attorney@att.net
570-288-7780
Law Offices Of
John B.Pike

Searching cars is a common practice for law enforcement that serves as a way to gather evidence and solve crimes as they come upon potential crimes. However, not all car searches are legal. The police cannot search your car without reason. If you have been a victim of an illegal car search, it’s important to know your rights.

What are Car Searches?

A car search is the act of inspecting or examining a vehicle by law enforcement with the intent of finding evidence of a crime. This can include searching for: 
  • Drugs 
  • Weapons 
  • Stolen property 
  • Any other items that may be considered illegal

When is a Car Search Legal?

According to the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution, American citizens have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. This means that for a car search to be legal, law enforcement must have probable cause or a valid warrant.

What is Probable Cause?

Probable cause refers to the belief that a crime has been committed and there is evidence of it. In the case of car searches, the evidence is believed to be in the vehicle. Probable causes can include: 
  • Witnessing illegal activity and/or smelling drugs or alcohol 
  • Seeing contraband in plain sight 
A valid warrant, on the other hand, is a court order that gives law enforcement officials the legal right to search a vehicle.

When Probable Cause Isn’t Needed

There are also certain situations where law enforcement officials do not need probable cause or a warrant to conduct a car search. These include:
  • Consent: If the driver gives consent for the search, then it is considered legal.
  • Inventory searches: These are conducted when a vehicle is impounded and are primarily to protect any valuable items in the vehicle. However, if illegal items are found during this type of search, they can be used as evidence.

Who Can Conduct Car Searches?

Car searches can only be conducted by law enforcement officials who have been authorized to do so. This typically includes police officers, state troopers, and federal agents. Private investigators or security guards do not have the legal right to conduct car searches.

What to Do After an Illegal Car Search

If you believe that you have been a victim of an illegal car search, it is important to take the following steps:
  1. Remain calm: It can be intimidating and frustrating to be subjected to an illegal car search, but it’s important to remain calm and cooperative.
  2. Record details: Take note of the date, time, location, and any other relevant information about the search. This can help you and your attorney build a case against the law enforcement officials involved.
  3. Seek legal representation: It’s important to consult with our experienced criminal defense attorney, who can advise you on your rights and how to proceed.
  4. File a complaint: If you believe your rights were violated during the car search, you can file a complaint with the appropriate authorities. If you are being charged with a crime, the fact that you were subjected to an illegal car search is a strong defense we can use.

Contact the Criminal Defense Attorney at Pike Law

Car searches can be an effective tool in law enforcement, but they must be conducted within the boundaries of the law. If you believe that you were subjected to an illegal car search, it’s important to know your rights and protect them. By understanding what constitutes a legal car search and who has the authority to conduct one, you can better protect yourself and your rights.  For legal representation and information, contact the criminal defense attorney at Pike Law. No one’s rights should ever be violated, much less arrested based on ‘evidence’ gathered while your rights were being violated.  If you have been arrested after an illegal car search, contact our attorney today. 

Personal injuries can be life-changing events, affecting not only your physical well-being but also your financial stability and overall quality of life. If your injuries are severe enough, you might be unable to work. If you can’t work, you can’t make the money you need to support yourself and your family. Once this happens, it can become a downward spiral. Many suffer in silence rather than file a personal injury claim.

This is a situation that has happened to many people in Kingston, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding Luzerne County area. Those people have turned to John B. Pike, Attorney at Law, for over 25 years to help them navigate the complexities of personal injury claims, and you can, too. To understand why, let us explain the basics of personal injury claims and how they work.

Personal Injury Law Basics

Personal injury law covers a wide range of cases, including car accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, medical malpractice, and more. These cases typically revolve around the concept of negligence, where one party’s failure to exercise reasonable care results in harm to another.

John B. Pike’s Experience

When it comes to personal injury cases in Kingston, PA, John B. Pike is a name you can trust. With over two decades of experience, he has honed his skills in negotiating with insurance companies and representing clients in court to secure the compensation they deserve.

Steps After an Injury

If you’ve been injured in an accident, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly impact your case. Seek medical attention promptly, document the incident as soon as you’re able, and gather evidence if possible. Then, it’s crucial to discuss your case with an experienced attorney like John B. Pike.

Importance of Legal Representation

Attempting to handle a personal injury claim on your own can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts, and you may need to be made aware of all the damages you’re entitled to. John B. Pike’s experience in personal injury law will help protect your rights and will fight for you to receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Success Stories

To illustrate John B. Pike’s track record, here’s a brief success story:
  • One of John’s clients – a Kingston resident injured in a slip-and-fall accident – was initially offered a low settlement by an insurance company. John diligently built a case, presented evidence of negligence, and negotiated a settlement that covered the client’s medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, ensuring their financial stability during recovery.
In Kingston, PA, and throughout Luzerne County, John B. Pike stands out as a dedicated advocate for personal injury victims. His commitment to his clients and his extensive experience make him the go-to attorney when seeking compensation for personal injury damages.

How John B. Pike Can Help

Attorney at Law John B. Pike is a dedicated personal injury attorney with a wealth of experience in representing clients in Kingston and throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA). With a strong focus on personal injury law, John has become a trusted advocate for those who have suffered injuries due to the negligence or misconduct of others. John B. Pike’s approach to personal injury cases is characterized by dedication and personalized attention. He will investigate your case thoroughly, gather evidence, and consult with and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the best possible outcome. He aims to ensure you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If you’ve been injured, don’t hesitate to reach out to John B. Pike, Attorney at Law, to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Your well-being and financial recovery are his top priorities. Contact us today.
Facing criminal charges can be an incredibly daunting experience, one that requires a strong legal advocate to safeguard your rights and freedom. In Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA), John B. Pike, Attorney at Law, has been a trusted name in criminal defense for over 25 years. He has thorough experience with defending the rights of clients in Kingston, PA, and the surrounding areas. He is well-prepared to defend your rights. John B. Pike is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with a wealth of experience defending clients in NEPA. He understands the stress and uncertainty that criminal charges can bring, and he’s committed to providing the highest level of legal support to people facing a wide range of criminal allegations.

Criminal Defense Law Basics

Criminal defense law encompasses a broad spectrum of cases, including DUI charges, drug offenses, theft, assault, and more. The primary objective of a criminal defense attorney is to protect the rights of the accused and ensure they receive a fair trial and due process under the court of law.

John B. Pike’s Legal Career

John B. Pike’s extensive legal career is marked by his dedication to his clients and his ability to navigate the complexities of criminal law. With decades of experience, he has established himself as a leading criminal defense attorney in Kingston, PA, and the greater NEPA region.

Types of Criminal Cases

John B. Pike represents clients in a wide range of criminal cases, including:
  • DUI Offenses: He has a proven track record of successfully defending individuals facing DUI charges, helping them minimize the legal consequences and protect their driving privileges.
  • Drug Offenses: John has represented clients in drug-related cases, ensuring their rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
  • Theft and Property Crimes: Whether it’s shoplifting or more serious theft charges, John has the experience to mount a strong defense.

Benefits of Legal Representation

When you’re charged with a crime, it’s vital to have an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side. Attempting to navigate the legal system alone can result in severe consequences, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record. John B. Pike’s experience and legal acumen give his clients the best chance of a favorable outcome.

John B. Pike’s Defense Strategies

John employs a range of strategies to protect his client’s rights and build a robust defense. This includes examining evidence, interviewing witnesses, challenging procedural errors, and negotiating with prosecutors to achieve the best possible outcome.

Success Stories

One of John’s clients was facing serious drug possession charges in Kingston, PA. John meticulously reviewed the evidence, identified legal flaws in the case, and successfully had the charges dropped. The client avoided significant legal penalties and was able to move forward with their life.

Contact Attorney at Law, John B. Pike For Help Defending Your Rights

In Northeastern Pennsylvania, John B. Pike, Attorney at Law, is the go-to choice for those in need of experienced criminal defense representation. With a deep commitment to protecting the rights of his clients, John stands ready to fight for your freedom and ensure that you receive a fair and just legal process. If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, contact John B. Pike to discuss your case and secure the legal advocacy you deserve. Your future is his priority.