Unparalleled Criminal Defense Experience An arrest on a criminal charge tests you like few other events can. Your freedom and your future may depend on the outcome of your case. In this situation, you need a strong and experienced advocate on your side. I am John J. Kerrigan, Jr., an attorney who has represented people accused of crimes for over 35 years. In over 8500 cases, including over 250 jury trials and over 1000 non-jury trials, I have worked to defend my clients’ rights and preserve their freedom. I have seen the difference that a successful outcome can make in my client’s life. Defending Your Rights and Freedom Over the course of my career, I have handled virtually every type of criminal defense case, ranging from high-level white collar crime charges to first-time DWAI/DUI. I have achieved positive results in several notable cases. These have included defending a client in the first DUI homicide by vehicle case tried in Pennsylvania. I obtained the commutation of a life sentence for a first degree murder conviction by Governor Edward G. Rendell. This was the first one in over 13 years. My colleagues have recognized me for my abilities and high standards of integrity. I have been selected for inclusion in Pennsylvania Super Lawyers for 2009 and in preceding years. In addition, I am AV-rated* under Martindale-Hubbell’s peer review rating system, a recognition of my reputation as a skilled advocate who always acts with integrity. I have also served on the federal Criminal Justice Act panel for more than 25 years. Working with a Team of Experts I am a sole practitioner who, if necessary, works with appropriate experts in cases involving serious charges, such as homicide and white collar offenses. Experts are used for serious criminal charges. Those experts may include a Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Private Investigator, Toxicologist, and Accident Reconstruction specialist. Because I am a sole practitioner and involved in every aspect of a case, I can use all of the relevant facts to support my defense theories and offer hands-on representation. I am aggressive at all stages of the legal process, making motions to suppress and motions to dismiss whenever possible.
Driving while ability impaired (DWAI) known elsewhere as DUI or DWI is a serious charge that can have many adverse effects on your life and lifestyle. Having an experienced lawyer represent you can help reduce the consequences of a drunk-driving charge. My firm, John J. Kerrigan, Jr., Attorney at Law, handles a large number of DWAI/DUI cases in Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County every year, ranging from first time arrests to cases involving drivers with prior DWAI convictions. I understand the law regarding DWAI arrests and alcohol-testing procedures, and work diligently to protect my clients’ rights. Contact me as soon as possible for a free consultation. I can review your case and discuss your legal options. I have been helping clients just like you throughout Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County, and also the Federal Court in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Defending a DWAI/DUI Charge A DWAI/DUI charge carries a risk of jail time, in addition to fines and restriction of your driving privileges. Your insurance premiums may also increase. With so much at stake, you need an effective defense attorney working on your behalf. I will review the evidence in your case. Sometimes, the police can make a mistake during the traffic stop, investigation or breath testing, which can help obtain a dismissal of the charge, or reduction to a lesser charge. Restoring Your Driving Privileges and Moving On Even if the evidence is strong and you are convicted, there may be options. Most first-time offenders are eligible for Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program. With ARD, if you go a year without getting into any more legal trouble, the DWAI/DUI charge will be dropped and taken off your record. For people under 18, a consent decree from juvenile court can have the same effect. In addition to the criminal charge, a person arrested for DWAI/DUI faces an automatic driver’s license suspension. If your license has been suspended, I may be able to help you get an Occupational Limited License so you can drive to work or school. I can also represent you regarding any traffic violations related to your DWAI/DUI arrest.