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Assault charges are serious matters that shouldn't be taken lightly. They require a serious line of defense. Talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney, specializing in assault charges, and begin planning for your future. Assault Assault cases often involve parties with a personal history, complex fact scenarios, and conflicting witness statements. For defendants, penalties can be severe, so it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys represent many different types of people at different stages in their lives, including college students, professionals, and others who are confronting the legal system for the first time with cases involving simple assault, bar fights, domestic assault, and more. We understand that getting charged with assault can be frustrating, intimidating, and overwhelming. You may wonder what penalties you may face, how much it will cost, whether you will lose your license and how a criminal conviction could impact your future. Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault The decision on whether to file charges or not is often left to the discretion of the police officers investigating the assault. There are times that police officers will seek guidance from the district attorney's office and file assault charges based upon the recommendations of the district attorney. In many instances, unless a case is clearly self-defense, the police often file Simple Assault or Aggravated Assault charges against some or all of the participants in the fight. At the scene, officers make initial credibility determinations as to which people or witnesses that the officers believe are being truthful. Officers may not believe that a person actually acted in self-defense, and thereby file charges. In other situations, if the officers are simply not sure whether or not self-defense was lawfully applied, many officers and district attorneys adopt an opinion that a jury or judge should hear all the pertinent evidence and then decide whether or not self-defense was appropriate under the circumstances. If you are charged with Simple Assault or Aggravated Assault, you should contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Self Defense Self-defense, also called "justification" in Pennsylvania, is an affirmative defense, meaning that the person charged with Simple Assault or Aggravated Assault must present some evidence, from whatever source, to justify consideration of the self-defense issue at trial. Technically, the person charged with assault does not need to actually prove that he acted in self-defense, but the person must present some evidence that supports the defense in order to allow a judge or jury to consider the defense at trial. This means that the criminal defense attorney may present evidence, such as testimony from either the defense or another witness, to support the self-defense claim, or the criminal defense attorney may be able to raise the self-defense issue by cross-examining prosecution witnesses. Again, it does not matter what source the evidence supporting self-defense comes from, as long as some evidence is presented. The decision as to whether or not sufficient evidence was presented of self-defense to allow a judge or jury to consider the issue is determined by the judge at trial. If the person presents some evidence to show self-defense, then the district attorney must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the person did not act in self-defense. If the district attorney disproves that the person charged with Simple Assault or Aggravated Assault acted in self-defense, then the judge or jury will convict the person. However, if the district attorney fails to present sufficient evidence to disprove the self-defense claim, then the person charged with assault must be found not guilty. Domestic Abuse Domestic Abuse Those facing allegations of domestic violence could be facing charges of assault, aggravated assault, and battery. If the crime is against a family member or partner, then the charges may carry extra weight in some cases. WHAT CONSTITUTES DOMESTIC ABUSE? While your charges may not specifically read "domestic violence", Pennsylvania defines domestic abuse as certain crimes against household members, family members, former partners, parents, children, siblings, etc. The following actions may constitute domestic violence and lead to criminal charges: causing or attempting to cause bodily injury rape sexual assault simple assault or aggravated assault false imprisonment child abuse A police officer may make an arrest if there is sufficient cause to believe that you committed involuntary manslaughter, simple assault, aggravated assault, reckless endangerment, terroristic threats, or stalking against a family member as defined above. So even if the officer did not have a warrant, the arrest may still be valid. That said, your defense lawyer will examine the circumstances of the arrest when handling the case. CONSEQUENCES OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CHARGES The criminal penalties you're facing will depend on the specific charges levied against you. A conviction for involuntary manslaughter may carry more severe penalties than a conviction for simple assault, for example. In any domestic violence case though, the victim of the alleged domestic violence may file a petition for protection. This may order you to abstain from: further acts of abuse returning to the victim's household entering the victim's residence, workplace, or school It may also contain orders for temporary custody and payment of support to the alleged victim. Even if you believe yourself completely innocent, do not violate the terms of any court orders granted following the alleged abuse. This could further complicate the case and lead to additional penalties. BUILDING A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DEFENSE Your lawyer will examine the case details to help you determine possible defenses to whichever charges you are facing. Some possible defenses include self-defense, such as if the alleged victim attacked you, causing you to use force to defend yourself. Provocation might be a valid defense in certain cases as well. In some cases, the violence was merely a mistake. If there's evidence that you did not intend to physically assault the alleged victim, it might be a valid defense. An example might be if you mistakenly struck the individual when turning around, not knowing they were present behind you. Other possible defenses include insanity and proving that the alleged incident for which you are charged never took place. Discuss each possibility with your attorney, who can help you create a strategy for approaching the charges levied against you.

Pennsylvania Prenuptial Agreement Attorney. Our experienced family law attorneys can walk you through prenuptial, postnuptial, and marriage settlement agreements. PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS A prenuptial agreement, or a prenup, is a written contract where a couple states their rights and responsibilities regarding premarital and marital assets and debts, and what would happen should their marriage end in divorce or death. A prenup can be a wise investment, not only because it outlines a couple’s finances, but because it can help avoid a costly and contentious divorce if the marriage doesn’t work out. SKIP TO: Reasons to Get A Prenup Who Needs A Prenup? If You Don't Make A Prenup... Making a Valid Prenup REASONS TO GET A PRENUP There are multiple justifiable circumstances that may require a prenup, including: One or both of the parties has already been married One or both parties have children from a previous marriage/relationship There is a disparity in wealth between the two parties One party has significantly more debt One or both parties own a business One or both parties has an inheritance Read some more detail below about the specifics of prenuptial agreements. WHO NEEDS A PRENUP? Contrary to popular opinion, prenups are not just for the rich. While prenups are often used to protect the assets of a wealthy fiancé, couples of more modest means are increasingly turning to them for their own purposes. Here are some reasons that some people want a prenup: Pass separate property to children from prior marriages. A marrying couple with children from prior marriages may use a prenup to spell out what will happen to their property when they die, so that they can pass on separate property to their children and still provide for each other, if necessary. Without a prenup, a surviving spouse might have the right to claim a large portion of the other spouse's property, leaving much less for the kids. Clarify financial rights. Couples with or without children, wealthy or not, may simply want to clarify their financial rights and responsibilities during marriage. Avoid arguments in case of divorce. Or they may want to avoid potential arguments if they ever divorce, by specifying in advance how their property will be divided, and whether or not either spouse will receive alimony. Get protection from debts. Prenups can also be used to protect spouses from each other's debts, and they may address a multitude of other issues as well IF YOU DON'T MAKE A PRENUP If you don't make a prenuptial agreement, your state's laws determine who owns the property that you acquire during your marriage, as well as what happens to that property at divorce or death. Property acquired during your marriage is known as either marital or community property, depending on your state. State law may even have a say in what happens to some of the property you owned before you were married. Reason to Get A Prenup Who Needs a Prenup? If You Don't Make A Prenup MAKING A VALID PRENUP As prenuptial agreements become more common, the law is becoming friendlier toward them. Traditionally, courts scrutinized prenups with a suspicious eye, because they almost always involved a waiver of legal and financial benefits by a less wealthy spouse and they were thought to encourage breakups. As divorce and remarriage have become more prevalent, and with more equality between the sexes, courts and legislatures are increasingly willing to uphold premarital agreements. Today, every state permits them, although a prenup that is judged unfair or otherwise fails to meet state requirements will still be set aside. However, because courts still look carefully at prenups, it is important that you negotiate and write up your agreement in a way that is clear, understandable, and legally sound. If you draft your own agreement, which we recommend, you'll want to have separate lawyers review it and at least briefly advise you about it -- otherwise, a court is much more likely to question its validity. CALL US Making a Valid Prenup

If you're planning to file for divorce in Pennsylvania or require help with a family law issue, our experienced family law attorneys are ready to help you. We provide counsel on divorce, child custody, and guardianship among others. Family Law We understand that the breakdown of a marriage is one of the most traumatic events one may experience. The emotional, financial, and social ramifications can be severe and long-lasting. Our attorneys have litigated many family law cases in area courts since 1981. However, we also believe that the courtroom is not the only place to resolve the complex and sensitive issues that are commonly found in family law matters. Recognizing that every client and case is different, we advocate the use of collaboration and mediation to resolve family disputes. We endeavor to provide reliable, informative, and practical counseling and strong, competent, and effective advocacy while remaining conscious of your goals and needs for yourself and your family. Divorce Learn More Child Custody Learn More Prenuptial Agreements Learn More Pregnant and Working? Understand Your Rights as an Employee Fiffik Law Group, PC Aug 18 3 min read Sending Them Off to College: Legal Prep for Parents (and Students!) Fiffik Law Group, PC Jul 10 6 min read What Happens When You Ignore a Court Order in PA? Fiffik Law Group, PC Mar 19 4 min read Can You Be Removed from a Joint Bank Account Without Your Consent? Fiffik Law Group, PC Feb 21 2 min read Using Trusts to Protect Your Child's Inheritance from Divorce and In-Laws Fiffik Law Group, PC Feb 17 5 min read

If you have been charged with drug possession in Pennsylvania or possession of drug paraphernalia, the experienced drug defense attorneys at Fiffik Law Group, PC will walk you through the possible penalties, your rights, and how to defend them. Drug Charges There are a lot of drug charges out there, and they carry a wide range of consequences. Our Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Butler and Beaver drug crimes defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of the accused in the state and federal courts of Western Pennsylvania. Before you say anything to the police that could hurt your chances of lowering the charges against you, make sure you talk to an attorney who understands your options. Drug Posession Defense If you are convicted of a drug crime, you face a wide range of potential consequences, from driver’s license suspension to a long prison sentence. Our firm is prepared to handle a wide range of drug charges, including possession, intent to distribute, manufacturing, and trafficking. In all cases, we will work to lower the charges you face and minimize the potential damages as we fight for an acquittal. We handle drug crimes involving all types of narcotics, including: Marijuana Cocaine Meth Prescription pills Building the best possible defense against charges of drug crimes depends on a number of factors specific to each case. Starting at the beginning, we will look into your initial contact with the police to determine whether they had probable cause to search you in the first place. We will also look into whether they violated any search and seizure laws. If they did, the charges against you could be thrown out. If you have been charged with a drug crime or offense in Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Butler, and Beaver, our criminal defense attorneys can help. For a free consultation directly with an experienced criminal defense attorney, please call (412) 391-1014 or contact us by email. We accept MasterCard, Visa, and Discover and are willing to work out payment plans.

Check out our upcoming free online webinars and in-person events! Events Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Dec 10 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Protecting Assets & Securing Care: Strategies for SSI, Medicaid, and Special Needs Trusts Wed, Dec 17 Zoom Webinar Caring for a loved one with special needs means planning for their financial security and long-term care. Join Attorney Kevin Frankel as he explains how to protect assets, maintain SSI and Medicaid eligibility, and plan for the future. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Jan 07 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Jan 14 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates LegalShield Membership Benefits Explained Tue, Jan 20 Zoom Webinar Whether you’re new to LegalShield or have been a longtime member, join us to learn more about the powerful benefits of your plan! Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Jan 21 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Jan 28 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Feb 04 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Feb 11 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates LegalShield Membership Benefits Explained Tue, Feb 17 Zoom Webinar Whether you’re new to LegalShield or have been a longtime member, join us to learn more about the powerful benefits of your plan! Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Feb 18 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Feb 25 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Mar 04 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Mar 11 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates LegalShield Membership Benefits Explained Tue, Mar 17 Zoom Webinar Whether you’re new to LegalShield or have been a longtime member, join us to learn more about the powerful benefits of your plan! Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Mar 18 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Mar 25 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Multiple Dates Wills & Trusts - Which is Right for You? | WEBINAR Wed, Apr 01 Zoom Webinar In this live session, you’ll learn the basics about trusts and how they are used in estate planning. Register Here Load More

Nursing Home Decisions Thanks to medical advances, people are living longer. That’s the good news! But the longer you live, the likelier it is that you’ll require Long-Term Care. In fact: 8.3 million people in the United States received some sort of Long-Term Care in 2016 52 percent of people - 47% of men and 58% of women to be exact - who reach the age of 65 will need Long-Term Care in their lifetime 2 years is the average length of time, over a lifetime, that a person will require LTC As you can see from these numbers, a significant percentage of the population will require long-term care. No one likes to discuss these kinds of issues, but it’s in your best interest to factor extended care into your post-retirement plans. Deciding on Elder Care There are multiple categories of residential care communities and several home-based care services, and each is referred to by many different names. Many factors are taken into account when determining if you're eligible for assisted living, or if it's the right place for you. The types of residential care communities you'll encounter include: Independent Living / Senior Livings are apartment buildings or patio homes within a complex that offers dining, transportation, security, and recreational activities, but no health care services. There is sometimes a minimum age requirement. Assisted Living provides an apartment-like setting that allows individuals to age in place and receive the assistance they need to maintain maximum independence and personal choice. These residences provide assisted living services such as: meals, laundry, housekeeping, transportation services, and basic cognitive support services. Additionally assisted living residences must provide or arrange for other types of health care services such as hospice services, occupational therapy, skilled nursing services, physical therapy, behavioral health services, home health services, escort services, and specialized cognitive support services. Personal Care Homes are residences that provide housing and meals for individuals – typically older people or people with physical, behavioral health, or cognitive disabilities – who are unable to care for themselves but do not need 24/7 nursing home or medical care. Available services are based on the individual needs of the resident but can include assistance with daily living activities including bathing, dressing or going to the bathroom. Skilled Nursing Homes provide 24-hour continuous health care services as well as room and board. The health care services include basic and skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, and a full range of other programs, treatments, and therapies such as occupational therapy and physical therapy. Skilled nursing facilities also manage complex medical needs that require equipment, such as ventilators and IV lines. Continuing Care Retirement Communities are residences that provide a continuum of care from independent living to assisted living to memory care to skilled nursing. These communities are designed to enable seniors with progressively declining health to remain in a single residential location or give healthy seniors the peace of mind that all their future needs are covered. Home Care agencies provide non-skilled services to individuals in their homes or other independent living environments. Home care may include assistance with self-administered medications; personal care assistance such as bathing, feeding, and hygiene; assistance with housekeeping, shopping, meal planning and preparation and transportation and respite care including support to the family. Home Health Care agencies provide health care services to ill, disabled, or vulnerable individuals in their homes or places of residence, enabling them to live as independently as possible. Home health care services include nursing care; home health aide care and physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy services. Hospice is a coordinated program of palliative and supportive care for those with a limited life expectancy. It can be provided in a nursing home, assisted living residence, personal care home, individual’s home, or at a hospice facility.

Wills The thought of writing a Will can be scary, but think about how happy you would be knowing everything is set and in order! Our trusted attorneys will help you obtain a Will so that you can make sure to have it completed. Writing up a Will can be a dreadful process, so might as well let us help you get it over with. Reasons to Have a Will A Will is a written declaration of the desired distribution of your assets following your death. Die without one, and the state decides who gets what, without regard to your wishes or your heirs’ needs. If you die without a Will, the law deems that you have died “intestate”, meaning that you have left no instructions as to how you want your assets to be distributed and by whom. In addition, the court appoints an administrator, who may not be the person of your choice, to distribute your assets. Spouses may not be entitled to all of your assets, and partners without the benefit of marriage, stepchildren, unadopted children, and friends are all excluded under Pennsylvania intestacy laws. A Will enables you to: Direct the management and distribution of your assets Make gifts to a non-family member such as a partner, friend, stepchild, or unadopted child Select a person of your choice to manage your Estate (Executor) Select for the care of your minor children (Guardian) Select a person to handle the financial management of your minor child’s inheritance (Trustee) Select the age at which your child receives an inheritance without a trustee Distribute your Estate in unequal shares among your children based upon need or other factors Make specific gifts of real estate, a business, or personal property such as collectibles, sporting goods, vehicles, jewelry, or family heirlooms to family members or friends Make a gift to your favorite charity Creating a will and getting started with your estate plan is one of the most thoughtful things you can do for your loved ones. If you're considering taking that first step towards protecting your family, contacting one of our experienced estate planning attorneys is a great place to start.

Standard Client Service Agreement Terms & Conditions Flat Fee Engagements We are pleased that you have engaged our law firm to serve as your legal counsel. For the sake of clarity, we have agreed to represent only those persons whose name(s) appear in the electronic invoice sent to you. We have not agreed to represent any other individual or entity in this matter. Furthermore, there are no intended third-party beneficiaries to the relationship between our law firm and you. Our representation is limited to the matter described in the electronic invoice sent to you. To the extent that you wish to engage our firm to represent you regarding other matters, you will be asked to sign a separate engagement agreement describing the scope of that representation prior to our initiation of services. It is our policy to confirm in writing the nature of the engagement and the terms of our legal representation. If you do not understand all of the terms or language in this engagement agreement, please contact us prior to paying the invoice. The scope of our representation does not include advice or services regarding accounting, tax, personal financial matters or business management, and related non-legal matters and advice. If you wish for us to consult with other professionals retained by you regarding this matter, we will communicate with you in writing to confirm the scope of such consultations prior to initiating same. If applicable, billing statements normally will be rendered monthly for work performed and expenses recorded on our books during the previous month. Payment is due promptly upon receipt of our statement. if any statement remains unpaid for more than 30 days, we may suspend performing services until arrangements satisfactory to us have been made for payment of outstanding statements and the payment of future fees and expenses, and if such arrangements are not made, subject to applicable rules of professional conduct governing attorneys, we may terminate the engagement and withdraw from further representation. All invoices not contested in writing within fifteen (15) business days of receipt are deemed accepted by you as true and accurate and are payable in full. Interest will be charged on all accounts not paid when due at a rate of 1.5% per month. In the event you fail to pay all amounts which become due, and we refer such matter to an attorney or collection agency, you agree to pay, in addition to the amounts due, any and all costs we incur as a result of such action, including reasonable attorneys fees. We may use electronic mail (e-mail) to facilitate our communications with you, unless you direct us to do otherwise. However, please keep in mind that the security of e-mail cannot be guaranteed. It is especially important to keep this in mind when sending sensitive information. As with all of our client communications, we will take all reasonable steps to maintain confidentiality when communicating to you by e-mail. You are aware that the firm represents many other companies and individuals. You agree that we may continue to represent or may undertake in the future to represent existing or new clients in any matter that is not substantially related to our work for you, even if the interests of such clients in those other matters may be directly or indirectly adverse to you. We agree, however, that your prospective consent to conflicting representation contained in the preceding sentence shall not apply in any instance where, as a result of our representation of you, we have obtained proprietary or other confidential information of a non-public nature, that, if known to such other client, could be used in any such other matter by such client to your material disadvantage. You should know that, in similar engagement letters with many of our other clients, we have asked for similar agreements to preserve our ability to represent you. Unless previously terminated, our representation of you will terminate upon the conclusion of the matter described in your electronic invoice. We may, but are not obligated to provide you with written notice to you that the engagement has concluded. At the conclusion of your matter, we will retain your physical file for not less than five (5) years, consistent with the requirements of Pennsylvania Rule of Professional Conduct 1.15(c). This includes all financial records relating to the representation, trust-account records, ledgers, billing records, and any documents reflecting client property. We may convert some or all file materials into a digital format for storage. In the process of digitizing documents, any original paper documents you provided will be returned to you. Copies of documents you provided will not be returned unless you request them in writing. After digitization, we may destroy paper copies of documents in the file, except for originals that must be returned to you or property we are ethically required to preserve. At the expiration of the file-retention period, we may destroy the remaining physical file materials unless you notify us in writing that you wish to take possession of them before destruction. This policy applies equally to any file materials stored with a third-party vendor. We reserve the right to charge reasonable administrative fees and costs associated with researching, retrieving, copying, and delivering any requested file materials.

The bankruptcy attorneys at Fiffik Law Group, PC have helped thousands of clients take back their lives. Lowering mortgage payments or tackling your toughest debts, our experienced bankruptcy attorneys can help you. Bankruptcy Bankruptcy can be a complex process, and the average person probably isn’t equipped to go through it alone. Working with a bankruptcy attorney can help ensure your bankruptcy goes as smoothly as possible and complies with all the applicable rules and regulations governing bankruptcy proceedings. Most people filing bankruptcy will want to file under either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Either type of case may be filed individually or by a married couple filing jointly. Chapter 7: is known as “straight” bankruptcy or “liquidation”. It requires an individual to give up property that is not otherwise ”exempt” under the law, so the property can be sold to pay creditors. Generally, those who file Chapter 7 keep all their property except property that is very valuable or that is subject to a lien they cannot avoid or afford to pay. Chapter 13: is a type of “reorganization” used by individuals to pay all or a portion of their debts over a period of 3-5 years using their current income. Our attorneys have successfully handled many Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcies across Pennsylvania. Our attorneys are ready to evaluate your situation and help you decide whether bankruptcy is the right decision for you. DOWNLOAD BANKRUPTCY QUESTIONNAIRE Send us your completed form and one of our experienced bankruptcy attorneys will reach out to you soon. Chapter7 Bankruptcy Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Chapter 7 is often called a “straight bankruptcy.” You ask the court to discharge your debts in exchange for giving up your property except for “exempt” property which the law allows you to keep. In most cases, all your property will be exempt and not be affected by your bankruptcy case. You can protect the equity in your home, some cash in checking or savings accounts, a motor vehicle, retirement accounts, jewelry, and many household belongings. Property that is not exempt is sold, with the money distributed to your creditors. If you want to keep property that you cannot exempt, like a home with significant equity or a car and you are behind on the mortgage or car loan payments, a Chapter 7 case may not be the right choice for you. That is because Chapter 7 bankruptcy does not eliminate the right of mortgage holders or car loan creditors to take your property to cover your debt. Additionally, if your income is above a certain level defined by law, you may be required to file a Chapter 13 case. Married couples can file together but are not required to do so. If filing as a couple you double your ability to protect your assets. About sixty percent (60%) of all bankruptcy cases that are filed are Chapter 7 cases. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy A Chapter 13 bankruptcy is like a reorganization of your financial life. In a Chapter 13 case, you file a “plan” showing how you will pay off some portion of your past-due and current debts over three to five years. The most important thing about a chapter 13 case is that it allows you to keep valuable property – especially your home and car – if you can make the payments set forth in your plan. In most cases, these payments will be at least as much as your regular monthly payments on your mortgage or car loan, with some extra payment to get caught up on the amount you have fallen behind. You should consider filing a chapter 13 plan if you: 1) own your home and are in danger of losing it because you’ve fallen behind on mortgage payments; 2) are behind on car payments, but can catch up if given some time; or 3) have valuable property that does not qualify for an exemption under bankruptcy law, but you can afford to pay creditors from your income over time. Chapter13 Bankruptcy Can Bankruptcy Help with Student Loans in Pennsylvania? It's Complicated, But Here's What You Need to Know Fiffik Law Group, PC Jun 23 3 min read Defaulted Student Loans Looming? Pennsylvania Borrowers, Here's Your Game Plan Fiffik Law Group, PC Apr 23 4 min read Debunking the Top 5 Myths About Filing Bankruptcy in Pennsylvania Fiffik Law Group, PC Feb 17 4 min read Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting: Here We Go Again? Fiffik Law Group, PC Dec 27, 2024 2 min read Top 5 Reasons to File for Bankruptcy in Pennsylvania Fiffik Law Group, PC Dec 10, 2024 3 min read

Planning for the succession of a business is one of the most overlooked aspects of business planning. Your business needs a plan for every situation you could encounter in your future. Business Subscription Legal Plans Our subscription plans are designed for entrepreneurs from start-up to millions in annual revenue who are ready to add strategic, guided legal support focused on brand and business development. If one of these applies to you, please consider one of our plans: You think the only time you need a lawyer is for a lawsuit. If you avoid working with a lawyer until you’re in a lawsuit, that’s like solving all your medical problems in the emergency room. The fear of high billable rates gets in the way of getting the advice you need. You don’t know who to call about a particular issue. You don’t have enough time to figure out who to call for a legal issue. You’d like your employees to be able to call an attorney and not bother you with every legal issue. You get all your legal advice from Google or free online forms. (You get what you pay for). Our clients operate a diverse range of ventures including commercial & residential real estate investors, restaurants, entertainment venues, medical practices, medical service providers, dental practices, independent consultants, accounting practices, retail stores, construction firms, trucking companies, crane operators, childcare providers and many franchises. Each subscription plan offers unlimited legal advice, business coaching and strategy, document review, and other benefits for a monthly, predictable investment to support the growth of your brand and business. We can also customize a plan to fit your specific needs. Its time to make better, more informed decisions for your business. SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION Start-Up/Early Stage Business Advisor $500/Month 1 Business Entity Single Member; Owned by Spouses Located in PA No Employees LEARN MORE Real Estate Business Advisor $1,000/Month 1 Business Entity Single Member; Owned by Spouses Located in PA No Employees LEARN MORE Growth Stage Business Advisor $1,250/Month Up to 3 Business Entities Multiple Owners Located in PA Up to 10 Employees LEARN MORE Mature Stage Business Advisor Up to 5 Business Entities Multiple Owners Located in PA Up to 50 Employees $2,500/Month LEARN MORE All Plans Include: ✔ Unlimited Calls ✔ Review Business Legal Documents ✔ Letters on Behalf of Business ✔ Business Formations ✔ Employment/HR Advice ✔ 10% Discount on Additional Services Terms & Conditions

Pennsylvania DUI attorneys at Fiffik Law Group, PC have been eliminating or reducing charges for clients facing DUI charges for the past 30+ years with a high success rate. Our Pennsylvania DUI attorneys are ready to fight for you. DUI Defense Being arrested for drunk driving is an unexpected and often traumatic experience. Individuals charged with or convicted of impaired and intoxicated are often stigmatized and portrayed as irresponsible, dangerous criminals; however, the truth is that the people faced with these charges are often everyday, law-abiding citizens who simply made a mistake. There are more arrests in Pennsylvania for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) than any other single category of crimes, with Pennsylvania among the top 15 states for DUI arrest rate. Many DUI charges are defensible, based on the evidence surrounding your charges and any missteps that may have been made by law enforcement along the way. Let our experienced DUI defense lawyers build a defense and ensure you know what to expect at each step of the legal process. Consequences of DUI FIRST DUI OFFENSE PENALTIES The severity of a First Offense DUI conviction depends on your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level, controlled substances in your system, or your decision to refuse blood or breath testing. The higher your BAC, the higher the penalties. Drugs in your system or a refusal to submit to breath or blood testing place you in the highest tier. Under Pennsylvania law, there are 3 tiers of punishment depending upon your BAC level: BAC between .08 and .099%: Six months probation, no license suspension, no mandatory jail time, no ignition interlock device, a fine of $300, CRN evaluation (drug & alcohol assessment), treatment when ordered by the court, and alcohol highway safety school BAC between .10 and .159%: Prison sentence of between two days and six months, license suspension for 12 months (eligibility to apply for occupational limited license (OLL) after 60 days), fines between $500 and $5,000, CRN evaluation, treatment when ordered by the court, and alcohol highway safety school, no ignition interlock device required BAC of .16% or higher, controlled substance, or refusal to submit to testing: Prison sentence of a minimum of three days to a maximum of six months, license suspension for 12 months (eligibility to apply for an OLL after 60 days), fines between $1,000 and $5,000, treatment when ordered by the court, and alcohol highway safety school, no ignition interlock device required DUI DRIVER'S LICENSE SUSPENSION Aside from the penalties above for a first DUI offense, second and third offenses will result in your license being suspended for one year. This is the most damaging and destructive outcome of receiving a DUI. Losing the ability to drive can have a massive ripple effect on other areas of your life. Most importantly, losing your license can cause you to lose your job. Not being able to drive means it will be very difficult to report to work on time every day. Not being able to report to work often leads to termination. Even if you find another job, it will be just as difficult to get to and from a new job without a license. You might end up unemployed until you get your license reinstated. Some people are lucky enough to get help from friends or family, but it is still nearly impossible to fulfill your obligations without your own means of transportation. And, if you refuse to give breath or blood, you may receive an additional one year drivers license suspension from PennDOT. SECOND DUI OFFENSE PENALTIES Drivers convicted of a second DUI within ten years of a prior DUI face serious criminal and financial consequences. Not only will you face a mandatory term of incarceration, but you are likely to face additional penalties as well. The higher the BAC, the more severe your penalties are likely to be. For example, the amount in fines that you will be ordered to pay if convicted of DUI will vary depending on your BAC level: BAC between .08 and .09%: Minimum of 5 days and maximum of 6 months in jail, $300 to $2,500 in fines, license suspended for 12 months BAC .10 and .159%: Minimum of 30 days and maximum of 6 months in jail, $750 to $5,000 in fines, license suspended for 12 months BAC .16% and above: Minimum of 90 days and maximum of 5 years in jail, $1,500 to $10,000 in fines, license suspended for 18 months Any BAC: Ignition interlock device installed for 1 year, up to 150 hours of community service, alcohol highway safety school, alcohol & drug treatment THIRD DUI OFFENSE PENALTIES If you have been convicted of two prior DUI's in the past 10 years, the next offense could involve a serious conviction. Depending on your BAC level at the time of arrest, you may face consequences that include: BAC between .08 and .09%: 2nd-degree misdemeanor charges, minimum of 10 days and maximum of 2 years in prison, 12-month license suspension, $500 to $5,000 in fines BAC between .10 and .159%: 1st-degree misdemeanor charges, minimum of 1 year and maximum of 5 years in prison, 18-month license suspension, $1,500 to $10,000 in fines BAC .16% and above: 1st-degree misdemeanor charges and penalties similar to above Any BAC: Drug & alcohol treatment, alcohol highway safety school, ignition interlock device installed for at least 1 year Underage DUI A DUI UNDER THE AGE OF 21 LANDS YOU IN THE "HIGH BAC" RATE IN PENNSYLVANIA In Pennsylvania, minors are not allowed to consume any amount of alcohol and drive. Underage driving under the influence of alcohol carries very harsh penalties. Not only are the legal penalties increased, but the effects on car insurance and future employment are also severe. And driver under the age of 21 who is arrested for DUI in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is automatically charged under the state's "high" BAC rate. That means that even if it is the first offense, even if the amount of alcohol is minimal, the punishment is going to be severe. The minimum penalties for high-level impairment include at least two days in prison with a maximum sentence of 6 months behind bars if convicted. There's a minimum fine of $500 and as much as $5,000, as well as a license suspension of 12 months. Required alcohol driving safety classes could also be required. LONG-TERM CONSEQUENCES OF UNDERAGE DUI The long-term consequences of an underage DUI are significant. The cost of auto insurance will increase. On average in 2017, an underage DUI raised car insurance rates by 77%. The financial impact of the violation can linger for three to five years in most states. Depending on the driving history, auto insurance could be denied completely. The impact of the DUI conviction won't be limited to auto insurance - a DUI conviction automatically becomes part of the permanent criminal record. This means that employers, colleges, universities, banks, friends, and even strangers will all be able to see a DUI conviction with a simple background check. If your child has been arrested for underage DUI, it is important to take legal action as soon as possible. Our experienced underage DUI attorneys can help your child fight the charges and reduce the long term consequences of these charges. Chemical Testing - Blood and Breath Tests The police must conduct a breath test within two hours of the initial arrest or the results of the test may be deemed inadmissible in court. An officer will read you the Implied Consent Law, which states that all drivers agree to submit to a breath or blood test if suspected of DUI. However, a suspect still has the right to refuse any chemical testing. Whether you agree to be tested or refuse, the police are almost assuredly going to follow through with the arrest for DUI. If there is a refusal, however, the police will view that as an admission of guilt as an unwillingness to be tested comes across as acceptance of failing the test. Breath refusal still carries its own penalties, including: First Offense: 1-year drivers' license suspension Second Offense: 18-month license suspension Third Offense: 18-month license suspension While those breath refusal penalties are in addition to other DUI penalties, there may be reasons why a test could not be conducted or a breath sample couldn't be validated. The District Attorney is tasked with proving a refusal, so refusal cases are worth fighting because they're defensible cases. Police generally only request blood tests if there is suspicion of drug use based on the smell of marijuana or recovery of narcotics from the vehicle. Despite the inference that police and prosecution will try to draw a verdict from a refusal, many choose to refuse for other reasons that can be explained at trial. All drivers should be aware, however, that their driving privileges will likely be suspended for at least one year for a refusal regardless of the outcome of the criminal matter. Field Sobriety Tests The Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) is a battery of three tests performed during a traffic stop in order to determine if a driver is impaired and if probable cause for an arrest is present. According to researchers, officers trained to conduct SFST's correctly identified alcohol-impaired drivers over 90% of the time using the results of SFST's. The three tests that make up the SFST are the horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN), the walk-and-turn, and the one-leg stand tests. The HGN test is performed to observe whether the driver's eyes involuntarily jerk as a stimulus is moved side to side. Both the walk-and-turn and one-leg stand tests are "divided attention" tests that are easily performed by most sober drivers. They require a subject to listen and follow instructions while performing simple physical movements. Impaired persons have difficulty with tasks requiring their attention to be divided between simple mental and physical tasks. There are many factors that might render a person unable to successfully complete one or more of the SFST's. For instance, regarding the HGN test, the person asked to consent to such a test might suffering from an eye disease or condition that affects his/her ability to see and consequently confound the tests and results. Age, injury, or disease could also affect the ability of a person to perform the one-leg stand test or the walk-and-turn test. As a general rule, an officer should ask the DUI suspect whether they can give any reason why they cannot perform the test and their answer should be carefully noted in the officer's report. Other disabilities, such as deafness, should be taken into consideration and noted as well. ADMISSABILITY OF STANDARDIZED FIELD SOBRIETY TESTS Developed in the 1970s, these tests are scientifically validated, and are admissible as evidence in court in a majority of states. In the case of Commonwealth v. Weaver, the Pennsylvania Superior Court issued a precedential opinion that the results of HGN testing are admissible at any hearings related to a court's consideration of probable cause, but the results are still not admissible at an actual trial. In Pennsylvania's DUI cases, criminal defense lawyers sometimes file pretrial motions seeking the suppression of blood-alcohol evidence and argue that the arresting officer did not have probable cause to arrest the person. The court's decision means that an officer will be permitted to testify about HGN results before a judge considering the pretrial motion, but the officer could not present the same testimony to a jury at a trial. Aside from sobriety tests, officers are also permitted to use portable or preliminary breath tests (PBTs) in DUI investigations. While the officer obtained an alcohol concentration level reading on the breath test device, the actual reading on the device is not admissible at a trial. The results of a PBT test are not sufficiently reliable to show the amount of alcohol consumed. Instead, officers are only permitted to testify to the facts surrounding the administration of the test. However, sometimes the PBT test might help the defense. The results of the test could be used as exculpatory evidence concerning whether the officer has probable cause to make an arrest for DUI. DUI Impact on Auto Insurance Your rates could jump - or they could skyrocket. Companies estimate that your post-DUI rates could increase by anywhere between 40% - 60%, or even more. Auto insurance is seriously impacted by driving records. A DUI on a driving record causes auto insurers to view the driver as high-risk, and charge accordingly. Your car insurance company might drop you completely. Though they can't legally cancel your policy as soon as they know about the incident, they can decide not to renew your coverage once your current policy expires. You might be paying more for years to come. It varies state-by-state, but expect to shell out an increased premium for at least three years. You'll probably have to file an SR-22, FR-44, or FR-19. After a DUI, your state might require you to file one of these forms in order to prove that you're insured before they let you back on the road. SR-22's are also referred to as "statements of financial responsibility", and they're usually filed by your insurance company or agency on your behalf. You may not have to file an SR-22; again, that depends on incidental factors around the accident. Driving After a DUI Conviction DRIVING AFTER DUI CONVICTION: CAN YOU GET A WORK PERMIT? If you plead or are otherwise found guilty of DUI in Pennsylvania, your driving privileges will be suspended. For a first offense DUI, the license will be suspended for one year. Subsequent DUI convictions have more severe penalties. It is possible to get a restricted drivers license to drive to work or school, but it depends on whether your DUI was also associated with a refusal to submit to a field sobriety test. CONSEQUENCES OF REFUSING A BREATHALIZER TEST When you get pulled over in Pennsylvania on suspicion of DUI, the police officer might ask you to take a breathalyzer test. When you become a licensed driver in Pennsylvania, the fine print on your application states that by signing your name, you imply you are giving consent to take a breathalyzer test whenever a law enforcement officer requests it. By refusing this test, you are breaking the law, even if you have not been drinking. When you blow into this handheld device, it gives a reading of your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). The legal limit is 0.08 percent. Depending upon the jurisdiction, the officer might not ask you to take a breathalyzer test. Different police departments have different protocols for DUI stops. In some places, the officer might first subject you to a field sobriety test, which involves agility drills to help determine your level of intoxication. Only if you fail these tests can the officer ask you to take a breathalyzer. No matter which tests you are asked to take, refusal to do so may constitute a violation of the implied consent law and result in license suspension. OCCUPATIONAL LIMITED LICENSES An occupational limited license (OLL) authorizes you to drive a designated motor vehicle, under certain conditions, when it is necessary for the driver’s occupation, work, trade, medical treatment, or study. An OLL is often referred to as a work permit or bread and butter license. Unfortunately, if someone does get a breathalyzer refusal and his license is suspended for a 12-month period, there is no chance to get an occupational limited license. In fact, you’ll serve a license suspension in addition to the one assessed for the DUI conviction. Penalties for breathalyzer test refusals are harsher than those for DUI is many ways. For DUI, after a 60 day period into the DUI-related license suspension, that person would be eligible for an occupational limited license. The OLL, once granted, applies to the final 10 months. Depending on your violations you may have to obtain an Ignition Interlock (II) Occupational Limited License (OLL).  So for the first 60 days, you cannot drive and your license is truly suspended. But for the final 10 months of a DUI-related suspension, you would be eligible for an occupational limited license. To Apply for an OLL: 1. You must complete Form DL-15  (PDF) Occupational Limited License Petition. Follow the instructions on the petition. 2. Send it, along with the appropriate fee, to the address listed on the form. Be sure to keep the DL-15A  (PDF) portion with your OLL once received. 3. PennDOT will evaluate the petition and determine your eligibility by reviewing the violations on your driving record. 4. If you do not qualify for an OLL, you will be sent a letter denying your application. 5. If you qualify for an OLL, you will be sent an OLL camera card, which you will need to take to the nearest Photo License Center  to have your photo taken and receive your OLL.

If you've been hurt on the job in the Pennsylvania area, you need a workers' compensation lawyer to help you protect your rights. Our team of experienced Personal Injury attorneys is ready to help you pursue maximum workers' compensation. Workers Compensation We advise and represent injured workers all over the State of Pennsylvania and help them get the benefits they deserve. Getting injured on the job can be one of the most stressful experiences you can go through. Injured workers often find themselves quickly overwhelmed by not knowing what to do, confusing paperwork and not knowing how to handle phone calls from the employer and their insurance company. Employers and their insurance companies are less interested in your physical health and their fiscal health. As a result, they are going to try and steer you to cheap medical care that they control and try to reduce the chances of you receiving the workers comp benefits to which you may be entitled. Almost every worker in Pennsylvania is covered by the Workers’ Compensation Act. This law provides injured workers with a range of benefits, including wage loss and payment of medical bills for treating work injuries. That means that if you’ve been hurt on the job, you could very well be eligible for benefits. Injuries We've Handled Fiffik Law Group Attorneys have handled cases involving a wide range of injuries including: Back strain, bulging, and herniated discs Broken bones Loss of limbs Concussions and closed head injuries Injuries resulting from work-related motor vehicle accidents Carpal tunnel and other repetitive trauma injuries Lacerations and other injuries to the face and neck resulting in scarring Exposure to industrial chemicals Injuries resulting in death Workers' Comp Can Pay for Medical Cannabis Fiffik Law Group, PC Mar 21, 2023 1 min read $85,000 Recovered for Sign Installer Injured at Work Fiffik Law Group, PC Feb 28, 2022 2 min read OSHA VACCINE MANDATE: What Does That Mean For You? Fiffik Law Group, PC Nov 5, 2021 3 min read Work-Related Injuries up 9.5% in 2017 Fiffik Law Group, PC May 8, 2018 2 min read Pittsburgh Business Owner Receives $140,000 Workers Compensation Settlement Fiffik Law Group, PC May 31, 2016 1 min read