Being charged with a crime is overwhelming. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony, the decisions you make in the hours and days following your arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
At Mooney Law, we understand how high the stakes are. As experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys, we have helped many clients avoid long-term consequences by correcting early missteps or guiding them before they make them.
Here are the most common mistakes we see people make after being charged with a crime—and how you can avoid them.
Talking to the Police Without a Lawyer
One of the most damaging mistakes a person can make is speaking to law enforcement without legal representation. Many people believe they can explain their way out of the situation, especially if they think they are innocent. This is almost always a mistake.
Police officers are trained to gather evidence and build a case. Even casual remarks can be taken out of context and used against you later. Once you have read your Miranda rights, you must exercise them. Tell the officers clearly that you are invoking your right to remain silent and that you want to speak with your attorney.
We advise all of our clients to refrain from answering any questions until we are present. As Pennsylvania criminal lawyers, it is our role to protect your rights from the very beginning of your case.
Failing to Understand the Charges
Many defendants do not take the time to understand the charges they are facing. They may believe the situation is not serious or assume it will simply go away. Unfortunately, this assumption can lead to severe consequences.
Whether you are facing a summary offense, misdemeanor, or felony, it is essential to know what the charge means, what the possible penalties are, and what defenses may be available. We make sure our clients have a clear understanding of what is at stake, which allows us to work together toward the best possible outcome.
If you are unsure what your charges mean, speak with one of our defense lawyers in PA immediately.
Ignoring Court Dates and Legal Obligations
Missing a court appearance is a serious error that can lead to additional charges, bench warrants, and a complete loss of credibility with the judge. Even forgetting to pay a fine or failing to meet a condition of your release can create problems.
We help our clients stay organized and informed. Our team ensures that you are aware of all upcoming dates and any responsibilities you have while your case is ongoing. Being proactive shows the court that you are taking your charges seriously, and that can work in your favor.
Posting About the Arrest on Social Media
Social media has become a place where people share every detail of their lives, but posting about your criminal charges is a grave mistake. Anything you post online can be used as evidence against you, even if you delete it later. This includes pictures, comments, and private messages.
We counsel all of our clients to stop posting on social media entirely until their case is resolved. A simple joke or post taken out of context can give prosecutors ammunition. When in doubt, stay silent online. Let your defense be handled in court, not in your newsfeed.
Trusting Advice from Non-Lawyers
It is natural to turn to friends or family for support after being charged with a crime. While they may mean well, they are not trained to navigate Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system. Relying on advice from someone who does not understand the law can cost you your freedom.
At Mooney Law, our Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys base every recommendation on legal knowledge, court experience, and a detailed understanding of your case. We do not offer guesswork or generalizations—we give you solid legal guidance every step of the way.
Accepting a Plea Deal Too Quickly
Plea deals are often presented as a quick fix. You may be told you can “get it over with” by pleading guilty in exchange for reduced charges or a lighter sentence. However, pleading guilty creates a permanent criminal record and can affect your job, housing, and future opportunities.
Never agree to a plea deal without consulting an experienced criminal defense law firm in Pennsylvania. We carefully evaluate all plea offers and compare them to the strength of the prosecution’s case. If the evidence against you is weak, we may be able to negotiate for a better deal or beat the charges entirely.
Not Hiring an Attorney Immediately
Perhaps the most serious mistake of all is waiting too long to hire a criminal defense attorney. Every moment after your arrest matters. The sooner we begin working on your case, the more options we have to build a strong defense, gather evidence, and potentially get charges reduced or dismissed.
We have seen countless situations where early legal intervention made all the difference. Our Pennsylvania criminal lawyers can often engage with the prosecution before charges are even formally filed, and that can change the course of a case.
If you or someone you love has been charged, do not wait. Contact Mooney Law immediately.
Underestimating the Impact of a Conviction
A criminal conviction in Pennsylvania does not just mean jail time. It can affect your entire life. You could lose your job, your driver’s license, or your ability to own a firearm. You may be disqualified from student loans, housing, or even custody arrangements.
Our defense lawyers in PA understand how far-reaching these consequences can be. That is why we treat every case with the seriousness it deserves. Even a minor conviction can cause major complications down the line.
Assuming Guilt Means No Defense
Another harmful misconception is that once you are charged or even admit guilt, you no longer have a defense. This is simply not true. There may be flaws in the prosecution’s case, illegal searches, improper procedures, or constitutional violations that could result in dismissal or reduction of charges.
We analyze every detail of your arrest, from the traffic stop to the search warrant to the evidence handling. Our goal is to protect your rights, no matter what. If law enforcement made a mistake, we will find it and use it to your advantage.
Not Taking the Situation Seriously
Finally, many people charged with crimes believe they do not need to worry because it is their first offense or because they think the court will be lenient. This attitude can be extremely harmful. The justice system in Pennsylvania is complex, and the outcome of your case depends on the strength of your defense.
At Mooney Law, we urge all clients to treat their situation with the seriousness it deserves. We treat it that way, too, because your future depends on it.
How Mooney Law Can Help
We know how terrifying it is to face criminal charges. That is why we offer aggressive, compassionate defense to protect your rights and your future. Our experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys serve clients across the state with personalized, strategic legal representation.
When you work with us, you are not just another case file. You are a person who deserves a second chance. We take pride in guiding our clients through the legal system with clarity, integrity, and strength.
Contact Our Criminal Defense Law Firm in Pennsylvania
If you or someone you love has been charged with a crime, do not wait until it is too late. The earlier you involve our team, the better your chances of protecting your freedom and your reputation.
Call Mooney Law today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Pennsylvania criminal lawyers. Let us help you avoid these costly mistakes and fight for your best possible outcome.
