Protect Yourself & Your Record from Criminal Charges in Delco

Local police departments across Delco, like Upper Darby PD, Radnor Township Police, and Chester PD, send cases into the Delaware County justice system daily. Arrests may land you in a local holding facility, or in some cases, at the George W. Hill Correctional Facility in Thornton.

Your case could begin in one of Delaware County’s 32 Magisterial District Courts and, if charges are serious, proceed to the Court of Common Pleas in Media. Because the process moves quickly, it’s vital to have a lawyer who understands local procedures, diversion programs like ARD, and the tendencies of Delaware County judges and prosecutors.

Call (610) 565-4761 or contact Fienman Defense today for a free consultation.

Criminal Defense in Delaware County, PA

Pennsylvania divides crimes into three main categories:

  • Summary Offenses – Minor violations like disorderly conduct or underage drinking. These are typically heard in local Magisterial District Courts.
  • Misdemeanors – Mid-level charges, such as simple assault, petty theft, or first-time DUI. Many are resolved in the Media courthouse.
  • Felonies – The most serious charges, including drug trafficking, aggravated assault, or sex crimes. Felony cases are prosecuted aggressively in Delaware County’s Court of Common Pleas.

Delaware County is known for tough enforcement of DUI laws, with frequent checkpoints on I-95 and Route 1 and near college campuses like Swarthmore and Villanova. The DA’s office also prioritizes drug task force cases, violent crimes in Chester, and gun offenses throughout the county.

Charged in Philly’s Suburbs? Knowing the Local Courts Matters

Delaware County Charges We Handle

Our team defends the full spectrum of Delco charges—on I-95 and the Blue Route (I-476), along Baltimore Pike and MacDade Boulevard, near 69th Street in Upper Darby, the Springfield Mall corridor, and around campuses like Swarthmore and Widener.

  • Assault & Domestic Violence — These cases often arise from disputes in homes and apartments from Prospect Park to Lansdowne, or bar/restaurant incidents along State Street in Media. Protective orders and no-contact conditions are common; we move quickly to address them.
  • Drug Charges — From street-level possession near transit hubs like 69th Street Transportation Center to task force investigations along the I-95 corridor in Chester, Delco prosecutes drug cases aggressively, including possession with intent and conspiracy.
  • Marijuana Crimes — Despite changing attitudes, marijuana DUIs and unlawful distribution still lead to arrests on local roadways (Route 1, West Chester Pike). We scrutinize stop justification and testing methods.
  • DUI Charges — DUI patrols and checkpoints are common near I-476, I-95, and nightlife areas in Media and Springfield. First-time offenders may be eligible for ARD; we also challenge SFSTs, breath, and blood results.
  • Traffic Violations — Speeding, reckless driving, driving under suspension, and hit and run citations frequently originate on the Blue Route, Township Line Road, and Baltimore Pike. We fight points, license suspensions, and insurance spikes.
  • Violent Crimes — Aggravated assault, robbery, and homicide are prosecuted firmly, especially in high enforcement zones in and around Chester and Upper Darby. We build defenses from video, forensics, and witness credibility.
  • Firearms & Weapons Charges — Unlicensed carry, prohibited person possession, and firearm enhancements arise from traffic stops on I 95/I 476 and local corridors. We evaluate search, seizure, and possession theories.
  • Sex Crimes — Allegations near schools and campuses (e.g., Swarthmore, Widener) and online investigations can trigger severe penalties and registration requirements. Early intervention and a privacy-minded strategy are key.
  • Crimes Against the Public & Peace — Disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and related charges often begin as minor encounters in parks, malls, or on SEPTA lines and can escalate quickly without counsel.
  • Arson & Property Crimes — From shoplifting at Springfield Mall to burglary or arson in neighborhoods across Ridley and Haverford Townships, we pursue diversion and challenge identification evidence.
  • Fraud Charges & SNAP Violations — Delco brings coordinated fraud cases, including identity theft and benefits fraud. We address restitution, intent, and charge grading.
  • Kidnapping & Family Crimes — Custody-related allegations and child endangerment cases demand careful handling to protect both the criminal matter and family court interests.
  • Theft Charges — Retail theft, receiving stolen property, and larger theft schemes arise across commercial corridors like Baltimore Pike and MacDade Boulevard. Value thresholds and priors matter—so does early advocacy.
  • Juvenile Crimes — Teen cases from Upper Darby, Springfield, and Radnor often focus on rehabilitation options; we work to keep matters in juvenile court and protect records.

The Delaware County Criminal Process

Every case is unique, but most Delco matters move through predictable stages. Use this checklist to understand where you are and what comes next:

  • Arrest or Summons: A stop, investigation, or warrant leads to custody or a mailed summons. Stay silent and ask for a lawyer.
  • Booking & Release: Processing at a local station or George W. Hill. Release conditions or bail may apply.
  • Preliminary Hearing (MDJ): The Commonwealth must show probable cause. We cross-examine witnesses, test the evidence, and push for dismissals or downgrades.
  • Grand Jury (Serious Felonies): In select cases, prosecutors present evidence in secret. A “true bill” sends the case forward.
  • Arraignment (Common Pleas): Formal charges are read in Media. We often waive appearance and enter a plea to streamline the process.
  • Discovery & Motions: We demand body cam, dash cam, calibration logs, lab reports, and file suppression or dismissal motions where the law supports it.
  • Negotiations & Programs: Where appropriate, we pursue ARD, treatment court, amendments, or pleas that protect your record and goals.
  • Trial: Bench or jury, depending on the charge. We challenge proof beyond a reasonable doubt at every element.
  • Sentencing & Aftercare: If convicted, we advocate for mitigation, alternatives, and set you up for compliance, appeals, or record relief.

Arrested in Delco? Here’s What to Expect

How Delaware County Differs from Philadelphia & Other Suburbs

Delco courts, particularly in Media, are known for a faster pace and more conservative handling of DUIs, gun cases, and violent crimes compared to Philadelphia. Unlike Philly’s centralized court system, Delaware County’s thirty-two Magisterial District Courts mean your first appearance usually happens right in the community where the incident occurred, before anything moves up to Media. That local, neighborhood-level process shapes outcomes from the start.

Enforcement also looks different here. Arrests often stem from traffic stops along I-95, I-476, Baltimore Pike, and MacDade Boulevard—corridors that see heavy patrols and checkpoints. Diversion options like ARD are available, but conditions and eligibility can vary from Philadelphia’s programs. In practice, knowing each MDJ’s tendencies, the DA’s unit assignments, and the rhythms of the Media courthouse can make a critical difference in case strategy and timing.

First-Time DUIs in Delaware County & Why ARD Is Your Best Option

Delco Courts & Resources

Why Choose Fienman Defense for Criminal Cases in Delaware County

  • Deep Local Experience – We appear regularly in Media, Upper Darby, Springfield, and Chester courts.
  • Specialized Training – Attorney Michael H. Fienman is certified in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing and advanced DUI defense skills.
  • Proven Results – From ARD placements to serious felony dismissals, our record shows strong outcomes for Delaware County clients.
  • Client-Centered Approach – Clear communication, 24/7 availability, and strategies tailored to your goals.

Successful Cases in Delco

More Case Results

At Fienman Defense, we don’t let prosecutors push our clients around just because they’ve been accused of something. We fight cases from start to finish by investigating the facts, challenging the evidence, and leveraging every legal tool to secure the best possible outcome. Call (610) 565-4761 today for a free consultation with a local and highly skilled criminal defense lawyer who knows the system inside and out.

Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

FAQs: Delaware County Criminal Defense

What Happens If I’m Arrested in Delaware County?

You may be booked at a local station or at the George W. Hill facility. Cases usually start in a Magisterial District Court and may proceed to the Court of Common Pleas in Media.

Am I Eligible for ARD in Delco?

ARD is typically available to certain first-time, non-violent offenders (including many first-time DUIs). Eligibility depends on the facts and prosecutorial review. We screen you early to avoid missed opportunities.

Do I Have to Attend Every Hearing?

Often, we can appear on your behalf for select preliminary matters in MDJ court. However, you will usually need to attend trials and sentencings in Media unless the court permits otherwise.

What If I Miss a Court Date?

The court can issue a bench warrant, and bail may be forfeited. Contact us immediately so we can address the warrant and minimize additional consequences.

Can Delco Police Question Me Without a Lawyer?

Officers can attempt to question you, but you do not have to answer. Politely state that you wish to remain silent and request an attorney, then stop talking until counsel is present.

How Fast Will My Case Move?

Delco dockets move quickly—especially at the MDJ level. Early engagement helps us secure discovery, file motions, and position you for diversion or negotiation sooner.

Can My Record Be Expunged or Sealed?

ARD dismissals and certain non-convictions may be expunged; some convictions may be eligible for limited access/record sealing after waiting periods. We’ll confirm your options and timing.

Where Will My Hearings Be?

Your first hearing is usually at the MDJ near the incident location. Felony or bound-over cases proceed to the Media courthouse at 201 W. Front St.

We Represent People Throughout Delaware County

Call (610) 565-4761 or contact Fienman Defense today for a free consultation.

Delaware County Criminal Defense

Client Reviews

Experience was excellent, Mike answered any and all questions I had and handled everything. Made me feel like I got my money's worth, an experienced attorney who is good at his job.

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