The Difference Between Hiring a Dedicated Criminal Defense Lawyer and a General Practice Attorney

In my opinion, when you’re facing serious criminal charges and the possibility of real jail time, you want a lawyer who does one thing and one thing only—criminal law. As Michael Kotik of SKA Law Group often emphasizes, the law is constantly evolving. New case law, updated courthouse procedures, and shifting policies from various District Attorney’s Offices can dramatically affect how cases are handled and what programs are available for individuals seeking a second chance.

When an attorney practices multiple areas of law—whether it’s family, real estate, or business—it becomes nearly impossible to stay fully informed on the constant developments within any single legal field. No matter how talented that lawyer may be, dividing focus across too many disciplines limits depth of knowledge and the ability to anticipate changes that can make or break a criminal case.

That’s why Michael Kotik and SKA Law Group dedicate their entire practice to criminal defense. This is the world we live in every single day—Pennsylvania and New Jersey criminal law. Our firm focuses exclusively on staying ahead of new legal developments, policy changes, Commonwealth rules, and court procedures. When your freedom is at stake, you deserve a team whose sole mission is defending people against criminal charges. That’s what we do, and it’s all we do.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Dedicated Criminal Defense Attorney

1. Why is it better to hire a lawyer who practices only criminal defense?
Lawyers who focus solely on criminal law devote their entire practice to defending individuals accused of crimes. Because they handle criminal cases daily, they stay fully informed about new legislation, evolving case law, and local courtroom procedures—giving them a sharper edge than attorneys who juggle multiple legal areas.

2. How does SKA Law Group stay up to date on legal developments?
Attorney Michael Kotik and SKA Law Group continuously study changes in Pennsylvania and New Jersey criminal statutes, appellate decisions, and policies from local District Attorney’s Offices. This commitment ensures every defense strategy is based on the most current and relevant law.

3. Can a general practice lawyer still represent someone in a criminal case?
Yes, a general practitioner can represent criminal defendants. However, because their focus is spread across areas like family, real estate, or business law, they may not have the same depth of courtroom experience or familiarity with procedural nuances that a full-time criminal defense attorney has.

4. Why does SKA Law Group limit its practice exclusively to criminal defense?
By focusing entirely on criminal defense, SKA Law Group delivers stronger, more strategic representation. The firm’s experience within Pennsylvania and New Jersey criminal courts allows it to anticipate prosecutorial tactics, recognize procedural weaknesses, and pursue the best possible results for every client.

5. How does specialization help when your freedom is on the line?
When facing serious criminal charges, every detail matters. A specialized criminal defense lawyer understands how to challenge evidence, interpret policy changes, and identify legal opportunities that can mean the difference between conviction and freedom.