Erie Criminal Defense Lawyers
When working with Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox, you always come first. Our practice and experience makes us aggressive criminal defense and DUI lawyers, but we also practice in other areas including family law, elder law, real estate law and personal injury law in Erie, PA and Meadville, PA. Our defense lawyers bring extensive jury trial experience to our practice. Whether you’re facing felony charges in Erie County, dealing with a work injury case in Crawford County or need help with real estate transactions in Warren County, we are here for you.
Best Criminal Lawyers In Erie, PA
If you have been charged with a crime, don’t settle for a court-appointed attorney. You deserve aggressive representation from a trusted criminal defense attorney in Erie County. You can minimize or remove your criminal charges by working with a knowledgeable and experienced criminal attorney at Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox.
Why Choose Us As Your Criminal Defense Attorneys?

At Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox, we understand this point of your life can be tense, confusing, and frustrating. The best thing you can do after an arrest is immediately set up a free case consultation with our criminal defense attorneys. We have extensive experience in defending clients in court who have been charged with a crime in Erie, PA. When working with us, you can rest assured knowing that your criminal case is in good hands – no matter what criminal offense charges you are facing.
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Client Reviews
EXCELLENT Based on 168 reviews Xavier Woods2025-05-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Attorney Katherine A. Goliwas provided me terrific experience and assistance! Worked very diligently, very communicative and had my best interest at heart! I recommend her to anyone who wants high quality service! Crystal Farrell2025-05-23Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Sebald Hackwelder & Knox will be my go-to law firm should any event in my future lead me to needing another lawyer. I had the pleasure of working with Katie Goliwas for a very long 8 months. I was timid having to seek out a lawyer as I knew nothing about the court or legal system involving child custody. I made several calls all referring me to this law firm- I was immediately called back by Katie Goliwas. She was nothing short of knowledgeable, strong willed, and persistent. Katie immediately took my case on without hesitation. We had several obstacles we had to jump through and she completed each task and made it look effortless. Katie had talked me through everything I was uncertain or unaware of, and always had a game plan in motion. I told Katie I wanted something, and she got it for me EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Katie also kept things very real and raw, she is not afraid to fight for what you want, but will not lead you into any situation without first discussing with you. If you find yourself in a custody battle, Katie should be your go-to attorney. Vincent Baiera2025-05-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was represented by this firm for a criminal charge and was extremely pleased with the outcome of the case. The knowledge, patience and expertise shown during the case was exceptional. Highly recommended! Briana Peters2025-04-17Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Speechless. Thank you Attorney Stephen for your support, reassurance, and smooth process! Also, thank you to the kind women I spoke to at the office relating to my case and having patience with me along the way. I 10/10 recommend Sebald, Hackwelder, and Knox if you seek the best outcome for your case! God bless. S. D.2025-03-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I contacted John Knox to find out my options to resolve a property issue and find out my options. The outcome for me was very favorable and did not result in going to court. Not only is John very knowledgeable about property law, he was also accessible and always returned my text and emails the same day, or more often within an hour or two of being sent. This was a stressful time for me but John reassured me I had a strong case and PA property law was on my side. I was very pleased with this firm and feel lucky that John Knox was my lawyer. If it's property related, I would not contact anyone other than this Law firm. William Foley2025-03-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I unfortunately had to reach out to Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox recently for a case that turned into from a mental health check for my ex-SO. I had/have no criminal history and Mr. Sebald walked me through the play by play and was able to get it completely dropped. Jennifer Raucci2025-03-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 10/10 mr.sebald went above and beyond for me. Very grateful for his time and service will highly recommend to anybody. Thank you soooo much !! Trent Walsh2025-02-25Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Justin smith, amazing attorney. 10/10 would recommend.