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Thomas Gerald Bellwoar Jr.

Criminal defense Attorney at West Chester, PA

5.0   24 reviews

also known as Thomas B. Bellwoar, Tom Bellwoar

  • Licensed for 32 years
    State PA
    Acquired 1990
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Thomas

Learn Thomas’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%

  2. DUI and DWI
    20%

  3. Personal injury
    20%

  4. Sex crime
    10%
    Crime Victim Attorney, Sexual Abuse Attorney, Child Abuse Attorney, Clergy Abuse Attorney, Elder Abuse Attorney

Tom is an experienced attorney with a focus practice area in criminal defense, personal injury, and DUI defense.

 

After receiving a bachelor’s degree in Psychology at The Catholic University of America, Tom Bellwoar graduated from The Villanova University School of Law and was admitted to practice in 1990. He began his legal career as a law clerk to Federal Chief Magistrate Judge Tullio Gene Leomporra in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

Tom Bellwoar was a Chester County, PA Assistant District Attorney prior to entering private practice as a criminal defense attorney. When you engage Tom for your criminal defense, you gain an advantage in the courtroom:

  • Anticipate how the prosecution is likely to approach your case and help you develop a strong strategy to counter.
  • Trial-tested experience. If your case goes to court, you can rest easy knowing Tom’s seasoned trial and courtroom experience will do what it takes to reach a successful outcome.

After trying many cases in state and federal courts, Tom has developed the necessary experience that enables him to evaluate your case and advise you on your options. Those options may include going to trial or seeking to negotiate a lesser charge and sentence.

Every case is researched and investigated in order to leave no stone unturned in arriving at the best possible defense and result for your case.

 Every felony and misdemeanor case is different as are the outcomes:

  • Charges may be dismissed
  • You may be charged for a lesser crime
  • Your lawyer may negotiate a plea
  • You may go to trial

The outcome depends on:

  • The strength of your case
  • Your attorney’s knowledge of the law and his experience in the courtroom
  • Ability to provide a strong legal defense

Tom’s in-depth knowledge of criminal law and experience as prosecutor allows him to provide you with bold, creative, strategic defenses for criminally charged clients.

Taking your case to trial is sometimes the best – and only – way to resolve criminal charges. Sometimes your best option is a negotiated plea. Both the defense attorney and the prosecutor know this. If you have a difficult case, you can rely on Tom’s experience as a successful attorney who has tried numerous cases in Chester County, Montgomery County and Delaware County as well as Federal Court. Tom also has a keen ability to negotiate a favorable plea bargain rather than take the risk of going to trial if the situation calls for it. No matter how strong your case may be, going to trial is never a sure thing.

Tom is readily available to answer questions. If you call with a legal question or are simply looking for an update on your case, you will speak with Tom Bellwoar, and not an associate lawyer who you’ve never met. If Tom is in court and unable to take your call, it will be returned by the end of the day. Client’s are kept well informed of the progress of their case and are involved in every aspect of the process in order to help them make smart decisions.

Tom feels it is fundamentally important for clients and their families to first understand the criminal justice system and the particular charges that have been filed in their case.

To help you and your family, time is taken to:

  • Explain every step in the investigation, arrest and prosecution process
  • Answer all questions about bail and pre-trial litigation
  • And, what happens when a case is taken to trial before a Jury

Photos and videos

Contact Thomas

Similar lawyers nearby

Luongo Bellwoar LLP
126 W Miner St
West Chester, PA, 19382

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  24 customer reviews
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Posted by JM | December 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Experience
Facing my first experience needing a lawyer, I reached out to Tom Bellwoar on a recommendation. Tom immediately explained the situation, possible outcomes and was fantastic in helping me through a stressful time and trial. He was able to fight for the best possible outcome for me and I will be forever grateful. I cant thank Tom enough for his work.
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Posted by anonymous | October 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Professional Service
Tom Bellwoar is the utmost professional and extremely knowledgeable. He is also very supportive and non-judgmental of his clients. Tom was very responsive when we needed information quickly. He assisted a close family member with a serious DUI case. We are extremely happy and grateful that we chose him to represent our loved one. I highly recommend Tom and will definitely use him in the future if/when the need arises. Thank you, Tom. -- Mary and Family
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Posted by anonymous | June 23, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honored Agreement
When I presented Tom with my legal concerns we came up with an agreement including fees. When my case became more complicated and dragged on for a much longer period of time, he honored our original agreement and saw it through to completion. The outcome was better then expected due to Tom's diligence, communication, and his respected reputation within Chester County's legal system.
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Posted by anonymous | November 2, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
I would like to take the time out to show the most upmost respect to a great lawyer very professional in his field not only dependable but a lawyer who actually cares it's not just about money with this guy it's about a person who is respectful not out for jus getting you a deal and if you can't afford him right then and there he is willing to work with you and if he doesn't have a answer for you he will find the answer and if he feels as though he can not help you he will point you in the right direction. I can honestly say I appreciate that man to those who question give him a call you will see he is worth the time and money.
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Posted by Jack | October 11, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fantastic Experience; Helped me Through So Much
Tom was incredibly helpful from the first day we called until I found out that the case had been dropped. He showed us how hard he worked to make sure that my case would have the best possible outcome. He made sure that my family and I were safe and knew everything that was going on with updates as frequently as anything developed throughout the case. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is going through a similar situation that I went through, and I know they would be in the best hands possible with Tom.
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Posted by Michael | June 8, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
So Thankful for Tom
Tom is a down-to-Earth, intelligent guy who really takes the time to listen and understand your situation. He knows ALL the players from the DA to head of Parole to the Judges and that's exactly what you want in a great lawyer. He doesn't make promises he can't keep and lays out all your options without sugarcoating it like so many other lawyers do. I HIGHLY recommend Tom.
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Response from Thomas Bellwoar June 10, 2021
Thanks for the kind words Michael. I'm glad we were able to achieve a positive result for your situation. It was a pleasure to work with you.
Posted by Ernest | April 29, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent attorney
Tom is an amazing lawyer. I recently faced 9 charges, 2 felonies, stemming from a mental health event that I suffered. This was the most challenging and traumatic thing I have ever experienced. From the start Tom was awesome. Not only did he have a true and compassionate understanding of my case, he was able to get every charge, except for 1 misdemeanor, dropped. I can't say enough good things about how he handled my case. Thank you Tom!
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Posted by Stephen | January 17, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Sense of calm
Tom came highly recommended and he was absolutely awesome, right from the beginning. From the very first consultation, he gave me a sense of calm in navigating a very stressful situation. His advice and professionalism in answering all my questions immediately helped me feel that I was not alone. He was able to get me the best possible outcome.
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Posted by anonymous | August 28, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend - Best Representation
Tom Bellwoar is a knowledgeable lawyer and great person that successfully represented me and got my charges significantly dropped. The experience from start to finish was excellent. Quick to return calls and thoroughly answered all my questions. Explained everything in way that was easy to understand and kept me informed. Always described both sides and what all possible outcomes could be. Great experience and I was very satisfied. I was in college at the time, and was looking for this to have as little impact on my future and pursuit of an education. Tom, through building a detailed case with me and taking control of our message in court, was able to provide me with the best resolution. The moment I met Tom, he made clear to me the goals and the outlook of my situation in court. I never had a moment of doubt during my court proceedings that I had nothing less than the best representation for me. After our interaction, he has made me a lifelong client and has made a positive affect in the community. He ensures our justice system is held accountable for their rulings, and fair in their assessments.
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Posted by anonymous | May 8, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer you will find!!!
Tom has been the most thorough, fair and professional lawyer I have encountered. Tom is great to explain everything through the process but he makes you feel like a human being. My situation was pretty bad with three different charges but Tom peeled each one back layer by layer and was about to get the best outcome possible. You anyone is in a situation where you feel despair and hope may be lost I suggest you do not hesitate and call Tom Bellwoar today.
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Posted by anonymous | February 15, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Lawyer
Mr Bellwoar was extremely professional throughout the entire process. He was nothing but honest and upfront about everything, he didn’t tell me what I wanted to hear he told me what I needed to know. Very well educated and connected throughout the area. Stand up guy and would hire him again but hopefully I won’t have to. - CD
Posted by anonymous | December 6, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Lawyer
I have partnered with Tom in a criminal case in which he is serving as local counsel. Tom is extremely knowledgeable, detailed and cares deeply about his clients and practice. He has been an invaluable asset and resource in my case. I strongly recommend this lawyer.
Posted by anonymous | April 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great law firm!
Tom, Stan and Nichole were there for me and my husband throughout a very long and protracted civil lawsuit that they filed on our behalf. They had patience and perseverance throughout the nearly 3 years of litigation that we went through. When I was ready to throw in the towel, they gave me guidance I needed, and most of all showed me that I had the strength to persevere through the difficult times. The positive outcome I had from the litigation is a testament to the tenacity of all 3 of these highly professional, compassionate, and skilled attorneys and paralegal. I am so glad that I was referred to them, and I now have my own personal law firm for anything that I may need! I highly recommend them! -A VERY happy client! - LM
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Posted by anonymous | April 5, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended
I hired Tom last year at the recommendation of a family friend who is also a very prominent local prosecutor. He told me that if he ever had to hire someone to defend him or his family it would be Tom because of his extensive experience as both a prosecutor and as a defense attorney. Tom had my misdemeanor completely dropped, couldn’t be happier!! I highly recommend him!!
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Posted by Jamie | March 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A lawyer who cares
I came to Tom after I was arrested on multiple felony assault charges after a night of drinking way too much, resulting in me being completely out of control. Tom took five felony charges, facing a minimum of 2 years in prison, and made it so that not only did I have ZERO felonies, but also zero jail time, and minimum probation. We ended my case with three misdemeanor charges... Which is an unbelievably huge deal. The thing about Tom that sets him apart from the rest is he genuinely cares about the well-being of his clients. On Thanksgiving he called me to make sure I was okay, knowing I would be alone on that holiday. He regularly called me and made sure I knew he was there for me. He was much more than a lawyer to me, he was a confidant. He checked in on me and made sure I knew he was on my side. Most lawyers only care about their commission and track record, but Tom is not one of those lawyers. He persistently made sure that I knew he was there to support me- not just legally, but emotionally as well. He asked how I was holding up and made sure I knew everything would be okay- Which I really needed at the time. Not only did Tom get me out of some serious legal issues- He helped me through some serious emotional issues as well. I can't imagine a lawyer doing a better job or caring more than Tom Bellwoar does.
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Posted by Kristen | January 30, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Tom helped me through a tough time!
I'm 27 years old and got a DUI. My first time ever in trouble. I was really scared. I was referred to Tom Bellwoar by a co-worker. I found out he is right in West Chester by the Courthouse and has years of experience in defending DUI's. He explained everything to me. Gave me a couple options and we decided on what was best for my situation. He showed up at my hearing and my court date, and made sure to remind me so I didn't miss anything. It was just nice having someone help you that knows what they are doing as I have no clue about how any of this works. I would recommend him to anyone as he is knowledgeable but also nice and I felt he actually cared about my situation.
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Posted by Ryan | January 11, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer and pleasure to work with
I have used Tom for several matters over the years and he has always had the right solution and the situation was always handled in the manner he described in advance to avoid surprises. His personality also makes it a pleasure doing business with him. I will definitely continue using him for future needs.
Posted by Paul | May 5, 2015
Endorsement
I recommend and refer any and all of my potential criminal cases to Tom Bellwoar. Quite simply, he is the best and most trustworthy criminal attorney I know.
Posted by anonymous | May 4, 2015
Meet with Tom, then you decide.....
When I hired Tom to handle my son's case I felt very confident in my choice. Just as important if not more so was the comfort my son felt during our initial consultation. After our meeting we decided to secure Tom's services. Because of the nature of the charges namely; PWID, DUI, and probation violation, Tom was steadfast in his commitment to obtain the most favorable outcome. These complicated cases and the seriousness of the charges could have resulted in significant time in state prison. As it turns out, my son was placed in county prison for three months followed by a short-term stay in an inpatient treatment center . There are other conditions that apply namely successful completion or "Recovery Court" as well as Electronic Home Confinement. These are programs that are designed to help an individual rather than incarcerate them. Throughout this entire process, Tom had demonstrated outstanding knowledge of the law and a willingness to do all that is possible for his client. I would highly recommend Tom to anyone who would need legal services.
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Posted by Denise | April 29, 2015
Definitely Call Tom
Tom has assisted with both DUI charges and traffic citations. He is very skilled and knowledgeable. He explains the steps in the process very clearly. He has achieved the most favorable outcomes that we could expect. I am definitely glad that we called Tom and would highly recommend him.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • PA Crime Victim Legal Advocates
  • 2015 - Present
  • Partner
  • Luongo Bellwoar LLP
  • 2009 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Law Office of Thomas B. Bellwoar
  • 1997 - 2007
  • Assistant District Attorney
  • Chester County District Attorney's Office
  • 1992 - 1997
View all work experience

Education

  • Villanova University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1990

Associations

  • The National Crime Victim Bar Association
  • 2015 - Present
  • Federal Criminal Justice Act Panel
  • 1998 - Present
  • Chester County Bar Association
  • N/A
  • Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2021
  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Top Lawyer
  • Main Line Today Magazine
  • 2016
  • Top Lawyer 2015
  • Main Line Today Magazine
  • 2015
View all awards

Publications

Attorney endorsements

Received (5)
Given (1)
Endorse Thomas
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Tom is a professional, competent and imaginative attorney who is well known in Chester County. Highly recommended"
Unknown Attorney | May 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"After having worked against Tom in my time as an Assistant District Attorney and with him since then, it is clear that he is a talented and experienced attorney who cares about each case he handles and each client he represents. Invested in this industry - Tom pays forward his experience to the other attorneys around him and to the clients who trust him - I easily endorse him. I"
Criminal defense Attorney | May 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Very bright, intuitive, aggressive and a true asset to his clients. I worked on several cases with Tom and he is an excellent attorney"
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known Tom for almost 15 years and we have worked together on a number of criminal cases. Tom is thoughtful, professional and well versed in the law. He is respected by both the judiciary and his peers and enjoys an excellent reputation within the legal community. For anyone looking for highly competent legal representation, Tom is your man."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer."
Chapter 13 bankruptcy

Avvo Contributions

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West Chester Criminal defense Lawyer Thomas Gerald Bellwoar Jr.
Thomas Gerald Bellwoar Jr.
Criminal defense Attorney
West Chester, PA
Licensed for 32 years
Free Consultation