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John F. Pyfer Jr.

Family Attorney at Lancaster, PA

5.0   23 reviews
  • Licensed for 51 years
    State PA
    Acquired 1972
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Family
    60%
    Divorce, Custody, Suport, Pre-Martial Agreements

  2. Estate planning
    15%

    50 years

  3. General practice
    10%

    50 years

  4. Personal injury
    10%
    Plaintiff practice

    50 years

  5. Criminal defense
    5%

    50 years

Profiled in Super Lawyers Magazine,  Article available at .  Named Best Attornery in Lancaster by Lancaster Magazine for 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and again in 2012. Named Pennsylvanis Lawyer of the Month, Article availalbe at .  Named Susquehanna Select Attorney.  Ralph Taylor Fellow: Lions International. Distinquished Eagle Scout, BSA. Silver Buffalo Receipant, BSA; Board Chairman: LANCASTER Conseravanncy; Board of Director: Masonic Villages. 33 Degree Mason. 

Contact John

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Pyfer Partners
128 North Lime Street
Lancaster, PA, 17602-2951
Pyfer Partners
2801 Willow Street Pike
Willow Street, PA, 17584
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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  23 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | November 6, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Service
Mr. Pyfer had provided legal services to my or Volunteer Fire Company for many years. I've had the opportunity to work with Mr. Pyfer over the last 12 years. John provided services with by-law and policy reviews, rental agreements, disputes and most recently our merger with the municipality. John always made himself available to us. His service and dedication to our organization is greatly appreciated.
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Posted by anonymous | August 1, 2013
Happy Retirement!
John handled divorce, custody, wills, business and civil cases for my family and me. The finest attorney Lancaster has ever seen, and a finer gentleman. I will miss his expertise.
Posted by anonymous | June 13, 2013
Client
Mr. Pyfer and his associates were always prompt in getting back to me, professional, caring, kind, and honest throughout the entire divorce, support, and custody process. They guided me through a difficult process making sure I knew what needed to be done without wasting my time or money. It would be a blessing if the entire legal system worked with the efficiency and integrity that I experienced in working with Pyfer and Associates!
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Posted by anonymous | April 28, 2013
You will not be disappointed.
For more than a decade, I have called upon Attorney Pyfer for legal advice in several different cases. His advice was always spot on and he did not try to fool me or give me the impression I would receive any more than I was entitled to in my divorce action. My phone calls were always returned within 24 hours or less. I could tell he always had my best interests in mind when deciding the next course of action. The legal world is a scary place if you're not prepared, and I was fortunate enough to have him on my side to guide me through. I highly recommend him.
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Posted by ERIC | December 18, 2012
Estate Settlements
I am an Auctioneer and I have worked with John to settle several Estates! He is very knowledgeable in handling the settlement of Estates! He is attentive, straight forward, and very informative to clients on their choices of outcome. He is eager to keep the time line for each estate settlement on the move. An 'on the ball' Attorney for Estate Settlements!
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Posted by Luke | December 17, 2012
Professional
A very professional manner has been used in all matters that we have had dealings with over the years. Highly recommended to all people.
Posted by Jeff | November 22, 2012
Continued Excellence
I remain fortunate to have Mr. Pyfer continue to represent me and my family. In a legal system that does not appear consistent in the outcomes of what some would believe to be simple matters, Mr. Pyfer remains consistent in his guidence and counseling. I remain thankful that Mr. Pyfer was willing to accept my case in 2008 and remains willing to represent me and my family. He was successful in assisting me in obtaining custody of two of my children and continues to look out for the best interests of my family. A respected member of the Lancaster community, I recommend Mr. Pyfer for any of your family law issues.
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Posted by anonymous | November 14, 2012
John Pyfer Jr.
Mr. Pyfer is an excellent attorney who diplayed tremendous professionalism throughout the case. My family and I are very grateful for the results that were achieved. I would highly recommend this gentleman for any of your legal needs.
Posted by anonymous | October 8, 2012
An amazing lawyer and an amazing person!
Hands down, the best of the best. Handled my divorce case the way it should be - fair, firm and consistent. My kids and I are better off because of John Pyfer.
Posted by anonymous | June 27, 2012
Best Choice!
Mr. Pyfer was by far the best choice for handling my divorce, child custody and child support case. He was always well prepared and very professional. In a time when things were very stressful for me, he was very supportive and made me feel well taken care of. I knew without a doubt that, with him on my side, I would not be taken advantage of...he proved that time and time again. He is the type of lawyer you want on your side. I almost feel sorry for the opposition! I would highly recommend Mr. Pyfer, you will not be disappointed.
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Posted by anonymous | February 19, 2012
Tremendous Support and Great Counsel
Mr. John Pyfer was highly recommended to me by my pastor. He lived up to the recommendation providing me with tremendous support and great counsel during one of the most stressful times in my life - divorce. John was thorough, responsive, and kept me very informed. He is very knowledgable and I felt very confident during difficult decisions. He truly cares for your well being. I would highly recommend John Pyfer if you are looking for an attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | October 27, 2011
Lives up to his reputation
John came highly recommend. He did not disappoint in any way. When you are watching him in action you are very glad he is on your side.
Posted by anonymous | September 16, 2011
Father Awarded Custody
This was my first real experience with the legal system but I heard John was the best. I was not sure how everything worked and I was confused on what was relevant. I entrusted John completely with the custody battle for my son. He is both professional and very direct to the point utilizing only some of the information that I supplied to target specific needs. The trail was like a puzzle, you could not tell anything from all the pieces but in the end John put the puzzle together so everyone could see the picture. I was fearful we had not done enough to win the case but when it was over, it all made sense. It was like watching a skilled surgeon with a scalpel making precise cuts but only where needed. He understands what needs to be done and targets the specific areas that need to be addressed. John is very professional and methodical having a great understanding of the system, how it works and what evidence is needed. I took John's advice completely from the beginning to the end and I am very happy I choose John to represent me and my son and will continue to utilize his services. Thank you John for all your diligence, hard work, insight, wisdom and understanding you provided me through this process.
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Posted by Mark | June 21, 2011
John Pyfer Jr.
Mr Pyfer is thorough, knowledgeable, professional, intelligent and very very conscientious. He knows people and the law and provides an experience much different from what you would expect, especially if all you know about lawyers is through jokes, heresay or a previous bad experience. From the first meeting through the last he maintained his courteous calm well experienced demeanor and, in spite of opposing counsels childish antics, elevated the process and gave a service that made me feel like I was his most important client. I would highly recommend Mr. Pyfers law practice to others as I was treated promptly and courteously by his entire staff.
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Posted by anonymous | March 18, 2011
Committed to You
Excellent attorney. John was professional, straight forward, and eager to resolve the issue at hand. My family and I have deep trust and respect for John and wouldn't use any another attorney. I highly recommend him for any of your legal needs.
Posted by anonymous | June 25, 2010
Great lawyer, great person
John helped me after an assault. His support, his respect, and his caring way made an uncomfortable situation much more tolerable. Would and do recommend him to all of my friends and family. Five star lawyer, five star guy.
Posted by MICHAEL | February 21, 2010
JOHN F. PYFER JR.
WE HAD HEARD THAT MR. PYFER WAS THE BEST LAWYER AND WE WERE NOT DISSAPIONTED IN THE LEAST. WE WERE SCARED AS WE WERE INVOLVED IN A CUSTODY DISPUTE. SCARED ENOUGH THAT WE DIDN'T CARE ABOUT THE PRICE. WE ENTRUSTED MR. PYFER WITH OUR FUTURE..OUR CHILD..OUR EVERYTHING. AS MONTHS ROLLED INTO YEARS WE WOULD HAVE DOUBTS. HOWEVER, EACH TIME HE REPRESENTED US IN COURT WE WERE ASTOUNDED AND CONFIDENT. HE WAS JUST THAT MUCH BETTER THAN THE OPPOSING TEAM AND EVERYONE IN THAT COURTROOM KNEW IT. OUR CONFIDENCE GREW. HE ALWAYS DID WHAT WAS BEST FOR US AND WE THANK GOD WE TRUSTED HIS KNOWLEDGE OVER OUR DOUBTS AND IDEAS. THE BOTTOM LINE IS..YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. HE WAS WORTH EVERY CENT!
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Posted by Kris | January 26, 2010
Divorce Case/Child Support
I went to Mr. Pyfer after not getting acceptable results from my first lawyer. With Mr. Pyfer defending me, I did "win" the case and get everything that I was fairly entitled to. However, that is not why I feel so strongly about recommending him. During what was a very emotional and difficult time in my life, he defended my best interests and did whatever he could to make the situation easier for me. He was able to project a caring attitude, making me feel like a person, not just a client. With me, his client, he was kind, patient, and gentle...taking the time to explain legal aspects that were beyond my experiences. I received a call back within hours, if not sooner, each time I had a question. Each step was thoroughly explained and I knew what to expect. I am sure my ex-husband's experience with Mr. Pyfer was not as pleasant. Their interactions were always professional, but to-the-point and direct. Having used another lawyer initially I was amazed at the difference. My first lawyer liked to send emails back and forth...he tried to talk me out of pushing for what I wanted and seemed to prefer the "quick settlement." Mr. Pyfer was the polar opposite. He is comfortable in court and advocated for my rights. As it turned out, I was granted absolutely everything that I had requested. But more than that, I finished the process feeling good, knowing that what we asked for was fair, and that I was not taken advantage of. I am actually a bit sad that I will not have contact with Mr. Pyfer again now that everything has been resolved. He is a good man. An honest person who is exceptionally talented at his job. And he treated me like a person, not just a client he needed to see. How many people can say that about their lawyer?
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Posted by Jeff | January 6, 2010
Excellence In Family Law
John Pyfer is really the only choice for family law issues if you are fortunate enough to become a client of his. A divorced father, I was continuing to have difficult times with custody issues and I just felt like the legal system was not working in my favor. Then, I lost what I thought was a cut and dry case as it related to my property settlement agreement and realized I had to seek different representation. I needed an attorney that would protect my time with my children and also assist me in protecting my estate. Once Mr. Pyfer agreed to represent me, I felt a sense of security in knowing that my custody issues would no longer be one-sided and that my estate was more secure. A man with solid integrity, Mr. Pyfer does not tell you what you want to hear, rather, he gives you the answer you need to hear. His knowledge of the law and, more importantly, the system, makes him one of the best, if not the best, family law attorneys in practice today. I am thankful to have Mr. Pyfer as my legal advisor and would highly recommend him for your family law needs. He has made a positive difference in my life and the lives of my children.
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Posted by Ruth | December 28, 2009
Ruth Lively
Mr. Pyfer has been my lawyer for 15 years. Through- divorce, PFA's, lawsuits, real estate, child custody, support, etc. He does a great job with everything! He is the BOMB! If you want to win- call Mr. Pyfer!!!
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Of Counsel
  • Pyfer Partners
  • 2013 - Present
  • President
  • Pyfer Partners
  • 1976 - Present

Education

  • Vanderbilt University Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1972
  • Haverford College
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1969
  • The Peddie School
  • cum laude diploma
  • 1965

Legal Cases

  • Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Paul Crafton aka "The Mystery Professor"
  • All felonies withdrawn.

Associations

  • Lancaster County Conservancy
  • Board Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Free and Accepted Masons: Lodge 43
  • Treasurer
  • 2012 - Present
  • Hororable Order of Kentucky Colonels
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Slumberling Groundhog Lodge of Quarryville
  • Honorary Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Willow Street Lions Club
  • Twice Past President
  • 1974 - Present
  • Willow Street United Church of Christ
  • Twice Past President
  • 1946 - Present
  • American Arbitration Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Christian Legal Society
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Heritage Center of Lancaster County
  • Past Chairman
  • 2000 - 2012
  • American Board of Criminal Lawyers
  • Fellow
  • 1990 - 1996
  • W. Hensel Brown American Inn of Court
  • Founder and past president
  • 1990 - 1996
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1986 - 2000
  • Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1986 - 2000
  • Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 1986 - 2000
  • Association of Trial Lawyers of America
  • Member
  • 1976 - 1996
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Silver Buffalo
  • Boy Scouts of America
  • 2013
  • Best Lawyer in Lancaster County
  • Lancaster County Magazine
  • 2012
  • Best Attorney in Lancaster County
  • Lancaster County Magazine
  • 2011
  • Pennsylvania Super Lawyer
  • Philadelphia Magazine
  • 2010
  • Best Attorney In Lancaster County
  • Lancaster County Magazine
  • 2010
  • Who's Who in American Law
  • Marquis
  • 2009
  • Best Attorney In Lancaster County
  • Lancaster Magazine
  • 2009
  • Pennsylvania Super Lawyer
  • Philadelphia Magazine
  • 2009
  • Who's Who in America
  • Marquis
  • 2008
  • Ethics in Business Nominee
  • Samaritan Counseling Center
  • 2008
  • Best Attorney In Lancaster County
  • Lancaster County Magazine
  • 2008
  • Best Attorney in Lancaster County
  • Lancaster County Magazine
  • 2007
  • Distinquished Eagle Scout
  • Boy Scouts of America
  • 2002
  • Silver Antelope
  • Boy Scouts of America
  • 1998
  • Silver Beaver
  • Boy Scouts of America
  • 1988
  • Who's Who in the World
  • Marquis
  • N/A
  • Who's Who in Emerging Leaders of America
  • Marquis
  • N/A
View all awards

Publications

  • ABA Family Law Journal
  • The Juvenile"s Right to Receive Treatment
  • 1973

Speaking Engagements

  • Masonic Lodges in Pennsylvania
  • The Significancance of the Eagle Scout Award
  • 2012
  • High 12 Luncheon
  • My Memorable Cases
  • 2012
  • Annual Banquet
  • "The Boy Scouts of America--A Secret?"
  • 2011
  • Washington Lodge l64
  • The Significance of the Eagle Scout Rank
  • 2010
  • Gathering of Eagles
  • Significance of Being an Eagle Scout
  • 2010
  • Continuing Legal Education
  • Computer and Family Law
  • 2009
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (15)
Given (11)
Endorse John
Family Attorney | Aug 28
Relationship: Co-worker
"Mr. Pyfer and his impressive career have been the subject of numerous newspaper and magazine articles. He is consistently rated as one of the top attorneys in Lancaster County. His knowledge, experience, and skill level are beyond reproach. I highly endorse this attorney!"
Family Attorney | Sep 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John works tirelessly for his clients and is well respected in the legal community. John has excelled in a variety of legal forums and I have learned much from him. John also contributes a great deal to the community outside the courtroom."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"A truly enjoyable colleague to deal with. Always professional and courteous to both clients and colleagues, John practices with utmost integrity."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse John. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Family Attorney | Mar 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endose John Pyfer as one of the foremost attorneys in Central Pennsylvania. He has a long standing reputation as an tenacious and outstanding advocate for his clients in the field of family law."
Family Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. I worked for John for almost seven years, and could not have asked for a better mentor and teacher. He is aggressive when necessary, but not to the detriment of a client if a case should be settled. His eyes are always on the big picture, and he does not get mired down in the everyday things that make family law difficult. John sets the bar high in everything he does, and works hard to not only reach, but exceed his own lofty expectations of himself."
General practice Attorney | Jul 18
Relationship: Other
"I fully endorse Mr. Pfyer. In addition to his great knowledge and experience, he is a leader in terms of integrity and professionalism."
Divorce and separation Attorney | May 14
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"John is one of Lancaster PA's legends in Domestic Relations practice. I heartily endorse him."
Family Attorney | Dec 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John is an excellent attorney who understands the nuances of Family Law and represents his clients zealously and assertively. He is courteous and always conducts himself professionally I have known John for over 32 years and have found, when working with him when we have cases against each other, that he always has command of the facts and the law."
Family Attorney | Dec 26
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. John is professional and respectful when dealing with oppossing counsel, the court, and the parties and is an excellent advocate for his clients."
Family Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
General practice Attorney | Aug 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John Pyfer mediated a complicated real estate litigation involving multiple defendants and theories of law and, to the surprise of all parties, the mediation resulted in a full and final resolution of all claims - due in large part to the adroit sophistication and talents of our mediator, John Pyfer. After giving each attorney the chance to lay out our case, Mr. Pyfer cut to the chase with a spot-on analysis of the case, the strengths and weaknesses in plaintiffs arguments and the varying degrees of exposure faced by each defendant. He then finessed the negotiations such that each party left the table - not thrilled with the result, but glad that said result was obtained. The respect that Mr. Pyfer showed for Robert Going Sr., the Going and Plank law firm and for my work, combined with his thorough cost and time analysis of the litigation process helped to make our client confident that accepting the offered settlements was the right course of action."
Family Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I've known John for over 30 years. He is a skillful, well prepared advocate for his clients."
Family Attorney | Feb 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work. John is always professional. I can trust that he will accurately represent the facts to the Court and will not try to blindside opposing counsel. I have much respect for his ethics and professionalism."
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Avvo Contributions

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Lancaster Family Lawyer John F. Pyfer Jr.
John F. Pyfer Jr.
Family Attorney
Lancaster, PA
Licensed for 51 years