Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox
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Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox
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. 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. 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.
Details
  • Licensed
  • Insured
Highlights and features
  • DUI Defense
  • White Collar Crimes
  • Drug Crimes
  • Federal Crimes
  • Homicide Cases
  • Sex Offenses
  • Firearm / Gun Crimes
  • Juvenile Offenses
  • Cybercrimes
  • Underage DUI
  • First DUI in Erie
  • DUI While on Probation
  • Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID)
  • No Refusal DWI Program
  • Intoxicated Assault
  • Intoxicated Manslaughter
  • Drunk Driving Accident
  • Work accidents
  • Car Accidents
  • Defective Products
  • Slip and Falls
  • Medical Malpractice
  • Wrongful death
Payment methods
  • Cash, Debit cards, Credit cards, Mobile payments
Services
Our practice and experience focus on aggressive criminal defense, DUI defense, personal injury, and child services investigations throughout Pennsylvania.
If our team of experienced attorneys at Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox are unable to take your case - we will be sure to refer you to another qualified attorney in Erie, PA.
Mr. Hackwelder and Mr. Sebald both worked very diligently to a resolution of a very serious case.
My son was accused of a crime that would have cost him his freedom and caused irreparable harm to his reputation and his family unit.
I have many good things to say about Mr. Hackwelder and his team.
From the beginning he came to our aid last minute and were good at keeping open lines of communication with me and my family.
They worked on our case up to the last possible moment and even met with me on weekends.
He answered all my questions throughout the whole process, was polite and did not waste time.
The case was an extremely hard one, and the legal system was a bear to work with, but Mr. Hackwelder showed up every time with lots of energy and a positive attitude.
If you have been charged with a crime, you need someone with years of experience to fight for you.
You deserve aggressive representation from a trusted criminal defense lawyer in Erie.
You can minimize or remove your criminal charges by working with knowledgeable 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.
Traffic offenses may seem minor.
However, incidents involving hit and run, reckless driving, and other offenses carry the potential for years in prison, thousands in fines, and a serious mark on your criminal record that can interfere with opportunities.
Whether your charge is the result of a misunderstanding or inappropriate actions by law enforcement, it is important to defend your future against these allegations.
The experienced criminal defense lawyers at Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox have tackled every type of traffic violation.
If you are charged with any drug crime from simple possession to more serious charges of drug trafficking or racketeering, then call the experience criminal defense lawyers at Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox.
Our drug crime attorneys are recognized leaders in fighting drug crimes at both the state and federal level throughout Erie, PA.
The best defense in drug crime cases often centers around litigating motions to suppress the physical evidence or motions to dismiss the charges for insufficient proof.
Pennsylvania doesn't take cocaine possession or distribution of cocaine lightly.
Even a gram of crack cocaine in your possession at the time of arrest can result in serious felony charges.
The cocaine possession penalties and jail time will depend upon a variety of factors including the amount of cocaine possessed.
The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox will fight to help you avoid a conviction, jail time, and other serious penalties and punishments related to cocaine possession and other drug crimes.
Drug manufacturing charges are not something to be taken lightly.
These charges are treated with the utmost severity and should be combated with an equal amount of aggression and tenacity by the criminal defense attorneys at Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox.
In addition to prison time, penalties for drug manufacturing charges can also include hefty fines and property seizure, depending on the nature of the manufacturing lab or growing facilities.
The devastating nature of drug manufacturing sentences necessitates skilled drug manufacturing defense attorneys to handle the defense.
The results of your drug possession charges can have a lasting impact on the rest of your life, whether you are a juvenile or an adult.
If you are charged with drug possession, it's important to seek help from drug possession attorneys who have experience with drug crime cases.
Even misdemeanor drug charges can prevent you from obtaining employment or admittance to schools.
In addition to employment and education, your criminal record can also make it very difficult to qualify for apartments and other housing.
Drug trafficking and drug distribution cases are prosecuted in state and federal court.
Because the penalties are so serious, even for a first-time offense, it crucial to have an aggressive drug trafficking defense attorney on your side.
Repeat offenders face even harsher sentences if found guilty of these types of serious drug crimes.
The penalties and punishments for drug trafficking vary according to a variety of factors including the type of narcotic and the amount of the substance possessed.
Weapons charges and possession of firearm charges in Pennsylvania are some of the hardest cases to deal with in the United States.
If you are found outside of your home or business with a weapon without a valid permit, whether you are authorized to own a weapon at either location, you could risk obtaining major weapons charges.
Our criminal defense attorneys in Erie, PA, fight to protect the rights of gun owners charged with possession of firearm and other weapons charges under Pennsylvania Law.
If you're under investigation for any type of high-tech computer crime (often called cybercrime) then contact an Erie, PA criminal defense lawyer at Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox.
When the evidence in a criminal case is based on computer data and online investigation methods, your criminal defense lawyers should be prepared to confront the unique issues involved.
If you've been charged with any Internet or computer crime from major cyber fraud to computer intrusions, then don't hesitate to contact our Erie, PA criminal defense lawyers.
Appellate courts are an integral part of the judicial system, providing an important check on the legal errors that can occur at the trial court level.
If you've been charged with a crime, not only should your criminal defense lawyer be prepared for a criminal trial; he or she should also be prepared for any necessary appeals and post-conviction proceedings.
At the Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox Law Firm in Erie, Pennsylvania, our experienced criminal defense lawyers work hard to prepare a safety net in case you receive an unfavorable pretrial ruling or are convicted of a crime after the trial.
When a child is accused of illegal activity, the child needs an advocate to provide guidance through the often confusing and frightening juvenile justice system.
At Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox in Erie, Pennsylvania, our juvenile defense attorneys have extensive experience helping children and their parents understand and protect their rights within juvenile court.
Our criminal defense attorneys have represented young people on a wide variety of juvenile charges, from misdemeanor possession of marijuana to more serious charges such as burglary.
As the United States tries to control increases in health care costs, providers and medical billing services have come under ever closer scrutiny, resulting in a surge in criminal charges.
Hospitals, clinics, assisted living facilities, doctors, and other medical care providers can be accused of health care fraud when it is alleged that they billed an insurance company for unnecessary procedures or services never performed, or when they overbill for services performed.
Individuals can also be charged with health care fraud in State or Federal Court.
Healthcare organizations, health care professionals, and other professional service providers need passionate, skilled, and sophisticated legal assistance when they face a possible criminal investigation.
The lawyers at Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox, based in Erie, PA, have many years of experience representing individuals and businesses in criminal investigations at the state and federal level.
We are experienced in representing the health care professionals including doctors, nurses, and pharmacy workers.
The bubble created in real estate prices from 2002 to 2008 lead to a drastic increase in mortgage fraud as lenders loosen standards to close deals quickly.
The increase in prosecutions continues today.
If you are under investigation for committing any form of mortgage fraud, then contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox.
We are experienced in fighting these cases in both state and federal court.
Our attorneys are familiar with the intricacies of the mortgage business.
The moment you get pulled over for impaired driving, get in touch with the most knowledgeable and trusted DUI lawyers in Erie, PA. Sebald, Hackwelder, & Knox instead of taking unnecessary risks in your DUI case. The worst thing you can do if you are charged for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is to represent yourself or automatically plead guilty.
Reviews (17)
Sky
Sky
Dec 20, 2023
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Had the pleasure of working with Justin Smith on a personal matter and he was very friendly and professional. He exceeded my expectations in timeliness and effectiveness. I highly recommend giving him a call for anything you may encounter!
R. Pierce
R. Pierce
Dec 11, 2023
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Eric Hackwelder is an amazing attorney! Hands down the best! 24/7 communication, always available to answer any questions and put your mind at ease! He is very thorough! Definitely someone you want In your corner! 100% recommend him!
Mary Lou Betcher
Mary Lou Betcher
Nov 25, 2023
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God answered our hopes and prayers when we hired Attn Justin Smith! After another attorney kept pushing back the trial date for 18 months we found and hired Justin Smith and within a couple weeks we were able to go to court. Justin was a beast in the court room! When he spoke he had everyone's attention and he just kept hammering away to bring out the truth He had the DA and his witnesses faltering from the beginning and over and over the lies were exposed!

We were in awe of his courtroom skills and knowledge! Honestly it was like watching a great movie! Thank you Justin for bringing out the truth for my son and family! We can smile again because of you! Attn Justin Smith is the man to hire to be on your side! Our family will be forever grateful and proud that he represented us! Lastly I would like to thank the office staff and the gentleman that assisted Justin in the courtroom with videos etc. He was so very kind and supportive to us and we really appreciated that!
William Pelc
William Pelc
Nov 14, 2023
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Eric Hackwelder is an amazing attorney. Even when you don't see him working, he's still working for you and your case. There is 24/7 communication if there's something on your mind, but chances are that he's already handled it. His cost may be slightly higher than others but your freedom, integrity, and good name are worth it. He has a well rounded background, so I don't see much getting past him.

I will always recommend him to anyone being taken advantage of by today's legal system. He will guide you through the red tape of a complicated system that is not easily navigable.
Chas Betcher
Chas Betcher
Oct 30, 2023
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Attorney Justin Smith was the definition of professional. He was completely transparent and honest with me from beginning to end. He took my case on a very short notice. He was very attentive when becoming familiar with my case. He thoroughly explained all possible options and outcomes, and made sure that I understood them. He guided me in decisions but always ultimately let me make my own choice.

He was very knowledgeable about the law and applied it to my case inside the courtroom. He showed outstanding cross examination skills in trial and absolutely nailed his opening and closing statements. If you are looking for an experienced and aggressive defense attorney who takes pride in his work, Justin Smith is the guy you want to go up to bat for you.
Chris Fultz
Chris Fultz
Aug 21, 2023
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Doug Sullivan was great from start to the end. He answered all of our questions throughout the course of this review of a most unreasonable court case. He was very knowledgeable with commonwealth laws. Today at court he was hands down the best representative in the court room. I would highly recommend this law office and especially Doug. As the Navy would say Bravo Zulu and a job well done!
Marissa
Marissa
Jun 29, 2023
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After receiving a license suspension letter in the mail I was researching for a lawyer to present my case and help me fight for my rights that were about to be taken away. This would not only effect my life but that of my family, my job, and the people who depend on me. Doug Sullivan genuinely listened and cared and proved why he is the ONLY ONE who would agree to take my case of the MANY other lawyers refusing.

I spoke with him and explained the events leading to this and he was immediately willing to take my case after we spoke. He IS the best person & lawyer! He was understanding, kind, knowledgeable, committed and dependable and he addressed all my questions and concerns, including being honest and upfront of the possible outcomes even if it wasn't easy to hear.

I am so RELIEVED and PROUD to say, he was my advocate in the courtroom and I was able to be heard and it would of not been possible if I attempted to take it on my own. I had the best possible outcome because of his experience and expertise. Doug, I don't even have words of the gratitude and I'm so thankful to you! I can now move forward and put this all behind me and that is because of you. If anyone is looking for an advocate to defend your rights and justice, Doug is it! I would highly recommend! THANK YOU! -Marissa
Rachel Majersky
Rachel Majersky
Jun 12, 2023
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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!
Samantha
Samantha
Jun 08, 2023
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This morning I was exhausted and terrified about my court sentence and tonight, I am relieved and much lighter thanks to Eric Hackwelder. He was able to get me the best outcome to a bad situation and I am eternally grateful. He is so kind, hardworking and just seems to genuinely care. I saw him help several others along with myself today. He did his best to keep me calm and always explained things to me. THANK YOU! I highly recommend him to anyone in need of counsel.
James Hoffman
James Hoffman
Jun 08, 2023
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I would highly recommend this law firm, their attorneys are very knowledgeable and also reasonably priced. I will definitely be in touch with them for any other hearings I would need them for. I was represented by Justin smith for a costody trial he knew what he was doing he's definitely earned where he's at.
Matt Black
Matt Black
May 19, 2023
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I was so pleased with the representation I had from Eric Hackwelder. He was professional, committed to my case and was available for me anytime I needed to discuss certain elements of my case. Eric provided me with great advice, fought for me through the end and addressed every detail necessary to win my case. If you want to hire an exceptional attorney who goes above and beyond for you to win your case, Eric is the msn to call. The entire firm was behind me, were there for me and supported me through the process. Truly, an exceptional and trusted law firm that gets the results you want.
Trevor Trevor
Trevor Trevor
Apr 23, 2023
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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.
Eric Ballentine
Eric Ballentine
Jan 08, 2023
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I was facing some pretty steep consequences when I contacted Attorney Sebald. He listened to my situation and did an amazing job with my case. I couldn't imagine getting the results I did. I'm definitely glad I was pointed in his direction and would recommend him to anyone that needs a good lawyer.
Taboc Deuce Davis
Taboc Deuce Davis
Dec 24, 2022
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I want to say a huge thanks to Mr. Sebald and his dedicated team. I had spoken to a couple of lawyers around the area prior to speaking with Stephen, but after I spoke to him about my dui case, I knew that he was the person for me. He has decades of experience working in Erie, PA, and surrounding areas. He's on good terms with pretty much everybody in the court system, so that's a great bonus to have in a lawyer.

He gave me a quick consultation on the phone. My particular case was pretty rocky from the start, and he had let me know that from the beginning, but he was more than willing to take my case and for less than the other lawyers I had previously spoken to. From the moment I had agreed to work with Mr. Sebald, it was full steam ahead. There was constant communication with Stephen or his team; they all knew my case made sure I knew the specifics every step of the way, and he got my sentencing reduced to the bare minimum and I was able to keep my license All in all, if you need representation, Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox are the smart choice. Great lawyers, Great Team, Thanks again to you Stephen it was pleasure working with you Sir.
Robert Barrett
Robert Barrett
Oct 01, 2022
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Steve is a great choice for a defense attorney. Has been doing a great job on my wives case and keeps her updated and contacts her often with updates. Highly recommend.
Brian Boehm
Brian Boehm
Aug 18, 2022
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I contacted attorney Sebald in March of 2021 regarding a serious charge/crime. The consultation was very informative, thorough and laid out up front. To cost, the process, possible outcomes, what I need to do, etc. He was very honest and upfront and showed not only he cared about my case, the outcome but about me and my life. In July my bail was $100,000.

Thanks to his expertise he got the bail dropped which allowed me to be free. He worked tirelessly and relentlessly on my case for over a year. He was there to answer any question or hear any concerns. I originally had 28 charges and he got them down to 11. Thanks to his dedication, hard work and experience, rather then doing several years in state prison, I got probation, which I was originally told wasn't an option, and gps ankle monitor. I highly recommend and encourage attorney Sebald for your legal matters.
Kelly Royer
Kelly Royer
May 29, 2020
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I called and spoke with Attorney Hackwelder. Mr. Hackwelder heard the details of my cases had me come to his office. Within hours I was in the office explaining everything. I had the legal paperwork I needed. Him and his secretary go above and beyond. I cannot say enough about him or Val. She remembers your name and is an amazing secretary as much as he is an attorney. I can not thank Attorney Hackwelder and Val enough during all my craziness and are honest from the door during a consultation if they can help or not.