In brief
After a conviction in Pennsylvania, the main options are a post-sentence motion, a direct appeal, and later a petition under the Post Conviction Relief Act (PCRA). The deadlines are short: a post-sentence motion is generally due within 10 days of sentencing, and a notice of appeal within 30 days. Talk to a lawyer as soon as possible after sentencing.
- After a conviction or sentence, the next step may be a direct appeal, post-conviction petition, or another form of relief, each with different rules and deadlines.
- Strong appellate and post-conviction work starts with a careful reading of the record and the issues actually preserved.
- Expungement and record-clearing questions are common for people who have completed their cases and want to move forward.
- Probation reviews and violations of probation (VOP) are related “after judgment” matters that still require timely counsel.
- Early evaluation matters because filing windows can be short.
Appeals and post-conviction review
A direct appeal generally challenges errors that appear in the trial or plea record. Post-conviction relief may address issues such as ineffective assistance of counsel or newly discovered evidence, subject to Pennsylvania’s procedural rules.
Not every disappointing outcome has a viable appellate or post-conviction path. The starting point is an honest evaluation of what the record shows, what was preserved, and what relief is realistically available.
Expungement and clearing a Philadelphia record
People often search for help clearing arrests or convictions so they can work, rent, or move on. Eligibility depends on the disposition, the offense, waiting periods, and other statutory factors. Some matters may qualify for expungement or limited access; others may not.
A consultation can clarify whether a petition is appropriate and what documents are needed from prior Philadelphia or Pennsylvania cases.
Probation, VOP, and sentencing follow-through
Even after a guilty plea or verdict, court involvement may continue through sentencing, probation review conferences, or violation of probation listings. These proceedings can affect liberty and should be treated with the same seriousness as the original case.
If you need guidance on an appeal, post-conviction options, expungement, or a probation-related listing, contact the firm to discuss next steps.
Common questions
How long do I have to file a criminal appeal in Pennsylvania?
Generally 30 days from sentencing, or from the decision on a timely post-sentence motion. Missing the deadline can end the right to a direct appeal.
What is a PCRA petition?
A petition under Pennsylvania's Post Conviction Relief Act asks the court to set aside a conviction or sentence for reasons such as ineffective assistance of counsel or newly discovered evidence. It generally must be filed within one year after the judgment becomes final, with narrow exceptions, and the person generally must still be serving the sentence.
What happens at a violation of probation (VOP) hearing?
A judge decides whether a person on probation violated its conditions and, if so, what happens next. The judge can continue probation, add conditions, or revoke probation and impose a new sentence, up to the maximum allowed for the original offense.
Talk to the attorney about your case
Consultations with Jonathan R. Altschuler are confidential. Call the office or send a short request online.
This page provides general information about Pennsylvania criminal practice and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Contact a licensed attorney about your situation.