Author Archives: David Glassman
Understanding Federal Healthcare Fraud and Defenses Against It
Healthcare fraud is a federal offense that consists of intentional deception or misrepresentation of information in order to obtain benefits from Medicare, Medicaid and other government-funded insurance plans. This type of fraud can include many types of dishonest activities, such as knowingly submitting false claims or overbilling for healthcare services. However, it must involve intentional… Read More »
Understanding the Limits of Pennsylvania’s Open Carry Law
In Pennsylvania, residents’ right to own and possess firearms is protected by state law. However, there are regulations governing how and where firearms can be carried, either openly or concealed. State law generally allows for open carry, meaning that individuals who are legally permitted to possess a firearm may carry it visibly in most public… Read More »
Defending Against Drug Trafficking Charges in Pennsylvania
Drug trafficking involves the illegal production, distribution or sale of controlled substances. It is classified under both state and federal law, with severe penalties for those convicted. The following is a breakdown of how drug trafficking is defined in Pennsylvania, along with possible penalties and available defenses. Drug trafficking in Pennsylvania is largely defined by… Read More »
What to Know About Theft Crimes in Pennsylvania
Theft, in general, is the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. In Pennsylvania, theft crimes encompass a broad range of actions and are categorized based on how much property was involved and whether any force or threat of force was used in taking it. The severity… Read More »
Defenses to Pa. Charges of Drug Delivery Resulting in Death
The crime of “drug delivery resulting in death” (DDRD) is a type of homicide in Pennsylvania. It reflects the state’s stringent stance against the opioid crisis and drug-related fatalities. The crime consists of intentionally or knowingly delivering, distributing or dispensing a controlled substance or counterfeit controlled substance, which directly results in another person’s death. This… Read More »
Defending Against Parole Violation Charges in Pennsylvania
For individuals released on parole in Pennsylvania, freedom comes with a set of conditions. Violating these conditions can have serious consequences. In the worst case, the individual can be returned to prison to finish serving their original sentence. It’s important to understand what constitutes a parole violation and what are the potential outcomes. There are… Read More »
An Overview of Federal Human Trafficking Laws
Human trafficking is a crime that involves compelling or coercing a person to provide labor or services, including commercial sex acts. Traffickers often prey upon vulnerable individuals, including children, disadvantaged communities and people with limited economic opportunities. Federal law prohibits a wide range of conduct related to trafficking and those found guilty can face severe… Read More »
Pa. Three Strikes Law Imposes Harsh Sentences on Repeat Violent Offenders
The Three Strikes Law is a significant feature of Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system. It mandates severe prison terms for repeat offenders convicted of specific violent crimes. This law aims to deter recidivism and promote public safety by providing for long periods of incarceration of individuals demonstrating a pattern of violent behavior. However, there are defensive… Read More »
Understanding Forfeiture of Property in Federal Criminal Cases
Forfeiture — also known as seizure of assets — is a powerful tool employed by federal law enforcement to divest from criminals the financial gains from their wrongdoings. Forfeiture allows the government to permanently seize property demonstrably linked to criminal activity. This serves a dual purpose. By taking away the proceeds of crime, authorities aim… Read More »