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Facing Your First DUI

March 21, 2025
Navigate a First-Time DUI Charge with a West Chester DUI Lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes

If a West Chester officer levels a driving under the influence (DUI) charge against you, you may feel overwhelmed—especially if you have not faced a driving-related case before. The good news is that an accusation does not rob you of legal options. In fact, with the right legal help, you may be able to mitigate…

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What Are Defenses to Drug Offenses?

February 28, 2025
Defending Yourself Against Drug Charges with a West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes

  No one should take drug charges lightly, if for no other reason than the severity of the consequences—which include potential jail time, fines, and a lasting criminal record. Thankfully, a charge does not mean a conviction. You have several legal defenses and strategies available to you to challenge the claims made by your prosecuting…

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What Are Common Types of Criminal Charges?

January 17, 2025
Contact a West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes for Help with Your Case

The punishment that you may receive upon being convicted of a crime depends on its classification and severity. Pennsylvania breaks criminal offenses down into three primary categories, which are as follows: Summary offenses Misdemeanors Felonies Summary Offenses in Pennsylvania While no criminal charge is without consequence, a summary offense represents the least severe type of…

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How to Avoid a DUI During the Holidays?

December 19, 2024
Let a West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Help You Sort Out the Facts

Throughout the holiday season, it is not uncommon to tip an alcoholic beverage and toast to the upcoming new year with sentiments of hope and health. However, the sound of clinking glasses could be replaced by the clicking sound of handcuffs for those who choose to drive under the influence. Since no one wants to…

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What Is Reckless Endangerment?

November 21, 2024
The Skilled West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Represent Clients Charged With Reckless Endangerment

Reckless endangerment occurs when a person engages in conduct that poses a significant risk of causing serious injury or harm to another individual. This charge is based on actions where the person is aware of the dangers but chooses to disregard them, creating a situation where others could be harmed. Unlike some offenses, reckless endangerment…

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How to Defend Juveniles in Marijuana-Related Charges?

October 31, 2024
Protecting Your Rights with the West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes

A person’s experiences during their juvenile years can determine the entire rest of their lives—and as a parent, the very last thing you want is for your child to face a court case for marijuana-related charges. However, these juvenile cases happen, and even the most minor outcomes can carry incredible legal and developmental consequences for…

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What Are Criminal Defenses for Kidnapping?

September 18, 2024
Contact the West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Today

A kidnapping charge is a grave offense that is punished harshly under Pennsylvania law. It is a first-degree felony; you could receive 20 years in jail if convicted. Like any criminal charges, there are defenses that you can use in court. If you have been charged with a kidnapping offense, you should immediately seek the…

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What Are the Consequences of Fraud Charges?

August 22, 2024
Contact the West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Today

Fraud charges can alter your life dramatically, whether the accusations consist of identity theft, credit card fraud, or wire fraud. They carry severe penalties if a court finds you liable in a civil case or guilty in a criminal one, which can look like heavy fines or extended jail time. If a prosecutor brings criminal…

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Can You Get a DUI Charge for Prescription Medication Use?

July 24, 2024
Contact a West Chester DUI Defense Lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes

Many people make the mistake of thinking that driving under the influence (DUI) charges are reserved solely for people who get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol. In reality, this classification of criminal charges is much broader; it also includes being impaired by prescription medications. It is up to you to know what you are…

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What Are White-Collar Crimes?

June 19, 2024
Our West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyers at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes Represent Clients Charged With White-Collar Crimes

White-collar crimes are a complex area of law that often involves intricate financial schemes, deceitful practices, and violations of trust. These offenses typically occur in corporate or business settings and are committed by individuals of high socioeconomic status. So, what exactly are white-collar crimes, and what can be done about them from a legal perspective?…

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