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Amato T. Sanita

Criminal defense Attorney at Philadelphia, PA

5.0   32 reviews

also known as Amato Sanita Attorney at Law


Licensed for 26 years

Virtual consultation available

About Amato

Learn Amato’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%
    Adult and Juvenile Defense in Local, State, and Federal Courts.

    27 years, 10,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI
    50%
    Defense of all DUI /DWI cases in all Pennsylvania Counties. Focusing on Philadelphia, Bucks, Delaware, Montgomery, Dauphin, Chester and surrounding Counties.

    27 years, 8,000 cases

PENNSYLVANIA SUPER LAWYER (267) 244-1596

My practice specializes in  Criminal Defense.  I defend my clients in all Courts in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as well as all Federal District Courts within the State.

Awards

Client's Choice 2016,2015,2014
Client's Choice
2016 2015 2014

Photos and videos

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Licensed for 26 years
State CT
Status Active
Acquired 1999
Updated 01/31/2023
State PA
Status Active
Acquired 1996
Updated 02/26/2023

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

Contact Amato

Amato T. Sanita, Esquire

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  32 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
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1 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2016
Client's Choice
Amato received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2016
Posted by Sherri | November 25, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He had compassion and saved my life and reputation!!!
I can only say Thank You Mr. Sanita for making my life that much better. You believed me and defended me. I was found not guilty after being charged with assaulting a customer who was trying to steal items from my store. You stood up for me and told the jury I was an honest hardworking and innocent person. I still have tears in my eyes. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you thank you thank you!!!! God bless you.
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Posted by Dhruv | June 6, 2015
He's not just your lawyer, he's your friend.
Mr.Sanita is an amazing lawyer, my dad and I were very stressed about my case but after meeting with him once, he lifted the burden off our shoulders. My dad and I were so pleased with him about how he will handle the case and the way he treated us like his friends. I got myself into some trouble hanging out with the wrong people even though I was completely innocent. He believed me and took me in as his client but he never treated me like a client he treated me like his friend ever since day one when I called him on the phone. I never got a unclear answer from him, he will answer EVERY question you throw at him to the best of his ability. He will tell you EVERYTHING he's doing with your case, so no surprises. He got me the BEST possible outcome for my case. He truly is like a friend to me and for everything he has done for me and my dad I cannot thank him enough.
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Posted by Ryan | April 5, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amato Sanita is a great lawyer to have on your side!!!
Mr. Sanita represented me on Monday and I could not have been happier. Thank you for all your hard work defending me. A five star professional in criminal court!!!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!!!!
Posted by Luke | March 19, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you from the bottom if my heart
Mr. Sanita saved me today. I expected to be convicted of aggravated assault because my first lawyer told me I had no chance. Mr. Sanita stepped in and took care of me. We fought and fought all day. when the verdict came back not guilty... I was overwhelmed with joy. The truth came out and he did this for me. This attorney is no joke!!! He is the real deal and a great guy. Highly recommended for life. Thank you thank you thank you!!!
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Posted by John | December 24, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you for saving me from my mistake!
Mr. Sanita it’s John and I wanted to thank you for taking care of my DUI charge. Without you I would not be with my family this week. Thanks for working so hard to get me a 2nd chance. Have a great holiday with your family!!!
Posted by Angelo | December 21, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved me Today!!!
Mr. Sanita spent the entire last two days in Court with me defending me on a charge I did not commit. He spent every minute with me up to the late evening hours. Regardless of the verdict (it was a not guilty) he was worth everything I invested in him. Merry Christmas to my hero. Just to let you know how much he cares... 10 minutes after my verdict he was already trying to help another family in need. This guy has my confidence forever. He loves his clients and we love him back.
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Posted by mary | November 10, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 stars all the way
I would recommend amato to anyone i know. He told me to relax and let him handle everything and man am i glad i did everything was dismissed. thanks again for everything.
Posted by Pete | January 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Really Helped me
Mr. Sanita did an outstanding job in Court today saving me from a conviction that would have cost me my job and reputation. He did everything he could to save me... and that's just what he did. I was found not guilty on 12 criminal charges today. He really never stops working to help his clients. Thank you Amato!!!!
Posted by MaryG | November 26, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
HE IS MY SUPERMAN...
I was looking on this website for another lawyer. I saw the lawyer that I had was no good, this website just confirmed what I already new. Then I started reading the review's on Amato T. Sanita' profile. I fired my lawyer and was so glade Mr. Amato took my case. My case wasn't an easy one I had attempted murder, and aggravated assault plus a few misdemeanors. Now my background is not to great I have a past and that is what the DA was looking at. Mr. Amato saw past that, knew that wasn't the kind of person I am and worked hard for me. My mom was very sick and past away right before my trial. I started to go down and started not to care. Mr. Amato helped me, he told me what I needed to hear he straightened me out, and postpone my hearing until he knew I was ready. Mr. Amato went through a lot with me, and when it came time for court he was there fighting for me. I was looking at ten to twenty years because of a man and a women came to my place to kill me, it didn't end up that way she almost died, they attacked me and they were on drugs and drinking. Because of my criminal record the DA wanted to find me guilty, if I didn't have Mr. Amato T. Sanita I would've been found guilty of them charges. No other Lawyer would've worked hard for me like he did. I really cannot thank him enough I would've died in prison if it wasn't for Amato T. Sanita that is why he is my............"SUPERMAN"....... :) :)
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Posted by Joanna | November 12, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best lawyer for any Criminal PFA!!!
Attorney Sanita did a wonderful job helping me with my criminal PFA petition. He took all my calls.. even when I was a little too upset. I listened to his advice... and sometimes it hard to trust someone. But he is a quality lawyer and person with a true heart and compassion for his clients. I just want to say thank you Amato!!!!!
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Posted by Henry | August 13, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A wonderful lawyer and person
I was represented by Mr. Sanita this week in Philadelphia. I am a driver and was a used of completely false things by a customer. My company knows me and decided to help me. They referred me to Amato Sanita and even helped me in retaining him. I am so grateful. I was proven innocent and continue to work at my job that I love. I want to thank Mr. Sanita and my job for standing by me. It's easy to forget people when they are accused of doing things, but Mr. Sanita and my employer never forgot me.
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Posted by Brian | July 7, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Proved my case mattered!!!
He represented me today when I was accused of a serious assault matter. I was lost before I met him. He worked with me and helped me to investigate my case. He spoke to all of my witnesses and his investigator photographed the scene proving the victim was not telling the truth. I mattered to him and he helped me show everyone I was not guilty. Thank you Mr. Sanita!!!!
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Posted by Matty | June 11, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Happy with this lawyer!!!
Attorney Amato Sanita was my savior. I want everyone to know that he believed in me and I survived a really bad situation. I called him way too much and he was always there to take my calls. He was there when I was charged with assault while defending my home and he was there when the jury found me not guilty!!!! I really appreciate him and will never forget what he did to help me. Thank you Amato!!!!
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Posted by Adam | May 17, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Job!!! I'm very lucky I found him!!!
I owe Mr. Sanita my heartfelt thanks. He took on a matter that many other lawyers thought was impossible. He strode by me and listened. He gave me the right advice and now I have an opportunity to get my record cleared and expunged. Thank you for all your hard work and for showing everyone I was innocent!!!
Posted by Nancy Brown | March 5, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Big Thank you!!!
I was represented by Mr. Sanita in Philadelphia this past Friday. I was charged with intimidating a witness, a crime I did not and would not ever commit. This was a family dispute with a neighbor. I was not even present and when the alleged victim tried to put me at the scene and even tried to say I was an aggressor I almost cried. I manage a bank in Center City and even an allegation could cost me my job and reputation. Mr. Sanita cross examined the witness to such a degree that no one in the courtroom believed any of the allegations. The judge went so far as to say that he did not believe a word out of the victims mouth. My case was dismissed and I am so thankful. I am not afraid to post this as I am proud of my lawyer bringing out the truth and want everyone to know it. Thank you God bless you!!!!
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Posted by Sharron | September 11, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Proved I was correct all along
When I was accused of stealing items from the store I managed I could not believe what was occurring. I knew I wasn't the one to blame but only Amato Sanita believed me. He not only believed me but convinced a jury I was correct all along. I was found "not guilty" this week and even received a letter of apology from my former employer. This lawyer did everything he could to show how innocent I was. He argued so long for me that he lost his voice at one point. I was so happy he was my lawyer. Feel free to email me if you want to know more. Amato is a great lawyer.
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Response from Amato Sanita September 14, 2015
Thank you Sharron. It was my pleasure assisting you.
Posted by Peter | August 27, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Helped my friends and we are very lucky to have found him!!!
A couple of my friends and I originally found Amato Sanita when these few individuals got into some trouble with the law. After extensive research and asking around we found Amato's name. Our call was returned almost immediately and he scheduled us in as soon as we could get there. The whole case was dealt with in the most professional matter and we were treated like family the whole time. Amato Sanita's services were overall outstanding and every single one of us would recommend this attorney for anybody with any legal issues! He will work with you every step of the way and provide an affordable rate. Your problems will be taken care of with no nonsense and in the most professional manner. Overall attorney Amato Sanita provided grade A service at an affordable rate and made a tough time go away very smoothly. 10/10 would hire again.
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Response from Amato Sanita August 29, 2015
Thank you Guys it was my pleasure helping all of you out.
Posted by Joel | February 7, 2015
A really great lawyer and person
My name is Joel and I am employed by the Federal government and Mr. Sanita represented me in Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties last week and I really just want to say Thank You. I was charged in both counties for allegedly pointing my registered and licensed firearm at a person when the person threatened me with my wife and child in the car with me. This guy tried to cover up the fact that he hit my car in a parking lot and then tried to tell an officer that I threatened him and pointed my licensed firearm at him. This was just not true. Then he tried to say I drove away into Philadelphia with my family in the car. I was arrested at my job on a warrant I knew nothing about. I was forced to pay bail and my first lawyer did nothing but take money from me. I was desperate and suspended from my job. I was referred to Mr. Sanita by my union and after defending me in two courts in the same week my charges were dropped. He worked with me on everything , took all of my calls including many from my job and wife and even obtained a video surveillance tape from a parking lot that my first lawyer told me did not exist. I don't know what else to say. I will recommend him always. He really went above and beyond for me. From myself, my wife Sandra and my 8 year old son... We truly appreciate what you did for us.
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Posted by Anthony | December 8, 2014
Best Criminal Defense Attorney in the Tri-State Area! If you need a super lawyer, Amato is the one.
Early in 2014, I was falsely accused of a crime that I did not commit. My first defense lawyer was a complete nightmare, as well as an uncaring and untrustworthy person. My son did some research online, and, thankfully, came across a super and superb lawyer -- named Amato Sanita. Amato is a very caring person, who always puts his clients first. He treats every case as important, even the ones that might be classified as minor, or less serious, like mine was. He helps you through what is a very difficult process, helping you feel confident that the right result will be reached in the case. This was an unbelievable difference from my first lawyer, who basically assumed I was guilty of a crime I did not commit before I even left his office after our first appointment. Finally, after a long ten months, my case has been dismissed. Amato never gave up and he zealously defended and supported me throughout this whole ordeal. Amato Sanita gave me my life back. I will be forever grateful to him for that. So, to Amato, from myself, and from my family, you are not only a great lawyer -- but also, a great friend. In my opinion, Amato is the best super lawyer in the tri-state area. Again, Amato, from the bottom of my and my family’s hearts – we love you, my friend. Un forte abbraccio!
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Posted by Brenda for Jake | September 7, 2014
Helped me prove I am innocent!!!
I want to take this opportunity to thank Amato Sanita. He was so nice to us and really worked beyond our expectations. He showed the Judge that my husband was not a person who tried to run down a police officer with his motorcycle. My husband was the person attacked and when he tried to get away from a police officer who thought it was alright to hit my husband, my husband was charged with Aggravated Assault. Mr. Sanita's investigator was able to get a street video that no one knew existed. At trial there was nothing the officer could say. The video showed it all. I just want to say I appreciate what you did to defend my husband and show everyone he was not guilty.
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Cost

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Contact for Details

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • SKA LAWGROUP
  • 2013 - Present
  • Shareholder
  • Freedman & Lorry, PC
  • 2001 - 2012
  • Major Trials Attorney
  • Defender Association of Philadelphia
  • 1996 - 2001

Education

  • Fordham University
  • N/A
  • Western New England College School of Law, Springfield
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • N/A

Legal Cases

  • Commonwealth v. JF
  • Not Guilty all charges after trial.
  • Commonwealth v. Joel
  • Both cases dismissed.
  • Commonwealth v. A. Jones
  • Not Guilty
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Philadelphia Bar Association
  • Chair Court Appointment Selection Committee
  • 2016 - Present
  • OSIA
  • Scholarship Chair
  • 2013 - Present
  • OSIA
  • Orator Spokesperson
  • 2013 - Present
  • OSIA
  • District One Trustee
  • 2013 - Present
  • Philadelphia Criminal Inn of Court
  • Master / Executive Committee
  • 2011 - Present
  • X Philly Defenders
  • Founding Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • OSIA
  • Treasurer
  • 2011 - Present
  • Master Mason
  • Botherhood Lodge
  • 2009 - Present
  • Order of Kentucky Colonels
  • 2008 - Present
  • Sons of Italy
  • Officer / Treasurer
  • 2006 - Present
  • Justinian Society
  • 2001 - Present
  • Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
  • N/A
  • Philadelphia Bar Association
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • Russian
  • Spanish
  • Italian

Honors and Awards

  • Litigation and Trial practice Best of the Best 2019
  • Trial Lawyers of Pennsylvania
  • 2019
  • Selected as the Nations Top One Percent of Trial Lawyers
  • National Association of Distinguished Counsel
  • 2018
  • Top One Percent Criminal Law
  • American Law Institute
  • 2018
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers 2018
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Lawyers
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers 2016-2018
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2017
  • District One Trustee
  • OSIA
  • 2015
  • Top Pennsylvania Lawyers Criminal Defense 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Selected as a National Top 100 Trial Lawyer for 2015
  • National Top 100 Trial Lawyers 2015
  • 2015
  • District One Trustee
  • OSIA
  • 2014
  • 2011 Rising Star Super Lawyers
  • Pennsylvania Super Lawyers
  • 2011
  • 2010 Rising Star Super Lawyers
  • Pennsylvania Super Lawyers
  • 2010
  • Awarded rank of Officer
  • OSIA
  • 2008
View all awards

Publications

  • Alabama Capital Punishment
  • Capital Punishment
  • N/A
  • Defending a Federal Criminal Case
  • Drafter/ Update (while at Federal Defender Office)
  • N/A

Speaking Engagements

  • OSIA Conference
  • Criminal Law Sentencing Issues
  • 2014
  • International Student Conferenced
  • Criminal Defense and Immigration status
  • 2013
  • OSIA CLE
  • Ethics in Criminal Law
  • 2010
  • Capitol Project
  • Cross Examination of Minors
  • 2010
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (36)
Given (19)
Endorse Amato
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Amato for several years. As an attorney in my 50's, I am not easily impressed by younger attorneys such as Amato. However, Amato caught my notice because has proved he is very capable, hardworking, ethical and poised. He's also a lot of fun, unpretentious and approachable. I highly recommend Amato."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Amato is the dean of criminal law in Philadelphia. When other criminal lawyers are unsure how to solve a problem, they ask Amato and he throws on his fixer suit and fixes the problem. This is the guy."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Amato for years and can say, without a doubt, he has the experience and knowledge to defend any criminal charges. I highly recommend Amato."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 18
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I enthusiastically endorse Amato as a criminal defense attorney. He is a dedicated, tenacious, and compassionate advocate for his clients rights and well being. If I ever found myself on the wrong side of the law, Amato is who I would personally contact."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Sanita is attentive, knowledgable and a zealous advocate for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Amato T. Sanita is simply one of America's Top Criminal and DWI Lawyers. If you need the best representation and a true fighter on your side, you need to put Attorney Amato Sanita on your side. I endorse him."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An excellent lawyer who treats his clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism. He is an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend him for future services."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Simply said, Amato is an outstanding criminal attorney. Highly recommended!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 03
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse Amato Sanita. We do not handle criminal law matters, but our clients often turn to us when they have criminal matters. We only refer them to lawyers who will provide great care and legal service, and Amato has done just that."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 01
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Amato is professional, knowledgeable, and fights hard for his clients. Highly recommended."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Amato is an outstanding, impeccable advocate."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Civil rights Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 08
Relationship: Other
"This attorney will work hard for you. He is a dedicated criminal defense attorney who will work hard and passionately for you to achieve the best result possible."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Amato. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Civil rights Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A brilliant and highly respected attorney in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Amato Sanita is one of the finest criminal defense attorneys in Philadelphia. He and I just represented co-defendants on the same drug case. The Judge granted a motion to suppress because of his excellent trial advocacy skills."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Awesome attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
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Philadelphia Criminal defense Lawyer Amato T. Sanita
Amato T. Sanita
Criminal defense Attorney
Philadelphia, PA
Licensed for 26 years
Virtual consultation available