Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Philadelphia, PA – Fighting Charges in the City of Brotherly Love

Last reviewed by Michael Smith, Senior Editor of the ReachAttorneys Editorial Team, in March 2026 · Our editorial standards →

Philadelphia Criminal Courts: What You’re Up Against

Philadelphia has one of the busiest criminal court systems in Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas and Municipal Court process hundreds of thousands of criminal cases per year. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor in Municipal Court or a serious felony in the Court of Common Pleas, having an experienced Philadelphia criminal defense attorney who knows the local prosecutors, judges, and procedures can dramatically change your outcome.

Common Criminal Charges in Philadelphia

• DUI – Pennsylvania has a tiered DUI system based on BAC; ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) is available for first-time offenders
• Drug offenses – Philadelphia has a diverse drug court system; diversion programs available for some offenders
• Assault and aggravated assault
• Theft, robbery, and burglary
• Gun charges – Philadelphia aggressively prosecutes illegal firearms cases
• Domestic violence – PA mandatory arrest policies; PFA (Protection from Abuse) orders common
• White collar and financial crimes

ARD Program – First-Offender Relief in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) program allows eligible first-time offenders to complete a supervision period and have charges dismissed and expunged. It’s available for DUI, certain drug offenses, and other non-violent charges. An experienced Philadelphia criminal defense attorney will evaluate your eligibility immediately.

Find a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Philadelphia on ReachAttorneys

ReachAttorneys.com connects Philadelphia residents with verified criminal defense attorneys serving Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware, Bucks, and Chester counties. Many offer same-day consultations for urgent cases.

FAQ

Can I get a DUI expunged in Pennsylvania?

If you completed the ARD program, your DUI may be expunged. A standard DUI conviction is much harder to expunge in PA. A Philadelphia DUI attorney will assess your eligibility and handle the petition.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.