FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Answers to the most common questions.

When should I contact an attorney?

If there is an emergency, you should call 215-650-6500 immediately. If there is a criminal investigation, arrest warrant, or if your loved one has already been arrested, it is critical that you contact an attorney as soon as possible. The criminal justice system is complicated, and your actions early in the process will have lasting effects.

Attorney Stephen Stewart will give you an honest evaluation of your situation, present you with his opinion of your options, and (if hired to represent you or your loved one) help you assert your rights to remain silent, decline to answer questions from law enforcement, and attempt to secure release on bail.

If your situation is not related to criminal charges, time could still be of the essence. Contacting a lawyer today will ensure that filing deadlines are not missed, evidence is preserved, and witnesses are identified. There is no obligation to hire Stephen Stewart if you reach out for a free case evaluation.

What happens after someone is arrested?

Every situation is different. The answer to this question can vary. Generally speaking, after you or your loved one has been arrested, the accused will have an opportunity to be heard before a judge or a commissioner within a matter of hours. Again, your particular situation may be different. Reach out for a free and confidential consultation: 215-650-6500

In these early stages, you need to move quickly. Hiring an attorney early on will maximize the chance of securing an affordable bail/bond and ensure that all options are considered and preserved.

If you or your loved one is already past this stage, the next step in many criminal cases (depending on the location and seriousness of the alleged crime) will be a preliminary hearing. At this hearing, the prosecutors will present some of their evidence to a judge. They do not need to present all of their evidence, and this hearing will not determine innocence or guilt. The judge will merely decide if there is enough evidence to proceed to trial. Again, it is critical to hire a lawyer as soon as possible.

How much does it cost to hire you?

Every case is different. No two criminal cases are exactly the same. No two employment law matters are exactly the same. However, Attorney Stephen Stewart will be able to give you an individualized explanation of anticipated legal fees after hearing about your unique circumstances. Call for a no-obligation, free initial consultation: 215-650-6500

The expenses of retaining private counsel often come unexpectedly. Mr. Stewart understands this, and to some extent, will work with you to make his fees affordable. You should not assume that you cannot afford a private attorney. Family and friends may be willing to help. Fees are often paid in stages, and because the criminal justice process can be long, you may have much more time to raise funds than you would think. 

How will you handle my case?

In a criminal case, if your freedom is in danger or if you have already been arrested, Attorney Stephen Stewart will evaluate your options, including important evidence and arguments to be made at a bail hearing, making a motion for bail reduction, and ensuring that your loved ones are able to use available funds to secure your release. Talk to him toady by calling: 215-650-6500

Next, we can begin to consider the merits of your case. Exactly which crimes are you accused of? What evidence do we know law enforcement or prosecutors collected? Is there evidence we need to preserve or an investigation that we need to conduct immediately? Mr. Stewart will guide you through the process and provide you with options at every stage so that you can make an informed decision about whether to fight the charges or pursue a plea agreement.

What if my criminal case is going to trial?

If you or your loved one is scheduled for trial in a criminal matter, they probably have a public defender, court-appointed attorney, or a privately retained attorney. Attorney Stephen Stewart can provide an independent and objective second opinion on the merits of the case and possible options based on any information you can provide and that is available through the case docket. Call 215-650-6500.

If you decide to hire Mr. Stewart to represent you at trial, we will review the evidence and decide if we need to collect additional evidence, speak with witnesses, or otherwise request additional time from the court to prepare. Together, we will explore any possibility of a plea deal, which you always have the option of rejecting or accepting. If you have the option, we will have a discussion to decide if you would like to have a trial with a judge or a jury of peers.

What are my chances of winning if I hire you?

There are absolutely no guarantees. Attorney Stephen Stewart will evaluate your situation and give you his honest opinion of the possible outcomes of your case and any challenges or opportunities he sees based on the facts and merits of the case. With this information, you will be empowered to make an informed decision about which strategy you want to pursue. Get a free initial consultation by calling 215-650-6500.

If hired, Mr. Stewart will continue to evaluate the circumstances as the case proceeds. You can expect to receive regular updates on the progress of things. He will notify you of any new challenges or opportunities that present themselves. Although an outcome cannot be guaranteed, you are guaranteed to receive the individualized attention your case deserves and a vigorous representation.

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