Results-Driven Representation Focused On Your Best Interests

Aggressive Criminal Defense In Bloomsburg And Columbia County

Being charged with a crime can be a frightening and confusing experience, one that can leave you searching for answers to very important questions. With so much riding on a favorable outcome, it can be vital to seek the guidance of an experienced Columbia County criminal defense lawyer when facing DWI, misdemeanor or felony charges. I am committed to my community with an office that is one block from the Columbia County Courthouse and within walking distance of Bloomsburg University.

At the Law Offices of David H. Trathen, I leverage over 30 years of experience to offer aggressive and personalized criminal defense guidance to clients throughout the Columbia County area. Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, I will work diligently to help you mount the strongest defense possible in your unique situation. My extensive work in this area allows me to provide the aggressive defense guidance you need, whether you are a college student, a member of the workforce or the parent of a juvenile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Facing criminal charges in a college town like Bloomsburg or anywhere in Columbia County can be overwhelming, but having the right information is the first step toward a strong defense. These answers provide the blunt, honest legal perspective I’ve developed over 30 years of defending the rights of my neighbors and visitors in our local courts.

What should I do if I’m arrested in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania?

If you are arrested in Bloomsburg – whether it’s a student offense near the university or a stop by the town police – you must do two things immediately: remain silent and ask for a lawyer. I’ve been in front of Columbia County judges for over 30 years, and I can tell you that “explaining your side” to the police never helps; it only gives the prosecution more evidence. Do not resist, do not consent to searches and do not talk about your case on jail phones or social media. Once you are processed and see a magisterial district judge for your preliminary arraignment, your next move is to get a lawyer who knows how the local DA’s office operates.

Will a DUI in Columbia County affect my driver’s license?

The blunt answer is almost certainly, but it depends on your blood alcohol content (BAC). Pennsylvania uses a three-tier system for DUI penalties. If it’s your first offense and your BAC was under .10%, you might avoid a suspension. However, if your BAC was .10% or higher, or if you refused a breathalyzer, you are looking at a mandatory 12 to 18-month suspension.

In Columbia County, we often look at the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program for first-time offenders. While ARD can significantly shorten a license suspension (sometimes to 30 or 60 days), you still have to follow the rules of the road and the court to earn that privilege back. I don’t sell false hope; if the evidence is there, we focus on damage control and getting you back behind the wheel legally as soon as possible.

Can I get my criminal record expunged in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, expungement (erasing the record) and “sealing” (hiding the record from public view) are two different things, and the laws have changed significantly with “Clean Slate 3.0.”

Expungement: Generally available if your charges were dismissed or withdrawn, or if you successfully completed the ARD program.
Sealing: Under the current law, many second- and third-degree misdemeanors – and even some nonviolent felonies – are now automatically sealed after seven to 10 years of staying out of trouble and paying all your fines.

If you have a record in Bloomsburg that is holding you back from a job or housing, I can give you a straight answer on whether you qualify for automatic relief or if we need to file a formal petition with the court.

Personalized And Insightful Criminal Defense Advice

My experience, combined with my knowledge of local courts, judges and prosecutors, allows me to offer defense guidance to clients facing a number of charges, including:

Juvenile Crimes

Defense for college students
Underage drinking
Furnishing alcohol to a minor

Drug And Alcohol-Related Crimes

Business-Related Crimes

White collar offenses
Embezzlement

Violent Crimes

Whatever your specific charges may be, I take great care to conduct a detailed examination of your charges, the events leading to them, the evidence against you, and the actions of police officers during and after your arrest. I won’t sell you on false hope – I’ll tell you exactly what you’re facing and how we can get in front of a judge to fix it.

All information gained during my investigation will then be used to negotiate a favorable plea agreement or plead your case before a judge or jury of your peers.

Contact My Office For The Defense You Deserve

Whether you wish to negotiate a plea, take your case to court or explore alternative sentencing avenues, I have the insight and experience needed to help you limit the damage stemming from your criminal charges.

Contact me online or call my office at 570-284-3088 or toll free 877-772-5261 to discuss your specific charges and learn how I can help you mount a defense.