Chester Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing Charges in Chester, PA? Timing & Your Lawyer Matter

Chester cases often begin with the Chester Police Department or Delaware County Criminal Investigation Division (CID). Preliminary hearings occur in Magisterial District Courts, and more serious matters are bound over to the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas in Media. Bail, probation conditions, and evidence rulings can happen within days, so involving a defense attorney early can preserve your options.

We regularly appear in Chester’s courts and know how judges and prosecutors approach DUIs, drug cases, and violent crime prosecutions. Contact Fienman Defense’s Delaware County Office today for a free consultation and experienced legal representation.

Criminal Charges We Defend in Chester

• DUI & Traffic Offenses — Chester police and Pennsylvania State Troopers patrol I-95, Route 291 (Industrial Highway), and Edgmont Avenue. DUI stops often follow nightlife, Widener University events, or games at Subaru Park. We challenge the basis for stops, field tests, chemical testing, and license suspensions through PennDOT. Traffic charges like reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, or hit-and-run carry fines, points, and possible jail.
• Drug Crimes — Drug enforcement in Chester is aggressive, often involving the Delco CID and federal task forces. Cases range from possession near Highland Avenue Station to felony distribution charges tied to raids in Chester neighborhoods. We defend against possession, intent to deliver, prescription fraud, and conspiracy, attacking unlawful searches and weak evidence.
• Theft & Shoplifting — Retail theft charges frequently arise from stores along Avenue of the States, Route 352, and gas stations throughout the city. Cases may involve shoplifting, employee theft, or burglary. We review surveillance, eyewitness credibility, and prosecutorial evidence to minimize or dismiss charges.
• Fraud & White-Collar Crimes — Chester-area fraud cases include credit card theft, unemployment fraud, SNAP fraud, embezzlement, and wire fraud. Some remain in Media’s court; others escalate to federal court in Philadelphia. These complex cases require early strategy, financial review, and strong negotiation.
• Assault & Violent Crimes — From domestic disputes in Chester neighborhoods to altercations near bars on Edgmont Avenue, assault and weapons charges are common. Firearm cases—such as carrying without a license—bring mandatory sentences. We defend against simple assault, aggravated assault, domestic violence, robbery, and weapons charges, often raising self-defense or constitutional issues.
• Sex Offenses — Allegations of sexual assault, child exploitation, or internet-based crimes are prosecuted aggressively by the Delco DA. Convictions carry severe prison terms and sex offender registration. We challenge digital evidence, witness credibility, and procedural flaws to protect our clients.
• Juvenile Matters — Many juvenile cases in Chester stem from incidents at Chester High School, Widener University, and community sports leagues. Common charges include underage drinking, vandalism, fights, and theft. We aim to resolve cases through diversion, consent decrees, or school-based programs that safeguard a young person’s future.

The Criminal Process in Chester, PA

• Arrest & Booking — Initiated by Chester PD or state police; booking at headquarters or Delco CID.
• Preliminary Arraignment — Bail and release conditions set, often the same day.
• Preliminary Hearing — Held at Chester’s Magisterial District Court; judge decides if case should proceed to Common Pleas.
• Formal Arraignment (Media) — Charges confirmed; motion deadlines begin.
• Pre-Trial & Motions — Suppression challenges, discovery, plea negotiations, and ARD consideration.
• Trial — Bench or jury trial in Media’s Court of Common Pleas.
• Sentencing — Guided by Pennsylvania law; alternatives include probation, treatment, or county programs.

Arrested in Delco? Here’s What to Expect

Penalties & Sentencing in Chester

Criminal penalties in Chester depend on the charge, your prior record, and whether aggravating factors (injury, weapons, high BAC, minors) are present. Common outcomes include:

• DUI (First Offense) — Fines, license suspension, treatment, and possible ignition interlock; some first-time offenders may qualify for ARD.
• Drug Possession — Probation, mandatory treatment, or county jail; often linked to stops near Highland Avenue or I-95 corridors.
• Drug Distribution / PWID — Felony charges carrying state prison time, high fines, and potential asset forfeiture.
• Retail Theft — Ranges from summary fines to felony convictions; penalties may include restitution, probation, or jail.
• Assault (Simple or Aggravated) — Can result in probation, protective orders, or years in state prison, depending on severity.
• Firearms Offenses — Felonies often carry mandatory minimums, firearm prohibitions, and long prison terms.
• Fraud & White-Collar Crimes — Restitution, probation, or incarceration; severity depends on loss amounts and prior history.
• Juvenile Cases — Usually resolved through diversion, consent decrees, or probation focused on rehabilitation.

Collateral Consequences of a Conviction

• Employment & Professional Licensing: Criminal records can block job opportunities and trigger board discipline for CDL drivers, healthcare workers, and educators.
• Immigration: Non-citizens face risks of deportation or visa denial.
• Housing & Education: Convictions may affect rental approvals, student aid, or school discipline.
• Driving & Insurance: License suspensions, PennDOT points, and steep premium hikes often follow DUI and traffic convictions.
• Family & Custody: Records may be used in Delaware County custody disputes or protection-from-abuse cases.
• Reputation: Local news and court dockets create a lasting digital footprint that can follow you for years.

How Chester Cases Differ From Philadelphia

Criminal cases in Chester move through Delaware County’s Magisterial District Courts and then the Court of Common Pleas in Media, while Philadelphia uses its Municipal Court system. Delaware County courts are generally more conservative, with prosecutors and judges known for aggressive charging decisions and stricter bail practices. This can make the early stages of a Chester case feel faster and less flexible compared to Philadelphia’s system.

Program eligibility also differs. While both counties offer ARD and diversion options, Delaware County applies narrower criteria and may resist alternatives that Philadelphia prosecutors are more open to. These differences mean a strong defense strategy in Chester requires local knowledge of judge expectations, DA policies, and the best ways to position clients for ARD, plea negotiations, or trial.

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

Why Choose Fienman Defense for Chester Cases

• Local Knowledge — We regularly appear in Chester district courts and the Media courthouse, giving us insight into judge expectations, DA policies, and how cases move locally.
• DUI & Trial Skills — With advanced training in NHTSA testing and forensic evidence, we are equipped to dismantle DUI prosecutions and prepare strong defenses in serious felony trials.
• Direct Communication — You’ll speak directly with your lawyer, not just staff, and get clear next steps after your first call.
• Results-Oriented — From ARD placements to reductions in Chester assault and property cases, we pursue results that protect freedom, jobs, and reputations.

Our Case Results

FAQs: Criminal Defense in Chester

Serving Chester and Surrounding Communities

We represent clients throughout Chester City and Chester Township, as well as nearby communities where charges often begin and proceed to Media:

• Chester City
• Chester Township
• Upland
• Eddystone
• Parkside
• Marcus Hook
• Trainer
• Ridley Township

If you live in or near Chester and face criminal charges, call (610) 565-4761 for a free consultation with a local defense lawyer.