College Student Defense Attorney in Philadelphia

Philadelphia and the surrounding areas are home to many universities, including Penn, Villanova, Saint Joseph’s, Drexel, La Salle, Temple and more. Police officers in and around these institutions are extremely vigilant in apprehending students accused of any type of misconduct. In certain parts of the metro area, such as Lower Merion, the police are known to take a “zero tolerance” approach to students.

In college, a student’s peer group has an outsized influence. Someone joining the “wrong crowd” or bending to peer pressure could make lapses in judgment. These lapses in judgment, however, should not have to follow a person for the rest of his or her life. If your child has been accused of any crime, it is important to retain a criminal defense lawyer who understands what is at stake.

An Experienced Defense Lawyer Prepared To Take Decisive Action

For years, attorney Michael J. Diamondstein has defended college students throughout Philadelphia. He knows that while many charges faced by college students have relatively minor criminal penalties, there is much more at stake. For instance, certain convictions could jeopardize one’s enrollment, or impact one’s eligibility for scholarships or financial aid. Of perhaps even greater importance, a conviction can limit one’s ability to enter certain professions or graduate programs. As a former prosecutor who has handled tens of thousands cases on either side of the criminal justice system, his experience offers tangible benefits. The firm takes on all types of accusations, including:

  • Underage drinking and fake identification
  • Drug possession
  • DUI
  • Sexual assault (date rape)
  • Driver’s license suspension
  • Assault and fights

In every case, Michael will closely analyze the evidence and identify all potential defenses. Even if the government’s evidence appears to be strong, there may be other options, such as pretrial diversion, that could successfully resolve the case. However your case is resolved, you can rely on Michael to deliver the highest levels of representation and client service along the way.

Contact Michael J. Diamondstein, P.C. Attorney At Law

Call 215-940-2700 or complete the firm’s online contact form to schedule your initial consultation to discuss your specific charges.


Drug Possession Defense Attorney Serving College Students

It is relatively common for college students and young persons to experiment or recreationally use marijuana and other types of street drugs. The illegal use or sale of prescription drugs, such as Adderall, is also a commonplace event. While dabbling in drug use may appear to be a rite of passage for many young people, the fact is that law enforcement agents go to great lengths to apprehend drug users. If your son or daughter has been accused of drug possession or another drug crime, it is critical to understand just how much is riding on the outcome of the case.

The defense lawyer you select to defend your child can go a long way in determining the outcome of the case. For years, people across Philadelphia have placed their trust in Michael J. Diamondstein. He has protected the rights of students from Villanova, Drexel, La Salle, Saint Joseph’s and other institutions of higher learning across the area.

An Attorney Who Knows What Is At Stake

Even a conviction to a relatively minor charge can have devastating personal and professional consequences for a college student. A conviction could prevent someone from entering certain professional schools, or lead to the elimination of scholarships or student loans. Michael understands the legal and procedural issues involved in drug cases, but also understands the potential impact of a conviction. Consequently, he will work relentlessly to secure the best possible outcome.

For some first-time offenders, accelerated rehabilitative disposition, known as ARD, could prove to be a viable option. With ARD, a defendant would be required to submit to regular drug tests, complete counseling and complete various other tasks ordered by the court. If the defendant passes the program, the charge would be dismissed.

In other situations, a more aggressive approach may be warranted. Michael will look closely at the facts of the case to determine whether the police made a valid search, or if there is some evidence to show that the state cannot meet its burden of proof. However the case is eventually resolved, Michael will provide candid, practical guidance geared toward achieving the best possible outcome.

Contact Michael J. Diamondstein, P.C.

Call 215-940-2700 or complete the firm’s online contact form to schedule your initial consultation to discuss your specific charges.


Date Rape Defense Lawyer in Philadelphia

Allegations of date rape, or rape between acquaintances, are relatively common on college campuses across the United States. Simply put, a conviction could completely derail a young person’s promising future. A rape or sexual assault conviction could lead to many years in prison and registration as a sex offender. Obviously, these criminal penalties will also limit one’s educational, professional or personal opportunities. If you or your child was accused of date rape, it is vital to retain an attorney as quickly as possible.

Based in Philadelphia, attorney Michael J. Diamondstein is known across the region for his dynamic, skilled approach to the defense of all types of criminal charges. He regularly represents college students across the region, and knows the damage any criminal conviction can have on a young person’s life.

Offering Strategic Representation At All Points In The Process

Michael will closely examine every aspect of your case in order to develop the best defense. If there are inconsistencies in the accuser’s version of events, he will bring these to light. As a former prosecutor, he understands how the government goes about preparing these cases, and can anticipate the potential issues that will arise.

With everything that is at stake in these cases, it is important that your lawyer is able to present a strong case at trial if necessary. It is also important to be able to manage any media coverage. Michael has taken on numerous cases that have received extensive press coverage. Moreover, he has earned acquittals for clients facing all types of serious charges, including murder. With his trial experience and overall depth of criminal experience, he is a sound choice to protect your or your child’s rights.

Contact Michael J. Diamondstein, P.C. About Sexual Assault Allegations

Call 215-940-2700 or complete the firm’s online contact form to schedule your initial consultation to discuss your specific charges.


Underage Drinking Defense Lawyer

It is relatively common for college students and young persons to experiment with alcohol and/or street drugs. The illegal use or sale of prescription drugs, such as Adderall, is also a commonplace event. While dabbling in alcohol and drug use may appear to be a rite of passage for many young people, the fact is that law enforcement agents go to great lengths to apprehend drug users. If your son or daughter has been accused of underage drinking and/or a drug crime, it is critical to understand just how much is riding on the outcome of the case

Even a conviction to a relatively minor charge can have devastating personal and professional consequences for a college student. A conviction could prevent someone from entering certain professional schools, cause a loss of driving privileges or lead to the elimination of scholarships or student loans. Michael understands the legal and procedural issues involved in these types of cases and also understands the potential impact of a conviction. He will work relentlessly to secure the best possible outcome.

For some first-time offenders, accelerated rehabilitative disposition, known as ARD, could prove to be a viable option. With ARD, a defendant may be required to submit to regular drug tests, complete counseling and other tasks ordered by the court. If the defendant passes the program, the charge would be dismissed.

Philadelphia Attorney Helping College Students With Underage Drinking Offenses

In other situations, a more aggressive approach may be warranted. Michael will look closely at the facts of the case to determine whether the police made a valid search, or if there is some evidence to show that the state cannot meet its burden of proof. However the case is eventually resolved, Michael will provide candid, practical guidance geared toward achieving the best possible outcome. Contact attorney Michael J. Diamondstein today.


Title IX Defense Lawyer in Philadelphia

Learn how Michael J. Diamondstein defends students in Title IX cases.

Contact Michael J. Diamondstein About Your Case

Notable Cases

Pretrial Intervention Program That Accepted Ray Rice Is Rarely Granted

We were concerned that Mr. Rice would be treated more harshly because of his celebrity status. We are thankful that he was not. We are thankful that he was given the same treatment as anyone else in a similar situation.

- Michael J. Diamondstein
Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice will be allowed to enter a program to avoid prosecution in an alleged assault of his now-wife. Upon successful completion of the program — which will be a minimum of one year — the third-degree charge of aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury would be dismissed. The arrest would remain on his record, but with no conviction.
Pretrial Intervention Program That Accepted Ray Rice Is Rarely Granted
Notable Cases

Pennsylvania and Maryland Prosecutors Drop Child Sex Abuse Cases After Diamondstein Cross Examination

“Michael Diamondstein is the best lawyer on Earth. He saved my life.”

- DT
DT had spent three years in jail and was facing lifetimes more for multiple counts of child rape in Pennsylvania and Maryland. But Michael Diamondstein’s thorough investigation and strategic cross-examination forced prosecutors to withdraw their case mid-jury trial.
Pennsylvania and Maryland Prosecutors Drop Child Sex Abuse Cases After Diamondstein Cross Examination
Notable Cases

Life Sentence Vacated After Decades in Prison

“The district attorney recognized the inequities in the case and we are thankful for the compassion and justice they decided was appropriate.”

- Michael Diamondstein
Mark Young had been serving a life sentence for what prosecutors say was his role as a coconspirator in a 1974 bar robbery that ended in the shooting death of a patron. The 67-year-old Young, who maintained his innocence for almost 50 years, is now slated to be released from prison after a negotiated guilty plea. The judge vacated Young’s previous conviction and sentence.
Life Sentence Vacated After Decades in Prison
Notable Cases

Michael J. Diamondstein Secures Client’s Release from Pennsylvania Prison after 37 Years

He took his first free breaths this afternoon after almost 40 years, and he is very happy and humbled.

- Michael J. Diamondstein
Willie Stokes's release comes after the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania vacated his murder conviction, concluding that the state violated Stokes's constitutional rights by "withholding" crucial evidence about the false testimony of a key witness in the case, according to court documents.
Michael J. Diamondstein Secures Client’s Release from Pennsylvania Prison after 37 Years
Notable Cases

Diamondstein Prevails on Murder Charge for Rapper

Mr. Diamondstein saved my life. He is the best there is.

- Monte Small Atwell aka Benjy
Despite that fact that multiple videos showed local rap singer, Monte Small Atwell aka Benjy killing the decedent, a Philadelphia jury found Mr. Atwell Not Guilty of Murder. The video clearly showed that the unarmed decedent was chasing Mr. Atwell. Mr. Atwell’s attorney, Michael Diamondstein litigated a very effective self-defense case. After a number of withering cross examinations and a closing wherein Mr. Diamondstein exhorted the jurors that his client “would rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6” the jury agreed that Mr. Atwell’s actions were justified.
Diamondstein Prevails on Murder Charge for Rapper
Notable Cases

Six Narcotics Officers Acquitted in Federal Corruption Trial

The things that were said about these honorable men and police officers over the last eight to 10 months were ridiculous. A lot of people in this city owe these heroes an apology.

- Michael J. Diamondstein
Six members of an elite Philadelphia narcotics squad were acquitted of federal corruption charges – a verdict the men described as “vindication” after nearly a decade of federal scrutiny surrounding their conduct. A jury of six men and six women took 5 1/2 days to reject prosecutors’ arguments that former Officers Thomas Liciardello, Brian Reynolds, Michael Spicer, Perry Betts, Linwood Norman, and John Speiser routinely beat and robbed drug suspects during their time as members of the Narcotics Field Unit.
Six Narcotics Officers Acquitted in Federal Corruption Trial
Notable Cases

DA Seth Williams, in Federal Court, Pleads Not Guilty to Corruption Charges

This indictment is 24 hours old and yet too many politicians and commentators have already tried and convicted Seth Williams in the media. Simply because the government makes explosive allegations in a complaint doesn’t mean they’re going to prove it in a court of law.

- Michael J. Diamondstein
Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams pleaded not guilty to 23 counts of fraud, extortion, and bribery-related charges. But the problems of the city’s cash-strapped top prosecutor continued to mount outside the courtroom, a day after federal authorities accused him of repeatedly selling his influence to wealthy benefactors willing to bankroll his luxury tastes.
DA Seth Williams, in Federal Court, Pleads Not Guilty to Corruption Charges
Notable Cases

When Your Freedom Is at Stake, You Need a Tenacious Litigator

The man gave me my life back.

- Yusef Bey
It's 8:00 on a September morning but Michael Diamonstein has already been in his office for hours. A criminal defense lawyer, Diamondstein likes to be prepared before he goes to court. That preparation paid off to get an innocent man cleared of all charges.
When Your Freedom Is at Stake, You Need a Tenacious Litigator
Notable Cases

DA’s Office Drops Murder Charges in North Philly Shooting

Tremendous day, not only for Mr. Hill but for the entire Philadelphia justice system.

- Michael J. Diamondstein
With evidence missing and the investigation tainted by the involvement of a detective who pleaded guilty to impeding justice, the District Attorney’s Office has withdrawn murder charges against a 28-year-old man, Dante Hill, in a 2011 shooting outside a North Philadelphia sports bar.
DA’s Office Drops Murder Charges in North Philly Shooting
Notable Cases

Exclusive: Claire Risoldi to Pay Less for Insurance Fraud Scheme, Still Hopes to Avoid Jail Time

Diamondstein added that Berks County Senior Judge Stephen Lieberman, who is now overseeing the case, has authority to reconsider the sentence made by the previous judge, who retired last year.

Michael Diamondstein argued the original jail sentence is illegal because the previous judge assigned the case failed to address if Risoldi was eligible for re-entry, which would allow her to be released from jail early.
Exclusive: Claire Risoldi to Pay Less for Insurance Fraud Scheme, Still Hopes to Avoid Jail Time
Notable Cases

Prosecution Failure Leads to Dismissal of Philadelphia Drug Cases

On behalf of Mr. Jordan, we are extremely happy that that the Superior Court upheld the sound decision of Judge Means.

- Michael J. Diamondstein
On October 10, 2014, the Pennsylvania Superior Court upheld a lower court’s ruling that by failing to provide the defense with a copy of police paperwork in a criminal case (Com. v. Jordan, T., 175 EDA 2014 (Pa. Super. Ct. 2014 )), the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania was barred from the evidence at trial.
Prosecution Failure Leads to Dismissal of Philadelphia Drug Cases