Violent Crime Attorney in Southampton

Facing A Violent Crime Charge In This Area

Being accused of a violent crime tied to Southampton, PA can turn your life upside down in a matter of hours. You may be worried about jail, your job, your family, and what will happen in court. In this moment, you need steady guidance from a criminal defense firm that understands what is at stake.

At The Dorward Law Firm, we focus our practice on criminal defense across Central Pennsylvania. For more than a decade, we have defended people facing serious charges and worked to protect their rights and futures. If you or a loved one is dealing with a violent crime allegation connected to the Southampton area, our team is ready to talk through your situation and explain your options.

Our firm is led by criminal defense attorney Shawn Dorward, who has earned recognition such as the Regents Choice Award and certifications from institutions like the American Chemical Society. These credentials reflect our commitment to ongoing legal education and careful analysis of evidence.

Secure an aggressive violent crime attorney in Southampton by calling The Dorward Law Firm at (717) 429-0411 or filling out our secure online form—Free consultations and payment plans available.

Understanding Violent Crimes Laws in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law classifies "crimes of violence" under several different statutes, primarily found in Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. These offenses are generally defined by the use of force, the threat of force, or the infliction of physical injury upon another person. Because the Commonwealth views these crimes as threats to public safety, the grading of these offenses is often severe.

Common violent crime charges in our jurisdiction include:

• Simple and Aggravated Assault: Under § 2701 and § 2702, assault charges vary based on intent and the level of injury. Simple assault is often a misdemeanor, whereas aggravated assault—which involves "serious bodily injury" or the use of a deadly weapon—is a high-level felony.
• Robbery: Defined under § 3701, robbery involves committing a theft while inflicting or threatening serious bodily injury. This is almost always graded as a first-degree felony.
• Homicide and Manslaughter: These represent the most serious tier of violent crimes, ranging from involuntary manslaughter to first-degree murder, with penalties extending to life imprisonment.

Our role as your violent crime attorney in Southampton is to ensure that the prosecution does not overcharge you based on exaggerated or misinterpreted facts.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Violent Crime Convictions in Pennsylvania

The consequences of a violent crime conviction in Pennsylvania are tiered based on the grading of the offense. Beyond the immediate threat of incarceration, the long-term impact on your life can be permanent.

• First-Degree Felonies: Convictions for crimes like robbery or rape carry a maximum of 20 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
• Second-Degree Felonies: These can result in up to 10 years in prison.
• Third-Degree Felonies: These carry a maximum of 7 years in prison.
• The "Three Strikes" Law: Under 42 Pa. C.S. § 9714, Pennsylvania imposes mandatory minimum sentences for repeat violent offenders. A second "strike" can lead to a mandatory 10-year minimum, while a third can result in 25 years to life.

Collateral Consequences

A permanent record as a violent offender carries a heavy stigma that affects nearly every aspect of daily life.

• Loss of Firearm Rights: Under both state and federal law, a conviction for a "crime of violence" or any felony results in a lifetime ban on possessing or owning a firearm.
• Employment Restrictions: Many professional licenses (nursing, teaching, law) are revoked upon a violent crime conviction. Furthermore, most employers are hesitant to hire individuals with violent backgrounds.
• Housing Challenges: Landlords frequently run criminal background checks and may deny applications based on a history of violent offenses.
• Impact on Custody: A violent crime conviction can be used against you in family court, potentially limiting your visitation or custody rights.

What To Do After A Violent Crime Charge in Southampton

If you have recently been arrested or charged in connection with a violent incident tied to Southampton, you may be unsure what to do next. You might already have a court date, or you may still be waiting for formal charges. Taking careful steps now can help protect both your rights and your future options.

First, be cautious about what you say and to whom. It is generally not in your interest to discuss the details of the incident with police, alleged victims, or other witnesses without a criminal defense attorney present. Even conversations that feel informal can later be used in court. You should also avoid posting about the situation on social media or messaging apps, since those communications can often be obtained and reviewed.

If the court has set bail, issued a protection from abuse order, or imposed any release conditions, follow those instructions closely. Violations can create additional charges and may make it harder to obtain favorable outcomes on the original case.

After a violent crime charge, it can help to:

• Gather any documents or contact information that may relate to the incident, such as texts, photos, or names of potential witnesses.
• Avoid talking about the facts of the case with anyone other than your lawyer.
• Write down your recollection of events while they are fresh in your mind, and keep those notes private.
• Attend all scheduled court dates and arrive early so you have time to find the correct courtroom.
• Contact a criminal defense firm promptly so you can receive advice before important decisions or hearings.

When you reach out to The Dorward Law Firm, we use the initial consultation to learn about your charges, answer questions, and outline next steps. We work to explain the process in clear terms so you are not left guessing about what will happen. From there, we can begin putting a plan in place that reflects your priorities and the reality of your case.

Having a violent crime defense lawyer in Southampton involved early gives you a voice in that process and someone to protect your rights from the start.

Our Approach To Violent Crime Defense in Southampton

When you come to us after a violent crime arrest or investigation, we begin by listening carefully to your account. We review charging documents, police reports, and any information you have received from the court. Our goal is to understand both the legal allegations and the personal circumstances that led to this point, because every case has its own story.

We then examine the evidence with a critical eye. This can include physical evidence, digital records, medical reports, and witness statements. Attorney Shawn Dorward’s advanced training, including certifications connected to the American Chemical Society, reflects our comfort working with technical and scientific issues that can arise when the state relies on forensic testing or complex documentation.

Depending on the facts, potential defense themes in a violent crime case may involve self-defense, lack of intent, misidentification, or challenges to the credibility of key witnesses. We never assume that one defense fits every case. Instead, we work to identify the legal and factual issues that best match your situation and build a strategy around them. Our violent crime defense in Southampton is disciplined and tailored, grounded in the details of your case and the requirements of Pennsylvania law.

When we take on a violent crime case, we may:

• Review police reports and evidence to assess strengths and weaknesses from the defense perspective.
• Identify legal issues that could support motions to limit or challenge certain evidence.
• Consider whether expert review is appropriate for medical, forensic, or technical questions.
• Discuss the range of possible outcomes with you so you can make informed choices.
• Prepare for hearings and, when necessary, trial with a focus on clear, coherent presentation of your defense.

Talk With Our Violent Crime Lawyer

Violent crime allegations bring serious risks, but you do not have to face them alone. Speaking with a lawyer early can help you understand what lies ahead, avoid missteps, and begin building a defense that reflects both the facts and your goals. A violent crime lawyer in Southampton from The Dorward Law Firm can help you take that step.

At our firm, we draw on more than a decade of criminal defense experience, leadership by attorney Shawn Dorward, and a commitment to tailored strategies for each client. We work to protect rights, explain options clearly, and focus on long-term consequences for people facing charges in and around Southampton, PA. Your first conversation with us is free and confidential, and it is an opportunity to get specific answers about your case.

Call (717) 429-0411 or fill out this online form to speak with The Dorward Law Firm about your case today.