Your Future May Depend on How You Handle Charges in Montgomery County

Local police from Norristown PD to the Abington Township Police Department send cases into the Montgomery County justice system daily.

After an arrest in Montgomery County, your case may begin in a Magisterial District Court or move straight to the Court of Common Pleas in Norristown. Depending on the charges, you or a loved one could be held at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in Eagleville or released on bail while awaiting hearings.

Because the process moves quickly and can get confusing once charges are filed, it’s crucial to have a lawyer who knows the local courts, judges, and prosecutors.

At Fienman Defense, attorney Michael Fienman represented clients across Montgomery County, and we know how to navigate the county’s system. Our Montgomery County law office is conveniently located at 450 N Narberth Ave, Suite 2, in Narberth. Call (610) 828-3338 today for a free consultation with a Montgomery County defense lawyer who can fight for you.

Criminal Defense in Montgomery County, PA

Pennsylvania divides criminal charges into three main categories:

  • Summary Offenses – Minor violations such as disorderly conduct or underage drinking. These cases are often heard in Magisterial District Courts across Montgomery County.
  • Misdemeanors – More serious offenses, including certain theft charges, simple assault, and first-time DUI cases. These can carry jail time and fines, and many are resolved in the Court of Common Pleas in Norristown.
  • Felonies – The most serious charges, such as drug trafficking, aggravated assault, or sex crimes. Felony convictions can lead to lengthy prison sentences at state facilities, and cases are tried at the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas.

Law enforcement in Montgomery County is aggressive in pursuing certain crimes. DUI enforcement remains a top priority, with roadside checkpoints and heavy patrols around King of Prussia, the Blue Route (I-476), and Route 202. The county also participates in multi-agency drug task forces targeting opioid and fentanyl distribution.

Montgomery County Charges We Handle

At Fienman Defense, our nearby defense attorneys represent clients facing the full range of criminal charges in Montgomery County, including:

  • Assault & Domestic Violence – Charges may arise from disputes in homes, bars, or public areas across towns like Abington and Norristown. Convictions can bring jail time, restraining orders, and long-term consequences.
  • Drug Charges—From small possession cases in college towns like Bryn Mawr to felony distribution, Montgomery County takes drug crimes seriously. Our team defends clients against state and federal drug prosecutions.
  • DUI Charges – Arrests often occur after traffic stops near Route 422, I-76, or local bars in King of Prussia and Conshohocken. Many first-time offenders may be eligible for ARD.
  • Traffic Violations – Speeding, reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license can lead to hefty fines and points on your license. Montgomery County drivers ticketed on major highways need strong representation to protect their records.
  • Violent Crimes – From aggravated assault to homicide, violent crime charges are among the most serious, with cases prosecuted aggressively in Norristown.
  • Firearms & Weapons Charges—Pennsylvania has strict firearms laws, and Montgomery County courts routinely hear cases involving illegal possession or carrying without a license.
  • Sex Crimes – Allegations of sexual assault, child pornography, or indecent exposure can lead to life-changing penalties and mandatory sex offender registration.
  • Crimes Against the Public & Peace – Charges like disorderly conduct or resisting arrest often start with small encounters but can have major consequences.
  • Arson & Property Crimes – Damage to property, burglary, or arson cases may result in felony charges and restitution orders.
  • Fraud & White-Collar Crimes – Montgomery County has prosecuted identity theft, embezzlement, and SNAP fraud cases, sometimes in partnership with federal agencies.
  • Juvenile Crimes – Young people in towns like Pottstown, Abington, and Plymouth Meeting often face charges for theft, underage drinking, or drug possession. We fight to protect their futures.
  • Kidnapping & Family Crimes – Allegations involving custody disputes, child endangerment, or family-related crimes carry severe penalties and require a nuanced defense.
  • Theft & Fraud Charges – Shoplifting at the King of Prussia Mall or larger-scale thefts can result in anything from a summary offense to a felony conviction.
  • Professional License Defense – Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, CDL holders, and other licensed professionals face unique risks when accused of a crime. These cases often involve both criminal charges and administrative hearings before licensing boards. We defend clients in both, protecting careers and livelihoods.

Where in Montgomery County Will Your Case be Heard?

In Montgomery County, summary offenses such as traffic violations are typically heard in local Magisterial District Courts, while misdemeanors and felonies are handled at the Court of Common Pleas in Norristown. Defendants awaiting trial may also be held at the county correctional facility.

At Fienman Defense, we regularly appear in these courts. Our Narberth office is conveniently located near Norristown and King of Prussia, allowing us to efficiently represent clients throughout Montgomery County.

Directions to Fienman Defense

The Montgomery County Criminal Court Process – What to Expect

The criminal process in Montgomery County moves fast and is typically more conservative than in Philadelphia. Knowing what to expect can help you make better decisions:

  • Arrest & Booking – If police believe they have probable cause, they can arrest you. Depending on the charge, you may be booked at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in Eagleville or held in a local station until bail is set. Read Arrested in Lower Merion? Here’s What to Expect
  • Preliminary Hearing & Arraignment – Most cases begin in a Magisterial District Court near where the arrest happened. Your case will proceed to the Court of Common Pleas in Norristown for more serious charges. A judge reviews the evidence at this stage, and you enter a plea. Read Cost of Pleading Guilty
  • Pre-Trial Negotiations – If you’re a first-time offender, your defense lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate a plea, or argue for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD). Montgomery County also offers treatment courts in some instances.
  • Trial & Sentencing – If your case goes to trial, you can choose a jury or bench trial (where the judge decides). Pennsylvania’s sentencing guidelines determine penalties, including fines, probation, or jail if convicted.

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

Criminal Penalties in Montgomery County

The penalties for criminal charges in Montgomery County depend on the type of offense, your record, and whether diversion programs apply.

First-Offense DUI Fines up to $5,000, license suspension (up to 12 months), and possible jail time Many first-time offenders may qualify for ARD (75 Pa. C.S.A. § 3807), which can lead to dismissal and expungement.
Drug Possession Misdemeanor charges may bring probation or short jail terms; felony distribution can mean years in state prison Montgomery County Drug Task Force prosecutes aggressively, but diversion programs and treatment courts may be available.
Assault/Theft Simple assault or shoplifting may be a misdemeanor with fines or probation; aggravated assault or felony theft may carry multi-year prison sentences Local examples include shoplifting at King of Prussia Mall or bar fights in Conshohocken.
Firearms & Weapons Carrying without a license can bring up to 5 years in prison; using a firearm in a felony adds mandatory sentencing Montgomery County judges take gun crimes seriously, especially in Norristown and surrounding areas.
Sex Crimes Mandatory sex offender registration, lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines Even accusations of sexual assault or child pornography can damage your reputation before trial; outcomes depend heavily on skilled defense.
Juvenile Offenses Juvenile detention, probation, mandatory counseling, or diversion programs Many juvenile cases in Pottstown, Abington, and Plymouth Meeting focus on rehabilitation, but serious offenses may be tried in adult court.
Fraud & White-Collar Crimes Restitution, probation, or multi-year prison sentences for felony fraud Montgomery County courts prosecute SNAP violations, embezzlement, and identity theft aggressively, often in partnership with federal agencies.
Violent Crimes Felony charges may bring decades in prison, including life sentences for homicide Prosecutors in Norristown pursue violent crime cases with maximum penalties; bail is often denied in severe cases.

What are the Collateral Consequences of a Conviction in Monto?

Even beyond fines or jail, a conviction in Montgomery County can affect:

  • Employment opportunities
  • Housing applications and background checks
  • Immigration status and travel eligibility
  • Professional licenses and security clearances

Montgomery County’s treatment courts and ARD program give some first-time offenders the chance to avoid jail and clear their records, but eligibility depends on your case and having a defense lawyer who knows how to advocate for you.

Are You Eligible for ARD in Montgomery County, PA?

Don’t leave your future to chance. Call (610) 828-3338 today for a free consultation with a Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer.

Successful Cases for Good People in Montco

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Why Choose Fienman Defense for Criminal Cases in Montgomery County

When facing criminal charges in Montgomery County, the lawyer you choose can make all the difference. At Fienman Defense, we’ve built our reputation on local experience, courtroom credibility, and a relentless commitment to protecting our clients’ rights.

  • Deep Local Experience – We are fixtures in Montgomery County’s courts, which gives us firsthand knowledge of local judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures.
  • Unique DUI & Criminal Defense Training – Attorney Michael H. Fienman has completed the same DWI detection training as law enforcement officers and is certified in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (NHTSA-approved). He has also completed an advanced DUI Trial Skills course covering ARIDE and DRE protocols, giving him an edge in challenging the state’s evidence.
  • Proven Track Record – From first-time DUIs resolved through ARD to felony cases reduced or dismissed, our firm has helped clients across Montgomery County achieve results that protect their futures.
  • Client-Focused Representation – As one former client shared: “Mike answered any and all questions I had and handled everything…an experienced attorney who is good at his job.” – Daniel D.
  • Accessible & Strategic – With a convenient Narberth office near Norristown and King of Prussia, we’re positioned to serve clients countywide. We also offer 24/7 consults because we know arrests don’t just happen during business hours.

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.

Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

Call (610) 828-3338 today for a free consultation with a Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer who knows the system inside and out.

FAQs for a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Montgomery County

What Happens If I’m Arrested In a Montgomery County Town?

If you’re arrested in Montgomery County, you may be booked at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in Eagleville or a local police station, such as Norristown PD or Abington Township Police. From there, your case usually starts in a Magisterial District Court before moving to the Court of Common Pleas in Norristown if the charges are serious.

Can My Record Be Expunged In Montgomery County?

Yes. If your case is dismissed or resolved through ARD, or you are convicted of certain summary offenses, you may be eligible for expungement in Montgomery County. Felony expungement is limited but may be available under specific circumstances.

What Is The Role Of The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office?

The DA’s Office in Norristown prosecutes criminal cases across the county. They decide whether to file charges, negotiate plea deals, or pursue a trial. Having a defense lawyer familiar with the DA’s office can help in negotiations.

What If I Miss a Court Date In Montgomery County?

Failing to appear can result in a bench warrant for your arrest, additional charges, and bail forfeiture. If you miss court in Norristown or a district court, contact your lawyer immediately to address the warrant before police take further action.

Do I Have to Go To Every Court Hearing In Montgomery County?

Not always. Your lawyer can often appear for you at preliminary hearings in Magisterial District Courts, but you’ll usually need to attend arraignments, trials, and sentencings at the Court of Common Pleas in Norristown unless waived.

Are Montgomery County Courts Stricter Than Philadelphia?

Montgomery County courts are often considered more conservative than Philadelphia courts, especially on DUI, drug, and violent crime cases. Judges in Norristown frequently impose stricter sentencing guidelines, which makes experienced local defense essential.

Can Montgomery County Police Question Me Without A Lawyer?

Yes, they can attempt to question you, but you are never required to answer without a lawyer present. Whether it’s Norristown PD, Abington PD, or Pennsylvania State Police, you should politely invoke your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.

When Should I Contact A Montgomery County Lawyer?

You should contact a defense lawyer immediately after an arrest or if the police request to speak with you. The earlier you involve a Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer, the stronger your protection will be against self-incrimination and procedural mistakes.

We Represent People From Across Montco

Montgomery 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.

Danile D.