Lancaster County is a well-populated county located in southeastern Pennsylvania. The county attracts many visitors due to its famed Amish Community, several tourist destinations, colleges, and businesses. Many visitors to Lancaster County may come from outside of Pennsylvania. Should a visitor to the state be met with criminal charges, their situation can become immensely complicated.
Out of State Criminal Charges in Lancaster County
Facing criminal charges that cross state lines from a person's home state can be difficult scenarios for a person. If a person faces criminal charges in Lancaster County, they will be resolved in the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas, located in Lancaster, PA. Criminal charges often mean several visits to the courthouse, or in more severe cases, confinement to the bounds of the state or town that the incident took place in.
Common Offenses for Out of State Offenders in Lancaster County
- Drug Crimes: Drug crimes involving use, sale, or possession are treated very seriously in Pennsylvania, and may have potential consequences for a person in their home state as well.
- Property Crimes: Property crime is a blanket term used for crimes of theft or vandalism. Many times these crimes can carry the potential of jail time, even for first offenses.
- Weapons Crimes: Carrying a weapon in Pennsylvania is different from carrying a weapon in other states. Failure to adhere to Pennsylvania's state laws for carrying a weapon can result in criminal charges. Things can be exacerbated if the weapon is used in the commission of another crime.
- Crimes of Violence: Violent crimes such as assault can often mean that a person must remain within the confines of the state, which may require bail negotiations.
- Domestic Violence: When a person faces domestic violence charges, their situation may be affected across family law, and other areas of law. Sometimes, the state may confine a person to police custody.
- Sex Crimes: Crimes such as rape or sexual assault can become complex matters when a person's case extends across state lines. In addition, a person may be held in police custody when charged with a sex crime.
- DUI: If a person is charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania, they are likely to face ramifications on their driving privileges in both Pennsylvania and their own home state. Their home state's motor vehicle commission, or similar authority, will likely be notified of the arrest.
- Traffic Offenses: Officers conducting traffic stops may be more likely to give tickets to out of state drivers, expecting them not to attempt to fight the charges off in court and simply pay a fine. These tickets can be fought off in court by a local attorney.
- Juvenile Offenses: When a juvenile is accused of a crime out of their home state, they may face complex situations.
- Student Defense: Because there are a number of colleges in Lancaster, there are a number of students. Many of them may come from out of state, and can potentially face criminal charges, as well as consequences from their university.
- White Collar Crimes: Crimes such as fraud or embezzlement can become much more complex when a person comes from an out of state residence.
Lancaster County Defense Attorney
When an out of state person faces a criminal charge in Pennsylvania, the situation can become complex. A local attorney can help. Local attorneys will be able to have quick access to the court for filing motions or engaging in other matters relevant to the case. In addition, a local attorney may be more familiar with the court personnel, such as prosecutors and judges, which can provide an edge in negotiations. If you or a loved one has visited Pennsylvania and is currently facing criminal charges, contact our Criminal Law Team today.
