04/01/2025 | Criminal Defense, Drugs, Marijuana, Pennsylvania Laws, Your Rights and the Law

Will Pennsylvania Legalize Marijuana in 2025?

As Pennsylvania stands on the cusp of potentially legalizing recreational marijuana, 2025 seems to be a pivotal year. With shifting political dynamics, economic considerations, and public sentiment, will Pennsylvania be like most of our neighbors – Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, and even … Ohio(!) – and make a move to legalize the recreational use of cannabis?

Governor Shapiro’s Renewed Push for Legalization

Governor Josh Shapiro has revitalized the conversation by incorporating cannabis legalization into his 2025-2026 budget proposal. He emphasizes the economic advantages, projecting that legalization could generate approximately $1.3 billion over the next five years. Shapiro underscores the urgency by highlighting that neighboring states like Ohio and Maryland have already moved forward with legalization, positioning Pennsylvania at a competitive disadvantage.

Bipartisan Legislative Efforts

The legislative landscape reflects a growing bipartisan consensus. Senators Dan Laughlin (R., Erie) and Sharif Street (D., Philadelphia) have announced plans to introduce a comprehensive bill aimed at legalizing adult-use marijuana. Their proposal focuses on consumer safety through mandated product testing and seeks to dismantle the unregulated black market. Laughlin articulates, “Legalization is the most conservative approach to marijuana,” emphasizing the need for a regulated framework.

Is Legalization Good for PA’s Economy?

Pennsylvania faces economic challenges, including a structural deficit and projections indicating that reserves could be depleted by the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Legalizing marijuana presents a potential revenue stream to address these fiscal concerns.

Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal includes a 20% tax on wholesale cannabis products, mirroring previous suggestions, and anticipates generating $27 million in the first year, supplemented by $509.5 million from licensing fees, according to Spotlight PA.

Other Legislature Regarding Easing Up on Marijuana Laws

Beyond the Laughlin-Street initiative, other lawmakers are contributing to the discourse with varied proposals:

State-Run Dispensaries: Representatives Dan Frankel (D., Allegheny) and Rick Krajewski (D., Philadelphia) propose a “hybrid model” that incorporates state-owned stores for cannabis sales, drawing parallels to Pennsylvania’s existing liquor distribution system.
Decriminalization Measures: Senate Bill 75 and House Bill 578 aim to reduce penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana, reclassifying it from a misdemeanor to a summary offense with minimal fines.
Medical Marijuana Program Enhancements: House Bill 33 seeks to improve product testing and safety within the medical marijuana framework, ensuring patient access to high-quality products.

What Does The Public Think About Legalizing Marijuana?

Public opinion in Pennsylvania increasingly favors legalization, with approximately two-thirds of residents supporting the move. One poll says that as many as 7 out of 10 voters support legalizing marijuana, including a majority of Republicans.

The state’s position as one of the few in the region without legalized recreational cannabis adds pressure to align with neighboring jurisdictions and capitalize on potential economic benefits.

Challenges and Opposition

Despite momentum, challenges persist. The Republican-controlled Senate exhibits reservations, with concerns about health implications and the preference for federal-level resolution.

Current Legal Landscape and Implications

As of now, marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Pennsylvania. Individuals caught with cannabis may face significant legal consequences, including fines, probation, and potential incarceration.

At Ketchel Law, we understand the complexities of Pennsylvania’s marijuana laws and are dedicated to providing the best defense possible if you are facing marijuana charges or are trying to get past charges expunged. Our experienced criminal attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

An Arrest is Not a Conviction

If you were charged with DUI of marijuana in Pennsylvania or are facing marijuana charges or other drug charges, contact our experienced Pittsburgh DUI and Drug Lawyers for a free consultation. Our attorneys can either help you apply for a pardon or fight the charges, depending on your circumstances.

If the cops catch you, call Ketchel

PITTSBURGH DRUG LAWYERS

KETCHEL LAW

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If you have been charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, contact Ketchel Law today.

Our number one goal is to have your charges dismissed and your record clean.

Learn more about Marijuana Laws in Pennsylvania

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We offer free legal consultations to anyone charged with a crime. Call us today to find out how we can help defend your rights.

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10/16/2024 | Criminal Defense, DUI, Pennsylvania Laws, Your Rights and the Law

Can You Go to Jail for a First DUI Charge in Pennsylvania?

If you were charged with DUI in PA for the first time, you may be wondering about the possible penalties if you are convicted.

Attorney Justin Ketchel explains your rights…

Driving under the influence (DUI) is taken very seriously in Pennsylvania, and yes, you can go to jail for it. The severity of the penalties, including jail time, depends on various factors like your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), whether it’s a first DUI or second DUI, or a repeat DUI offense, whether there were drugs or a controlled substance involved, and if there are aggravating circumstances like accidents, injuries, homicide by vehicle, or refusal to take a chemical test.

Below, you will find specifics on DUI penalties in Pennsylvania and when or if jail time becomes a real possibility for those facing DUI charges.

Pennsylvania DUI Laws: The Basics

In Pennsylvania, DUI offenses are governed by a tiered penalty system based on BAC levels and the number of prior offenses.

Pennsylvania categorizes DUI offenses into tiers as follows:

General Impairment: BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%
High Rate of Alcohol: BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%
Highest Rate of Alcohol: BAC of 0.16% and above, or any DUI involving drugs

Pennsylvania follows an implied consent law, which means that by driving in the state, you’ve implicitly agreed to take a chemical test if law enforcement suspects you of driving under the influence. Refusing to take a blood or chemical test can lead to separate penalties, including license suspension and, potentially, jail time.

Call Ketchel Law at 412-456-4221 for a free legal consultation about your DUI case.

First DUI Offense: Will You Go to Jail?

For first-time offenders, the possibility of jail time largely depends on your BAC level at the time of the arrest. While these are the general sentencing guidelines of the Pennsylvania legal code, there are always exceptions and possible programs, like the ARD program for first DUI offenders, that can significantly reduce penalties and make it possible to expunge your charges.

In addition, these guidelines are for a DUI conviction – before a conviction, there is always a chance to have your charges reduced or even dropped altogether. That is why you should always at least speak with an experienced and knowledgeable DUI Attorney BEFORE any hearings. Call Attorney Ketchel today for a free personal consultation about your case.

1. General Impairment (BAC of 0.08% to 0.099%)

For those with a BAC between 0.08% and 0.099%, the penalties are the least severe, but the possibility of jail time is still present, especially if there are aggravating factors.

Penalties:
- No minimum jail time is required;
- A misdemeanor on your record;
- Six months mandatory minimum probation;
- $300 fine;
- Mandatory alcohol safety school;
- Mandatory court-ordered treatment.

Although jail time isn’t mandated for first-time general impairment offenders, factors such as causing an accident or having minors in the vehicle could lead to more severe penalties, including incarceration.

2. High Rate of Alcohol (BAC of 0.10% to 0.159%)

If your BAC is between 0.10% and 0.159%, the penalties escalate, and the law begins to impose mandatory jail time, even for first offenders.

Penalties for a first DUI at High Tier:
- 48 consecutive hours minimum imprisonment and no more than six months maximum;
- A misdemeanor on your record;
- $500 to $5,000 fine;
- A 12-month license suspension;
- Attend Alcohol Highway Safety School;
- Mandatory Treatment;
- Pending CRN, full assessment, and compliance with D&A treatment as part of sentencing.

At this level, jail time is mandatory. A minimum of 48 hours behind bars is required, although it’s possible to face longer sentences depending on the specific circumstances.

3. Highest Rate of Alcohol (BAC of 0.16% and above) or Drug DUI

This is the most severe category for DUI in Pennsylvania. A first offense with a BAC of 0.16% or higher comes with harsher penalties, including a significant likelihood of jail time.

Penalties for a First DUI at the Highest Tier:
- 72 consecutive hours minimum imprisonment and no more than six months maximum;
- A misdemeanor on your record;
- $1,000 to $5,000 fine;
- A 12-month license suspension;
- Attend Alcohol Highway Safety School;
- Mandatory Treatment;
- Mandatory full D&A assessment and compliance with D&A treatment as a condition of sentencing.

If you were charged with DUI in Western PA, call Ketchel Law at 412-456-1221 for a free consultation.

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Repeat DUI Offenses Mean Jail Time is More Likely

The penalties for DUI offenses in Pennsylvania become significantly harsher for second or third-time DUI offenders.

For second DUI offenses, the jail time increases significantly. Even with a general impairment DUI, you face a mandatory five days behind bars, while for the highest rate of alcohol, you’re looking at 90 days minimum.

With a third DUI offense, the penalties are even more severe, from a mandatory ten days to two years in jail for a general impairment and up to five years in prison for the highest rate, which is also now considered a felony.

Aggravating Factors that Could Increase Jail Time

Certain circumstances can increase penalties, including additional jail time, even for first-time offenders. Some of the common aggravating factors include:

DUI with a Minor in the Vehicle: If you are caught driving under the influence with a minor in your car, penalties are automatically more severe, including higher fines and longer jail time.
Causing an Accident or Injury: A DUI that results in an accident, especially if someone is injured or killed, will lead to significantly harsher penalties. Vehicular homicide charges can result in several years in prison.
Refusal to Submit to a Chemical Test: Refusing to take a breathalyzer or blood test can lead to enhanced penalties, including longer license suspension and possible jail time.

How Can Ketchel Law Help?

For first-time offenders with a BAC below 0.10%, jail time is unlikely, but it becomes mandatory for those with a BAC above 0.10% or for repeat offenders.

If you’ve been charged with a DUI, it’s important to understand the potential consequences and consult with a knowledgeable DUI attorney like those at Ketchel Law to explore your options for minimizing the penalties.

Our experienced and highly rated Pittsburgh DUI Attorneys will fight for your case to be dismissed or for the charges to be significantly reduced.

If you were charged with DUI in Western Pennsylvania, call Ketchel Law at 412-456-1221 for a free consultation.

PENNSYLVANIA DUI LAWYERS

KETCHEL LAW

Call 412-456-1221 for a free consultation

If you have been charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania, contact Ketchel Law today.

Our number one goal is to have your charges dismissed and your record clean.

Learn more about DUI Laws in Pennsylvania

_____________________

FREE LEGAL CONSULTATION

We offer free legal consultations to anyone charged with a crime in Western Pennsylvania. Call us at 412-456-1221 today to find out how we can help defend your rights.

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01/24/2024 | Criminal Defense, Pennsylvania Laws, Your Rights and the Law

Navigating the Legal Process: What Happens After an Arrest in Pennsylvania?

what happens after being charged with a crime in pennsylvania

An arrest can leave people feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their rights and future. Legal troubles can hang like a cloud over defendants and their families. Knowing what to expect next in the process can help in being better prepared.

In Pennsylvania, the process that unfolds after an arrest involves various steps, each designed to uphold the rights of the accused. Understanding the distinction between detainment and arrest, knowing your rights post-arrest, and being aware of the options regarding phone calls and bail are crucial aspects of this process.

Detainment vs. Arrest

Detainment and arrest are two distinct legal concepts with different implications. Detainment, or being held in custody, may occur when law enforcement restrains an individual’s freedom of movement for investigative purposes. During detainment, police may ask questions, check identification, and conduct searches of someone they suspect is guilty of a crime, but they may never charge the suspect with a crime.

Pennsylvania law doesn’t put a time limit on how long a suspect can be detained. It may be for only 5 minutes in the back of a squad car, or it may be overnight in jail. Typically, it is no longer than 48 hours, but it could be longer on weekends orholidays. Technically, if you have ever been pulled over for speeding, you were detained by police while they checked your registration and issued a ticket, etc. Although detainment doesn’t mean you will be arrested, it can and often does result in arrest.

Arrest, on the other hand, involves the formal deprivation of an individual’s liberty based on probable cause that they have committed a crime. Once arrested, the individual is taken into custody, and charges are filed.

Your Rights After an Arrest in Pennsylvania

If you are arrested, you have certain rights under Pennsylvania law. These rights include:

The Right to Remain Silent: The famous Miranda rights ensure that individuals are informed of their right to remain silent during police questioning. Anything said can be used against the individual in court, so it is advisable to exercise this right until legal counsel is present.
The Right to an Attorney: Every individual has the right to an attorney, and if they cannot afford one, the court will appoint one. Having legal representation is crucial for navigating the complexities of the legal system.
The Right to Be Informed of Charges: Following an arrest, the individual must be informed of the charges against them. This ensures transparency and allows the accused to understand the nature of the allegations.

Phone Call Privileges After an Arrest:

Contrary to popular belief (and many TV shows), there is no specific constitutional right to a phone call after an arrest. However, in general, the magistrate or police officers generally permit individuals to make a reasonable number of phone calls and may even let the arrested individual retrieve their cell phone for contact information.

After a preliminary arraignment, however, a defendant does have a right to contact friends, family, or an attorney.

The PA Code of Law (Rule 540) states:

(H) After the preliminary arraignment, if the defendant is detained, the defendant shall be given an immediate and reasonable opportunity to post bail, secure counsel, and notify others of the arrest. Thereafter, if the defendant does not post bail, he or she shall be committed to jail as provided by law.

Bail and Bond – Getting Out of Jail

Once arrested, an individual may be eligible for release on bail or bond, allowing them to await trial outside of custody. Bail is a financial guarantee that the accused will appear in court as required. If the suspect pays the bail or uses the services of a bail/bond company, they do not go to jail. If the individual attends all court appearances, the bail amount is refunded. If the defendant does not attend the court appearance, the court keeps the money and issues a warrant for arrest.

In Pennsylvania, the bail determination process considers factors such as the severity of the charges, the defendant’s criminal history, ties to the community, and flight risk. The court may set bail at a specific amount or release the individual on recognizance, which means they are released without having to pay bail but must adhere to certain conditions.

Additionally, Pennsylvania law allows for bail bonds, where a third-party bondsman posts the bail amount on behalf of the accused for a fee. This option is often used when the defendant is unable to pay the full bail amount themselves.

What You Need to Do After Being Arrested in Pennsylvania

Facing an arrest in Pennsylvania triggers a legal process with significant implications for the accused, like a criminal record, losing your driver’s license, jail or prison time, fines, and other potential losses like your job, custody rights, and many other freedoms.

Individuals must exercise their rights wisely by seeking legal representation promptly. The experienced attorneys at Ketchel Law can guide you through the preliminary hearing, court process, bail and bond process, and the way through to the trial if the case goes that far.

We can help, whether you were charged with DUI, drugs, theft, assault, or another criminal offense.

Contact Ketchel Law today if you have been charged with a crime or have possible pending charges in Pennsylvania.

Free Consultations: 412-456-1221

Our #1 Goal? Your Case Dismissed.

Have a question about your DUI case or upcoming preliminary hearing in Pennsylvania? Call our team of top Pittsburgh DUI lawyers for a free consultation. Learn more about the DUI Court process in Pennsylvania.

Call Ketchel Law at 412-456-1221. We take your case seriously and are committed to providing quality legal advice.

12/05/2023 | Ketchel Law News, PA Legal News, Pennsylvania Laws, Your Rights and the Law

Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court Rules Skill Games Are Legal

Will Ruling End Debate Over Skill Games in Pennsylvania?

In a 7-0 decision on November 30, 2023, the court upheld a Dauphin County judge’s finding earlier this year that the skill games are not slot machines or illegal gambling devices, but that the devices developed by Pace-O-Matic are actually “skill games”, meaning they require a level of skill to win and do not rely on chance alone.

Commonly branded in Pennsylvania as “Pennsylvania Skill”, the machines are popular inside many sports bars, gas stations, and convenience stores. The debate over their legality has been ongoing for nearly seven years.

Proponents say this is a victory for small businesses, but critics say it opens the door for unregulated gambling.

“This is a major victory for Pennsylvania Skill, but it’s equally a victory for our operators and the thousands of small businesses, volunteer fire companies, and fraternal clubs who have come to depend on the revenue our games provide,” President and CEO of Pace-O-Matic Paul Goldean said in a statement “This is also a win for many players across the commonwealth who enjoy skill games as a popular entertainment option. Our games have always been legal, and this ruling proves that once and for all.”

Pennsylvania originally ruled that skill wasn’t needed for the games. But this newer ruling states the previous ruling was found to be “factually untrue.”

Will the Debate Head to the PA Supreme Court?

The Commonwealth Court ruled on this decision after Pennsylvania State Police and the Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement seized video game terminals and money from a sports bar in Dauphin County earlier this year.

Susan Affronti, one of the attorneys prosecuting the case for Attorney General Michelle Henry, said Henry does intend to seek a review of the Commonwealth Court’s decision in the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

The American Gaming Association says they are disappointed by the ruling: “We continue to hold out hope that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court will ultimately get it right by recognizing that “skill” games are, in fact, gambling devices”.

Read the full Skill Game ruling on Nov 30, 2023, by the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court.

03/06/2023 | Criminal Defense, Pennsylvania Laws

Governor Shapiro Calls for End of Death Penalty in Pennsylvania

The death penalty in Pennsylvania still exists, but no one has been executed in nearly 24 years.

In an announcement at Mosaic Community Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro called on the PA General Assembly to abolish the death penalty. He added he would not issue any execution warrants, extending the moratorium on the death penalty by his predecessor.

Governor Shapiro reiterated that the death penalty, as it currently stands in Pennsylvania, is only issued in guilty cases of first-degree murder, where there are also aggravating factors at the time of the crime. And even then, if someone is issued the death penalty, there are many appeals that can take years to process, all at the expense of taxpayers.

In the United States, 37 states have either abolished the death penalty completely or have not carried out executions in the last ten years. In 2022, there were fewer than 30 executions nationwide and fewer than 50 new death sentences, according to the Death Penalty Information Center.

There is still a death penalty in Pennsylvania, but no one has been executed since 1999. That was nearly 24 years ago when Gary Heidnik was executed by lethal injection.

Attorney Shapiro mentioned the heinous killings at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Squirrel Hill (Pittsburgh, PA) and how the people he spoke with at the synagogue did not wish for the murderer to be sentenced to death, but rather pay the price by a lifelong prison sentence. “I listened to the members of the Tree of Life community and was blown away by their courage and their fortitude,” said Shapiro.

You can read the entirety of the press release detailing the announcement from Governor Shapiro’s office on their website.

11/29/2022 | Criminal Defense, DUI, Pennsylvania Laws, Your Rights and the Law

Can You Be Charged with DUI Without Driving?

Pennsylvania Court Further Defines ‘Operation’ of Vehicle in DUI Cases

In Bold vs. Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Commonwealth Court clarified the precedent for the term ‘operates’, which is used in the Implied Consent Law under Section 1547(b)(1)(ii) of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, 75 for license suspension cases.

This definition expands the meaning to include that being in the driver’s seat of a running vehicle while intoxicated is reasonable cause for police to request chemical testing.

All judges of the appellate court heard the case and the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court panel ruled against Thomas Bold, despite his vehicle being stationary at the time of the arrest and with no indication Bold had been driving the vehicle.

A dissenting opinion was filed by Judge Leavitt.

PennDOT suspended Bold’s license for 18 months following his arrest when he failed to submit to a chemical test. He had previously been convicted of DUI in 2007.

According to the case filed on November 21, 2022:

Officer Gelnett testified that he was on patrol at the Capital City Mall on January 25, 2020, at 6:14 p.m., when he was dispatched to check on “a vehicle in the parking lot that was running with a gentleman passed out behind the wheel.”

He located the vehicle, which was unlocked and running, with the headlights on. He opened the driver’s side door and shut off the engine. Officer Gelnett then woke Licensee, who was in the driver’s seat, smelled of alcohol, and appeared “obviously intoxicated.”

Officer Gelnett stated that the vehicle “was legally parked in a parking space” near the mall’s liquor store and a Primanti Brothers bar and restaurant. Licensee told Officer Gelnett that he had been in Primanti Brothers watching a game, “and [that] he just [went] out to his truck and was sleeping in his truck [until] he thought he was able to drive home.”

Licensee refused to submit to a preliminary breath test and insisted that he was not driving. Officer Gelnett responded that Licensee was sitting behind the wheel of a running vehicle and, thus, was in actual physical control of the vehicle.

Do you have a question concerning a DUI case? Call our team of Pittsburgh DUI lawyers for a free consultation.

Call Ketchel Law at 412-456-1221. We take your case seriously and are committed to providing quality legal advice.

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11/22/2022 | Criminal Defense, Drugs, DUI, Pennsylvania Laws, Preventing DUIs, Your Rights and the Law

DUI Checkpoints in Pittsburgh

DUI CheckPoints – Pittsburgh, PA

Information and What You Should Know if You Are Stopped at a DUI Checkpoint

The holidays are here again – time for people to get together, celebrate, and drink their care away! It’s the time for merriment, although holidays can also be stressful.

One added stressor is that festivities could turn into a nightmare if you are pulled over for DUI, or worse, in an accident with a drunk driver. There are few greater buzz kills than a DUI arrest or car accident with injuries.

Most people don’t have to worry if they do not plan to drink and drive. But even a couple of beers can be the cause of a DUI charge, especially if you happen to pass through a DUI checkpoint while coming back from the company holiday party, restaurant, or a family gathering.

A DUI checkpoint is a roadblock that allows police to systematically pull over cars to deter driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

DUI checkpoints are perfectly legal and constitutional in Pennsylvania and if a person is charged with DUI from being pulled over at a DUI checkpoint, it can be very difficult (although not impossible) to prove innocence or fight the charges.

Where are DUI Checkpoints in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County?

In order for a DUI Checkpoint to be constitutional in Pennsylvania, the police are required by law to give adequate warning of a checkpoint. This could mean putting up signs and advertising in the media or newspaper.

Once the location has been advertised, the police cannot move the location without again giving the public notice.

A few common places for a DUI checkpoint in Allegheny County include: near the South Side or the Strip District, off the exit for the Sewickley bridge, or near Etna on Route 8.

There are also mapping apps, like Waze and Relaid, where users can pin DUI checkpoints and label them, so you can also see possible roadblocks and DUI checkpoints, as well as traffic updates.

Can I Turn Around if I See a DUI Checkpoint Ahead?

If you see signs for a DUI ahead, you do have the option to turn off to another street before you reach it and take a different route. Purposely avoiding a DUI checkpoint is not a reason to pull you over. However, making a U-turn in the middle of the street could be a traffic violation, so be wary.

What Typically Happens at a DUI Checkpoint?

Unlike being pulled over on suspicion of DUI – like swerving, speeding, or recklessness – the police do not need reasonable suspicion to pull someone over at a DUI checkpoint.

That said, they do not pull over cars at random either – they have strict guidelines to follow, such as stopping every fifth vehicle. These rules are decided upon ahead of time and cannot be changed during the course of the checkpoint. This is to enforce that they cannot stop on a whim by race, religion, sex, vehicle type, or if they simply don’t like the way someone looks.

Of the vehicles they do pull over, they are free to question the drivers or ask them to take a sobriety test as they enter through the roadblock.

The stops are supposed to be minimal and non-invasive. The police do not have a right to a physical search without probable cause.

They may start by asking simple questions such as where you were tonight, where you are headed now and if you had anything to drink. Any of your answers could be used in court as probable cause.

Law enforcement officers look for common behavioral signs of impairment at a DUI Checkpoint, such as:

The smell of alcohol;
A rosy-colored or flushed face;
Eyes that may be bloodshot, watery, or too relaxed;
Slurred speech;
Aggressive or defensive behavior;
Fatigue or slowness;
Clumsiness;
Dilated pupils, and;
Excessive sweating.

If after noticing any of these types of behaviors, the police believe you may be under the influence, they could ask you to perform a field sobriety test or request a breathalyzer.

You are not required by law to comply with the field sobriety test or the breathalyzer that an officer may have on hand before an arrest.

If you refuse the breathalyzer, however, this may give them probable cause to arrest you, take you to the police station, and require a blood or breath test that is used as evidence. This test can determine your blood alcohol level and whether you are under the influence of drugs. Of course, you do not have to comply with this test either, but if you don’t, it is an automatic license suspension, and, if convicted, you face the most severe penalties of DUI under the highest tier, including a $5,000 fine and jail time.

Can I Get Charged with Drugs at a DUI Checkpoint?

Yes.

The DUI stop is meant to be brief and non-invasive, but if police officers find probable cause that you may be under the influence of drugs, they may conduct a physical search. They may also place you under arrest and request you take a blood test.

If officers can smell marijuana or weed in your vehicle, they are not permitted to conduct a search from the smell of marijuana alone. However, if other suspected behavior is evident to police officers, they may still legally conduct a search when they also smell marijuana.

Remember, even if you are a medical marijuana card holder in Pennsylvania, it is still illegal for you to drive under the influence of marijuana. And if you are asked to take a blood test, your results could show you have cannabis in your system, even if you were not smoking at the time of driving. This is a contradiction, but as it currently stands, you could be charged with DUI drugs if you are found to have marijuana in your system, even trace amounts.

Best ways to avoid a DUI arrest?

Don’t drink and drive! Don’t do drugs and drive either! An Uber ride costs a lot less than a DUI conviction.

If you do happen to do drugs, make sure you get free fentanyl test strips – the test strips are now legal in Pennsylvania to help combat unintended deaths by overdose.

??The attorneys at Ketchel Law hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season. Please use a ride share, cab, or designated driver when enjoying the festivities! ??

10/26/2022 | Criminal Defense, Drugs, Pennsylvania Laws

Fentanyl Test Strips Now Legal in Pennsylvania

Every day more people are becoming addicted to Fentanyl and more drug dealers are lacing pills and other drugs with Fentanyl (often without the user’s knowledge). These drugs could include illegal prescription medicine like Oxycontin or other drugs like heroin and cocaine. This has left dealers and drug users wondering if their product is safe or laced with Fentanyl. Test strips give them a quick answer.

In large cities like New York, bars, dance clubs, and restaurants offer Fentanyl testing strips to their patrons.

But several states have outlawed the test strips, seeing them as condoning illegal drugs or as a way to build a criminal case against drug dealers. But other states and jurisdictions see them as a way to save lives.

Pennsylvania now falls into the latter category, making test strips legal, as of November 3, 2022, when Governor Tom Wolf signed House Bill 1393 which legalizes Fentanyl test strips.

The bill amends the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act of 1972 to no longer define fentanyl test strips as drug paraphernalia.

It is now legal in Pennsylvania to possess Fentanyl strips. Before this law was signed into law, two of the biggest cities with the biggest drug crime problems had already decriminalized the testing strips: Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

On August 2, 2021, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney signed Executive Order 4-21 that made it the City’s policy to not charge people for possessing or distributing fentanyl strips. On August 31, 2021, then-Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto also signed an executive order decriminalizing Fentanyl test strips.

The Pennsylvania House bill to decriminalize Fentanyl test strips now allows people to test without the risk of being charged with drug paraphernalia.

Fentanyl overdoses are now the top cause of death among U.S. persons aged 18-45 – surpassing suicide, car accidents and COVID, according to an analysis of federal data by Families Against Fentanyl.

If you or someone you knows is in need of Fentanyl test strips in Pittsburgh, you can get them for free from Prevention Point Pittsburgh.

Fentanyl possession is a serious crime that could result in a minimum of two years in prison.

If you have been charged with Fentanyl possession or any other drug charge, please call our Pittsburgh Drug Attorneys today for a free consultation.

Learn more about Drug Laws in Pennsylvania

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09/12/2022 | Drugs, Marijuana, Pennsylvania Laws, Your Rights and the Law

Pennsylvania Marijuana Pardon Project – Deadline Sept 30

Do you have a criminal record in Pennsylvania for a minor marijuana offense?

If you are one of thousands of people who were charged and convicted of simple marijuana charges in Pennsylvania – a drug that in many states is perfectly legal – you now have the chance to get those criminal charges off your permanent record.

There is no charge for the online application. But hurry – the deadline to apply for the Marijuana Pardon Project is September 30, 2022.

Having a criminal record can permanently affect your chances of gaining employment, finding housing, getting into college and getting financing for automobiles and homes. If you want a second chance, the time is now.

ELIGIBILITY

According to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s website, if you had one or both of these convictions in Pennsylvania, you are eligible to apply:

In addition:

The conviction must have taken place in Pennsylvania;
There is no statute of limitations for the conviction – it doesn’t matter how long ago the offense occurred;
This is only for first-time marijuana offenders. People with additional convictions on their record are not eligible.

If you are wondering how to apply for the program, get a free consultation from the experienced Pennsylvania Marijuana Attorneys at Ketchel Law. We can help you determine eligibility and with the application process. You can also learn more and apply online at Pa.gov/mj-pardon.

Contact Ketchel Law at 412-456-1221 for a free consultation about your marijuana case.

The Board of Pardons is accepting applications from September 1 to September 30, 2022.

If you are not eligible for this program there may be other options, such as applying for clemency or other legal actions. Learn more about overturning marijuana convictions in Pennsylvania.

If you are currently facing marijuana charges or other controlled substance abuse charges, contact our Pittsburgh Drug Lawyers today for a free consultation about your case. We are here to help fight your case with our number one goal being a full case dismissal.

Call Ketchel Law at 412-456-1221. We take your case seriously and are committed to providing quality legal advice.

Learn more about Marijuana Laws in Pennsylvania

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07/14/2022 | Criminal Defense, Hearings, Pennsylvania Laws, Your Rights and the Law

Can You Go To Jail at a Preliminary Hearing?

What Happens at a Preliminary Hearing in Pennsylvania?

If you or a loved one were charged with a crime recently and are scheduled for a preliminary hearing, you may be wondering what could happen at the hearing.

A preliminary hearing is not a trial, but rather a first step in a case used to determine if there is enough evidence against the defendant to move forward with the case. It also gives a first chance for the accused to defend themselves and exercise their rights. If there is not sufficient evidence, the charges could be dismissed at the hearing.

If there is sufficient evidence to move the case forward, it will move from the Magistrate to the Court of Common Pleas for trial. This gives the defendant time to further prepare their defense.

Could I go to Jail at a Preliminary Hearing?

While it is unlikely a person would go to jail at a preliminary hearing, they could be taken into custody at the preliminary hearing if bail is increased or revoked. If bail is increased, the defendant would remain in jail until the amount is paid.

A defendant will not be found guilty or sentenced at the preliminary hearing; the hearing is only to determine whether to move the case forward or not. The “or not” is very important, because it is possible that the charges could be dismissed altogether.

The Preliminary Hearing is Very Important

If you were charged with a crime, the preliminary hearing gives you a first chance to make a defense and tell your side of the story. The preliminary hearing is crucial to your defense. Make sure you have an experienced criminal defense attorney to represent you at the preliminary hearing who already understands your situation and explains beforehand what you can expect. An aggressive defense attorney with a thorough understanding of the law and the prosecutors is going to fight for your case to be dismissed and argue evidence to proceed is lacking.

Witnesses may be presented and testimony heard, but briefly, and only for the purpose of determining if there is enough evidence to move forward with your case, not to make a verdict.

Your attorney will be able to cross-examine any witnesses and/or argue that the evidence is not sufficient. Your attorney can also challenge evidence, requesting that it be thrown out. Your attorney may also request that your case be dismissed, if they feel the prosecution has not gathered enough evidence.

Unlike a full trial, the prosecution does not need evidence “beyond a reasonable doubt” in a preliminary hearing. They need only have “prima facie”, which means they need proof it is more likely than not that you committed the crime in question.

Are you or a loved one facing criminal charges?

If you have been charged with a crime in Pittsburgh or Southwest Pennsylvania, Ketchel Law can provide a free legal consultation. Our criminal attorneys are top-rated and located in downtown Pittsburgh. We have been successfully representing clients for nearly a decade and are here to help you fight your charges and win your case.

Call Ketchel Law at 412-456-1221. We take your case seriously and are committed to providing quality legal advice.

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