purchase, george & murphey.
purchase, george & murphey.
Charged with a crime, or about to be charged with a crime, in Pennsylvania? Don’t know what to expect? Scared about the possibility that you will go to prison? Worried about losing your job? You used to take your freedom for granted. Now, it’s all you can think about. At the Erie law firm of Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C., we defend freedom, one person at a time, one case at a time.
No one can promise results. Every case unfolds based on its own unique facts. In fact, it is unethical for lawyers to guarantee a particular outcome. However, knowing what other cases a lawyer has handled – and handled well – is another big factor for you to consider when choosing the right lawyer for you and your case.
View our criminal case results to learn about the criminal cases previously defended by Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. and to help you decide whether we are the right Erie, PA criminal defense attorneys for you.
This form is fully confidential. We will safeguard your privacy and reputation. We will contact you within 24 hours. If you need immediate assistance, please call our office: 814.402.8826
The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Charged with DUI in Pennsylvania. Learn what happens next and how you can protect your family, your job, and your freedom.
Although we take great pride in our excellent case results, our greatest satisfaction comes from the kind words shared by our clients. Read what others say about us here.
We defend freedom and pursue justice for people facing a variety of criminal charges, including:
To learn more about criminal charges in Pennsylvania, view our Criminal Defense FAQ page.
The first step on your road to justice is choosing the right lawyer. This can be difficult in a time of so much meaningless lawyer advertising. Learning about the experiences of others can help you make that decision. It may not be the only factor, but it is certainly a good place to start. Here are some examples of what our clients have had to say about us:
★★★★★
"Professional, honest, hard-working and made the entire process a lot less stressful."
Gregory F., July 2021 / Former Client
★★★★★
"We really appreciate Tim taking the time to consult with us. He was very professional and had great advice. We really appreciate it."
Leonid K., May 2021 / Former Client
The lawyers at Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. enjoy favorable ratings by other lawyers and organizations that evaluate lawyers and law firms:
If you or a loved one have been accused of committing a crime in Erie or elsewhere in Western Pennsylvania, call our lawyers for a confidential case evaluation today. A strong and skilled criminal defense can be key to getting a favorable outcome in your case—even if you believe the prosecution has strong evidence against you.
Contact us today to get started. Call (814) 580-5017, complete our quick contact form, or use the “live chat” service. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions about criminal charges and defending your rights.
When facing any type of criminal charge in Western Pennsylvania, your first priority should be to make sure your legal rights are protected. The best way to learn about your rights is to talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer. At Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C., our dedicated criminal defense lawyers can help you understand what to expect through every step of the criminal process. We are here to vigorously advocate to defend your rights. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about criminal defense in Erie, PA. For more individualized information, call us today to discuss your case.
What Mistakes Can Ruin a Criminal Defense? +
How do I know whether I need a lawyer if I have been arrested? +
It is always important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer by your side if you have been arrested. In fact, you should call a lawyer even if you suspect you are being investigated for a crime. A lawyer is the best way to ensure that the prosecution and law enforcement are respecting your legal rights. A strong legal team is also your best chance at a strong and effective criminal defense strategy.
Should I talk to the police if they ask to question me about a criminal matter? +
You should always speak with a criminal defense lawyer before answering any questions. Your lawyer should be present at questioning to ensure you do not answer any questions that may incriminate you. While you should be polite to law enforcement, it is your legal right to speak to a lawyer—and it is not considered uncooperative to ask for a lawyer.
What happens if my loved one was arrested and taken to jail? +
Usually, your loved one will be fingerprinted and photographed. After a period of time has passed, an initial determination of whether to release him or her on their own recognizance or to schedule a bail hearing will be made. The decision usually depends upon his or her prior criminal record and the type of crime alleged. If a bail hearing is set, our lawyers can help advocate for fair bail.
Do I need a lawyer even if I intend to plead guilty to a crime? +
Yes. You should speak with a lawyer before accepting any plea. Further, even if you intend to plead guilty, a lawyer can make sure that the sentencing phase proceeds appropriately. We may even be able to negotiate reduced charges or probation in lieu of jail time before you accept a plea. Practically speaking, the judge may be more inclined to sentence more harshly if you do not have a lawyer who understands criminal procedure representing you during sentencing.
Should I accept a plea bargain? +
Not without speaking to a lawyer. Whether a plea bargain is advantageous will depend upon the specific facts of your case and the strength of the prosecution’s evidence. Sometimes, the prosecution will offer a plea because they do not believe they have a strong case. We may even be able to evaluate their evidence and negotiate to have the charges against you reduced or even dropped entirely.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor? +
Felony crimes are more serious crimes than misdemeanors and carry more significant penalties and jail time. In Pennsylvania, two additional categories are crime exist—homicide and summary offenses (which are less serious criminal offenses that carry a maximum 90-day jail term and $300 fine).
What is the difference between probation and parole? +
While very similar, the primary difference between probation and parole is that probation is offered instead of jail time and parole governs the period of time after someone is released from jail. Both probation and parole impose conditions upon the defendant. Those conditions may include:
Violation of the terms of either probation or parole will usually result in the defendant being sent to jail or prison.
I was arrested and the police did not read me my Miranda rights. Can my case be thrown out? +
No. Usually, when law enforcement fails to read Miranda rights, the only remedy is that anything you say cannot be used. So, for example, if you confessed to the crime without being read your rights, that confession could not be used against you. If you continue to answer questions without asking for a lawyer, those answers cannot be used against you.
What if the prosecution’s only evidence against me is something that someone else says. Can they prosecute me without some type of hard evidence? +
Yes. In some cases, prosecution and even conviction can be based solely upon witness testimony. That is one reason why it is crucial that you retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer to argue on your behalf. We can challenge the credibility of the witness and his or her statements to expose these weaknesses in the prosecution’s case against you.
What is a preliminary hearing? Why is it an important phase in the criminal process? +
A preliminary hearing is a hearing where it is determined whether it is more likely than not that the defendant committed a crime. It is not a trial and the standard for proceeding is much lower. However, it can be a critical stage of the process. It is at the preliminary hearing that we may be able to have certain evidence suppressed (or thrown out). We may also be able to lay the groundwork for our future challenges to a witness’ credibility. It is even possible to have the charges dismissed or reduced at this stage.
Why do I need a lawyer if I was accused of a crime but am innocent? +
Unfortunately, innocent people are accused of committing crimes all the time. In some cases, it may be a mere mistake. In every case, knowledgeable lawyers are important to make sure the prosecution is held to the duty of proving every crime beyond a reasonable doubt. While you are presumed innocent, sometimes the evidence can make you look guilty. We are here to help make sure your legal rights are protected.
Where can I find more information about criminal defense? +
Please check out our Criminal Defense FAQ page for more information.
Although we take great pride in our excellent case results, our greatest satisfaction comes from the kind words shared by our clients. Read what others say about us here.
