Berks County is located in the southeastern portion of Pennsylvania, in close proximity to Philadelphia, as well as the state of New Jersey. The county is home to several businesses, colleges, and notable sites. These places often attract out of state students, workers, and visitors. When one of these visitors fall into circumstances that result in criminal charges, their situation can become complex.
Out of State Criminal Charges in Berks County
When a person faces criminal charges outside of their home state, the consequences can reach across Pennsylvania's borders and affect them in their own state. In Berks County, criminal charges will be resolved in the Berk's County Court of Common Pleas. Criminal charges for out of state offenders can mean several trips to the courthouse, located in Reading, PA.
Common Charges for Out of State Offenders in Berks County
- Violent Crime: Violent crimes can include assault and similar acts. These actions can often result in a person being held under police custody, which can often require bail negotiation and other motions.
- Property Crime: Property crime often includes acts of theft and acts of vandalism. These situations can become more complex when a person comes from outside of Pennsylvania.
- Weapons Crime: Crimes committed with weapons can jeopardize a person's right to a firearm. Weapons charges can arise from anything including armed robbery incidents to bringing firearms or prohibited weapons on certain property.
- Sex Crimes: Sex crimes can include things such as sexual assault or rape. If a person from outside of Pennsylvania is charged with these crimes, they will likely be held under police custody in the state and may need to negotiate bail for their release.
- Domestic Violence: Domestic violence charges that stretch over two states may have unintended consequences, especially if family law becomes involved.
- DUI: A person may often be caught off guard by DUI charges. DUI charges can affect a person's license in their own state, as well as their driving privileges in Pennsylvania.
- Traffic Offenses: Many times, officers in Pennsylvania will ticket out of state drivers anticipating that they will simply pay the fine associated with the offense. Tickets can be fought in court while an offender is out of state by a local attorney.
- White Collar Crimes: White collar crime can include actions such as embezzlement or fraud. Consequences and defenses to this crime can become more complex when the defendant has crossed state lines.
- Juvenile Offenses: When an out of state juvenile commits a crime in Pennsylvania, they may have to frequently visit the county in order to finally resolve these charges.
- Student Offenses: Many college students can come from outside of the state of Pennsylvania. College environments can sometimes land students in situations that can result in criminal charges.
Berks County Defense Attorney
Facing criminal charges as an outside resident can complicate someone's situation. When considering representation to fight off criminal charges, it may be best to consult with a local attorney. A local attorney will have both familiarity and reputation built at the local court and the court personnel, such as the county's prosecutors and judges. Furthermore, a local attorney will have easy access to the court for filing and defending motions.
If you or a loved one has visited Pennsylvania and is now facing charges in Berks County, contact LLF Law Firm today.
