Blog Landing Page

Dauphin County Criminal Defense Law Blog

Reputation. Respect. Results.
Photo of Geoffrey S. McInroy

What are the Most Common Crimes Committed in Adams County?

Some criminal offenses are more common than others. Defendants charged with certain crimes may be curious to know how common these offenses are. Rest assured that even if you have been accused of an extremely obscure offense in Pennsylvania, someone in the past has faced the exact same situation. Although...

Can a drug conviction be erased in Pennsylvania?

A drug conviction can seriously affect someone’s life, like making it harder to get a job, find housing, or get other opportunities. Thankfully, in Pennsylvania, certain situations allow someone to erase a drug conviction from their record. Who can erase their record? Not everyone can erase their drug conviction in...

What defenses work for corporate embezzlement accusations?

Embezzlement charges can severely impact a person’s career and reputation. However, there are several legal defenses that can help protect individuals facing such allegations in a corporate setting. Lack of intent Embezzlement requires the intent to misappropriate funds or property. A defense can argue that the accused lacked the intent...

How to respond if an off-leash dog runs toward you

Encountering an off-leash dog can be an upsetting experience, particularly if the dog appears aggressive or unpredictable. Responding appropriately in these situations can greatly affect the outcome and your overall safety. Stay calm and avoid eye contact Your instinct may be to panic or run, but these responses can escalate...

How much can a DUI cost?

Driving under the influence (DUI) carries significant financial consequences. Understanding these costs helps you grasp the full impact of a DUI charge in the state of Pennsylvania. Fines and penalties The direct fines for a DUI vary depending on the severity of the offense. For a first-time DUI offense with...

How the ARD program can help people facing DUI charges

The prospect of DUI charges is distressing, especially if it’s the first time you’re facing this situation. However, the state offers the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program to help first-time defendants avoid a criminal record.  Taking advantage of this program can be a good way to get your life back...

How to explain a DUI on a background check

Facing a DUI charge can be challenging, especially when it shows up on a background check. If you’re applying for a job or housing, knowing how to explain a DUI on your record is essential for moving forward. Be honest and straightforward When discussing a DUI on a background check,...

Safety tips for motorcyclists to avoid accidents

Riding a motorcycle brings a sense of freedom on the open roads of Pennsylvania, but it also requires extra caution. Every year, many accidents involve motorcycles, some of which are preventable. By understanding and implementing safety measures, you can enjoy your ride and reduce the risk of accidents. Wear appropriate...

Legal consequences of heroin possession

If you possess heroin in Pennsylvania, you could face serious legal consequences. Pennsylvania law categorizes heroin possession as a criminal offense due to its potential for abuse and its risk to public health.  The severity of penalties can vary based on the amount of the drug and any prior offenses....

Is jail time mandatory for a first DUI in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, jail time for a first DUI offense hinges on your Blood Alcohol Content level at the time of arrest. General impairment may not require jail time, but higher BAC levels entail mandatory jail sentences. Recognizing these distinctions can help you understand the legal consequences of a DUI and...

When do assault charges escalate to a felony?

In Pennsylvania, assault charges can vary from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on how serious the incident was and the specific details involved. Knowing the difference between these levels of charges can help explain the possible legal consequences of an assault accusation. What is simple assault? Simple assault typically qualifies as...

What can affect the duration of license suspension after a DUI?

Drivers and law enforcement typically have the same understanding of how dangerous driving under the influence (DUI) can be. This information is vital to learning programs required to qualify for a driver’s license, including the consequences of drunk driving and other similar offenses. Even first-time DUI offenders can face hefty...

When can the police charge you with federal stalking charges?

Stalking includes repeated harassment, threats, or intimidation that causes fear or emotional distress. And while Pennsylvania has its own state stalking laws, stalking can also be a federal crime. Understanding what triggers federal charges can help clarify the legal boundaries. Crossing state lines Stalking becomes a federal offense when the...

The role of expert witnesses in premises liability cases

Premises liability cases involve injuries that occur on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions. Expert witness testimony can greatly influence the outcome of the case. Clearly explain complex concepts Premises liability cases often involve technical details that are difficult for the average person to understand. For example, if someone...

Defense for DUIs involving medications for chronic illnesses

In Pennsylvania, DUI laws apply not only to alcohol but also to prescription medications. People who need these medications for chronic illnesses might still face DUI charges if police believe the medications impair their driving. There are strategies individuals can use to defend against these charges. Understanding prescription medication side...

How can sleepy drivers lead to car accidents?

Driving is a complex task that requires constant attention and focus. However, when other people on the road struggle with sleepiness, their ability to concentrate diminishes. This significantly increases the risk of car accidents and injuries. Reduced alertness and reaction time One danger of driving while sleepy is the impairment...

Common types of fraud charges

Fraud charges in Pennsylvania can come in many forms. If you are facing such charges, it is essential to understand the different types and how to defend against them. Wire fraud Wire fraud is a serious federal offense that occurs when an individual uses interstate wires to deceive someone into...

How the expungement process works in Pennsylvania

The expungement process in Pennsylvania offers those with criminal records a chance to have certain offenses removed or sealed from public view. Expungement can be a valuable legal remedy for those seeking to move forward from past mistakes and reintegrate into society. However, navigating the expungement process can be complex....

When does a drug charge escalate to the federal level?

Drug charges are serious legal matters, with consequences that vary depending on the jurisdiction in which they occur. While many drug-related offenses are state-level charges, some cases can escalate to the federal level. A federal drug conviction leads to potentially harsher penalties. Understanding when a drug charge may reach the...

What defenses can you use against a DUI charge?

The looming threat of a DUI charge is a frightening experience. Conviction can be life-altering in multiple ways. Thankfully, one has numerous defense options from which to choose. Recognizing what they are before going to trial can help those trying to survive this delicate situation without legal consequences. Inaccurate sobriety...

Can a Pennsylvania DUI lead to a loss of professional licensure?

A conviction for driving under the influence in Pennsylvania can have serious consequences. A notable consequence includes a potential threat to professional licensure. Professionals in various fields may face disciplinary actions from licensing boards after convictions for driving under the influence. Each licensing board has its own regulations and disciplinary...

How manufacturer defects in car brakes can cause serious injuries

In Pennsylvania, the safety of motorists is important. One aspect that demands attention is the potential for serious injuries resulting from manufacturer defects in car brakes. While brakes should be a vehicle’s primary safety feature, defects in their manufacturing can pose severe risks. The scope of manufacturer defects Manufacturer defects...

4 potential embezzlement defenses

Embezzlement charges can be an overwhelming legal matter, but the right defense can make a significant impact. It is important to note that each case is unique, and the effectiveness of defenses may vary based on the specific circumstances. 1. Lack of intent One possible defense is to argue that...

Can you really get a DUI for taking prescription drugs?

Laws pertaining to driving under the influence vary from state to state, and Pennsylvania is no exception. While most people associate DUI charges with alcohol, it is important to know that prescription drugs can also lead to legal consequences if not taken responsibly. In Pennsylvania, the law takes a strict...

Should you request the body cam footage from your arrest?

The growing prevalence of police body cameras has sparked debate about transparency and accountability within law enforcement. In Pennsylvania, where legislators enacted laws regarding the use of body cameras in 2017, individuals have the right to request footage captured during interactions with the police. But should you always exercise this...

4 types of compensation for a slip-and-fall claim

Accidents happen, and slip-and-fall incidents are no exception. If you experienced a slip-and-fall injury, it is important to be aware of the types of compensation you may be eligible to receive. 1. Medical expenses One primary form of compensation covers your medical expenses. If you incurred medical bills due to...

Who is eligible for an Ignition Interlock Limited License?

An Ignition Interlock Limited License is an arrangement for individuals with suspended or revoked driving privileges due to alcohol-related offenses. This license can provide a second chance to those who deserve it. Interestingly, over 13,000 Pennsylvania residents used ignition interlock devices in 2022, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation....

5 pitfalls of a plea bargain to consider

Facing criminal charges can be a daunting experience, leading many individuals to consider plea bargains as a way to resolve their legal predicaments. While plea bargains may seem like a quick solution, it is important to carefully weigh the potential drawbacks before making such a decision. 1. Unintended consequences on...

5 FAQ of federal cybercrime charges

Being charged with a federal cybercrime can be a daunting experience. The legal landscape surrounding cyber offenses is complex, and individuals facing such charges often have many questions. 1. What are common types of cybercrime? Common federal cybercrimes include computer intrusion, identity theft, online fraud, and the distribution of malicious...

Unraveling the causes of severe auto accidents

The road can be a dangerous place with hazards like distracted motorists and severe weather. Drivers should know how to decrease their risks when traveling. Understanding the common causes of serious auto accidents can help you stay safe. Distracted driving Even though texting and driving is illegal in Pennsylvania, it...

4 ways a prescription drug charge can turn into a felony

The severity of a prescription drug charge can escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony based on several factors. It is important to comprehend the circumstances that can lead to the elevation of charges, which could significantly impact an individual’s life. 1. Possession of prescription drugs The law distinguishes between...

Exercising your right to remain silent

It is important to be aware of your rights when facing criminal allegations. Exercising your rights when questioned by law enforcement can make a difference in your case. One of your most valuable rights in any legal situation is the right to remain silent. Know your rights The Fifth Amendment...

Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition in PA

Pennsylvania designed the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program, to provide eligible individuals with an opportunity to address their first-time non-violent offenses. This program aims to promote rehabilitation and reduce the burden on the criminal justice system. Eligibility criteria The estimated cost of ARD, excluding attorney’s fees is $2,500 but can be...

What are the effects DUI charges on professional careers?

In Pennsylvania, a DUI conviction can result in consequences such as fines, license suspensions and even incarceration, depending on the severity of the offense. Beyond the legal penalties, a DUI can also impact many aspects of everyday life, including a person’s current employment status and future career options. Individuals need...

What is an attractive nuisance and why is it dangerous?

You might have heard the term “attractive nuisance” before, but do you really know what it means? An attractive nuisance refers to something on a property that might be tempting or intriguing to children but can also pose serious dangers. These dangers can leave children with a variety of injuries,...

Certain fraud charges may classify as felonies in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s statutes provide a grading system to classify an offense as a misdemeanor or felony. As noted on the Pennsylvania General Assembly website, when pursuing fraud allegations, prosecutors review the value of goods or services defendants allegedly received. Access device fraud, for example, involves the unauthorized use of a mobile...

Could Adult Treatment Court keep you out of jail or prison?

Many people currently incarcerated in Pennsylvania are behind bars because they have substance dependencies that made them behave in ways they otherwise might not. If you count yourself among those facing drug-related charges you likely would not face, had it not been for your substance dependency, you may have legitimate...

Commonly misunderstood facts about drug and alcohol violations

Misinformation can get people into trouble. However, misconceptions are very prevalent when it comes to drug and alcohol violations and their causes. The danger of these misconceptions ranges from harmless to life-threatening. To avoid life-threatening situations, know the truth about the cause of drug and alcohol violations. Addicts can quit...

What can make a car accident more dangerous?

The severity of a car accident and the types of injuries you sustain can vary drastically depending on the situation. While you cannot control the behavior of the drivers around you, there are things you can do to lessen your risk of severe injury in a car accident. Wear your...

Data shows the prevalence of bike accident injuries

When you ride a bike around vehicles, you face serious risks. If a negligent driver hits you, the accident could leave you with debilitating injuries that cause physical, emotional and even financial hardships. It is important to go over data on these accidents in order to understand how widespread they...

Impact of a Pennsylvania protection from abuse order

In Pennsylvania, a protection from abuse order, also known as a PFA, is a court order designed to protect people experiencing domestic violence. A PFA can prohibit the defendant from having any contact with the plaintiff, including in person, through others, over the phone or online. If someone has a...

What infections can you get from a dog bite?

A dog’s bite can result in more than just a physical wound. While dogs are often seen as man’s best friend, their mouths carry numerous bacteria which, when transmitted through a bite, can lead to various infections. Some of these infections can cause serious complications if they are not addressed...

What to do if police pull you over for a DUI

If you are like most people, the minute you see those flashing lights or hear a police siren, your blood pressure goes up, your palms begin to sweat and you start thinking about what you could have done to deserve getting pulled over. Police encounters can be unnerving. However, there...

Understanding embezzlement in Pennsylvania

Embezzlement is a serious crime in Pennsylvania and the courts consider it a form of theft. It occurs when a person entrusted with someone else’s property or funds intentionally misappropriates them for their own personal use. This article will explore the definition of embezzlement and its consequences in Pennsylvania. Definition...

What to do if you get a traffic ticket in Pennsylvania

Receiving a traffic ticket in Pennsylvania can be an unwelcome surprise for many drivers. Knowing the appropriate steps to take after getting a traffic ticket is essential to minimize the potential consequences and ensure a timely resolution. Follow these guidelines to help you navigate the process of dealing with a...

The impact of a DUI conviction in Pennsylvania

Being convicted of driving under the influence in Pennsylvania can lead to serious consequences that negatively affect various aspects of your life. Understanding the ramifications of a DUI conviction is essential to grasp the severity of such an offense. This blog will discuss how a DUI conviction can adversely impact...

Strategies to challenge a witness’ credibility

When a witness’ testimony plays a big role in the state’s case against a defendant, challenging that testimony could have a big impact on the outcome. Here are some examples of how experienced defense attorneys may be able to successfully counter testimonial evidence in criminal proceedings. Changes in a witness’...

How do severe brain injuries show?

After getting into a car crash, it is possible for a victim to suffer from a head injury that could lead to a brain injury. The severity of the injury will differ depending on circumstances unique to each crash, but it is still important to know what to keep an...

3 factors that could determine DUI penalties

With penalties ranging from probation to five years in prison, it is easy to get confused by potential DUI consequences. Rehabilitative options and license suspensions further complicate matters. Case outcomes depend on many variables. This article will look at three potentially important factors. 1. BAC level Blood alcohol content measurements...

How does premises liability differ from personal liability?

When accidents happen, a negligent party should accept responsibility. Doing so involves covering the damages for the injured person. Liability varies by the type of accident and location, so an injured person needs to review some details before pursuing legal action. What are premises liability and personal liability? Property owners...

Preventing accidents due to driver fatigue

From bad weather to drunk drivers, you need to keep an eye out for many different risks while behind the wheel. Additionally, it is important to understand that many accidents occur due to less visible risk factors, such as driver fatigue. If you feel tired and worry that this could affect...

What are the consequences of drugged driving in Pennsylvania?

Drunk driving is often a top concern for municipalities and motorists alike. However, drugged driving can also impair someone operating a vehicle. Any amount of a controlled substance in a person’s system could open the individual to drugged driving charges. The penalties are comparable to a DUI from alcohol. Drugged...

Ways to contest the results of a breath test

Breath test results are common evidence in DUI cases. Pennsylvania is an implied consent state, which means that you are obligated to consent to a desktop breath test or blood analysis test to determine your blood alcohol content. Sometimes, officers also administer a portable breath test at the scene. If...

Keeping a job during a criminal trial

A criminal arrest and the resulting procedure are major, life-changing events. However, time does not stand still. People still need to make money. They still need to provide for themselves or their families. What happens during an arrest? A criminal arrest could stop someone from going to work temporarily. This...

Quick steps to take after a hit and run accident

Auto collisions are stressful and terrifying, and often end in tragedy. Whether the accident is a minor fender bender or a dangerous collision, one thing is consistent. All parties involved in the accident should stay at the scene until the police come. If a driver flees an accident scene, State...

The dangers of winter driving in Pennsylvania

When you take to the roads in Pennsylvania in the winter months, you face added risks. An inexperienced driver could fail to account for snow or ice and smash into your vehicle, causing personal injury. While you can not prevent all accidents, you can take measures to improve your safety...

State passes tougher penalties for repeat DUI offenders

Driving under the influence of alcohol has serious consequences in Pennsylvania, especially for chronic offenders. The state recently toughened penalties for motorists with multiple DUI convictions. The change came about in an attempt to keep dangerous drivers off the road. Legislation increases penalties for some A report in U.S. News...

Why are SUV rollover accidents common?

An SUV has a top-heavy design that makes it more prone to rollover accidents than other vehicles. Because of this, they usually have warning labels in the vehicle that will mention the rollover risk. Hot Cars notes that the rollover risk issue is a natural part of the vehicle design...

How does money laundering work?

Money laundering is a white-collar crime that involves moving cash around to hide its origin. FATF explains dirty money that comes from crime cannot go immediately into circulation from the hands of the criminals because it is too easy to trace. For this reason, any attempt to hide or transfer...

Can a DUI charge change a college student’s path?

Getting a DUI charge is one potentially life-changing thing that some people do not give enough attention to. Some falsely believe that a charge will naturally go nowhere, or that even a first-time conviction is not so bad. However, just one conviction could actually completely alter the course of a...

An overview of the drug court program

With drug-related offenses, people generally face penalties including fines and jail time. For those struggling with substance abuse, however, consequences such as these do not always help prevent recidivism. The Pennsylvania drug court program combines criminal consequences with treatment to help people move past their addictions. Program eligibility Not everyone...

What should you do after a dog bite?

While dogs can add lots of joy to your life, they can also cause serious injuries when their owners are negligent. Owning a dog is a big responsibility, and pet owners must ensure their dogs are properly socialized and under their control. In the event a dog bites you, there...

How long does a drug charge stay on your record?

Unfortunately, drug charges do not disappear from your record, even if you have served time. To start off with a clean slate, you will have to take action and get old charges expunged, or removed from your record. Checking your criminal record First, you should know what is on your...

What should you know about brain swelling?

After suffering a blow to the head, it is not uncommon for brain injury or damage to follow. This often happens as a result of brain swelling. Brain swelling can have numerous impacts on a victim’s overall health and wellness. In some cases, it can even lead to death. Relieving...

The 2 exemptions to the ignition interlock requirement

If you get arrested for drunk driving, you could face penalties for DUI. These penalties can be severe and can include the requirement to spend time in jail, perform community service, and pay a significant fine. Another one of these penalties is the requirement to use an ignition interlock device...

What are possible problems with drug evidence?

You might fear that there is no way to defend yourself in court if police take substances from you that appear to be illegal drugs. Sometimes, though, evidence in a drug case does not prove the charges, or the evidence might lack the credibility to support the prosecution’s arguments. FindLaw...

What do the different categories of burn injury mean?

When you suffer burns to the skin, these injuries will fall into different categories based on severity and other factors. Depending on the categories, these burns will receive different types of treatment. They also have different prognoses and healing times. It is important to understand how both of these factors...

What is wire fraud?

Though mail fraud once dominated fraud cases in the United States, matters have shifted somewhat in recent years. These days, more people tend to commit wire fraud instead. But what is wire fraud, exactly? Does it differ from mail fraud in any significant way? And how does the law treat...

The Three Levels of DUIs in Pennsylvania

Since 2004, Pennsylvania courts punish drivers convicted of a DUI according to the severity of the intoxication as measured by BAC. The presence of past offenses also will impact sentencing guidelines. This tiered approach to DUI enforcement and treatment includes several provisions that allow for higher penalties depending upon exacerbating...

How can you avoid dog bites?

Having a dog as a pet provides so much joy to a person’s life. However, dogs can cause serious injuries, especially when their owners are lax about proper care. All pet owners must behave responsibly when it comes to the care of their animals, but there are also some steps...

Do you have to take a BAC test?

When an officer pulls you over on suspicion of intoxicated driving, they will likely ask for you to take a blood alcohol content (BAC) measurement test. Breath analysis tests are among the most common, and the most likely you will face right away. These tests may still feel invasive, though,...

What is the punishment for drug possession in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania law prohibits the possession of designated substances. If you get cited for drug possession, your punishment depends on various factors. The law distinguishes punishment for felony possession instead of just having an illegal substance on your person. Other factors include if you have previously gotten convicted of an offense...

Can inattentional blindness cause crashes?

Inattentional blindness is a normal psychological phenomenon that most people will experience multiple times in their lives. However, when it happens to drivers, it suddenly turns into a major potential danger and an almost guaranteed source of car crashes. But how and why is this the case? Defining inattentional blindness...

Did you suffer from a TBI after a crash?

Of the most common injuries victims suffer from in car crashes, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) have one of the biggest media profiles. After all, a TBI serves as a potential life-altering injury with a huge impact on its victims. In order to reduce the chance of suffering from this permanent...

How a DUI can affect commercial drivers

If you transport cumbersome or hazardous items for a living, you likely know the importance of a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Without this document, you cannot do your job without risking heavy fines or even jail time. One of the most common threats to a CDL is the driving under...

How do you commit tax fraud accidentally?

You always take your time on your taxes and double-check your figures. Authorities accused you of tax fraud recently. Do the charges stem from a misunderstanding? Yahoo! explores accidental tax fraud and how it happens. Find out where you erred, so you know how to proceed with your criminal case....

Recent state efforts to combat doctor shopping

Thanks to prescription drugs, many people can fight off or at least manage the symptoms of an illness or some other health condition. However, Pennsylvania has been experiencing the problem of drug abuse, particularly of opioids. Some people are so desperate to acquire opioids that they will seek out multiple...

Embezzlement amount may classify as a felony offense

Pennsylvania’s statutes categorize embezzlement as theft, which could result in a misdemeanor or felony charge. The U.S. Department of Justice describes embezzlement as fraudulently misappropriating property placed in an individual’s trust. Property that employees control as part of their jobs requires exercising a fiduciary duty of care. When an employee...

What is a Capnocytophaga infection?

Like most people, you probably worry more about the initial bite than the complications that may follow an animal bite. According to the CDC, cats and dogs may carry the bacteria Capnocytophaga. If cats or dogs have the bacteria in their mouth, they may spread it to you through the...

Can your sitting position impact your safety?

A lot of factors can influence whether or not you experience serious injuries in a car accident. Road conditions, speed, vehicle angle and size, and even your sitting position can affect your outcome. When you know how to safely and properly sit in your vehicle, you can increase your safety....

Can test results leave you wrongly accused of DUI?

If law enforcement pulls you over on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, testing will likely be the next step in the arrest process. Will the outcome of your case depend on the tests you take? Could the results leave you wrongly accused of DUI? Failing the field...

The negative impact of a criminal record

Getting in a legal jam may result in a permanent mark on your criminal record. While you may not believe something minor may affect you moving forward, you may find yourself dealing with the consequences of a criminal charge for many years. Having a criminal record may place limitations on...

Geoffrey McInroy nominated for Simply The Best

Harrisburg Magazine features attorney Geoffrey McInroy in the publication’s Simply The Best 2021. He is one of five attorneys in the Criminal Defense category. Based in Camp Hill, PA, McInroy has his own firm where he often handles cases involving Federal Charges, Criminal Defense for Professionals, Criminal Defense, DUI Defense,...

Which factors contribute to catastrophic accidents

Car accidents range in severity. A minor collision could lead to an amicable agreement to pay for repairs; by contrast, some catastrophic accidents leave victims with life-altering injuries. Crash victims dealing with injuries might find the medical bills overwhelming and discover they cannot work for extended times. Even a slight...

The truth about how the ARD program works in Pennsylvania

For Pennsylvanians with no prior record who have been charged with certain crimes, there may be an alternative to going through a trial or pleading guilty. The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program is a way for some criminal defendants in Pennsylvania to avoid the risk of jail or prison. However,...

DUI penalties in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania takes driving under the influence seriously. The penalties for even a first-time offense can be severe. It’s important to know the potential consequences of a DUI conviction and what you can do to help prepare for your defense. Three tiers of DUI charges Pennsylvania divides DUI charges into three...