1. Home
  2. Find a Lawyer
  3. Pennsylvania
  4. Pittsburgh
  5. Criminal Defense
  6. Justin Ketchel

Justin John-Earl Ketchel

Criminal defense Attorney at Pittsburgh, PA

4.5   17 reviews

also known as Attorney Justin J. Ketchel, Ketchel Law

Message
  • Licensed for 15 years
    State PA
    Acquired 2008
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

Class Act
Cliff
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
DUI
edie
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted Attorney
Read more reviews

About Justin

Learn Justin’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    51%
    A tough Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer, Attorney Justin J. Ketchel is here for you. Our #1 Goal? To get your criminal charges dismissed. Whether you were charged with DUI, drugs, theft, violent crimes, sex crimes or a federal crime, Ketchel Law can help.

  2. DUI and DWI
    20%
    A DUI conviction is a criminal conviction and not something you want on your record. To fight a DUI charge, first know your rights. An arrest is not a conviction - people win DUI cases in court every day. Call our Pittsburgh DUI Lawyers today.

  3. Drug Crime
    14%
    In Pennsylvania, even a first time drug offense can send you to jail, suspend your driver’s license and cost thousands of dollars in fines. If you have been charged with a drug crime in Pennsylvania, call our Pittsburgh Drug Attorneys - 412-456-1221

  4. Federal crime
    5%
    At Ketchel Law, we are well-versed in both state and federal court systems and can help you understand your rights and your options to fight against your charges. Call our Federal Crime Lawyers in Pennsylvania for a free consultation.

  5. Sex crime
    5%
    Ketchel Law takes an aggressive approach to defending your rights. If a not-guilty verdict is impossible, we will fight aggressively to keep your name off of Megan’s List and your reputation preserved. We are sex crime lawyers in Pennsylvania.

  6. Violent crime
    2%
    Being charged with a crime, does not mean that you will be convicted. Don’t wait to take action – if you have been arrested and charged with a violent crime, contact Ketchel Law today to schedule your FREE initial consultation.

  7. White collar crime
    2%
    An arrest for theft, shoplifting / retail theft, burglary or robbery can come with very harsh penalties in Pennsylvania. If you have been charged with theft, burglary or robbery in Pennsylvania, call Ketchel Law today.

  8. Speeding and traffic ticket
    1%
    At Ketchel Law, we put the control back in your hands by helping you understand your rights and working aggressively to defend your rights. We will do what it takes to help you keep your license or have it reinstated.

Attorney Justin J. Ketchel is an experienced and knowledgeable Pittsburgh Criminal Attorney who understands how to navigate the legal system in Western Pennsylvania.

He is the owner and senior attorney at Ketchel Law, a criminal defense law firm located in downtown Pittsburgh, PA. Visit to learn more about our law firm. 

Ketchel Law works aggressively to ensure clients get the best possible result in every case. We fight for a full case dismissal, acquittal or withdrawal of charges, or for your sentence to be reduced to a minimum.

As a Pittsburgh DUI Lawyer, Attorney Ketchel can help you build a strong defense, fighting for your DUI charges to be reduced or withdrawn.

Attorney Ketchel is a Pittsburgh native with deep roots tied to Allegheny County. He received his Juris Doctor (JD) from Duquesne University School of Law and is a member of the Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (PACDL), the Allegheny County Bar Association and the Pennsylvania Bar Association, as well as the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL). He serves on both the Allegheny County Criminal Law Committee and the Communications Committee.

"From a young age, I have strongly believed in the rights guaranteed by the United States and Pennsylvania Constituions. I believe that anyone charged with a crime deserves the highest level of representation and I continually do everything that I can to ensure that is true for every client that I represent.

"I am a firm believer that when charged with a criminal offense, it is absolutely necessary that a defendant is afforded excellent legal representation. Through zealousy fighing for my clients at trial, and all other legal proceedings, I have learned what it takes to get the best possible results for my clients.

"Ketchel Law puts special emphasis on examining every detail of a client's case and exploring every possible defense. My law firm takes great strides to ensure that an attorney is readily availabe to assist the client at all times. Lastly, my firm believes that since you are the client and the firm works for you, the firm should do everything possible to minimize the impact the arrest has on your life."

Attorney Ketchel is not just an experienced criminal lawyer; he is a dedicated defender of justice with the wisdom and tenacity it takes to protect your legal rights and fight for your freedom.

 

 

Photos and videos

Photos and videos

Contact Justin

Similar lawyers nearby

Ketchel Law
429 4th Avenue
1600 Law & Finance Building
Pittsburgh, PA, 15219
Message Get Directions

Reviews

Write A Review
4.5 / 5.0
  17 customer reviews
5 Star
 
88%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
12%
Posted by Cliff | January 19, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Class Act
Mr. Ketchel and his team are a first class enterprise. I hired them to help navigate some unique provisions of my probation that were affecting my ability to move forward with my life and reconnect with my children after some very bad decisions I'd made years earlier. All necessary aspects of my case were carefully discussed and I was very fortunate to have an outcome on two separate motions that were filed that got me the results I was looking for. Both motions were also turned around much faster than I anticipated given my prior experience with the court system. Mr. Ketchel's team went the extra mile after we were granted our motions by contacting the probation office and my specific probation officer to assure me that all parties involved in the scope of this scenario were crystal clear on how things would proceed going forward. Many thanks...
Read less
Posted by edie | January 15, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
DUI
I contacted Justin Ketchel for a consultation when a family member didn't know where to turn arrested with a dui . Justin answered all my questions and put my mind at ease with what to expect so that I could pass the information to the family member that needed a good laywer and that he was, as he was hired by the family member!
Read less
Posted by Ashley | October 31, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Positive Results!
I contacted this attorney by email on a Saturday and heard from him the following day. He was very easy to speak with and informative. it was very important that my son not lose his license for an underage offense he had been sited for while at a concert. The attorney was able to have reduced to a summary offense and he had to pay a manageable fine and complete a brief online class. Very happy with service we received and results. Made difficult situation much easier to deal with. Well worth the attorney fee!
Read less
Posted by anonymous | May 11, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Highly recommend Justin
I am in the process of starting my own business and wanted to speak with an attorney. After reviewing a number of different attorney’s in the area I decided to give Justin a call. Not only was he knowledgeable, but he was very responsive and professional. Justin was able to give me a step by step plan in order to help my business get off the ground and running. The whole process of starting your business is very stressful, but Justin was able to help me elevate any concerns. Justin was also very straightforward which I found to be very helpful and beneficial. He won’t give you the run around like other attorneys, which unfortunately I have experienced in the past. If you are looking for professional, responsive, courteous attorney don’t look any further.
Read less
Posted by Anne | April 12, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent firm with consistent results
We consulted and hired Justin for legal representation regarding two separate matters several years apart. Both times, they were prompt in responding to our request for a consultation and gathered the facts related to the cases in a meticulous manner. A plan was then discussed with us and implemented in a professional manner. The results were favorable each time and could never have been achieved without their expertise and diligence. I highly recommend this firm for any matters which may benefit from and/or require legal representation.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | January 25, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A lawfirm that cares about you, not what they can get from you.
In april of 2017 I was charged with some very hanous accusations. All though false, and apparently so, the common law was hell bent on pursuing every angle they could to pin these charges upon me. Due to the charges no lawyer would even bother with me for less than 10,000$ per charge and there was 3 charges in total. Upon consultation with Justin Ketchel, and we consulted many, we was very confident with hireing within his firm. Justin was very informative and his price was very modest in comparison to the two plus dozen lawyers we had consulted with, an half wouldnt even bother without a fee. I highly recommend consulting within this law firm first before anyone else, you will not be disappointed. Thank you for your expertise and skilled work with this case and my very life.
Read less
Posted by Donna | November 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dismissed
Mt son was arrested on charges that could have had him in jail for a long time. Justin went through all the information we supplied an was able to have his charges dismissed. Justin was available at all times and kept us informed of every step. I never felt rushed talking to him and he returned all phone calls and e-mails
Posted by Shawn | March 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Greatness at a great price.
My lawyer Justin Ketchel provided class A service and a reasonable price. In my case I was falsely accused of a crime and after it was all said and done there were 7 felonies and 12 misdemeanors I contacted Justin Ketchel's office and his secretary ( Which is professional and a huge help) too my information and in no time I was speaking to Justin himself. When court time came I walked into the court room with a unbreakable confidence and didn't even break a sweat. Everything was handled in under 1 minute . I walked out of the court room with a bliss and a summary offense. Thank you Justin for everything.
Read less
Posted by Michael | September 29, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional
I have used Ketchel Law on multiple occasions. Justin and his team are professional, knowledgeable and produced great results every time. I highly recommended Ketchel Law.
Posted by LISA | December 18, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
D.U.I 1st offense
I just recently got a D.U.I, it was first time I ever got myself in trouble. Attorney Justin Ketchel was my lawyer in this difficult and scary process. He was very sincere,compasionate, and very educated on this matter. He was there every step of the way, anything I needed to discuss he was there ready to answer and help me. I see Mr. Ketchel not just as the best lawyer I've experienced, but as a friend through all of this. He even went as far to sit in court with my mother-in-law, and assure her everything will be ok. Who does that anymore, my case is now over and I'm very very pleased with the outcome. I highly recommend, this law firm to anyone, who needs a well rounded respectful educated ,honest Attorney Justin Ketchel. Thank you again Attorney Justin Ketchel for your service. Lisa
Read less
Posted by anonymous | May 4, 2015
DUI/Controlled Substance charges dismissed at my Preliminary Hearing.
Attorney Justin Ketchel managed to have the DUI/Controlled Substance charge against me, dismissed at my Preliminary Hearing. This was a huge relief because this would have been my second DUI in 9 years and the DUI/Controlled Substance is probably the worst DUI that a person could be convicted of! He came to my Preliminary Hearing prepared with the knowledge that he needed to do his best to have this charge against me dismissed. Yet, he also came with a Court Recorder in case that this would have gone to trial. I was very impressed with Attorney Justin Ketchel's professionalism and also that he tried to keep me calm, because I was extremely upset at the thought of a minimum of 6 months jail time, not to mention nearly $10,000.00 in fines if found guilty of the DUI/Controlled Substance charge! I thought for sure that I would be found guilty of this charge, because I am prescribed pain medication for physical disabilities that cause severe pain, so there was no denying that narcotics were in my system. Attorney Justin Ketchel was well worth what I paid to have him as my legal counsel and to defend me. I would recommend him to anyone, knowing that he will do what is in his clients best interest!
Read less
Posted by Alyson | August 22, 2014
Justin is a caring, passionate attorney who understands the law
My 19 year old son was arrested for possession with intent to sell. As most parents could imagine this is devastating news, especially when he had a bright future ahead of him. I called many attorneys who came highly recommended, but Justin was the only attorney who returned my call on the weekend. For that we are eternally grateful. Justin immediately met us for a fact finding mission to determine what actually occurred analyzing the police report in comparison with fact, to include a thorough discussion regarding my sons background. and character From there he advised us of his strategy , kept us apprised of pending court dates, what to expect while in court, and within three months my son's case was heard and he now has a chance for a bright future. Don't leave legal matters to just anyone. Find an attorney such as Justin who is passionate about what he does and cares about his clients. Justin will explore every option to avoid a drawn out court case, while keeping you informed of the best case scenario, and the reality of the penalties that may be imposed.
Read less
Posted by Susan | June 26, 2014
Harassment
I had a situation that was draining myself and my children. Justin and Mike took control and they were great.....They are what you need in diffacult times. They gave 110 percent.
Posted by Matt | February 7, 2014
As good as it gets.
I came to Justin with what seemed to be a nightmare, a broken man if you will. His knowledge and way around a courtroom was everything I could have asked for and more. I don't live in the Pittsburgh so communication was key as Justin represented me in most court appearances. He did a bang up job. The trial last two days and I was rightfully acquitted. His professionalism and knowledge of the legal system was excellent. I would recommend him to anyone who needs a no nonsense type of lawyer who is going to do everything he can to help you.
Read less
Posted by Brenda | August 22, 2013
We were blessed with the best of the best.
We met Attorney Justin Ketchel approximately a couple of months ago. My son and I had a letter from him offering his services to assist us with a case that my son was encountering. It was a real case to say the least full of some really nasty criminal charges. Justin Kechel never flinched from the beginning. He was in control of the situation from the start and the amount of confidence that he demonstrated simply left our family feel at ease in spite of it all. Justin Ketchel is a very knowledgeable lawyer. He consistently kept us informed step by step as to everything that occurred. He is responsive and trustworthy . He is worth every dollar that we paid him. Anyone that can take a case of seven really bad charges and bring closure to that case with just one summary offense is either brilliant or nothing short of a miracle worker. I can sit here and tell you one thing and that is that Justin Ketchel will be my families attorney from this point on. We are highly inspired by him and we have a horrendous amount of confidence in him. He is stellar.
Read less
Posted by LaTonya | May 31, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dui
This lawyer failed to help me out. Honestly he took my five hundred dollars and never called me. He called me the day of the hearing about 10 minutes before it was to start. He never gave me any legal advice as to what my papers said. This man also failed to tell me what I had to do before my hearing so I had to have another hearing. I am a 30 year old girl who looks 21 and never have been through this type of things to even have to get a lawyer. I believe he took advantage of that. If you are new to the system please do not hire Justin because he will take your money, take full advantage, and never call you again. I asked for my money back and instead he still ignored me and took none of my calls. He is a fraud if you are new to the system.
Read less
Posted by Simon Cali | January 22, 2014
Justin j ketchel llc
Took my $$ each time before the very last day of my court date. He said he needs the money so he can work on my case ..it was going great until finale he took the officers side in the court room. And I did talk with another attorney about this and the way they explain Justin's auctions he trade my case to gain on another case. That's it for now.
Read less
View all reviews
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 15 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Justin Ketchel Law
  • 2012 - Present
  • Associate Attorney
  • Michael Sherman, PC
  • 2010 - 2012
  • Assistant Public Defender
  • Blair County Public Defender's Office
  • 2008 - 2010
  • Legal Intern
  • Greenfield & Kraut
  • 2006 - 2008
View all work experience

Education

  • Pennsylvania State University
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • N/A
  • Duquesne University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • N/A

Legal Cases

  • Felony Theft Charges Dismissed
  • Charges Dismissed
  • DUI Charges Dismissed by Magistrate
  • Charges Dismissed
  • McKEESPORT MAN ACQUITTED BY A JURY OF ATTEMPTED HOMICIDE
  • Acquittal
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • Criminal Defense
  • 2014 - Present
  • Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Allegheny County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Allegheny County Bar Association Criminal Law Committee
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - 2014
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • 10 Best
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2018
  • Best Lawyer
  • Expertise
  • 2018
  • 10 Best
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2017
  • 2015 10 Best Client Satisfaction Award
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • PILA Award
  • Duquesne University School of Law
  • 2008
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Graduate Law Class
  • Criminal Law
  • 2014
  • Monthly Meeting
  • Criminal Overview
  • 2010

Attorney endorsements

Received (16)
Given (4)
Endorse Justin
Adam Michael Bishop headshot
Adam Bishop
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Ketchel is a talented criminal litigator. He is dedicated to his clients and well-respected amongst his peers."
Kim William Riester headshot
Kim Riester
Unknown Attorney | Sep 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Michael Edward Waltman headshot
Michael Waltman
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Jeffrey Nicholas Ivashuk headshot
Jeffrey Ivashuk
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A well admired lawyer in the legal community."
David Seth Zuckerman headshot
David Zuckerman
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Justin is a bright, knowledgable, and skilled trial attorney who works hard to provide the highest level of representation to his clients. He closely examines the details of each case, looking to develop both traditional arguments and new defense theories to attack the Commonwealth's case. Having seen Justin in client consultations, he takes a genuine interest in the well being of both his clients and their families alike. I wouldn't hesitate to refer a matter to his firm."
Kirk Tyler Klett headshot
Kirk Klett
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Justin is a highly skilled attorney and very well respected in the legal community. He provides high end legal services, but with a cost-effective and results driven approach. I've worked with Justin on several matters and will continue to direct clients to Justin's office. Justin is very knowledgeable and really commands the courtroom which I believe is a major component of his continued success."
Rod Brandon McCullough headshot
Rod McCullough
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Justin Ketchel. Justin is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with great knowledge of the criminal courts in Western Pennsylvania, as well as Pennsylvania law. Justin is hard-working, responsive and client focused. He is also well respected by his peers. I highly recommend Justin to anyone looking for a criminal defense attorney in Western Pennsylvania."
Sean Thomas Logue headshot
Sean Logue
Criminal defense Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is experienced, hardworking, and cares about his clients well being."
Jordan Peter Shuber headshot
Jordan Shuber
Criminal defense Attorney | May 15
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"As a former employee of Justin Ketchel Law, I can say first hand that Attorney Ketchel is one of the top advocates in the surrounding Pittsburgh area. He will not only fight for your rights to the fullest extent of the law, but he will also take the time to guide you through the emotional circumstances surrounding whatever charges you may be facing. I fully support and endorse Attorney Ketchel."
Aaron Matthew Tomczak headshot
Aaron Tomczak
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"While many Attorneys claim to go the extra mile and be vested in their Client’s case, Attorney Ketchel truly is. Attorney Ketchel not only understands the criminal courts, he has an extensive knowledge of the current case law and how to use this to his client’s advantage. I endorse Attorney Ketchel."
Jonathan Micah Stewart headshot
Jonathan Stewart
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Justin is a hard-working, knowledgeable Attorney who knows how to get the job done for his clients."
Patrick William Murray headshot
Patrick Murray
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Justin is an experienced and highly effective criminal defense attorney. I highly recommend Justin."
Michael Francis Niznik Jr. headshot
Michael Niznik
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Justin is a highly-skilled attorney. He is known in the criminal defense community as an ambitious advocate who fights for each and every one of his clients. You're in good hands with Attorney Ketchel. I recommend him without reservation."
Christopher Philip Thomas headshot
Christopher Thomas
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Justin is a highly skilled advocate who I would refer cases to. I endorse this lawyer."
Andrew D. Slepian headshot
Andrew Slepian
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 30
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Extremely knowledgeable and well-respected in his community. I highly recommend and endorse Justin."
Matthew Thomas Logue headshot
Matthew Logue
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
Nicholis Salvatore Joseph Milardo headshot
Nicholis Milardo
Criminal defense
Adam Michael Bishop headshot
Adam Bishop
Criminal defense
David Seth Zuckerman headshot
David Zuckerman
Criminal defense
Sean Thomas Logue headshot
Sean Logue
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 Justin John-Earl Ketchel
Justin John-Earl Ketchel
Criminal defense Attorney
Pittsburgh, PA
Licensed for 15 years
Free Consultation
Message