If you are facing a criminal charge in Bucks or Montgomery county, you need a local criminal defense attorney who understands how courts operate, how prosecutors think, and what strategies work in each criminal case.
At Penglase & Benson, Inc., we understand what you’re going through and what’s at stake. Our criminal defense law firm is based in Doylestown, Bucks County, and our attorneys have built their careers helping neighbors protect their rights and their presumption of innocence in the Pennsylvania criminal justice system.
With backgrounds as former prosecutors and educators, we approach every defense with insight and balance, anticipating how the State will argue while guiding our clients through the process and preparing them for each court date. When you work with us, you’re represented by a local defense lawyer who knows these courts from the inside out and fights to secure the best possible outcome.
Our criminal defense law firm represents people facing criminal charges throughout Bucks County and Montgomery County. Whether a case begins with a criminal investigation or an unexpected arrest, our criminal defense attorneys move quickly to protect your rights and prepare a focused defense strategy.
We handle a full range of cases, including:
Arrest or Criminal Complaint
A case begins when police make an arrest or a district attorney files a criminal complaint. You’ll be processed, informed of your criminal charges, and brought before a magisterial district judge for bail and the first court date.
A case begins when police make an arrest or a district attorney files a criminal complaint. You’ll be processed, informed of your criminal charges, and brought before a magisterial district judge for bail and the first court date.
Preliminary Hearing
The prosecution must show enough evidence to move forward. Witnesses may testify, and the judge decides whether the case proceeds to the Court of Common Pleas.
A defense attorney can question witnesses, expose insufficient evidence, and sometimes get charges reduced or dismissed entirely.
Pre-Trial Motions and Negotiations
After the hearing, your lawyer and prosecutors review evidence and may discuss plea options or diversion programs like Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) for first-time offenders.
Experienced criminal defense attorneys negotiate favorable plea bargains and file motions to exclude evidence obtained improperly during the criminal investigation.
Trial
If no agreement is reached, the case goes to trial before a judge or jury. Each side presents evidence, examines witnesses, and argues their case.
Skilled defense lawyers use trial experience to challenge the prosecution’s version, defend your presumption of innocence, and fight for your freedom.
Sentencing and Post-Trial
If convicted, the court decides your sentence, which may include probation, community service, fines, or jail time. Your lawyer can also appeal or seek sentence modification.
Legal counsel helps argue for lighter penalties, alternative sentencing (such as house arrest), or rehabilitation programs that protect your record and future.
Every case begins with a conversation. From that first initial consultation, our criminal defense lawyers work to understand what happened and what matters most to you. Here’s how our team approaches your defense:
We sit down with you to go over the charges, listen to your side of the story, and explain how the Pennsylvania criminal justice system handles cases like yours. You’ll leave that discussion knowing the next steps and what to expect from your defense attorney.
Our attorneys study police reports, witness statements, and the documents that have been filed in court. We decide whether the facts and circumstances fit our practice and, if not, direct you to a law firm that might better suit your needs.
If we take your case, we map out a defense strategy suited to the type of criminal charges you’re facing. That may involve challenging how evidence was gathered, negotiating for a favorable plea bargain, or preparing for trial.
We stay in touch through phone calls and meetings so you’re never guessing about your case. You’ll always know when your next court date is and where things stand.
Your first step is to speak with a criminal defense attorney before communicating with police or appearing in court on your own. Early legal guidance helps you avoid statements that may be used against you, clarifies what the criminal complaint alleges, and prepares you for the initial hearing before a magisterial district judge. An attorney can review the charging documents, explain the process in Bucks and Montgomery Counties, and begin developing a defense strategy while the case is still in its early stages.
Not always. After an arrest, you are taken before a magisterial district judge who decides bail and release conditions. Many people are released on unsecured bail or monitored supervision instead of being held in custody. The judge considers the nature of the charges, your criminal history, and any concerns about appearance in court. A defense lawyer can present information that supports release and helps you avoid unnecessary detention.
A defense attorney can review the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and raise issues that may lead to reduced charges or dismissal. Outcomes depend on the facts, the quality of the evidence, and the legal standards involved. In many cases, attorneys challenge how evidence was gathered, contest whether the charges are supported at the preliminary hearing, or negotiate with prosecutors for amendments or withdrawals. While no result can be guaranteed, experienced counsel improves your position and expands the options available.
