Criminal Defense Attorneys in Philadelphia
Philadelphia Criminal Defense Attorney
Arrested or Charged With a Crime in Philadelphia? Your Future Is Too Important to Wait.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, charged, or contacted by police in Philadelphia, the decisions you make early can shape the entire case.
You need a criminal defense attorney in Philadelphia who knows the local courts, understands how prosecutors build cases, and is ready to protect your rights from the beginning.
The Town Law LLC is a Philadelphia criminal defense law firm defending people accused of DUI, gun possession, drug charges, assault, theft, domestic violence, probation violations, and other serious criminal offenses. Our office is located in Center City Philadelphia at 1650 Market Street, Suite 3669, Philadelphia, PA 19103, and we represent clients throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding counties.
When your freedom, record, job, reputation, and future are on the line, you need more than general advice. You need a defense strategy.
Call The Town Law LLC today at 215-307-5504 for a free consultation with a Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer.
Why Choose The Town Law LLC for Criminal Defense in Philadelphia?
Choosing the right lawyer after an arrest is one of the most important decisions you can make. Criminal charges can move quickly. Evidence can disappear. Witnesses can become harder to locate. Court dates can arrive before you fully understand what you are facing.
The Town Law LLC is built to move fast, think strategically, and fight aggressively for clients facing criminal charges in Philadelphia.
Highly Reviewed and Trusted by Clients
The Town Law LLC has earned the trust of clients throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. Our firm is proud to have 400+ five-star Google reviews from people who turned to us during some of the most stressful moments of their lives.
Clients come to us because they want a lawyer who communicates, prepares, and fights. We understand that a criminal case is not just a legal problem. It can affect your family, employment, license, immigration status, education, reputation, and future opportunities.
Every case is different, and no lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome. But our commitment is simple: we take every case seriously and fight for the best possible result.
Philadelphia Criminal Court Experience
Criminal defense in Philadelphia is local. The courts, judges, prosecutors, police districts, courtroom procedures, and diversionary programs all matter.
The Town Law LLC regularly represents clients in Philadelphia criminal cases, including matters heard in:
Philadelphia Municipal Court;
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas;
the Criminal Justice Center;
preliminary hearings;
pretrial conferences;
motions hearings;
bench trials;
jury trials;
probation violation hearings;
and expungement matters.
A lawyer who understands the local system can help you prepare for what is coming, avoid mistakes, and make informed decisions at every stage of the case.
Aggressive, Strategic Defense
At The Town Law LLC, we do not believe in passive criminal defense.
We investigate the case, review the discovery, examine the police conduct, identify weaknesses, and look for opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. That may include filing motions to suppress evidence, challenging an illegal stop or search, attacking weak identification evidence, questioning witness credibility, or negotiating for a favorable resolution when that is in the client’s best interest.
Some cases should be fought hard through motions or trial. Other cases may call for a strategic negotiation, diversionary program, or reduced charge. The right approach depends on the facts, the evidence, the client’s goals, and the risks involved.
Our job is to give you a real defense strategy, not a one-size-fits-all answer.
Direct Communication and Client-Focused Service
When you are facing criminal charges, silence from your lawyer can make everything worse. You deserve to know what is happening, what your options are, and what the next step looks like.
The Town Law LLC prioritizes communication. We explain the process clearly, answer questions directly, and help clients understand the possible outcomes of their case. You will not be left guessing about what is going on in court or what your lawyer is doing to protect you.
Criminal charges are stressful. Our role is not only to defend you in court, but also to guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.
Flexible Payment Options
We believe people facing criminal charges should be able to access serious legal representation. The Town Law LLC offers flexible payment options in many cases and works with clients to structure legal fees in a practical way.
Cost should not stop you from speaking with a lawyer about your options.
Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in Philadelphia
The Town Law LLC represents clients in a wide range of criminal cases in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor, felony, first offense, probation violation, or serious violent charge, early legal representation matters.
DUI Charges in Philadelphia
A DUI arrest in Philadelphia can affect your license, record, employment, insurance, and freedom. The Town Law LLC defends clients charged with alcohol-related DUI, drug-related DUI, refusal cases, accident-related DUI, and repeat DUI offenses.
In a DUI case, we may examine:
whether the traffic stop was legal;
whether the officer had probable cause to arrest;
field sobriety testing;
blood or breath testing;
timing issues;
PennDOT consequences;
ARD eligibility;
and whether the case can be challenged, reduced, or resolved favorably.
If you were arrested for DUI, speak with a Philadelphia DUI attorney as soon as possible.
Gun Possession and Firearm Charges in Philadelphia
Gun charges in Philadelphia are serious. A firearm case can involve carrying without a license, illegal possession of a firearm, prohibited person allegations, constructive possession, a gun found in a car, or a firearm recovered during a search.
The Town Law LLC defends clients facing Philadelphia gun charges by carefully reviewing:
whether police had a lawful basis to stop or search;
whether the firearm was actually possessed by the accused;
whether the case involves constructive possession;
whether the gun was found in a shared car, home, or space;
whether the Commonwealth can prove knowledge and control;
and whether the firearm evidence can be suppressed.
If you are accused of possessing a firearm in Philadelphia, you need a Philadelphia gun possession attorney who understands both the law and the local court system.
Drug Possession and Drug Charges in Philadelphia
Drug cases often turn on police conduct, possession, search-and-seizure issues, and whether the Commonwealth can prove the person charged actually possessed the substance.
The Town Law LLC handles cases involving:
simple possession;
possession with intent to deliver;
drug paraphernalia;
prescription drug allegations;
cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, marijuana, pills, and other controlled substances;
drug cases arising from traffic stops;
drug cases involving search warrants;
and drug cases connected to larger investigations.
A Philadelphia drug possession attorney can review whether police lawfully stopped, searched, or arrested you and whether the evidence can be challenged.
Assault and Violent Crime Charges
Assault charges can carry serious consequences, especially when the case involves injury allegations, weapons, domestic relationships, self-defense claims, or felony grading.
The Town Law LLC defends clients facing:
simple assault;
aggravated assault;
recklessly endangering another person;
terroristic threats;
robbery;
burglary;
domestic violence allegations;
and other violent crime accusations.
These cases often depend on witness credibility, video evidence, medical records, self-defense issues, inconsistent statements, and whether the Commonwealth can prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Theft, Retail Theft, and Property Crimes
A theft conviction can damage your record, employment, professional licensing, and future opportunities. The Town Law LLC represents clients charged with:
retail theft;
theft by unlawful taking;
receiving stolen property;
fraud;
forgery;
credit card offenses;
burglary;
criminal trespass;
and related property crimes.
For first-time offenders, diversionary options may be available in some cases. In other cases, the defense may focus on identity, intent, value, ownership, restitution, or the weakness of the evidence.
Domestic Violence and PFA-Related Criminal Charges
Domestic violence allegations can move quickly and create immediate personal and legal consequences. A criminal case may also overlap with a Protection From Abuse matter, child custody issues, housing concerns, or contact restrictions.
The Town Law LLC defends clients accused of domestic assault, harassment, terroristic threats, stalking, strangulation, indirect criminal contempt, and related offenses. These cases require careful handling because emotions, relationships, text messages, witness statements, and prior history often become part of the case.
Probation Violations and Bench Warrants
A probation violation or bench warrant can put your freedom at immediate risk. The Town Law LLC represents clients in Philadelphia probation violation hearings, detainer issues, bench warrant matters, and surrender arrangements.
If you missed court, picked up a new case, failed a drug test, stopped reporting, or were accused of violating probation, you should speak with a lawyer quickly. The goal is to address the issue before it gets worse and to protect you from unnecessary custody whenever possible.
Appeals, Expungements, and Post-Conviction Relief
The Town Law LLC also assists clients with criminal appeals, expungements, limited access petitions, and post-conviction matters where appropriate. If you were convicted, sentenced, or are trying to clear your record, we can review whether legal options may be available.
Where Philadelphia Criminal Cases Are Heard
Many Philadelphia criminal cases are handled at the Criminal Justice Center, located at 1301 Filbert Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
The Criminal Justice Center, often called the CJC, is one of the main courthouses for adult criminal cases in Philadelphia. Depending on the type of charge, your case may involve Municipal Court, the Court of Common Pleas, or both.
Philadelphia Municipal Court
Many criminal cases begin in Philadelphia Municipal Court. Municipal Court handles preliminary hearings in felony cases and trials in many misdemeanor cases.
A preliminary hearing is an early court proceeding where the Commonwealth must present enough evidence for the case to move forward. It can be an important opportunity to test the prosecution’s evidence, question witnesses, preserve testimony, and evaluate the strength of the case.
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas
More serious criminal cases, including many felony cases, proceed to the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. This is where many pretrial motions, jury trials, bench trials, sentencing hearings, and post-trial proceedings take place.
If your case is listed for a pretrial conference, motions hearing, trial, or sentencing, you need a lawyer who is prepared and understands how Philadelphia criminal cases move through the system.
Why Local Court Experience Matters
Navigating the CJC can be overwhelming. There are security lines, crowded courtrooms, changing listings, different floors, and procedures that can be confusing for someone unfamiliar with the building.
The Town Law LLC regularly appears in Philadelphia criminal court and helps clients understand:
where to go;
what to expect;
who will be in the courtroom;
what the hearing is for;
what the possible outcomes are;
and what decisions may need to be made.
Local experience does not guarantee an outcome, but it does help clients move through the process with more confidence and less confusion.
How The Town Law LLC Builds Your Defense
Every criminal case is different. Some cases are won through investigation. Some are won through suppression motions. Some are resolved through negotiations, diversion, or reduced charges. Some must be tried in court.
The Town Law LLC approaches each case with a clear process.
Step 1: Free Consultation and Case Review
The first step is a confidential consultation. We will listen to what happened, review the charge or investigation, discuss upcoming court dates, and explain what the next steps may look like.
You should bring or provide any paperwork you have, including:
criminal complaint;
citation;
subpoena;
bail paperwork;
court notice;
police paperwork;
PennDOT notice;
protection order;
or any messages from law enforcement.
The earlier we get involved, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights.
Step 2: Discovery and Investigation
After representation begins, we request and review discovery. Discovery may include police reports, body camera footage, surveillance video, witness statements, lab reports, photographs, 911 calls, search warrants, and other evidence.
We do not assume the police version is complete or accurate. We examine what the Commonwealth can actually prove and whether the evidence supports the charges.
Step 3: Identifying Legal and Factual Defenses
A strong defense begins with identifying weaknesses in the case.
Depending on the facts, we may examine:
whether police had reasonable suspicion;
whether police had probable cause;
whether the stop was lawful;
whether the search was legal;
whether statements were taken properly;
whether the Commonwealth can prove possession;
whether witness statements are inconsistent;
whether video contradicts the police report;
whether lab evidence is reliable;
whether the grading of the offense is correct;
and whether the prosecution can prove every element of the charge.
Step 4: Pretrial Motions and Suppression Issues
If police violated your rights, The Town Law LLC may file motions to suppress evidence or statements. Suppression motions can be especially important in DUI, gun, and drug cases where the evidence depends on a stop, search, seizure, or police questioning.
If critical evidence is suppressed, the prosecution may be forced to reduce or dismiss charges.
Step 5: Negotiation, Diversion, or Trial Preparation
Not every case should go to trial. Not every case should be resolved by plea. The right strategy depends on the facts, risks, evidence, and client goals.
We consider all available paths, including:
dismissal;
reduction of charges;
diversionary programs;
ARD where applicable;
negotiated resolutions;
probationary outcomes;
suppression litigation;
bench trial;
or jury trial.
Our goal is to protect your future and pursue the best possible outcome based on the facts of your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philadelphia Criminal Defense Cases
What happens after someone is arrested in Philadelphia?
After an arrest in Philadelphia, the person is usually processed, given charging paperwork, and assigned future court dates. Depending on the case, there may be a preliminary arraignment, bail conditions, a preliminary hearing, status listings, pretrial conferences, motions hearings, or trial dates. The exact process depends on the charge, whether the case is a misdemeanor or felony, and whether the case stays in Municipal Court or moves to the Court of Common Pleas.
Where will my Philadelphia criminal case be heard?
Many adult criminal cases in Philadelphia are heard at the Criminal Justice Center, located at 1301 Filbert Street. Misdemeanor cases may proceed in Philadelphia Municipal Court, while felony cases often begin with a preliminary hearing and may later move to the Court of Common Pleas. Some matters, such as federal criminal cases, are handled separately in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
What is the difference between Municipal Court and the Court of Common Pleas in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia Municipal Court handles many misdemeanor trials and preliminary hearings in felony cases. The Court of Common Pleas handles more serious felony cases, jury trials, major motions, sentencings, and appeals from Municipal Court. Knowing which court your case is in matters because the procedure, strategy, and possible outcomes can be different.
What is a preliminary hearing in a Philadelphia criminal case?
A preliminary hearing is an early court hearing where the Commonwealth must present enough evidence to show that a crime was committed and that the accused person may have been involved. It is not a full trial, but it can be extremely important. A defense attorney may question witnesses, expose weaknesses, preserve testimony, negotiate, or argue that some or all charges should not move forward.
Can charges be reduced or dismissed before trial in Philadelphia?
Yes. Criminal charges may be reduced or dismissed before trial in some cases. This can happen through negotiations, diversionary programs, witness issues, lack of evidence, suppression motions, or successful challenges at a preliminary hearing. Whether that is possible depends on the facts, the charge, the strength of the evidence, and the prosecution’s ability to prove the case.
What does it mean to file a motion to suppress evidence?
A motion to suppress asks the court to keep certain evidence out of the case because it was obtained unlawfully. Suppression issues often arise in DUI, gun, and drug cases involving traffic stops, car searches, home searches, street stops, statements, blood draws, or breath testing. If key evidence is suppressed, the prosecution’s case may become much weaker.
Should I talk to police if I believe I did nothing wrong?
No. Even if you believe you did nothing wrong, you should not speak to police about a criminal investigation without a lawyer. Innocent people can still make statements that are misunderstood, incomplete, or used against them later. If police want to question you, the safest response is to clearly state that you want a lawyer and do not wish to answer questions.
What if I missed court in Philadelphia?
If you missed court in Philadelphia, a bench warrant may be issued. You should not ignore it. A criminal defense attorney may be able to help you address the warrant, arrange a surrender, file a motion, or work to have the matter relisted. The longer a bench warrant remains active, the more likely it is to create additional problems.
Can I get ARD or another diversionary program in Philadelphia?
Some first-time or lower-level cases may qualify for ARD or another diversionary program, but eligibility depends on the charge, criminal history, facts of the case, victim input where applicable, and the policies of the prosecutor’s office. Diversion can be a strong option in the right case, but it should be evaluated carefully because it may come with conditions, costs, supervision, treatment, or other requirements.
How quickly should I hire a Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer?
You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest, charge, warrant, police contact, or investigation. Early representation allows your attorney to review the evidence, protect you from making damaging statements, prepare for the first court date, preserve video or witness information, and begin identifying defenses before the case gains momentum.
Serving Philadelphia and the Surrounding Counties
The Town Law LLC represents clients throughout Philadelphia, including Center City, South Philadelphia, North Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, West Philadelphia, Fishtown, Kensington, Old City, University City, Manayunk, Germantown, Mt. Airy, Chestnut Hill, and surrounding neighborhoods.
We also represent clients in Montgomery County, Bucks County, Delaware County, Chester County, and other nearby Pennsylvania counties.
Our office is located at:
The Town Law LLC
1650 Market Street, Suite 3669
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: 215-307-5504
Speak With a Philadelphia Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you have been arrested, charged, or contacted by police in Philadelphia, do not wait to get legal help. The prosecution may already be building its case. Police reports, video, witness statements, lab results, and court deadlines can all affect your defense.
The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner your defense can begin.
The Town Law LLC defends clients facing DUI, gun possession, drug possession, assault, theft, domestic violence, probation violations, and other criminal charges in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties.
Call 215-307-5504 today for a free consultation with a Philadelphia criminal defense attorney.
Protect your rights. Protect your record. Protect your future.