Fighting to
Protect Your Rights
Proudly Serving Harrisburg & Central Pennsylvania

With over a decade of legal experience, The Dorward
Law Firm is ready to handle your case with
the in-depth knowledge and insights that win cases.

Criminal Lawyer in Harrisburg, PA

Over a Decade of Experience Fighting for Clients’ Rights Throughout Central Pennsylvania

Being arrested on criminal charges is one of the scariest things a person can face. With your rights and future on the line, you need help from an Harrisburg criminal defense attorney who has your best interests at heart. At the Dorward Law Firm, we do whatever it takes to help our clients tell their side of the story and avoid a criminal conviction. Our criminal lawyer in Harrisburg, PA has access to expert witnesses and useful relationships in the legal community to help you obtain a favorable outcome for your case. Whether you were charged with drunk driving or a sex crime, you can count on our team to treat you with compassion and respect. 

Learn More About Our Harrisburg Criminal Defense Lawyer

With over a decade of experience fighting for clients, our attorneys have  the in-depth knowledge and insights that win cases. Founding attorney Shawn Dorward was awarded the Regents Choice Award in 2010 by the National College for DUI Defense and is certified in a number of other DUI-related courses by the American Chemical Society. This kind of knowledge is helpful when it comes to explaining what happened in your case.

 The Dorward Law Firm has helped many clients to have their sentences reduced or even dropped. During your free consultation, we can go over the challenges you face and help you understand your legal options.

What Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Do?

Criminal defense lawyers play a vital role in the legal system, representing individuals or organizations facing criminal charges. Here are some key aspects of their work:

  • Legal Advice and Guidance: Defense lawyers provide legal advice to their clients, explaining the charges against them, potential penalties, and legal options available. They help clients understand their rights and make informed decisions about their case.
  • Case Analysis and Strategy: Defense lawyers analyze the facts of the case, review evidence, and assess the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution's case. Based on this analysis, they develop a defense strategy to protect their client's interests.
  • Negotiation with Prosecutors: Defense lawyers negotiate with prosecutors to reach plea agreements or settlements that are favorable to their clients. They may negotiate for reduced charges, lesser penalties, or alternative sentencing options.
  • Court Representation: Defense lawyers represent their clients in court proceedings, including arraignments, pretrial hearings, trials, and sentencing. They advocate for their clients' rights and present legal arguments to defend against the charges.
  • Witness Examination and Evidence Presentation: During trial, defense lawyers cross-examine prosecution witnesses, challenge evidence, and present witnesses and evidence in support of their client's defense. They aim to create reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury or judge.
  • Post-Conviction Representation: If a client is convicted, defense lawyers may represent them in post-conviction proceedings, such as appeals or motions for a new trial. They continue to advocate for their client's rights and seek to overturn or modify the conviction.

Overall, criminal defense lawyers play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals accused of crimes receive fair treatment and representation in the legal system. They work diligently to protect their clients' rights and achieve the best possible outcome in their cases.

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Cases We Handle

At The Dorward Law Firm, We practice exclusively in the area of criminal defense.  With our experienced team on your side, you can rest easy that your case is in good hands. Our team has a long track record of success and is dedicated to providing you with the best possible representation.

Experience You Can Count On

We Provide Results-Driven Strategies to Protect Your Rights, Freedom & Future

  • Charges Dismissed 2nd Offense DUI
  • Charges Dismissed Driving Under Suspension DUI Related
  • Charges Dismissed DUI Charges for CDL driver
  • Charges Dismissed Felony Drug
  • Success on Appeal Homicide by Vehicle While DUI

    Contact Our Criminal Attorney in Harrisburg, PA

    While your prosecutors may have evidence against you, we know how to stand strong in favor of your interests. You should not face your criminal charges alone. The Dorward Law Firm is here to help you face your situation with hope and confidence. Get started on your legal strategy by contacting our Harrisburg criminal defense lawyer right away. Call our criminal defense lawyer in Harrisburg now for a free consultation about your case. 

    Facing charges? Schedule your free consultation today by dialing (717) 429-0411 to speak with a Harrisburg criminal lawyer now.

    Testimonials

    Authentic Reviews from Previous Clients
      "Attorney Shawn Dorward showed unwavering determination to achieve the resolution I wanted."
      He constantly gave me updates as he fought and negotiated with every member of the district court: including the assistant DA, lead DA, judge, and even my arresting officer.
      - Marc
      "He is very personable which made talking to him incredibly easy"
      It’s a well known fact that you get what you pay for, but a loss of license, loss of job, and jail time would have cost me a lot more.
      - Curt
      "I was confronted with a DUI for taking prescription meds 2 days before."

      Shawn is a very personable and intelligent attorney. I was confronted with a DUI for taking perscription meds 2 days before. It seemed ludicrous but it was being pushed to the limit. In the end after 18mo a not guilty verdict was handed down. I originally questioned hiring an attorney of his caliber but I am fortunate that I had.

      - Dexter
      "Wonderful and upfront. Prompt and very very personable"

      Shawn was my lawyer for a DUI case, in which I was charged with a General Impairment DUI after a car accident that was precipitated by bald tires, not alcohol. I had been drinking, but my BAC was under legal limit. I was still charged with a "General Impairment" DUI. There were a lot of issues, and Shawn helped me with every one of them. My charges were brought down to summary offenses. Wonderful and upfront. Prompt and very very personable. I was very happy with Shawn. He works very hard for you!

      - Zach
      "Shawn did his thing and reduced my charge to a general impairment."
      Shawn and this law firm allowed me to get my life back on track as quickly as possible.
      - Luke

    Contact Us Today

    Schedule Your Free Consultation

    With over a decade of experience, Attorney Shawn Dorward knows how to help you protect your future and preserve your interests when facing criminal charges. Call today and schedule your free consultation with our knowledgeable and skilled criminal defense lawyer in Harrisburg, PA.

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    What Makes Us Different?

    • We are specifically trained in DUI defense. Visit our bio to learn more!
    • We offer payment plans for your convenience.
    • Over 10 years of legal experience defending the accused.
    • We make ourselves available whenever you need us.