfully decline to answer any questions. If a police officer pulls you over for suspicion of DUI, you will likely be arrested, regardless of what you say. Your quick wit and charm may have gotten you out of a speeding ticket, but they will not save you from a DUI charge. The less you tell the officer, the better. There’s no need to tell the officer if you’ve been drinking or how many drinks you’ve had.
Cooperate. Don’t refuse to submit to a chemical test. Consult an attorney! Given the fact that Pennsylvania is an implied consent state, your refusal to submit to a chemical test will result in a suspended license, even if you are found not guilty in a criminal court. If a chemical test is not administered properly, your attorney may be able to dispute the validity of the results. If the police officer requests that you submit to a field sobriety test, remember that physical limitations are relevant. Be sure to inform the police officer of any physical limitations you have or have had in the past, prior to performing any field sobriety test. If you have suffered an injury in the past or are currently injured, you may be unable to perform the walk and turn or one leg stand test.