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Manchester and Associates

Manchester and Associates

Pennsylvania Criminal & DUI Defense

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    • Brian V. Manchester, Esq.
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Juvenile Cases

The juvenile justice system in Pennsylvania is focused more on the rehabilitative needs of the juvenile than on punishment for the offense. Because of this difference from “adult” court, the words used in the juvenile system may not be familiar to those who watch Law and Order and see trials with defendants.

Below is a list of the terms that are used in the system and what they mean:

  1. A “juvenile” is a person who is between 10 and 21 years old.  
  2. A “delinquent act” is any act that would be a crime if committed by an adult. However, certain offenses, if committed by someone at least 15 years of age, do not fall under this definition and may be filed in “adult” court.  In those cases, the juvenile would be treated the same as any other adult who was charged with those offenses.
  3. A “written allegation” is a document filed by law enforcement alleging that a juvenile has committed a delinquent act. 
  4. A “Petition” is a document filed by the Commonwealth or a juvenile probation officer which alleges that a juvenile is “delinquent”
  5. A “delinquent child” is juvenile who had been found to have committed a delinquent act AND is in need of treatment, supervision or rehabilitation.
  6. An “adjudication hearing” is a proceeding where the Court determines if a delinquent act has been committed and whether the juvenile is in need of treatment, supervision, or rehabilitation.  A juvenile is not entitled to a jury in these proceedings and will always appear before a Judge sitting without a jury.
  7. A “disposition hearing” is a proceeding in which the court issues its final decisions in the case.  Possible dispositions include supervision by the probation department and placement in treatment facilities.
  8. A “detention facility” is a facility that is approved by the Court to temporarily detain a juvenile.
  9. If a Juvenile is “detained” a hearing, generally referred to as a detention hearing, must be held by the Court within 72 hours to determine if the detention is proper and whether the detention should continue.

What to expect if your child is alleged to have committed a delinquent act

The first issue you may encounter is if your child is detained.  A child may be placed in detention, prior to a formal adjudication of delinquency, where the detention is required “to protect the person or property of others or of the child or because the child may abscond or be removed from the jurisdiction of the court or because he has no parent, guardian or custodian or other person able to provide supervision and care for him and return him to the court when required or an order for his detention…. has been made by the court…”  In essence, a child may be detained prior to a finding of delinquency when the child is a danger to himself or others, where the child may run away from home, or where there is not a suitable adult to supervise the child while the delinquency process proceeds.

If a child is detained, the court must hold a detention hearing within 72 hours to determine if the detention is proper and whether the detention should continue.  During the detention hearing, the court will also determine if there is probable cause to believe that the child committed a delinquent act.  In some jurisdiction this hearing may be held before a “master” rather than before a juvenile court Judge.  A “master” is an attorney who is assigned to hear certain matters in lieu of a Judge.  A party may object to a matter being heard by a master and request a hearing before a Judge.  However, that may delay the proceedings.  At the conclusion of the detention hearing, the court may order that the detention continue pending an adjudication hearing or may release the child to the custody of a parent or guardian pending the adjudication hearing.

The next step in the process is an adjudication hearing.  The timing for scheduling an adjudication hearing depends on whether the child is detained.  If the child is detained an adjudication hearing is to be scheduled within 10 days of the filing of the petition.  If the child is not detained the adjudication hearing is to be scheduled within a reasonable time.  As a practical matter, most courts attempt to schedule an adjudication hearing as soon as possible regardless of whether the child is detained or not.  Counsel for either side may request a continuance if they are not ready to proceed to a full adjudication hearing on the scheduled date.  At the adjudication hearing the burden is on the Commonwealth to prove to the court, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the child committed a delinquent act and that the child is in need of treatment, supervision, or rehabilitation.  A child may elect to forgo a full adjudication hearing and enter an admission to all or some of the allegations.    Following an adjudication hearing or an admission, the court will enter an order formally finding the child to be delinquent or not delinquent. 

If the child is found delinquent the next step in the process is a dispositional hearing.  The purpose of this hearing is to determine how to provide balanced attention to the protection of the community, the imposition of accountability for offenses committed and the development of competencies to enable the child to become a responsible and productive member of the community.  In order to aid the court in fashioning an appropriate order the court may order a social case study to be prepared or may order the child to undergo a health, psychological, psychiatric, drug and alcohol, or any other examination it deems appropriate to aid the court.  A dispositional hearing is to be held within 20 days of the finding of delinquency if the child is detained.  If the child is not detained the dispositional hearing is to be held within 60 days of the finding of delinquency.  Possible dispositions include supervision by the probation department and placement in treatment facilities.

Each situation is unique to their set of facts. It is important that you hire an experienced team to join you in the fight against the Government. The team at Manchester and Associates has decades of experience and training infighting these types of cases. Should you find yourself in a situation where you need legal representation you need to contact criminal defense attorneys who know the law inside and out. To discuss your specific situation, contact our team for a free consultation at our toll free number (800)-243-4878 or through the contact tab at the top of the page.

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A wealth of information about Pennsylvania DUI law, along with questions and answers, can be found below. If you are facing DUI charges, use the buttons below to contact us and benefit from our expertise and experience.

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Manchester and Associates

1-(800)-243-4878
124 West Bishop Street
Bellefonte, PA, 16823

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Testimonials

Manchester & Associates
Manchester & Associates
5.0
Based on 148 reviews
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Ewa Maddox
Ewa Maddox
20:42 26 Apr 22
Brian is very knowledgeable and awesome at doing his job….and he does it well. I was super impressed on how dedicated... and available he is to respond and act on questions or concerns. I highly recommend Brian Manchester’s lawyer expertise.read more
Scott Hall
Scott Hall
18:24 01 Apr 22
Brian Manchester is a true professional! I am from outside PA. When I received my charges I knew I needed a really good... lawyer. I started with an internet search and came up with a list of lawyers that could handle my case. I did some research on them and Brian came up well recommended. So I called his firm. I explained my case to the staff member that answered the phone. They then put Brian on the phone. After talking to him for a few minutes, I felt very comfortable with him handling my case, so I hired him on the spot. He and his staff were very easy to work with. In the end he got me the best results I could hope for! I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs a great criminal defense lawyer!read more
Cheyenne Kauffman
Cheyenne Kauffman
16:10 14 Mar 22
Brian Manchester did an amazing job with my case. He was thorough, kept me up to date, and was wonderful at getting... charges dropped/outcome we wanted. I’d recommend him to anyone!read more
David Brown
David Brown
18:42 09 Mar 22
I knew that I needed the best lawyer because of the circumstances that led to my charges. Brian understood my... circumstances and frankly, he did amazing. Most of all, not only did he know the court system, he was able to obtain the best course of action for my interest. He goes above and beyond the definition of a professional!read more
Angel Gil
Angel Gil
15:30 18 Feb 22
Brian is the man for the job. He knows best through any situation. My money is on him to get the job done. Got an... amazing outcome on a tricky situation I’m pleased with his representation and I think anybody who hires him will be aswell!read more
Connie Paige
Connie Paige
18:09 14 Feb 22
Brian and his team were excellent to work with. Any time we had a question, he or one of his team would respond in a... timely manner. He did the best he could with the circumstances he was given to the case.read more
Patrick Bickford
Patrick Bickford
17:42 11 Feb 22
Brian is a big time lawyer with a hometown feel. Very knowledgeable and thorough. He came highly recommended and did... not disappoint. Thank you, sir on a nearly impossible job well done!read more
Nick
Nick
21:43 16 Dec 21
Brian is a phenomenal lawyer and assisted me with great conviction.The outcome was desirable and will allow me to... pursue my dreams. Throughout the process, he was very responsive and accounted for all circumstances. I highly recommend him.read more
Craig Reinstein
Craig Reinstein
14:08 15 Dec 21
Exceptional attorney. Very professional and thorough. Can't thank you enough!!!
Karen Moseley
Karen Moseley
23:48 02 Dec 21
Manchester and associates did an excellent job representing my daughter in a case and the outcome was wonderful. They... were very informative and kept us up to date until it was settled. Could not have asked for a better attorney. Thank youread more
crystal hesketh
crystal hesketh
15:36 09 Nov 21
Brian definitely goes ABOVE AND BEYOND. He doesn’t take a case if he don’t feel he can win. He answers phone calls. ... Emails etc in a fashionable manner. Very promptly! You need him on a Saturday or a Sunday. Trust believe you can call him and he will return your call asap, no matter what day it is! He won’t make you a promise that he can’t keep! When I say he goes above and beyond. He truly does ! Brian is A+++++++ Call him today , you won’t be disappointed ! He fights to win if need be !!read more
Wayne
Wayne
11:11 28 Sep 21
Brian is an excellent advocate. I observed him in action and it was very clear to me, he is well respected in the... courtroom by the court and prosecutor. They know when Brian appears in the courtroom, he is always prepared to defend his client. He is knowledgeable and experienced. Very thankful he is on my side, when he walks in the courtroom, I know he will give me my best defense. Complete confidenceread more
Trevor Williams
Trevor Williams
22:41 27 Sep 21
Mr. Manchester is a straight forward dedicated attorney. He kept me well informed throughout the entire process and got... me results that were next to impossible. I owe my future to him. Thank you for everything you did for me.read more
gen kerr
gen kerr
21:52 27 Sep 21
Very knowledgeable about the law and proper and thorough investigating. He doesn't leave a stone unturned. Got great... results for my son and did what 2 previous attorneys said couldn't be done.read more
Logan McGovern
Logan McGovern
14:32 18 Sep 21
Very Professional in and out of the court room. Also truly cares about his cases. I had him 3 years ago almost 4 now.... He remembered me an my case almost like it was yesterday. All without having a computer to pull it up and look at it on. Not to many others would have even remembered me let alone my cases as well.read more
Angela Kovschak
Angela Kovschak
17:18 14 Sep 21
Manchester & Associates don’t only work Monday-Friday 8-5They provided service weekends & holidays for which I am... forever gratefulread more
TjTally
TjTally
01:44 15 Jul 21
Excellent attorney. He did a great job for me in the courts. Very professional, Very knowledgeable. If your looking... for a job to be done thoroughly with a fine toothed comb.. Hes the guy hands down. He found me better results than expected. Super grateful. Thank You Mr Manchester.read more
Chip Siegel
Chip Siegel
22:38 08 Jul 21
I am an attorney in Las Vegas Nevada and worked with Brian Manchester on a case. He provided great assistance and his... ideas on how to attack the blood test helped me achieve a better than expected result for my client. I found Brian responsive, resourceful, and determined, all great qualities in an attorney. If I needed to refer anyone for legal assistance in Central PA, I will definitely refer them to Brian.read more
Deb Capadona
Deb Capadona
22:05 05 Jul 21
Brian Manchester has a great team, knowledgeable and effective in managing our case. Highly recommend.
Jenn Newrones
Jenn Newrones
15:21 26 Jun 21
Mr. Manchester represented my uncle and made sure that our family was always informed and prepared for any upcoming... hearings. He was very professional and knowledgeable.read more
John Levanduski
John Levanduski
08:12 24 Jun 21
As a client of Brian Manchester and Associates, I have only good things to say of my experience with the representation... they have given me! Brian has been straight forward , open and honest with all aspects of my situation! He explained everything in detail and always responded to my concerns in a timely matter, which helped tremendously during this ordeal! He also understood the concerns of my family and treated them with the utmost respect! For that I am appreciative! I would highly recommend Brian Manchester and Associates to those needing a great law firm!read more
Ann Marie Messner
Ann Marie Messner
13:57 10 Jun 21
Mr. Manchester did an excellent job of defending my brother. He always kept my family informed and was knowledgeable... and persistent in bringing the case to an end with the best possible outcome.read more
Steve B
Steve B
18:01 21 Apr 21
I am an attorney in Texas, but when I need assistance in cases which require specialized scientific knowledge about lab... testing protocols, procedures, and their weaknesses, I turn to Mr. Manchester. If you have a case involving possession of a controlled substance or DWI / DUI, there is nobody better to have in your corner.read more
Chenoah Barnes
Chenoah Barnes
00:50 09 Apr 21
The whole team is amazing! Brian is always on top of things, making sure you understand things fully, and very... professional about everything. He gets things done fast! You couldn’t ask for a better lawyer!read more
Jamie Maiolo
Jamie Maiolo
19:13 23 Feb 21
Brian Manchester and his team did an excellent job of defending me in what I thought was surely a dismal situation I... had gotten myself in. They always kept me informed and offered information and guidance I had never heard of before. Professional, knowledgeable and prompt are just a few words I can truly say they impressed me the most. First class! Thank you very much for your assistance in bringing my issues to a satisfying resolve!read more
Kemi Ajayi
Kemi Ajayi
04:34 08 Jan 21
Brian Manchester is a great lawyer! Attentive, compassionate, helpful and guided me through the process with ease. My... son felt comfortable sharing his story with him and felt that they really cared. Also, the team was positive, friendly and loving. They just wanted to help. Thank you all so much for the hard work and help. I cannot thank you enough. I would highly recommend Manchester and Associates.read more
Tyler Roy
Tyler Roy
21:31 14 Dec 20
This guy is awesome! Things changed in the court room and he adapted quickly and professionally. I would highly... recommend him to anybody. I can’t say thank you enough for the work he’s done for me. He makes sure things are clear and understood for when you walk into court. Once again thank you and I would highly recommend him to anybody!!read more
rodney baker
rodney baker
23:05 24 Nov 20
Persistent ! That is the word, Brian Manchester is very persistent .He will leave no stone unturned , and fight for... justice and be sure that you don't just get a run of the mill sentence .or just lay down for what ever the DA offers, i was involved in a DUI arrest over 2 years ago ! Brian would not give up, There was many trips to the court house and every step of the way he kept me very informed .Brian's courtroom performance is very professional and at time's theatrical and dare i say entertaining ! and in the end he and I WON a victory that didn't end with being charged with DUI :)Thank you again Brian for being persistent and all that you done for me .read more
Ashley Gunnett
Ashley Gunnett
03:06 13 Nov 20
Attorney Kuebler represented me in a case that could have potentially ended in license suspension and jail time. She... was able to negotiate a deal and got all charges (including a DUI) dismissed, except for a summary offense. It was the best possible outcome. I HIGHLY recommend Manchester and Associates!read more
Olivia Matthews
Olivia Matthews
19:30 04 Nov 20
Very helpful and is a great guy. He is always in contact and has great connections. I can't thank him enough for all... the help he's given me. I highly recommend Manchester and Associates.read more
Bob Dearman
Bob Dearman
14:07 27 Oct 20
I would highly recommend Manchester & Associates to everybody. They were recommended to me by another law firm. When I... made the call to talk to them, I was pleasantly surprised when I was able to discuss my case directly with Attorney Manchester himself. We talk about what my option were, and they said it would be no problem to represent me in this case. They did not have much time to prepare before my preliminary hearing and I was instructed to look for Attorney Davidson at the hearing location a half hour before it was time. When I found Attorney Davidson he explained to me what their plan was and I also found from listening to Greg talk to other attorneys how very well versed in the law and the situation that I found myself in he was. Much to my surprise I was able to plead guilty to a much lesser misdemeanor and walked out paying less than 10% of what I could have been looking at and more important, I faced on incarceration time what so ever. They did exactly what Brian told me they would do. Again, thank you Attorney Manchester and the very knowledgeable Attorney Davidson.read more
Jimmy Figueroa
Jimmy Figueroa
10:15 30 Sep 20
This law firm help me with a bad situation and it was done within days. The best law firm I've dealt with. I highly... recommend them to anyone.read more
Becky Hemphill
Becky Hemphill
22:28 29 Sep 20
We hired Brian Manchester when my daughter was charged with crimes after being a passenger in a motor vehicle accident... when she was actually a victim. She was (and is) still recovering when she was charged. Because she was in a wheelchair and recovering, Brian came to OUR HOME in the middle of nowhere on a Saturday to meet with us. He looked at the evidence and realized her being charged at all was wrong.. He got the charges dismissed without my daughter ever stepping foot in a Courthouse, as they never should have occurred in the first place, and she is now being treated like the victim she truly is. We cannot thank him enough and would highly recommend him and his associates! He does what it takes to get the best results possible. It doesn't get better than having the charges completely dismissed and expunged. Definitely worth it.read more
Ralph Larsen
Ralph Larsen
18:34 10 Sep 20
Almost 2 years ago, I found myself in need of a lawyer to fight a case for me, that if I lost, it could've cost me my... job. When I met with Brian I was impressed with his confidence and experience on cases similar to mine. I decided to use him as my lawyer, and it was the best decision I could have made. Over the course of 2 years he stuck with my case, stayed in contact with me on new developments, and always answered any questions I had. Once we had exhausted all options on attempting to settle the case, my only option was go to trial. When I asked Brian what he thought my chances were, his response was "I don't go trial to lose." He wasn't kidding, 2 days ago Brian spent 6 hours in court on my behalf and utilizing his experience and expert witness, I was found not guilty! I am beyond grateful to Brian for his work, and would recommend him to anyone that finds themselves in need of representation.read more
Siavash Varasteh
Siavash Varasteh
18:16 16 Aug 20
Great attorney. Constantly communicates with the client about the progress at each step and more importantly, he... delivers.Tip: Don’t interrupt him when he’s talking. He’s not fond of that. Let the man finish!Overal, I highly recommend Brian.read more
Jason Franklin
Jason Franklin
00:24 30 Jul 20
Brian represented me in a case that could have turned out really bad for me. He was upfront with me about everything.... Very professional but easy to talk to and always available to answer questions. If he couldn't speak to me at that moment he promptly returned my call in a timely fashion. He was able to negotiate a deal that was better than the best possible outcome I could have asked for. he definitely knows his way around a court room and everyone in the courtroom in Lycoming County including the DA and judge had a lot of respect for him and a good working relationship with him. I could not be more pleased with his representation and the outcome he somehow negotiated for me. I can not recommend him enough. If you are in a situation like me and need a lawyer give this firm a call immediately. I promise you will not be disappointed.read more
Angela Baker
Angela Baker
20:47 16 Jul 20
I can’t say enough good things about this law firm and the attorney who represented me on two different charges. Greg... Davidson was the attorney on my cases. He kept in touch with me, he returned my phone calls and was there any time I needed assistance. If you find yourself in a position where you, unfortunately, need legal counsel, I highly recommend this law firm. They are professional, reliable, and have reasonable fees.read more
Tanya Fye
Tanya Fye
21:04 09 Jul 20
Very positive, responsive and effective. Delivered what Attorney Manchester said he could and made what was a... terrifying experience, less intrusive and invasive !! Thorough and quick response time. I was kept well informed at all times . Answered all questions in detail regardless of the amount of times that I asked , professional and courtesy!! Highly recommend!read more
Derek Ross
Derek Ross
18:56 06 Jun 20
Brian was extremely helpful with my legal issue. He always answered phone calls, texts, and emails in a timely manner.... For someone that wasn't all too familiar with how various aspects of the legal system worked, Brian did a great job communicating everything to me and offering explanations along the way. I am very happy with how he handled everything with my case and would use his services again in the future if needed.read more
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124 West Bishop Street
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1-(800)-243-4878
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