Legal Articles, Criminal
Expanding Access to Safety: What Pennsylvania’s Updated Safe Haven Law Means for Parents and Legal Professionals
Pennsylvania’s expanded Safe Haven Law now includes urgent care centers as legal drop-off points for newborns. Learn what this means for parents, legal protections, and how it impacts family and criminal law practice across the Commonwealth.
Parole vs. Probation in Pennsylvania: What’s the Difference?
If you or someone you care about is facing the Pennsylvania criminal justice system, you’ve likely come across the terms parole and probation. While they both involve supervised release, they serve different purposes and apply at different stages of the legal process. At the Law Office of John B. Pike, we believe that understanding these terms is crucial to protecting your rights and your future.
Missed a court date in Pennsylvania?
If you’ve missed a court date in Pennsylvania, you’re at serious risk of being arrested. Whether your case is in Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wyoming, Bradford, Carbon, or Columbia County, or anywhere else in northeastern Pennsylvania, the court may issue a bench warrant (capias)— meaning law enforcement can take you into custody at any time.
But here’s the good news: you may be able to avoid jail entirely if you act fast and speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Pennsylvania’s New Distracted Driving Law: What Drivers and Lawyers Need to Know About Paul Miller’s Law
Paul Miller’s Law bans handheld device use while driving in Pennsylvania starting June 2025. This article explains the law’s key provisions, penalties, exceptions, and impact on enforcement, personal injury claims, and legal practice.
Understanding Arrest and Search Warrants in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know
If you or someone you love is facing the possibility of an arrest or police search in Pennsylvania, it's crucial to understand how arrest and search warrants work. At the Law Office of John B. Pike, we’ve been helping clients navigate these legal issues for over 35 years, with a commitment to protecting your rights and keeping you out of jail whenever possible.
Why Hiring an Expensive Criminal Defense Lawyer Might Be the Smartest Decision You Make
At the Law Office of John B. Pike, we’ve spent 35 years representing clients accused of very serious crimes; from drug trafficking to violent felonies and homicide in Northeastern Pennsylvania. We understand why people are cautious about legal fees. But we also know this: when the government is trying to take your freedom, you need the best possible defense, not the cheapest.
Can the Police lie to you?
Yes, under both federal and Pennsylvania law, police officers are legally permitted to use deception during interrogations. This includes making false statements about evidence, witnesses, or the consequences of cooperation. Such tactics are often employed to elicit confessions or admissions from suspects.
Understanding DUI Checkpoints in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know
Driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoints are a common law enforcement tool used to catch impaired drivers before they can cause harm. However, many drivers in Pennsylvania may not fully understand their rights and responsibilities when encountering these checkpoints. If you or someone you know is facing DUI charges from a checkpoint stop, it’s crucial to know the law and how to protect yourself.
Will a speeding ticket in Pennsylvania affect my automobile insurance?
Receiving a speeding ticket in Pennsylvania can indeed impact your automobile insurance premiums. Insurance companies view speeding violations as indicators of increased risk, which often leads to higher rates. On average, Pennsylvanians may see their insurance premiums rise by approximately 19% following a speeding ticket. However, this percentage can vary based on factors such as the severity of the offense, your previous driving record, and the specific policies of your insurance provider.
What Police Can't Make You Answer in a Traffic Stop in Pennsylvania
If you're pulled over by the police in Pennsylvania, it's important to know your rights. Many drivers feel pressure to answer every question or comply with every request, but the Constitution protects you from overreach. Here's what you are and aren't required to answer during a traffic stop in the Keystone State.
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