Case Results

Read more about this case:

Jury Acquits Accused Killer
Trial Begins for Man Accused in 2006 Murder
Trial starts in Coatesville “War Party” Homicide

Attorney Michael Skinner questioned the lack of a speedy trial and the fact that the CI was not available at the preliminary hearing. The client, who was already on probation for a similar case, was offered a reduced charge to simple possession and a year’s probation. Attorney Skinner then successfully moved to have the charges dismissed.

Attorney Michael Skinner learned that the client, who suffered from excruciating back pain, often slept in his reclining chair in the living room. The client, who lives alone, was in the living room when he stripped naked, apparently unaware that he was in front of a lighted window. The incident occurred late at night but was unfortunately witnessed by the 13-year-old neighbor across the street who was hosting a sleepover for her friends.

When the girl told her parents, the client was arrested. Attorney Skinner negotiated for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, which meant no conviction, no jail, and that the charges would be expunged. The client also agreed to undergo psychosexual screening and education to determine that he was not a danger.

The client was facing at least one year in jail and a felony mark on his record. His girlfriend, the victim, wanted to reconcile the relationship and offered support. The client actively sought treatment and medication for his mental health issues and showed remorse. All charges were withdrawn.

The man was homeless at the time but had since secured housing and showed a genuine desire to turn his life around. Although the DA was willing to reduce the charges, both the client and attorney Skinner believed they could win their bench trial. The judge issued a not guilty verdict.

During discovery, attorney Skinner obtained a copy of the dash cam video, which contradicted the officer’s story. The DA agreed that there was a lack of evidence, and the charges were dismissed before trial.

From there, Skinner had the third DUI reduced to a low-tier offense because his client did not realize that refusing a chemical test resulted in a harsher sentence. Attorney Skinner argued that the client’s former ARD status did not qualify as a prior. In the end, the client had three DUI charges reduced to a single offense and received probation.

An empty plastic bag with cocaine residue was found by the client’s shoe while being processed. The young man was facing up to two months in jail and a year’s license suspension. Attorney Skinner argued to have the evidence suppressed, and all charges were dropped.

She was charged with carrying a concealed weapon without a permit and could have permanently lost her right to gun ownership. Attorney Michael Skinner negotiated a deal to reduce the charges to summary disorderly conduct.