(412) 763-0367

Bickerton Law Blog

The Latest NEWS AND ANALYSIS from Bickerton Law

Commentary: Post-Conviction Relief Act (PCRA) Basics

ByLea BickertonMar 2, 20092 min read

After a defendant has been convicted, he has a few options to challenge the conviction. Along with a post-sentencing motion and a direct appeal, one of the methods a defendant may use to challenge his conviction is a petition under the Post-Conviction Relief Act (PCRA).What is a PCRA petition?A PCRA petition is used to challenge the validity of a conviction where the defendant believes that he was subjected to:1.) A…

In the News: *UPDATE* Man cited for jaywalking after saving women and getting hit by truck

ByLea BickertonMar 1, 20091 min read

After consulting with local prosecutors, Colorado State police withdrew the jaywalking charge against Jim Moffett.…

BriefLaw: Commonwealth v. Desmond Scott

ByLea BickertonFeb 28, 20091 min read

Commonwealth v. Desmond Scott 2009 PA Super 34 (2/25/2009)Topic: Escape Charges – Parole v. Pre-release…

BriefLaw: Commonwealth v. Eric Richard Johnson

ByLea BickertonFeb 28, 20092 min read

Commonwealth v. Eric Richard Johnson 2009 PA Super 36 (2/26/2009)Topic: Probation – Credit for Time…

In the News: NM Legislature proposes limiting public access to criminal records

ByLea BickertonFeb 26, 20091 min read

Legislators in New Mexico are considering a law that would limit public access to criminal…

In the News: Man cited for jaywalking after saving women and getting hit by truck

ByLea BickertonFeb 26, 20091 min read

Bus driver Jim Moffett was given a ticket for jaywalking after saving the lives of…

In the News: Pittsburgh Police warn of charges against those living in foreclosed homes

ByLea BickertonFeb 25, 20091 min read

The Pittsburgh Police have issued a warning that anyone found residing in a foreclosed home…

In the News: KY Legislature considers interlock law

ByWilliam BickertonFeb 25, 20091 min read

Kentucky legislators are considering a law that would require all defendants convicted of DUI to…

In the News: PA Legislator proposes cell phone ban for drivers

ByLea BickertonFeb 20, 20091 min read

Pennsylvania State Representative Josh Shapiro has introduced a bill that would prohibit drivers operating handheld…

In the News: National Academy of Sciences report casts doubt on nation’s crime lab

ByLea BickertonFeb 19, 20091 min read

A recent report from the National Academy of Sciences casts doubt on the effectiveness of…


Older Posts (by topic)

Appeal Arson Book Reviews Buglary Case Law Summaries celebrity law Child Pornography Criminal Defense Criminal Law Basics cryptocurrency fraud Death Penalty Cases Death Row Disproportionate Sentence Drug Crimes DUI Evidentiary Issues Forgery and Fraud Fraud Gun Crimes Gun Laws and Ordinances Homicide Ineffective Assistance of Counsel In the News Investigative Reports Laws of Questionable Merit Local Ordinances Motor Vehicle Violations News Update Parole PCRA Pittsburgh G20 Police Misconduct Probation Proposed Laws Prostitution R. Kelly Reasonable Suspicion Retail Theft/Shoplifting Search and Seizure sentencing Sex Crimes Sexting Special Sentencing Programs terroristic threats Traffic Stop