Defendants in the Greater Lehigh Valley who have been charged with a crime trust Christpher M. Shipman, Attorney at Law, to provide them with exceptional advocacy in the courtroom and an effective criminal law defense. I handle nearly any type of felony or misdemeanor charges, from white collar crimes to violent assaults. Christopher specializes in the areas below.

DUI, Traffic Violations and Drivers’ License Issues

A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction can result in up to five years in jail and fines of up to $10,000. In addition, the offender’s license can be suspended for a year or more, followed by a year of driving with an Ignition Interlock Device attached to the vehicle. Even first-time offenders can face jail time, fines, and a license suspension.

I handle all types of DUI cases, from first offenders to repeat offenders to those charged with vehicular homicide when a death is unintentionally caused by a person driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. I present a strong defense in line with the client’s goals to pursue the best possible outcome in the given situation. Wherever appropriate, I help clients to take advantage of probation through ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition).

In addition to DUI offenses, I have a lot of experience handling traffic violations and driver’s license issues. In traffic court, I help clients fight and beat speeding tickets and other moving violations, retain their license, and keep points off their license whenever possible.

Drug Crimes

State and federal laws both come down hard on the manufacture, distribution, or possession with intent to sell of crack and powder cocaine, marijuana, heroin, and other controlled substances. A conviction for a drug trafficking offense can land someone in prison for years. A drug arrest often involves issues of search and seizure with implications regarding a person’s constitutional rights. As a criminal defense lawyer, I investigate every aspect of the arrest procedure and will hold the state accountable for any missteps or abuses that occurred regarding my client’s constitutional rights. I also aid in referring clients to Drug Court as an alternative to incarceration in appropriate circumstances.

Juvenile Delinquency

A conviction as a minor can have serious repercussions, hurting one’s chances at a higher education or a multitude of government service and employment opportunities. Also, the law gives prosecutors discretion on whether to charge certain offenses as juvenile or adult crimes. Whether the charges involve underage drinking, disorderly conduct, or a theft of property crime, a juvenile offense must be dealt with seriously and effectively to prevent any of the long-term impacts that could result from a conviction.

Post-Conviction

A sentence of probation or other type of deferred sentencing is sometimes the best possible outcome when one is convicted of an offense. While probation gives the convicted offender his or her freedom, a subsequent arrest or other infraction can result in an immediate launching of the sentence. Likewise, obtaining an early release from prison on parole comes with a host of restrictions and requirements, and any violation can send the person right back to prison to finish the sentence. Being charged with a parole or probation violation is therefore a serious matter requiring effective legal representation

I also handle other forms of post-conviction relief, such as seeking a pardon from the Governor or obtaining expungements following successful completion of probation or other eligible circumstance.

Call Now for Immediate Assistance

When you have been arrested, there is no time to lose. You need a lawyer who will meet with you and begin to conduct an investigation, prepare a strong defense, and seek a positive resolution of your case as soon as possible so you can put the matter behind you. If you have been charged with a crime or are being investigated in connection with a criminal matter, do not talk to the police until you have talked to me. Contact Christopher M. Shipman, Attorney at Law for a free consultation regarding your rights and the options in regards to your particular legal issue.