DUI and traffic-related charges
Clear guidance and focused defense strategy for DUI and related allegations, including license suspension and ARD program eligibility.
Lehigh County criminal defense
Lehigh County Criminal Lawyer
A criminal charge in Lehigh County moves quickly — from a preliminary hearing before a magisterial district judge to arraignment and trial at the Lehigh County Courthouse in Allentown. Dutko & Chwiecko Trial Attorneys represent people facing serious criminal matters in Allentown and throughout Lehigh County, providing trial-focused defense from the first court date through resolution.
Criminal defense representation for Lehigh County
Drug and firearm offenses
Experienced advocacy for serious charges — from simple possession to PWID and illegal firearms — that can carry lasting consequences.
Assault, domestic and sex offenses
Discreet, determined representation from the first conversation through trial for high-stakes and sensitive allegations.
Theft, fraud and appeals
Careful case review and courtroom-ready advocacy for complex criminal matters and post-conviction relief.
Serving communities throughout Lehigh County
Dutko & Chwiecko Trial Attorneys represent clients from Allentown and communities across Lehigh County, including:
- Allentown
- Bethlehem
- Catasauqua
- Coplay
- Emmaus
- Macungie
- Slatington
Start with a confidential case review
Every case has its own facts, risks and options. We will listen to your concerns, explain the process in plain language and help you make informed decisions about what comes next.
Lehigh County court system
How criminal cases move through Lehigh County courts
Criminal charges in Lehigh County begin at the magisterial district court level, where a preliminary arraignment and preliminary hearing are scheduled. Felony and serious misdemeanor cases then move to the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas at 455 West Hamilton Street in Allentown, where formal arraignment, pre-trial motions, and trial take place. The Lehigh County District Attorney's Office prosecutes these matters — having experienced defense counsel at every stage is essential to protecting your rights.
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Magisterial district court
Preliminary arraignment and preliminary hearing are held here. The preliminary hearing is often the first opportunity to challenge the Commonwealth's evidence and seek reduction or dismissal of charges.
02
Court of Common Pleas
Felony and serious misdemeanor cases proceed to 455 West Hamilton Street, Allentown. Formal arraignment, pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, and jury or bench trials occur at this level.
03
Superior Court appeals
Following a conviction, defendants have the right to appeal to the Pennsylvania Superior Court. Post-conviction relief through PCRA petitions is also available for eligible cases.
Frequently asked questions
Talk with an Allentown criminal defense attorney
Contact Dutko & Chwiecko Trial Attorneys to discuss your criminal defense matter in Allentown or anywhere in Lehigh County.
This page provides general information and does not create an attorney-client relationship.