A preliminary hearing is typically the first major court proceeding in a Delaware County criminal case. Its purpose is not to determine guilt or innocence. Instead, the hearing is used to decide whether the criminal charges are supported by enough evidence to move forward. At this stage, the Commonwealth’s burden of proof is very low.…

Pennsylvania’s Act 44, which became fully effective on June 11, 2025, marks one of the most significant reforms to the state’s probation system in decades. The law establishes a uniform, statewide process that allows eligible individuals to seek early termination of probation through a consistent, transparent, and fair review framework. Although Act 44 applies across…

One common question we receive is whether New Jersey has misdemeanors, and how New Jersey criminal charges compare to those in Pennsylvania. While the two states handle criminal classifications differently, the consequences can be just as serious. Attorney William Burrows helps clients understand the key differences between New Jersey and Pennsylvania criminal offenses, including how…

Jury selection is one of the most critical phases of any Pennsylvania criminal jury trial. Effective jury selection goes far beyond listening to a potential juror’s verbal answers during questioning. An experienced criminal defense lawyer must also evaluate a juror’s demeanor, mannerisms, and overall presentation. How Does Body Language Play a Role in a Trial…

One of the most common questions we hear is whether Miranda warnings are always required, as often portrayed in movies and television. The short answer is no. At SKA Law Group, attorney William (Bill) Burrows, routinely advises clients on their constitutional rights during police encounters and criminal investigations. What are Miranda Warnings? Miranda warnings are…