David Joel Shrager

Criminal defense Attorney at Pittsburgh, PA

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Great Criminal Defense

Amazing Attorney!

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

30%

Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer David J. Shrager does his absolute best to help people retain their rights and freedom so they can go on with their lives and be hopeful for their future – so they can keep their license, their job, a clean record and provide for their families.
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24 years
DUI and DWI

30%

David J. Shrager has been named by the American Institute of DUI Attorneys (AIDUIA) as one of the “10 Best” Attorneys for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in the DUI defense practice area.

24 years
Sex crime

20%

Pittsburgh Sex Crimes Attorney David Shrager provides compassionate counsel and will listen to your side of the story with understanding and empathy, not judgment, reproof or apathy. He will aggressively seek action to prove your innocence and have your charges dropped completely.
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23 years
Violent crime

10%

At Shrager Defense Attorneys, we understand that many accusations of violent criminal activity are exaggerated or even made up. Not every one accused of a crime is guilty. We also understand that good people make bad decisions every day and that is why we work aggressively to fight for your rights.
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24 years
White collar crime

10%

When you have an experienced attorney who you trust to prepare a sound and just case and whom you know will work hard for your rights, a lot of your stress and worry can be put to ease.

24 years

ARRESTED OR UNDER INVESTIGATION? DON’T BE SCARED; BE PREPARED!™ CALL 24.7.

David J. Shrager, Esq. is a highly reputable and experienced Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer. He is a native of Pittsburgh, PA, and attended Mt. Lebanon High School where he was a National Merit Scholar Semi-Finalist. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree, Magna Cum Laude, from the University of Pittsburgh. David then received his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law on a prestigious Dean's Honor Academic Scholarship. While at the University of Miami Law School he was an Assistant Editor of the Inter-American Law Review.

After receiving his law degree with honors, Mr. Shrager was an attorney for the Litigation Department at Reed Smith before joining the family's law firm. Attorney Shrager is a member of the Allegheny County Bar Association, Pennsylvania Bar Association, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. David’s patience and an aggressive but calm attitude are tremendous assets — both, when helping clients and when defending a case in front of a judge.

David J. Shrager is adamant that his legal team remains down-to-earth, despite many successes over the years. Attorney Shrager makes sure that he and his team are always accessible to clients, and will never speak down to them or speak in complicated legalese.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 23 years

State PA

Status Active

Acquired 1999

Updated 02/26/2023

State FL

Status Inactive

Acquired 1999

Updated 02/23/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact David

Shrager Defense Attorneys

(412) 888-0469 Mobile

(412) 888-0469 Office

437 Grant St #617

Frick Building

Pittsburgh, PA, 15219

shragerdefense.com

Message Get Directions

Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

16 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | April 13, 2012

Great Criminal Defense

David was the first call that I made, was referred to me by a friend. H e got the job done and kept some bad things from happening to me. I do not believe my case would have turned out nearly as well without him.

Posted by anonymous | October 5, 2010

Amazing Attorney!

Attorney Shrager did an amazing job in representing me. Not only did he do a great job in the courtroom, but he treated my family and I with total respect and compassion. He truly helped my family get through a very difficult time. If your looking for a criminal defense attorney, I highly recommend him!

Posted by Dawn | November 16, 2022

David Shrager & Lyle Dresbold

Where shall I begin? Do I start with David Shrager answers every one of his calls any time day or night! He immediately ASSURES you to remain calm & his TEAM will get you thru it!!! He listens to you & then, gets you right IN! My meeting was with LYLE DRESBOLD, a senior attorney, which means EXPERIENCED & TOP. I had a case that would’ve ruined my life and promise of my continued successful career. When you meet Lyle, he’s sitting behind his desk and at first takes a minute to get a read on him, only because he’s TAKING IN every word & detail of what you say & memorizes it and is already preparing himself for your defense!!!! He has a photographic memory and he knows the LAW like the back of his hand. I asked him to show me what he got, meaning when you’re just taking to him, you can’t see his magic YET, it hasn’t kicked in because he’s not yet sitting Infront of a DA (or) a judge. Well, after my sneak preview of how he really felt & how he was going to defend me - to get me a win & lesson this nightmare, I immediately paid the Fee!! Beg or borrow if you have to, to get the money to pay to hire Lyle. You can always pay those folks back after you’ve won! He’s WORTH EVERY DIME to get you the lowest possible outcome (or) dismissal. DONT HESITATE or take a chance, it’s NOT worth the RISK!!! I did hire someone prior to Lyle because I thought I didn’t need to pay a higher fee, I ended up wasting $ 1,500 elsewhere to show up embarrassed with the wrong attorney & with a complete disaster AND things revealed by an amateur that could hurt your case. 1000% HIRE DAVID SHRAGER LAW FIRM IMMEDIATELY! David and LYLE have YOUR BACK and they don’t stop til you have THE BEST DEFENSE & REPRESENTATION because you’re dealing with THE BEST. They pick apart what you’re being accused of and concentrate on the flaws and holds the opposition accountable!! I LOVE LYLE ❤️THANK YOU FROM MY HEART! Don’t mess with the rest, when you have the BEST xooxzo

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Posted by Tamara | February 15, 2021

Amazing professional

Shelley is absolutely amazing!!! She was very thorough and comforting and helped beyond measure with my cases! I highly recommend her! She truly is above and beyond along with Erin at the firm!

Posted by anonymous | June 26, 2020

Excellent

Cory Ricci went above and beyond to help me out of a situation. He was clear about what I was to do and say. I felt confident to let him speak for me.

Posted by anonymous | November 19, 2019

Worth Every Penny for DUI Defense

Called the consultation line immediately after my arrest, and was told the resolution would take approximately a year. David and his staff, particularly Erin, were helpful and supportive with navigating the intricacies of my situation and were invaluable in keeping me employed. They even went the extra mile to help with removing internet search data. I can't thank them enough for the work they have done.

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Posted by Anonymous | June 5, 2019

Shelly Duff is amazing !

Shelly is truly an amazing defense attorney ! Thorough, prepared and was absolutely wonderful to work with. Would highly recommend her to anyone that needs council. A + work and very professional. Thank you Shelly !

Posted by Lin | January 9, 2019

They will fight for you when you need help.

My son was arrested for failure to register for Megan’s law. I was so worried and had trouble finding an experienced lawyer nearby who would take this on case. When I called Attorney David J. Shrager’s office I was immediately connected to a lawyer who was able to describe to me the legal process and give me answers and a direction. I felt so reassured I hired ATTORNEY VERONICA BRESTENSKY immediately and am so thankful she was in our corner. Since I live 2 hours away I was concerned they wouldn’t take the case but thankfully they did and Attorney Brestensky was there for every hearing and took time to review what was happening with myself and my incarcerated son prior the hearing. She was always available and responded promptly to any calls. From the moment I spoke with her on the phone thru the entire process, I had complete faith that she would fight diligently and be able to help us. I am so Thankful for Attorney Brestensky and highly recommend her. If you need a lawyer she will provide excellent legal council as well compassionate step by step updates. Hire her and you’ll be relieved to have her as your advocate. Lin

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Posted by Christopher L Cox | October 11, 2017

Shrager Deense Attorneys

Thanks to David Shrager for taking my case and Lyle Dresbold for representing me at my hearing. Top notch Law Firm. Thankful that Lyle Dresbold got my charges reduced to summary offense. I would highly recommend these attorneys for anyone charged with a crime.

Posted by Brandon | December 31, 2015

Highly recommend!

I was referred to David and he has represented me twice now. Both times he went above and beyond expectations. Returns phone calls promptly and keeps you informed. His staff at the office is also very polite and professional. I had a lot to lose and David worked diligently for favorable results. Highly recommend him

Posted by Ron | November 3, 2015

Great work

A little late writing this review, however, back last year my family was in a battle, long story short; Attorney Shrager did his job well and everything turned around quickly in our favor. What most impresses me about Attorney Shrager is his knowledge of the court system, and he answers his phone personally, anytime of the day. He's seasoned and adept. Thank you.

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Posted by anonymous | September 30, 2014

Total professional

Attorney Shrager was recommended to me by several people. It was the first time I had ever been in trouble and if I ended up with a criminal record, my life was over. David returned all my calls, was extremely professional and I kept my record clean! He really lived up to all the hype.

Posted by Amy | July 21, 2014

Life Saver

Attorney Shrager has represented me on two occasions. Once for DUI and once for an incident that happened in a bar. Both times he was excellent. He personally answers his cellphone and is always available for questions and explains things in plain English. You can tell when you talk to him he really cares. He did a great job for me on both occasions and I would not hesitate to recommend him!

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Posted by anonymous | July 8, 2014

My gratitude

I just wanted to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for what you did for my daughter. She has struggled with addiction for the last two years as a result of a traumatic event. Your kindness and concern renewed my faith that there are still good people in the world.

Posted by Nicole | June 5, 2014

Great Result!!

David Shrager did a fantastic job and his support staff in incredible especially Allison. They took such good care of me and my case. When the charges were dropped, I was in tears! Thank you!

Posted by Steve | June 10, 2011

Fantastic Job

Attorney Shrager and his staff did a fantastic job of helping my family through a very tough time. I had never been accused of a crime before and we did not know what to do or where to turn. Attorney Shrager was sympathetic and treated us with respect and kindness. He got us an INCREDIBLE result. I and my family are so grateful we found him.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Criminal Defense Attorney
Shrager Defense Attorneys
2001 - Present

Litigation Attorney
Reed Smith
1999 - 2001

Law Clerk
Hoppe & Stokes
1996 - 1998

Education

University of Miami School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1998

University of Pittsburgh
1995

Associations

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
N/A

Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
N/A

Pennsylvania Bar Association, Criminal Law Section
Member
N/A

Allegheny County Bar Association, Criminal Litigation Section
Fellow
N/A

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Best DUI Lawyers in Pittsburgh
Expertise
2021

Selected to Super Lawyers
Pennsylvania Super Lawyers
2021

ThreeBestRated® Award
ThreeBestRated®
2021

Selected to Super Lawyers
Pennsylvania Super Lawyers
2017

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
The National Trial Lawyers
2014

Top 10 DUI Attorneys
American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
2014

Top 100 DUI Lawyers
National Advocacy for DUI Defense
2013

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
The National Trial Lawyers
2013

View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (32)

Given (40)

Endorse David

Thomas Pavlinic

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 30
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"David is an exceptional defense lawyer and I would highly recommend him to individuals in the Pittsburgh area who are facing sex crime charges."

Julie Jones

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I can confidently endorse attorney David Shrager without hesitation. He has handled hundreds of criminal cases with professionalism."

Rebecca Canterbury

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Attorney Shrager for all criminal defense and DUI cases. He has a stellar reputation in the legal community."

Ali Ebrahimzadeh

Unknown Attorney | Jan 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Marc Taiani

Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Shrager is a consummate professional and takes the time to assist you in every facet of your case."

Alexandra Gonzalez-Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Summer Walker

Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Shrager is a very knowledgeable and experienced attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Mark Clay

Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Mr. Shrager. Very knowledgeable and caring attorney who achieves great results in representing clients! I want all people to contact him for help."

Kevin Churchill

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Shrager is a skilled defense lawyer who is well-versed in the law. I found him to be very insightful about how to organize facts and themes to produce winning results at trial. Clients will be well served, both because of his experience, but also because he cares enough about his clients to follow through with the subtle nuances of their case."

Jill Rogers

Unknown Attorney | Feb 10
Relationship: Other

"Highly respected and overall a great attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Colin McCallin

Unknown Attorney | Oct 07
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. He is highly respected in his field."

Dmitriy Shakhnevich

Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph Torri

Unknown Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Richard Geller

Unknown Attorney | Sep 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I strongly endorse David. Highly respected in the legal community with an outstanding reputation for client advocacy and dedication."

Simon Kabzan

Unknown Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent attorney and highly recommended as an asset to this community."

Richard Rosenstein

Unknown Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Shrager is a skilled and respected member of the legal community. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients."