Lancaster County Criminal Defense Attorney

Protecting Your Future with Local Insight

When you’re facing a criminal charge, the local details matter. Whether you’ve been served a summons or are dealing with an arrest, that feeling of uncertainty is overwhelming. We built Emkey Law Firm to be a local resource for moments exactly like this. With an of-counsel attorney based right here in town, we don’t just know the Pennsylvania legal system; we know the Lancaster courts, the people, and how to protect your future in this community.

Here’s why residents trust us with their defense:

• Local roots, regional experience. Led by Michael J. Schoen, Esq., our Lancaster office provides a dual-perspective shaped by years of prosecuting cases and defending complex litigation.
• 24/7 support. We are available around the clock to answer your calls and offer night or weekend appointments.
• Offsite and prison visits. If you are detained or unable to travel, we come to you to ensure your defense starts immediately.
• Recognized advocacy. Our commitment to our clients is reflected in our Avvo Top Lawyer rating and our recognition by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys.

 Facing charges? Don't wait to get help. Call (610) 200-6103 to schedule your complimentary consultation. We are available 24/7 to answer your call.

A Defense Built on Prosecution Experience

Our firm’s foundation is rooted in how the "other side" thinks. Both firm founder Daniel P. Emkey and Of Counsel attorney Michael J. Schoen are former prosecutors. Attorney Schoen previously served as an Assistant District Attorney, where he prosecuted serious criminal cases through jury trials and worked side-by-side with law enforcement. 

This "internal" understanding of the system allows our team to:

• Scrutinize evidence for gaps the government might miss.
• Question the validity of police procedures and investigative guidance.
• Anticipate how prosecutors decide whether to reduce a charge or offer a plea deal.

In Lancaster County, where law enforcement is proactive, having a defense team that has stood in the prosecutor's shoes is a distinct advantage.

Focused Areas of Practice

We focus exclusively on criminal defense and related civil matters to stay sharp on the specific statutes that affect your freedom.

DUI & Traffic Violations

Attorney Schoen brings a unique edge to these cases; while at the DA’s Office, he served as the representative on the DUI Treatment Court Team. He maintains a deep, practical understanding of blood/breathalyzer accuracy and the ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) program. We also represent clients in PennDOT license suspension appeal hearings to help you stay on the road.

Drug-Related Charges

Lancaster County offers treatment-focused solutions like the Adult Drug Court. We advocate for these diversionary tracks to focus on recovery rather than incarceration, whether you are facing simple possession or complex intent-to-deliver charges.

Domestic Violence & PFAs

Allegations of domestic abuse carry heavy social and legal consequences. We provide a discreet defense for Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders and related charges, ensuring your side of the story is heard in matters that affect your home, family, and future.

Theft & Personal Injury

Our defense strategies are informed by a strong background in complex civil litigation. This experience allows us to represent clients in both criminal property allegations and personal injury matters. Whether you are facing a "crime of dishonesty" (crimen falsi) that threatens your career or a high-stakes civil dispute, we navigate the rigorous discovery and expert testimony required to protect your interests.

Violent Crimes & Felony Charges

For more serious allegations, including assault, weapons offenses, or felony-level crimes, we apply our background in prosecution to stress-test the government's evidence. We evaluate every detail, from witness credibility to the forensic evidence, to ensure your constitutional rights were not violated during the investigation.

The Power of Early Intervention

Often, the most important work happens before you ever see a judge. We believe in taking action during the investigation phase. By uncovering facts early, we may be able to resolve matters before formal charges are filed or negotiate a lower bail at your preliminary arraignment.

Navigating the Lancaster County Court System

The legal process in Lancaster has its own rhythm. It typically begins at a Magisterial District Court and advances to the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas on North Duke Street.

Because Attorney Schoen is an active member of the Pennsylvania legal community, including his work with Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers (LCL-PA), our firm is deeply invested in the fair treatment of those within the system. We understand the local court culture and use that insight to anticipate the prosecution's next move.

Take the First Step Toward Your Defense

A criminal charge does not have to define your future. With the right preparation and a team that understands the local courts, you can face the process with confidence. At Emkey Law Firm, we are ready to listen to your side of the story and start building a defense tailored to your specific situation.

Call (610) 200-6103 or contact us online to schedule your confidential case evaluation at our Lancaster office located at The Candy Factory: 342 N Queen Street, Lancaster, PA. We are here to help you get through this.