When facing criminal charges, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Every decision you make during this stressful time can have far-reaching consequences for your future. In these moments, having an experienced and trustworthy legal team by your side can make all the difference. At Bauer, Scanlon, & Wigginton (BSW) Lawyers, our team of seasoned attorneys understands this all too well. With over 25 years of combined experience in criminal defense and deep-rooted knowledge of Delaware County, we bring unparalleled expertise and insight to the courtroom.
In this blog, we will explore the unique advantages of working with a local legal team like BSW, the importance of understanding the criminal justice system from both sides, and how we leverage this knowledge to fight for our clients’ rights.
The Power of Local Experience
One of the standout qualities of BSW Lawyers is our “homegrown” approach to legal representation. As local attorneys in Media, PA (Delaware County)., we have experience attorneys with criminal prosecution and criminal defense. Our knowledge and experience provides significant advantages in navigating the intricacies of criminal defense.
- Knowing the Key Players: Our familiarity with local judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers helps us help our clients. Having worked with these key players over the years, we can adapt our defense strategies accordingly, ensuring that no opportunity is overlooked.
- Understanding Local Laws and Procedures: Laws may be uniform across the state, but each county operates with its own local procedures and nuances. Understanding how Delaware County handles specific cases—from arraignments to plea bargains to trials—enables us to stay ahead of the curve. For example, certain judges might favor alternative sentencing options, such as probation or treatment programs, rather than jail time. This allows us to craft defense strategies that align with local practices, potentially leading to more favorable outcomes for our clients.
- Familiarity with the Terrain: There’s something to be said about knowing the local landscape, both judicial and physical. If you tell us where you were arrested, chances are we know exactly where it happened and what factors might have influenced your case. Was it a well-known traffic hotspot? Were there environmental conditions that could impact witness credibility? Our familiarity with Delaware County gives us an edge in dissecting the details of your case.
A Criminal Defense Team That Understands Both Sides
At BSW Lawyers, we bring a unique perspective to criminal defense, thanks to our team’s diverse backgrounds. Each of our attorneys has experience working on both sides of the legal system. Patrick Scanlon, Jeff Bauer, and Conor Wigginton have all held roles that give them insight into how the prosecution builds its case. This experience includes time as a prosecutor, assistant district attorney, and public defender.
1. Prosecutorial Experience:
Having a former prosecutor on your defense team means we know how the other side thinks. We understand how prosecutors evaluate evidence, build arguments, and try to secure convictions. This insight allows us to preemptively challenge weak points in their case and develop counterstrategies designed to undermine their approach.
2. Public Defender Insight:
Our experience as public defenders has taught us the importance of fighting for every client, no matter the charge. Public defenders often handle a large caseload, and their role requires them to be adaptable, resourceful, and creative when defending clients. This background equips us with a deep sense of empathy and determination to ensure that each of our clients receives the robust representation they deserve.
3. Private Firm Acumen:
Combining public defense experience with private practice skills, BSW offers a well-rounded approach to legal representation. We don’t just focus on winning cases; we focus on doing it efficiently and effectively. Private practice allows us to devote more time and resources to each case, ensuring that no stone is left unturned.
Defending Your Rights with Tenacity
When you choose BSW Lawyers, you’re not just hiring attorneys; you’re hiring advocates. We approach every case with tenacity, no matter how minor or severe the charge. From DUI offenses and drug possession to more serious allegations like assault or theft, we apply the same level of commitment and care to each case.
- Thorough Investigation: Our defense strategies always start with a thorough investigation. We review the evidence with a fine-tooth comb, looking for inconsistencies, errors in procedure, or violations of your constitutional rights. From unlawful searches to misidentifications, we are relentless in challenging any aspect of the prosecution’s case that could weaken their position.
- Expert Consultation: In complex cases, we often consult with experts in fields such as forensic science, accident reconstruction, or digital evidence analysis. By bringing in specialists, we can challenge the validity of key evidence presented by the prosecution, ensuring that our clients are not convicted based on faulty or misleading information.
- Client-Centered Approach: At BSW, we recognize that being accused of a crime can be an overwhelming experience. That’s why we take the time to listen to your side of the story and explain your legal options in clear, understandable terms. We believe in empowering our clients with knowledge, so they can make informed decisions about their defense.
When Criminal and Civil Law Overlap
While BSW Lawyers are primarily focused on criminal defense, we understand that legal issues often span multiple areas of law. Criminal charges can sometimes lead to civil complications, such as restraining orders or custody battles. Our team is equipped to handle these overlapping legal matters, ensuring that all aspects of your case are addressed comprehensively.
Whether you’re dealing with a domestic issue or need help with wills, powers of attorney (POA), or health care proxy documentation, BSW Lawyers can provide the support you need. By offering both criminal and civil legal services, we help clients navigate their legal challenges with confidence and peace of mind.
Call us for a free Consultation
If you’re facing criminal charges in Delaware County, time is of the essence. The sooner you seek legal counsel, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. At BSW Lawyers, we offer consultations to anyone dealing with criminal charges, giving you the opportunity to discuss your case with our experienced team and explore your legal options.
Our goal is to provide each client with energetic and knowledgeable representation that is difficult to match. With our unique combination of local insight, prosecutorial experience, and unwavering dedication to your defense, we are confident in our ability to fight for your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Whether you’re facing criminal charges or dealing with a civil matter, BSW Lawyers are here to offer the support and advocacy you need. With over 25 years of combined experience and deep connections within Delaware County’s legal system, we are the team you can trust to defend your rights. Reach out today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward securing the defense you deserve.