There are a lot of law firms out there who are willing to take on your criminal or DUI case, but there is only one McShane Firm. So how is the McShane Firm different and better than the rest? In this series, we will take a look at some factors you should consider when choosing…
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Katy Kennedy published in Understanding DUI Scientific Evidence
Congratulations to Attorney Katy Kennedy of The McShane Firm who recently was published in the widely respected book Understanding DUI Scientific Evidence. She authored chapter 6 entitled “A Basic Overview of Headspace Gas Chromatography”. Gas Chromatography is the scientific method which is used in DUI blood testing. To effectively defend DUI cases, an attorney must go…
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Another Example of Excellence in DUI Defense
At The McShane Firm, we don’t strive to be Good at DUI defense; we strive for Excellence. Our performance proves that. Recently, we received some great news on a case we were working on. After SIX YEARS, multiple orders for re-trials in a case that was heard at many levels in the Pennsylvania appellate system, the…
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Field Sobriety Circus
Here’s how the story goes: you get pulled over by a police officer who suspects your car swerved a bit. The officer asks if you have been drinking and before you know it you are on the street walking an imaginary line, following a pen with your eyes and standing on one leg. You might…
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The Problem with DUI Drugs
DUI drugs refers to driving under the influence of illicit drugs as well as many common prescription medications. The ironic part is, even if you have a valid prescription and are taking the recommended dosage, you can still be charged with a DUI drugs (DUID). (Read: DUI Arrests Purposely Targeting Innocent People) Because of the…
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Friends Don’t Let Friends Defend their Own DUI
Defending your own DUI case is not a smart choice. For someone without the proper legal training, it will be nearly impossible to challenge the evidence and get a positive outcome. Here are some reasons why you should not try to defend a DUI by yourself. The Stakes are High While DUI is a very…
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External Quality Assurance Auditor for Pennsylvania Forensics Labs
Forensics, in the form of both blood and breath testing, is a big part of a DUI case. This is why I have dedicated myself to the study of forensic science so I can offer the best defense for my clients. You have to know the science to hold the scientists accountable. In my studies…
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Crime Labs Positive. Retests Show Substance was not Present in the First Place!
Blood tests are often treated like the “holy grail” of DUI evidence. Prosecutors see it as infallible and many inexperienced DUI attorneys fail to question the results because of its perceived accuracy. I even once had a prosecutor say to me, in open court mind you, “It’s a blood test. How can you possibly challenge…
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The Disconnect Between Science and Crime Labs
Science is a very important part of criminal law, especially when it comes to DUI. In many cases, the bulk of the evidence lies in blood and breath test reports. To produce valid and accurate results, science has outlined specific methodologies and procedures that need to be followed and if these are violated, the results…
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Tougher Penalties for repeat Pennsylvania drunk drivers
A lot of politics surround the issue of DUI in PA. There are many powerful lobbies like MADD and the Pennsylvania DUI Association that are pushing for harsher penalties for DUI and have even proposed some legislation that, in essence, assumes that a suspect is guilty before they have had a chance in court. I…
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