Marissa Murtaugh, Criminal Defense Attorney in West Chester, Pennsylvania

Marissa concentrates on criminal defense, estate planning, and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Marissa handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Estate Planning

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• Family Law

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Marissa's primary office is at 29 S. Church St., West Chester, PA, 19382. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Marissa usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Marissa discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Marissa for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Marissa walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Marissa offer a free consultation?

  Marissa charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Marissa's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Marissa's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in Pennsylvania typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Marissa gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Marissa take my case if I'm outside West Chester?

  Marissa is licensed in Pennsylvania. Matters governed by Pennsylvania law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Marissa will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Marissa?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Marissa will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Marissa accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Marissa's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.