Skip to main content

David Joel Shrager

Criminal defense Attorney at Pittsburgh, PA

5.0   16 reviews

also known as Shrager Defense Attorneys, David J. Shrager

Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • State Years
    Pennsylvania - PA 24 years
    Florida - FL 24 years
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State PA
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State FL
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Inactive No misconduct found

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

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. 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.

    24 years

  2. 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

  3. 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.

    23 years

  4. 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.

    24 years

  5. 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

View more

Contact David

Shrager Defense Attorneys
437 Grant St #617
Frick Building
Pittsburgh, PA, 15219

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  16 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
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
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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
Read less
Posted by Tamara | February 15, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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.
Read less
Posted by Anonymous | June 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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
Read less
Posted by Christopher L Cox | October 11, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
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.
Read less
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!
Read less
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.
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

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 10 DUI Attorneys
  • American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Top 100 DUI Lawyers
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2013
View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (32)
Given (40)
Endorse David
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."
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."
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."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Shrager is a very knowledgeable and experienced attorney. I endorse this lawyer."
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."
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."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 10
Relationship: Other
"Highly respected and overall a great attorney. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 07
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. He is highly respected in his field."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
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."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent attorney and highly recommended as an asset to this community."
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse David. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Car accident
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Criminal defense
Social Security & Disability
Car accident
General practice
Child custody
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Personal injury
Criminal defense
Criminal defense

Avvo Contributions

This attorney hasn't created any legal answers in Q&A or legal guides recently on Avvo.

Pittsburgh Criminal defense Lawyer David Joel Shrager
David Joel Shrager
Criminal defense Attorney
Pittsburgh, PA
Licensed for 24 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available