Overview of the Charges I Defend
Criminal charges vary in severity and penalties depending on the circumstances of the offense, prior criminal history, and jurisdiction. Below are some of the most common charges Attorney Michael Kotik defends, along with explanations of what each entails.
Aggravated Assault
Definition: Aggravated assault involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause serious bodily injury to another person, often with a weapon or under circumstances showing extreme indifference to human life.
Legal Implications: In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, aggravated assault is typically a felony offense carrying penalties such as long-term imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Michael Kotik investigates every detail of the alleged incident—examining evidence, witness credibility, and police reports—to challenge the prosecution’s version of events and reduce or dismiss charges.
Burglary
Definition: Burglary occurs when an individual unlawfully enters a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime inside, regardless of whether the intended crime was completed.
Legal Implications: Classified as a felony in both states, burglary convictions can lead to years of incarceration. The severity often depends on whether the structure was occupied.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Kotik challenges the element of “intent” and whether the entry was actually unlawful, often using surveillance evidence and witness testimony to build a defense.
Criminal Trespassing
Definition: Entering or remaining on another’s property without permission.
Legal Implications: Depending on the location and intent, this charge can range from a summary offense to a felony.
Attorney Kotik’s Approach: Demonstrates lack of intent, misunderstanding, or consent by the property owner to reduce or dismiss charges.
Domestic Violence
Definition: Involves physical, emotional, or psychological abuse within a household or intimate relationship.
Legal Implications: Domestic violence charges can include assault, harassment, or protection order violations. Convictions may result in jail time, loss of gun rights, and restraining orders.
Attorney Kotik’s Approach: Protects clients from false or exaggerated accusations and works to preserve family relationships where possible.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Definition: Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Legal Implications: Penalties include license suspension, fines, mandatory programs, and potential jail time. Repeat offenses can lead to felony charges.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Reviews sobriety test procedures, breathalyzer calibration, and traffic stop legality to fight for case dismissal or reduced charges.
Firearms Offenses
Definition: Charges related to illegal possession, carrying without a permit, or use of firearms in a crime.
Legal Implications: Both Pennsylvania and New Jersey have strict gun laws with mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Challenges evidence of possession, searches, and the legality of firearm seizures.
Indecent Assault / Exposure
Definition: Involves unwanted sexual contact or exposure without consent.
Legal Implications: These are serious charges that can lead to sex offender registration and long-term social and professional consequences.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Focuses on inconsistencies in witness statements, DNA evidence, and the absence of intent.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Definition: Having illegal drugs or prescription medications without a valid prescription.
Legal Implications: Penalties vary based on drug type and quantity, ranging from fines to imprisonment.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Examines search and seizure procedures to challenge unlawful evidence collection.
Possession with Intent to Deliver (PWID)
Definition: Charged when someone is found with controlled substances packaged or in quantities suggesting distribution.
Legal Implications: PWID charges can result in significant prison sentences, especially for Schedule I or II drugs.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Challenges the prosecution’s interpretation of “intent” and investigates whether evidence was obtained legally.
Retail Theft
Definition: Taking or attempting to take merchandise from a store without paying.
Legal Implications: Depending on the value of the stolen goods and prior record, retail theft can be a misdemeanor or felony.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Argues mistaken identity, lack of intent, or coercion to secure dismissals or plea reductions.
Robbery
Definition: Theft that involves the use or threat of force.
Legal Implications: Considered a violent felony with severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Dissects witness accounts, surveillance footage, and evidence to challenge elements of force or intent.
Sexual Assault
Definition: Non-consensual sexual contact involving coercion, manipulation, or force.
Legal Implications: One of the most serious charges, often resulting in long prison terms and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Protects clients against false allegations and scrutinizes the credibility of witnesses and the reliability of forensic evidence.
Simple Assault
Definition: Intentionally or recklessly causing or attempting to cause bodily injury to another person.
Legal Implications: Simple assault is usually a misdemeanor but can escalate depending on the circumstances or victim status.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Argues self-defense, lack of intent, or mutual combat to reduce charges.
Theft by Unlawful Taking
Definition: Taking movable or immovable property with the intent to deprive the rightful owner.
Legal Implications: Penalties vary depending on the value of the property and prior offenses.
Attorney Michael Kotik’s Approach: Challenges ownership claims, intent, and valuation to mitigate charges.
Common Charges and Penalties
| Type of Charge | Included Offenses / Examples | Possible Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Assault Charges | Simple Assault, Aggravated Assault, Domestic Violence | Misdemeanor to Felony; jail, fines, probation, restraining orders |
| Property Crimes | Burglary, Criminal Trespassing, Theft by Unlawful Taking, Retail Theft | Fines, restitution, incarceration, probation |
| Drug Crimes | Possession, PWID | Jail or prison time, fines, driver’s license suspension |
| Sex Crimes | Indecent Assault, Sexual Assault, Exposure | Prison time, sex offender registration, probation |
| DUI and Vehicle Offenses | DUI, DWI | License suspension, jail, ignition interlock, fines |
| Weapons Offenses | Illegal possession or use of firearms | Mandatory minimum sentences, prison time |
How Attorney Michael Kotik Handles Criminal Defense Cases
Attorney Michael Kotik treats every case with precision, passion, and persistence. His defense strategies focus on uncovering procedural errors, challenging unconstitutional searches, and negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal.
In both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, he has successfully represented clients in municipal, county, and superior courts. His deep understanding of local systems—from Philadelphia and Bucks County to Camden and Atlantic County—enables him to tailor each defense strategy to the specific jurisdiction.
Disclaimer
Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and circumstances. The information provided here is for general purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Results vary depending on the court, charge, and evidence presented. For individualized legal counsel, contact Attorney Michael Kotik directly.
Contact Attorney Michael Kotik
If you have been charged with a criminal offense in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, don’t face it alone. Contact Attorney Michael Kotik today for an experienced, aggressive defense.
Phone: (267) 265-4553
Email: michael.kotik@gmail.com
Office Locations: Serving Philadelphia, Bucks, Dauphin, Lehigh, Northampton, Camden, Cumberland, and Atlantic Counties
Attorney Michael Kotik is committed to fighting for your rights with power, precision, and passion—because your future deserves nothing less.