Free Consultation:
610-436-1410
Free Consultation:
610-436-1410Trusted Counsel.
Strong Defense.
Proven Results.
Our Promise to Every Client
Just because you were charged with a crime or pulled over for DUI does not mean you are a criminal. At Skinner Law Firm, our criminal defense attorneys promise to protect everything you have built and worked tirelessly to earn. Get the justice you deserve. Let a West Chester criminal attorney look at what happened, discuss your options, and fight to ensure that one mistake or misunderstanding does not define you.
Discover Our FirmYou’ll Receive Unmatched Personal Attention from a Former Chester County Prosecutor.
Our Criminal Lawyers Balance Aggressive Advocacy with Sensible Legal Strategies to Find Real Solutions.
With Our History of Success, We’ve Likely Helped Someone in a Similar Situation.
He is very informative and knowledgeable. I had no trouble contacting him to answer questions or give me advice.
11-29-2019
Miles
I am thankful I found and chose Michael Skinner.
05-17-2019
B.H.
He was extremely helpful and knowledgeable.
06-14-2018
Kelly
Extensive experience with defending DUI’s and I saw this confidence in the courtroom.
12-17-2018
Anne
I don’t think it is possible for a better outcome than what was achieved by Michael J Skinner.
12-14-2017
Keith
Michael and Nichole made me feel comfortable as you truly feel that you are discussing your problem with friends.
11-15-2018
John
Michael Skinner is an excellent lawyer that knows your rights, and he will indeed fight for you.
12-04-2018
Jamal
Mike Skinner resolved this case in the best way possible, and I am eternally grateful for his advice and counsel.
11-30-2019
Judy
Michael Skinner EXPERTLY handled a very sensitive case.
12-10-2018
Matt
He is very nice and will work with to help get you the best possible outcome.
07-08-2018
Katie
I was nervous regarding my situation, but after a brief conversation describing my charges and the delicacy of my situation, Michael assured me he could easily handle this case.
11-23-2019
Dan
He is very professional and understanding of each person’s needs.
05-19-2019
Gary
Going above and beyond for their clients is an understatement.
12-20-2018
James
If you work with him, he will get you what you want/deserve.
06-13-2018
John K.
I would highly recommend him to anyone facing charges or violations in Chester County.
08-16-2019
Dylan
He was able to get me a lesser sentence and always treated me with respect throughout.
12-08-2019
Ricky
I went to Skinner after researching all the law firms in the area and without a doubt would go to him for everything.
05-15-2019
Jordan
From day one I felt comfortable with him and confident that he would help me get the best outcome available.
12-19-2018
Chesco
He took me through everything step by step and charged me a fair price for his service.
11-26-2019
Mckenzie
His calm presence is also very reassuring for his clients. Highly recommend choosing him.
05-21-2019
Kevin
I was a little nervous about everything and just 5 minutes of talking with Mike, I felt at ease.
12-18-2018
Garry W.
He was able to reduce my son’s sentence from a potentially harsh fine, loss of driving privileges or even jail time, down to a few community service hours.
10-11-2018
T.F.
A top-notch attorney in West Chester.
10-10-2019
Emily
His diligence and professionalism are unmatched making it a pleasure to have been a client.
12-19-2018
Dalton
Mr Skinner always kept us updated about the case and was prompt with his responses.
12-13-2018
Robert
Mike’s attention to detail and professionalism put my mind at ease.
09-10-2019
Mike
Working with Mr. Skinner has been a pleasure.
12-19-2018
Jessel
Michael was able to give me clear guidance on my legal options and explained each step of the process.
11-15-2019
Moh Nica
Anyone faced with a DUI charge needs Mike Skinner.
12-17-2018
T McGov
He was very negotiable and understanding of my circumstances.
11-14-2018
Sahmere
Michael Skinner and his staff made me completely comfortable and confident
07-11-2019
Jason
Michael J. Skinner is a former Assistant District Attorney in Chester County, and an accomplished criminal defense lawyer. With this level of experience and institutional knowledge regarding Pennsylvania criminal law and procedure, attorney Skinner is an invaluable resource for anyone accused of a crime in Chester, Delaware, or Montgomery Counties.
Set up a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney near you today. Call (610) 436-1410 to discuss your case one-on-one with criminal attorney Michael Skinner.
An arrest for driving under the influence can happen to anyone. A DUI could mean time behind bars, a license suspension, and thousands in fines and costs. Contrary to what many believe, DUI convictions are not absolute. Police stops are not always conducted properly, and BAC tests can be unreliable. By investing in an experienced West Chester DUI lawyer, you can secure a far better result.
DUI DefenseSex crime accusations are devastating. A conviction can result in lengthy prison sentences, embarrassing stigmas, and registration as a sex offender. These criminal cases can be difficult to defend without the help of a criminal attorney, and early intervention is often vital. Let us examine the case, find the flaws, build your credibility, and ensure you get to tell your side of the story.
Sex CrimesSubstance abuse and addiction are real problems, but the criminal justice system is rarely the solution. Charges like drug possession or drug trafficking can lead to prison and life-long limitations. Remember, you still have options. By working with a West Chester criminal lawyer, you can pursue having a drug charge dismissed or reduced, or find a diversion program that offers the help you need.
Drug CrimesThere are various laws you must follow to legally possess, use, transport, or sell a firearm. Mistakes or oversights on a gun application can lead to possible jail time and jeopardize your right to own a firearm. If you are accused of a weapon or gun crime, take it seriously from the start. Contact a criminal defense attorney who knows Pennsylvania criminal law and how to defend you.
Weapons/Firearms DefenseThese charges include assault, domestic violence, and homicide. These situations are not one size fits all, but law enforcement aggressively pursues these cases, and the punishments are harsh. No matter the accusation, or if it was exaggerated or misrepresented, an experienced West Chester criminal lawyer will protect your rights. This could be the difference in getting your charges reduced, dropped, or dismissed.
Violent CrimesThese offenses involve destruction, defacing, or damaging the property of another person or business. They include arson, burglary, trespassing, and criminal mischief. Property crimes can result from pranks or various other circumstances, but the consequences can be severe. Your first step should be to contact an experienced West Chester criminal attorney. Let us assess the situation, help you, and pursue the best course of action.
Property CrimesTheft ranges from shoplifting to complex frauds and felonies. Aside from jail, a theft conviction will tarnish your reputation, making it difficult to move forward. However, the value involved and your intent will be very important. An effective criminal defense attorney can improve your situation. Diversion programs are often available, and you may be eligible to have your charge reduced or dismissed.
Theft ChargesFederal charges involve crimes that cross borders or occur on federal property. This includes various financial crimes, drug offenses, and firearm charges. They can be very different from state crimes, often carrying mandatory minimum sentences. In federal cases, our criminal lawyers will fight to challenge the indictment and limit the penalties. We may even be able to resolve matters before it gets to the courtroom.
Federal DefenseNo matter the allegations, we’re here to guide you and answer all your questions.
The most serious criminal classification in Pennsylvania. A first-degree felony can result in up to 20 years in prison, while even a third-degree felony can have up to a seven-year prison sentence.
Felony ChargesWhile not as serious as felonies, Pennsylvania still has strict penalties for misdemeanor crimes, ranging from up to one year to five years in jail, and thousands of dollars in fines. Common examples are shoplifting, DUI, and marijuana possession.
Misdemeanor ChargesThis is collateral offered to the court in exchange for your release from custody on the assurance that you will return to stand trial or appear for court as necessary. Forms of collateral can be money, property, or a bail bond from a licensed bail bondsman.
The Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Program (“ARD”) is a pre-trial diversion program for low level offenders. Upon completion of ARD, your charges will be dismissed and expunged from your record. ARD usually involves probation, community service, possible drug or alcohol treatment, and the payment of court costs and fees. ARD is not available to everyone and is left to the prosecutor’s discretion.
ARD in DUI CasesThis has several names: “negotiated plea,” “plea bargain,” or “plea deal.” Simply put, it is an agreement in exchange for a specific penalty. For example, if you are facing a year in jail, the prosecutor may suggest probation for entering a guilty plea. While the vast majority of plea agreements are accepted, a judge does not have to accept a plea deal if the judge feels that the agreement is inappropriate. In such circumstances, you will be given the chance to withdraw the agreement.
This is the process by which all record of an arrest, charge, and criminal conviction is destroyed and removed from your record. It is accomplished through a formal petition that is filed in the Court of Common Pleas in the county where the offense occurred. While not every record is eligible for expungement, if successful, it will effectively be as if the incident never happened.
Record Sealing and ExpungementWhen you’re charged with a crime, it can feel like your whole life is at stake. But every case can be improved. DUIs can be dismissed, felonies can be withdrawn, witnesses can be wrong, and false allegations happen. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is an investment in the life you built and everything you can still accomplish. At Skinner Law Firm LLC, our criminal defense attorneys in West Chester, PA fight for your future – because you are the priority.
Contact Mike SkinnerDUI Dismissed after a Car Crash
Result: Dismissed
Following a vehicle crash, Client was arrested for DUI based on prescription drugs. Michael Skinner filed a pretrial motion challenging the sufficiency of the evidence. The DUI was subsequently dismissed.
Reduced Charges for Bank Manager Theft
Result: Reduced
Client was charged with multiple counts of swindling money from a bank customer’s account. The prosecutor was pursuing significant prison time, but attorney Skinner negotiated to have numerous charges dropped and arraigned for a low state sentence.
Not Guilty of Felony Strangulation
Result:
A domestic fight between high school sweethearts led to a felony strangulation charge for a Chester County man. The 20-year-old client had no priors but faced a minimum of one year incarnation for a 2nd-degree felony.
Charges Reduced for Gun Background Check Confusion
Result: Charges Reduced
A Chester County man was facing at least seven months in jail after he tried to purchase a firearm at a gun shop. Confused by the wording on the required background form, the client failed to disclose prior convictions that…
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A professional non-profit dedicated to the improvement of the criminal defense bar, and to providing valuable information to the public about drunk driving laws. Members of the NCDD are considered the most experienced DUI defense attorneys in the United States and Canada.
The preeminent organization in the United States. NACDL serves as a leader in identifying and reforming flaws in the criminal justice system, and addressing systemic racism, and ensuring that the criminal defense bar is fully equipped to serve all accused persons at the highest level.
PACDL is the premier network of the best defense attorneys in PA with a mission to educate, advocate, and inspire by providing support for criminal defense lawyers, promoting effective competence, leveling the playing field, and protecting freedoms.
The Pennsylvania Bar Association promotes and protects the legal profession, the rights of Pennsylvania citizens and access to justice for all. Membership is open to any lawyer in good standing who is licensed by the Bar of Pennsylvania.
The American Bar Association is one of the world’s largest voluntary professional organizations, with over 400,000 members and more than 3,500 entities. Their mission is to serve its members, the legal profession, and the public by defending liberty and delivering justice as the national representative of the legal profession.
The CCBA promotes professionalism, inclusion, and collegiality within the Chester County legal profession, and enhances the quality of life of its members and the practice of law within the community.
The NORML Legal Committee (NLC) is composed of attorneys committed to the overall goals of NORML. NLC attorneys meet each year to discuss emerging legal issues related to defense of marijuana consumers and to support each other in the pursuit of justice.
The American Institute’s Criminal Law Division is an impartial third-party rating service recognizing the excellence of fellow practitioners. To help clients across the United States make educated decisions, we compile an exclusive list of the “10 Best” Attorneys for each State. Our “10 Best” is a prestigious honor extended only to those who have reached the top of their profession while doing so with the client’s satisfaction being of paramount importance.
The American Institute’s DUI/DWI Division recognizes the excellence of practitioners in the field of DUI/DWI defense. We compile an exclusive list of the “10 Best” Attorneys for each State for potential clients to utilize. We look for Attorneys that have achieved unparalleled success but most importantly have done so for the benefit of their client. Very few Attorneys can do so and our organization recognizes this significant achievement.
Attorney Michael Skinner has been consistently recognized as among the best lawyers in Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. Attorneys are nominated via peer balloting, then vetted through our editorial process in various fields of practice.
The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 is an invitation-only organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from each state. Membership is extended only to the most qualified attorneys who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile. Each of our distinguished members possesses the knowledge, skill, experience, and success held by only the best and finest lawyers in America.
The Super Lawyers list recognizes no more than 5 percent of attorneys in each state. The Rising Stars further distinguishes no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys, and to be eligible, a Rising Stars candidate must be either 40 years old or younger, or in practice for 10 years or less who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.