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also known as Zuckerman Law Firm LLC
PITTSBURGH CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY DAVE ZUCKERMAN
Attorney David S. Zuckerman, Esq. is an experienced Pittsburgh criminal defense lawyer familiar with the legal system in Allegheny County and the surrounding counties in Western Pennsylvania. As the founding attorney of the Zuckerman Law Firm, his firm has been trusted to represent over 3,000 clients facing felony, misdemeanor, traffic and non-traffic cases in Western Pennsylvania.
Legal Expertise and Trial Experience
Attorney Zuckerman has tried over 70 jury or non-jury trials to verdict. He has also litigated thousands of preliminary hearings and summary trials, successfully resolving many cases at Magisterial District Court. As a former Allegheny County Assistant District Attorney, he gained invaluable insight into case investigation and prosecution tactics, achieving an 80% conviction rate in jury trials. He utilizes this experience to comprehensively examine criminal cases on his clients' behalf.
We handle the following types of criminal and traffic cases:
Educational Background
Attorney Zuckerman's commitment to criminal law is reflected in his educational achievements. He graduated from the Penn State Dickinson School of Law in 2008, ranking in the top 15% of his class. Before law school, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Crime, Law & Justice from the Pennsylvania State University.
Recognition and Awards
After forming the Zuckerman Law Firm in 2014, Attorney Zuckerman has received the following professional recognition:
STATEMENT FROM ATTORNEY ZUCKERMAN
With many attorneys to choose from in Pittsburgh, finding the right attorney for your case is crucial. What separates me from other lawyers is my diverse criminal law experience combined with my empathy and compassion for my clients. When you hire our firm, you will have the ability to dial directly to my work cell phone. I don't have your calls screened by a paralegal or call answering service. If I'm able to talk, I'll pick up the phone. If not, I will listen to your voicemail and return your call as soon as possible.
I understand that not every case or client is alike. Some clients are outraged by false accusations and want to go to trial. Others want to seek a plea deal as early on in the process as possible, and want a strong but sensible advocate to soften the blow. We tailor our approach to fit your goals and circumstances.
While I am empathetic, I do not “sugar coat” things or make empty promises to earn your business. Throughout all stages of your case, I will provide you with honest and direct feedback, and will not shy away from having difficult but necessary conversations.
Whether it's a traffic ticket or a serious felony charge, we understand that your case is extremely important to you. I encourage you to call me today to decide if our firm is the right firm to handle your case.
3
Practice Areas
18 years | 1,000 cases
18 years | 500 cases
18 years | 500 cases
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Chat withState: New Jersey
Acquired: 2009
No misconduct found
State: Pennsylvania
Acquired: 2008
No misconduct found
429 4th Avenue, 1600 Law & Finance Bldg, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219
22 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge
Posted by anonymous | January 12, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Probation hearing
I called Dave to ask if he could handle my Gagnon 1 hearing. He took my case which his associate Nick handled for me. Nick met with me went over everything clearly on what to expect. He filed a motion to terminate my probation. With citing case law The judge signed off on my case without even having ...
Posted by anonymous | October 15, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Expungement
expungements
I went to Mr. Zuckerman seeking to have my criminal record expunged. I had numerous old charges that I wanted to be expunged. Mr. Zuckerman was very professional and advised me of how he would proceed. I was amazed at the personalized service that I received. Although, it took some time, due to the n...
Thank you for your kind words. We're glad we were able to help, and wish you well.
Posted by anonymous | November 25, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI
Knowledgeable! Relatable! 100% Dedicated! A true Partner!
I hired David Zuckerman for my first offense DUI case. I was contacted by a ton of different firms once I was charged. I had consulted with many and he left a lasting impression on me. The impression was that he not only understood my position with the DUI, but he was sincere and incredible empatheti...
Posted by Catherine | June 29, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
High Recommendation
I hired David Zuckerman to represent me in a speeding case that, if found guilty, would have endangered my license. I was hesitant to hire an attorney unseen but, after reading his web site and recommendations from clients, moved forward. The entire process was as positive as could be. I was kept inf...
Thank you for your kind words. We're grateful that your matter resolved favorably, and wish you the best.
Posted by Filip | June 29, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI
DUI
I was charged with a DUI and Dave and his firm were able to help me resolve my legal problem in few weeks only, even though the process was supposed to last around 5-6 weeks. He was very professional and made sure that I understand everything. It was very easy to get a hold of him, either via email o...
Thank you for your kind words. We hope all is well with you.
"I endorse Attorney David Zuckerman - an intelligent trial attorney who is widely respected in our legal community."
"Attorney Zuckerman has true litigation skills and a legal knowledge to back them up. I've known him for 10 years and would recommend him to anyone looking for a criminal defense or DUI attorney in the Pittsburgh area. Truly one of the best around."
"Attorney Zuckerman is an intelligent, hard-working attorney who brings his years of experience as a former prosecutor to bear for the benefit of his clients. If you are in need of the services of an attorney, there is none better than Attorney Zuckerman."
"Attorney Zuckerman is a true professional who has quickly made his mark in the Western Pennsylvania region as one of the best criminal defense attorneys. He fights with a zeal and passion many others have lost in their pursuit of protecting their clients constitutional liberties from governmental overreach. He is a true professional and a highly regarded young attorney."
Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I highly endorse Mr. Zuckerman. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first."
"I endorse this lawyer. Dave is smart young lawyer who, as a former District Attorney, knows the law from both sides."
"I endorse this lawyer. David Zuckerman is a knowledgeable attorney, and a zealous advocate on behalf of his clients. He is well respected in the legal field."
"Dave is a wonderful lawyer who will do whatever it takes to get the right result. Extremely hardworking and a genuinely great guy."
"David was an excellent Assistant District Attorney. He has transitioned beautifully into his role as a defense attorney and advocate for his Client's rights."
"It's always good to have a criminal defense attorney who previously was on the other side. As a former assistant district attorney, he knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system as good as anybody. I'd highly recommend Mr. Zuckerman to anybody looking for a criminal defense attorney."
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A top-notch attorney, highly respected in the legal community."
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2024
Top 100 - Criminal Defense Litigation, America's Top 100 Attorneys
2015
Top 40 Under 40 - Criminal Defense, National Trial Lawyers
2015
Top 100 Trial Lawyers - Pennsylvania, National Trial Lawyers
2006
Sales - Highest Course Grade, CALI Excellence For the Future Award
2014 - Present
Owner/Managing Attorney, Zuckerman Law Firm LLC
2013 - 2014
Associate Attorney (Criminal Defense, Personal Injury), Private Law Firm
2009 - 2013
Assistant District Attorney, Allegheny County District Attorney's Office
2008 - 2009
Judicial Law Clerk, Indiana County Court of Common Pleas
2018 - Present
Super Lawyers - PennsylvaniaRising Star
2015 - Present
Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2015 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseMember
2015 - Present
The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial LawyersMember
2015 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2014 - Present
Pennsylvania Bar Association
2014 - Present
Allegheny County Bar Association, Criminal Litigation SectionMember
2014 - Present
Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2009 - Present
Allegheny County Bar Association
2009 - 2010
Indiana County Bar AssociationMember
All Charges Withdrawn Per Agreement
Felonies withdrawn with plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only
Felonies withdrawn, plea to summary disorderly conduct for 90 days of probation
Not Guilty
Motion to Suppress Evidence Granted - Charges Withdrawn
Not Guilty Verdict
Plea to DUI for 4-day DUI Alternative to Jail Program. All drug charges dismissed. No jail time.
Not Guilty
Plea to disorderly conduct. Misdemeanor drug charges dismissed.
Misdemeanors dismissed by Judge. Convicted of summary offense only for fines and court costs.
Negotiated Admission into ARD Program
Negotiated agreement for completion of community service for dismissal.
Negotiated entry into ARD program, helping client to avoid conviction and reducing license suspension.
Case dismissed.
Negotiated agreement for them to complete community service and anger management for full withdrawal of all charges.
Plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. All misdemeanors withdrawn.
Plea to 5mph over offense, carrying no points or suspension.
Negotiated withdrawal of misdemeanors for plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only.
Charge reduced to misdemeanor for 2-years of Probation Without Verdict. Charges to be dismissed and expunged upon completion.
Felony and misdemeanors dismissed. Plea to summary disorderly conduct
Plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines only. Felony and misdemeanor charges dismissed
Plea to two alternative traffic offenses for no points or license suspension. Client’s driving privileges remain intact.
Plea for 30 days of Probation Without Verdict, leading to dismissal and expungement of misdemeanor offense. Dismissal of underage charge, eliminating license suspension.
Negotiated agreement at magisterial district court for a future withdrawal of the offense.
Felonies withdrawn. Charges amended to misdemeanors and client entered ARD program, which will lead to case dismissal.
Intimidation charge withdrawn. Plea to a local borough ordinance, which will not appear on criminal background check.
Not guilty of reckless driving. Guilty of the lesser offense of careless driving, which carries no license suspension.
Charges dismissed.
Misdemeanor habitual offender charge withdrawn. Driving on a suspended license charge modified to non-DUI related offense for plea. No jail time.
Plea to summary retail theft. Felony and misdemeanor charges withdrawn as part of agreement.
Case dismissed/withdrawn.
Drug charges dismissed, plea to summary disorderly conduct offense with fine only.
Plea to summary disorderly conduct for fines/costs only. Misdemeanor drug offense dismissed.
Robbery charges withdrawn, client entered ARD program for first-time offenders.
Case Dismissed.
Negotiated agreement for completion of anger management for dismissal of all charges.
Negotiated plea to reduced offense for no jail time, suspension or points.
On date of trial, Commonwealth offered plea to DUI - General Impairment, carrying a 10-day jail sentence. Plea to M3 Disorderly Conduct for 1-year of house arrest. Avoided 1-2 years of state prison.
2008
JD - Juris Doctor
2004
Bachelor of Arts
2007
Criminal Justice Seminar
2015
2015
2014
2014
English
Legal Answers
Will I go to jail ?
22 May 2025
Do I get points if I pay a fine for a speeding ticket that says 80 MPH in a 70 MPH zone?
26 May 2025
I'm charged under 35 § 780-113 §§ A31, 35 § 780-113 §§ A32, and 35 § 780-113 §§ A16, and summary charges. What can I expect?
13 Aug 2023