A Criminal Defense Attorney’s Guide: What to Do If You’re Arrested in Northeastern Pennsylvania

Mar 3, 2026 | Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being arrested is one of the most stressful experiences you can face. Whether you are charged with DUI, drug possession, assault, theft, or a serious felony, what you do in the first hours and days after an arrest can significantly impact your case. If you are facing criminal charges in Monroe County or anywhere in Northeastern Pennsylvania, understanding your rights—and contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately—can make all the difference.

At Cramer, Swetz, McManus, Jordan & Saylor, P.C., our criminal defense attorneys bring more than 60 years of combined trial experience to clients in state and federal courts. Here’s what you need to know.

Step 1: Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

One of the most important rights you have under the U.S. Constitution is the right to remain silent. If you are arrested:

  • Do not answer questions about the alleged crime.
  • Do not attempt to “explain your side” to the police.
  • Politely state that you want to speak with an attorney.

Anything you say can—and likely will—be used against you in court. Even seemingly harmless statements can later be taken out of context.

Step 2: Request a Criminal Defense Lawyer Immediately

Not all attorneys handle criminal cases regularly. You need a criminal defense lawyer experienced in Pennsylvania criminal law, local court procedures, and trial advocacy.

Our firm defends clients charged with:

  • DUI / DWI in Pennsylvania
  • Drug possession, delivery, and trafficking
  • Assault and violent crimes
  • Theft and property crimes
  • Felony and misdemeanor offenses
  • Juvenile offenses
  • Probation violations
  • Federal criminal charges

Early legal intervention can lead to reduced charges, suppression of evidence, or even dismissal in some cases.

Step 3: Understand the Charges Against You

Pennsylvania crimes are typically graded as summary offenses, misdemeanors, or felonies, with penalties that may include:

  • Jail or prison time
  • Mandatory minimum sentences
  • Fines and court costs
  • License suspension (especially in DUI cases)
  • A permanent criminal record

An experienced Northeastern Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney will analyze:

  • Whether the stop or arrest was lawful
  • Whether your constitutional rights were violated
  • Whether evidence can be suppressed
  • Whether the prosecution can meet its burden of proof

DUI Arrests in Monroe County

DUI charges in Pennsylvania carry serious consequences, including mandatory license suspension and potential jail time, depending on blood alcohol content (BAC) and prior offenses. However, DUI cases often involve technical and procedural defenses, including:

  • Improper traffic stops
  • Faulty field sobriety testing
  • Breath or blood testing errors
  • Chain of custody issues

If you have been charged with DUI in the Poconos or surrounding areas, immediate legal representation is critical.

Federal Criminal Charges Require Specialized Experience

Federal cases are different from state prosecutions. They involve strict procedural rules and federal sentencing guidelines that can result in severe penalties. Not every criminal defense attorney practices in federal court.

If you are under federal investigation or charged with a federal offense in Pennsylvania, securing experienced federal defense counsel is essential.

Why Hiring the Right Criminal Defense Attorney Matters

The prosecution begins building its case immediately. You should have someone building your defense just as quickly. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can:

  • Conduct an independent investigation
  • Interview witnesses
  • File pre-trial motions
  • Negotiate favorable plea agreements
  • Take your case to trial if necessary

Your future, reputation, and freedom may be at stake. Do not gamble on inexperience.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been arrested in Northeastern Pennsylvania, including Monroe County and the Pocono region, the attorneys at Cramer, Swetz, McManus, Jordan & Saylor, P.C. are ready to help.

With decades of combined experience handling DUI charges, drug crimes, violent offenses, felony cases, and federal criminal defense, our team is prepared to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

Call (570) 421-5568 today to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney.

Categories