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Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox
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50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Open 24/7
always available
Trusted Criminal Defense Attorneys in Erie, PA
Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox has served clients across Pennsylvania since 1972 with comprehensive legal representation in criminal defense, DUI defense, personal injury, family law, and estate planning. Our team of experienced attorneys brings extensive trial experience and a client-first approach to every case, prioritizing aggressive advocacy while maintaining ethical standards. We specialize in defending complex criminal charges including drug offenses, federal crimes, and sex offenses, while also providing compassionate guidance in family law matters and personal injury claims. Our firm combines decades of legal expertise with personalized service, ensuring clients receive strategic counsel tailored to their unique circumstances.

We maintain transparent communication throughout the legal process and offer free case consultations to help clients understand their options. With offices in Erie and Meadville, we serve clients throughout northwestern Pennsylvania, leveraging our deep understanding of local courts and legal systems. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition from clients and peers, with a track record of successful case outcomes demonstrating our dedication to protecting clients' rights and futures.
Services
Criminal Defense DUI Defense Personal Injury Family Law Estate Planning Federal Crimes Drug Offenses Sex Offenses Juvenile Defense White Collar Crimes
Details
  • Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
  • We offer over 50 years of combined legal experience in criminal defense
  • Our attorneys provide personalized case strategies for each client
  • We maintain transparent communication throughout the legal process
  • We offer free case consultations for all legal matters
  • Our team serves clients across northwestern Pennsylvania
What people say
Exceptional legal expertise Compassionate representation Successful case dismissals Transparent communication Dedicated advocacy
Website
Services
Criminal Defense
Our criminal defense attorneys protect clients' rights against felony and misdemeanor charges including drug crimes, sex offenses, and federal violations. We develop strategic defense plans tailored to each case's unique circumstances. With extensive courtroom experience, we challenge evidence and negotiate with prosecutors to minimize consequences or achieve dismissals.
DUI Defense
We defend clients against DUI/DWI charges including standard intoxication, underage DUI, and drug-related impairment cases. Our attorneys challenge blood alcohol testing methods and police procedures to protect driving privileges. We help clients navigate license reinstatement requirements and minimize long-term consequences of DUI convictions.
Personal Injury
We represent clients injured in car accidents, workplace incidents, and medical malpractice cases. Our firm negotiates with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. We pursue litigation when necessary to ensure clients receive full damages for their injuries and suffering.
Family Law
We handle divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, and support arrangements with sensitivity to family dynamics. Our attorneys prioritize children's best interests while protecting parental rights. We provide practical solutions for property division and post-divorce modifications through negotiation or litigation.
Federal Crimes
Our team defends complex federal charges including conspiracy, healthcare fraud, and firearms violations. We challenge federal prosecutors' evidence and develop specialized defense strategies for high-stakes cases. We leverage our understanding of federal sentencing guidelines to minimize potential penalties.
People
Stephen E. Sebald
Attorney
Experienced criminal defense attorney with decades of courtroom experience in Erie County. Focuses on DUI defense and complex criminal cases while maintaining a client-centered approach. Provides strategic legal counsel to protect clients' futures.
Eric V. Hackwelder
Attorney
Skilled litigator specializing in criminal defense and family law matters. Known for aggressive courtroom advocacy and successful case dismissals. Offers personalized legal strategies for clients facing serious charges.
Justin Smith
Attorney
Dedicated defense attorney with proven success in suppressing illegal evidence and achieving favorable plea agreements. Handles juvenile cases and PFA dismissals with compassionate representation.
John W. Knox
Attorney
Seasoned legal professional focusing on criminal defense and personal injury cases. Provides strategic counsel for clients facing felony charges and complex legal challenges.
Katherine Goliwas
Attorney
Family law specialist with experience in child custody and adoption cases. Advocates for clients' parental rights while prioritizing children's best interests.
Questions
What criminal charges do you handle?
We defend all criminal charges including DUI, drug offenses, sex crimes, federal violations, and violent crimes in Pennsylvania courts.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide free case consultations for all criminal defense, family law, and personal injury matters.
How can you help with DUI charges?
Our attorneys challenge blood alcohol testing methods, police procedures, and negotiate with prosecutors to minimize DUI consequences.
What areas do you serve?
We represent clients throughout Erie, Meadville, Warren County, and northwestern Pennsylvania.
Can you handle emergency legal situations?
Yes, we offer 24/7 legal assistance for arrests and urgent legal matters requiring immediate attention.
What payment options are available?
We accept major credit cards and offer flexible payment arrangements for legal representation.
Reviews (18)
Nga Rastatter
Feb 22, 2025 Report
I want to express my gratitude to my excellent attorney, Mr. John Knox, for his assistance to me and my family. He is exceptional. Mr. John Knox demonstrated extreme professionalism, knowledge, and consistently went above and beyond to support me in my case. He resolved my legal issue rapidly and efficiently. I could not have anticipated a more favorable outcome. I strongly recommend him to anyone requiring legal help in Pennsylvania.
Tj Batts
Dec 23, 2023 Report
Douglas Sullivan did an amazing job he got all my charges dropped to summery offenses! very personable attorney and worth every dime u will pay
Taylor Skalos
Dec 09, 2023 Report
Having Sebald as my attorney changed my life both in and out of the courtroom. He and his team care about their clients as people. Their office provided excellent 24/7 communication from day one, and worked hard to achieve the best possible outcome. I highly recommend anyone looking for an attorney to use them. I cannot thank him and his office enough for my experience with them.
Lindsey Fry
Dec 08, 2023 Report
Attorney Hackwelder and Sullivan represented my loved one in a serious case. They absolutely went above and beyond to represent him and worked dillagently and passionately on his case. They where 100% honest throughout the whole thing and kept us well informed. I was one to always say " you get what you pay for" and they where worth every cent!
Kellie Sipes
Dec 06, 2023 Report
Attorney Eric Hackwelder is the Best, Hands Down Attorney I have ever had repent me in Criminal Charges. He will explain exactly what it is and will FIGHT for the BEST OUTCOME of your case " Big Facts ". You will never regret hiring him! He's also highly respected by Judges and Da's.
Ryan Livingston
Sep 19, 2023 Report
My lawyer was phenomenally professional and friendly. Very understanding and knowledgeable of the laws and rights of individuals. Highly recommended!
Michael Laskey
Jun 25, 2023 Report
Sebald is the best attorney I've ever hired! Great work and they care. Wish I would've known them years ago. Wouldn't go to anyone else ever if I need a criminal defense lawyer or DUI lawyer again, him and his office treated me like a human and not another number. Great job and thank you! Definitely worth the money! Definitely 10 out of 10! Thank you again!
Rachel Majersky
Jun 12, 2023 Report
We hired Doug Sullivan as our attorney in our custody case. We couldn't be happier with our decision. He was very efficient and helped with any of our questions. He works with and for you! Can't thank him enough!
Trevor Trevor
Apr 23, 2023 Report
Absolutely amazing! Attorneys Sebald is an absolutely amazing at what he dose, I thought I was 100% screwed and he came through he was able to get me an amazing deal I'm so thankful that he was able to keep me home with my daughter and working full-time, if you ever have any legal trouble Strongly recommend. definitely worth the. I personally do not think I could've made a better choice in an attorney.
Matthew Spronatti
Mar 09, 2023 Report
Attorney Sullivan was excellent! He always makes himself available to answer any questions regarding my situation. Mr. Sullivan represented me with dignity and professionalism. He always seems to have the bigger picture in mind. Even when the other side takes the low road, he is many steps ahead. I would absolutely refer him to anyone looking for an attorney.
Gary Shiel
Nov 11, 2022 Report
I was in a motorcycle accident and Attorney Bryan Fife helped me through all the legal aspects of having to deal with the incident. His knowledge and understanding of the law was outstanding and he was very easy to talk to. I would highly recommend Bryan and was very happy with the outcome of my case.
Elizabeth Johnson
Oct 31, 2022 Report
I was referred to Steve when I received my 4th (overall) DUI. I was hopeless. He didn't sugar coat anything for me. He pointed me in the direction of a wonderful therapist (George Dowd) and I worked on my sobriety. I followed Steve's advice and did everything he asked of me. I wasn't always great to deal with, but he stuck with me. When it was time for sentencing, I was sentenced to just 10 days incarceration, a period of house arrest and probation. Steve has a great reputation for results and I couldn't be more pleased. Side note: I am from Warren County. I have also mainted my sobriety after 18 months.
Tammy Totleben
Oct 18, 2022 Report
Doug Sullivan knows the law. Although a brief encounter with Attorney Sullivan I would highly recommend anyone that needs help with a criminal case. Got the case dropped and didn't even need to go to court. Thank you Attorney Sullivan!
Ed Totleben Jr
Aug 14, 2022 Report
Although not requiring legal services myself I was witness to Attorney Doug Sullivan help out a family member. He seems experienced and well versed in the law. He was able to resolve an unfortunate situation and had the charges dropped without a court hearing. A very competent attorney.
Josh Fullerton
Jul 23, 2022 Report
Attorney Sullivan was excellent. I got him last minute and he showed up to my hearing, talked to who he needed to talk to and charges were dropped. He was seems very well versed in the law. He is very competent and confident in his job. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing this kind of help. Thank you.
David Swineford
Jul 23, 2022 Report
Attorney Sebald helped me with a recent legal situation. His expert advice and guidance was very helpful, he was always prompt with responses to my questions and took the time to ensure my questions were answered fully. Attorney Sebald truly cares for his clients and it shows. If you are looking for the best, look no further.
Courtney Barrett
Jul 18, 2022 Report
Attorney Sebold has been as absolute pleasure. He has walked me through every step of a DUI I am facing. He is at the courthouse before I even get there working for the best possible outcome for me. He calls me and answers my questions any day/time. Highly HIGHLY recommend this Lawfirm if you want a lawyer who is going to actually explain things to you and not just ignore your concerns. Oh and let's add not read through your case until the day of unlike other "lawyers". He genuinely cares for his clients.
Benjamin Horton
Jun 29, 2022 Report
I'm so glad choosing attorney sebald was the right decision for me and legal matters. He has been an ongoing selection for me. As he helped me get outta of a few situations that demanded someone for the job and he was exceptional and excellent every time. I highly recommend him and his office was very kind. He works well with everyone and well respected with an amazing reputation. I promise you he takes care of business. You can't go wrong choosing him as a defense attorney. Thanks again!