Criminal defense for good people.

A criminal conviction in Butler or the surrounding areas are far-reaching and could be permanent. Even a first offense for certain crimes can lead to jail time, thousands of dollars in fines, and a permanent criminal record.

When charged with a crime, you may also face:

• Long or prohibitive periods of probation
• Job loss or difficulty finding employment
• Revoked security clearances or professional licensure
• The inability to own or possess firearms
• Suspended or revoked driving privileges
• Mandatory registration as a sex offender for certain offenses
• Expensive court-ordered classes and diversionary programs
• Rescinded voting rights and travel restrictions
• Child custody and visitation complications

If you want to protect your career, keep your driver’s license after a DUI, avoid prison or secure a better future for yourself and your family, a criminal conviction can be a major obstacle.

At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we believe a mistake or misunderstanding shouldn’t define your life. That’s why we take a strategic, personalized approach to every case.

We know Pennsylvania’s justice system and know how to navigate its challenges. Our team will work with you to develop a defense that fits your situation. If a theft conviction threatens your job prospects, we’ll fight to keep your record clear. If a drug-related offense could lead to prison, but treatment is the better option, we’ll advocate for that outcome. And, if you’ve been falsely accused of a violent crime, we will build a strong case to prove your innocence.

Facing criminal charges is stressful, and you need a defense team that understands the stakes. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, LLC, our Butler criminal defense lawyers bring decades of experience to the table. We take pride in guiding clients through the Pennsylvania criminal process with honesty, skill, and determination.

Many defense attorneys push clients to accept the first plea deal offered. We take a different approach. You deserve a defense that prioritizes your best interests—not just a quick resolution.

We are compassionate about your situation, but we are also direct. We ensure you understand your options without false promises. If a plea deal is truly in your best interest, you’ll know why. If your case demands a fight in court, we’re prepared to go the distance.

When you work with our Butler criminal lawyers, you can rely on:

• Experience – Decades of collective experience from trial-tested and aggressive lawyers within Pennsylvania’s court system.
• Results – A reputation for obtaining outcomes that let you put criminal charges behind you.
• Reasonable Fees – We offer flat fees and flexible payment options.
• Accessibility – We answer calls 24/7, and in most cases, you’ll have your attorney’s cell phone number.

When you’re accused of a crime or being questioned by police, it is easy to take your rights for granted. But, keep in mind law enforcement is not worried about what’s best for you. They are interested in collecting evidence and securing convictions. By trying to explain a situation without a lawyer, you could be doing more harm than good. However, when you have a defense attorney, you can be confident that your rights will be respected and firmly asserted.

In any criminal matter, you always have the right to:

• Remain silent so nothing you say can be used against you
• Consult an attorney and have a lawyer present during questioning
• A trial by either a jury or a judge
• Testify and present evidence on your behalf
• Confront your accusers and cross-examine witnesses
• Be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt

Will I Go to Jail?
A criminal charge is not the same as conviction. While an initial arrest may require you to spend some time in custody depending on the specific county’s booking and arraignment process, an arrest does not automatically mean you will serve a sentence. Everyone is afforded the chance to go through the criminal justice process, and official penalties are only handed down if you plead guilty, are convicted by a judge or jury, or agree to lesser offense.

Should I Accept a Plea?
Criminal cases rarely go to trial and prosecutors often resolve matters with plea agreements based on the available evidence, strength of their case, and the prior history of the accused. The facts and issues are different in every case and an acceptable plea for one person may be completely unreasonable to another. Whether you accept a plea should be weighed against its pros and cons, and carefully considered with your defense attorney.

Should I Consent to a Search?
When police are investigating, they may want to come into your home or look through your vehicle. You do not have to consent to a search unless they have a valid search warrant or have established probable cause that you are engaged in criminal activity. In most cases, if they request to search your property, they do yet have enough justification. Even if they ask politely, it’s best to ask them to wait while you contact a criminal defense lawyer.