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 174 reviews sudheer reddy2025-07-05Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I hired Justin to help me through a case that I felt was completely unfair and based on misunderstanding. From the beginning, Justin stayed calm, listened patiently, and guided me step by step. At the preliminary hearing, he spoke directly with the officer and successfully got my case withdrawn before it even went in front of the judge. Justin handled everything smartly and quietly in the background. What impressed me most was how strategic and professional he was — no drama, just clear legal thinking. He also had my witness’s statement ready and didn’t ignore If you’re facing any charges and want a lawyer who knows what he’s doing and keeps things under control, I highly recommend Justin.just a mastermind attorney i have everseen .. Thank you justin🙏🏻🙏🏻 David Sullivan2025-07-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Steven Sebald has been my criminal case lawyer since 2018. He represented me on multiple cases, and every case he has done phenomenal work. Especially my last case that “had” a mandatory sentence. I’m so so happy with my outcome!!! He is professional, well experienced, and caring. His team are great to work with and communicate well. Highly recommended!! If you’re looking for the best, he is the best!! Spencer Ference2025-06-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I could not have had a better experience then I did with staff at Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox. A friend had referred me to them when I was having a loan dispute. John Knox took on my case; I could not be more grateful. He heard my issue and was fully committed to getting me results. The extream professionalism and transparency I experienced can not go without mentioning either. Mr. Knox kept me informed and updated with every detail of my case. Also, for someone not well versed in legal terms he explained everything in a clear and simple way for me. This was very helpful to me, kept me calm and hopeful that my issue would be resolved in a positive way. I cannot recommend this group of wonderful lawyers and their team enough. I will definitely be returning in the future for my legal needs. 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.