About Peter C Bowers Law Offices — Criminal Defense Philadelphia Pennsylvania
Criminal defense Philadelphia clients rely on Peter C Bowers and his team for tough, communicative representation in one of Pennsylvania’s busiest criminal court systems. Located at 441 N 5th Street in the Northern Liberties area of Philadelphia, the firm handles criminal cases, vehicle accidents, and general legal matters. Peter has practiced for over 20 years and is known for straight-forward honesty, strong communication, and fighting hard in Philadelphia courts. Find more Philadelphia, Pennsylvania attorneys.
Attorney Alex and paralegal Meghan round out the team. Meghan is praised specifically for keeping clients updated throughout their cases. The firm handles both criminal matters and car accident cases, making it a practical full-service resource for Philadelphia clients navigating difficult situations.
What Clients Say
Reviewers call Peter the best lawyer in Philadelphia. Clients describe cases won, charges dropped, and courtroom performances that delivered far better results than they expected. Multiple clients have used the firm for different legal matters over 20-plus years. Staff members including Meghan and Alex are singled out by name for their dedication and follow-through.
Criminal Defense Philadelphia — Practice Areas & Services
- Criminal Defense: Misdemeanor and felony cases in Philadelphia Municipal Court and Court of Common Pleas, with aggressive advocacy and clear client communication.
- DUI & Traffic Defense: Pennsylvania DUI charges and traffic matters handled with strategic challenges to stops, sobriety testing, and evidence procedures.
- Vehicle Accident Claims: Personal injury cases for Philadelphia clients involved in car accidents, handled on contingency alongside the criminal defense practice.
- Real Estate Closings: Settlement services for Philadelphia home buyers and sellers, handled by attorney Bauer with professionalism and clear communication.
- General Legal Matters: The firm handles a broad range of legal needs for Philadelphia clients from its Northern Liberties base.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Philadelphia criminal court process work?
Most Philadelphia criminal cases begin in Municipal Court for a preliminary hearing or arraignment. Felony cases are bound over to the Court of Common Pleas. Philadelphia’s high case volume means docket management and early negotiation with the DA’s office are critical to case strategy.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania misdemeanors carry up to five years; felonies carry longer sentences and serious collateral consequences including loss of voting rights and firearms privileges. A Philadelphia attorney can evaluate whether charges can be reduced before trial.
Can Pennsylvania DUI charges be expunged?
Pennsylvania DUI convictions generally cannot be expunged unless the defendant was accepted into ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition), a first-offender program. An attorney can assess ARD eligibility at the earliest stage of the case.
Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia County population: Approximately 1.55 million residents — Pennsylvania’s largest city and county — U.S. Census Bureau
- Pennsylvania DUI ARD program: First-time DUI offenders may be eligible for ARD, which allows expungement upon completion — 75 Pa. C.S. §3807
- Pennsylvania statute of limitations: 2 years for misdemeanors; 5 years for most felonies — 42 Pa. C.S. §5552–5553
Related Guide: Criminal Defense Lawyers Guide — ReachAttorneys


