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David Craig McKenzie III
About David
Biography
Pennsylvania Attorney David C. McKenzie III is founder and partner of the McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. His practice encompasses matters ranging across all of criminal law. The expertise he has developed over his years of practice he now puts to work for you at the McKenzie Law Firm, P.C.
In 2000, Mr. McKenzie obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree from Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. While attending F&M Mr. McKenzie focused his elective curriculum on pre-law courses to satisfy his then-budding interest in the legal profession. As a balance to his studies, Mr. McKenzie was also a four year member of the football team, the mighty Diplomats, and was awarded the Offensive MVP honor by his teammates at the conclusion of his senior year.
Mr. McKenzie reached another professional milestone in 2003 when he obtained his Juris Doctorate degree from Penn State University Dickinson School of Law. In addition to his studies, Mr. McKenzie also made time to intern at the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office where he was bestowed many of the obligations and duties classically allotted to the attorneys of the office. It was there that Mr. McKenzie, still a law student, was privileged to try multiple jury trials.
Upon graduation Mr. McKenzie was offered a position with the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office as an Assistant District Attorney. During his tenure as an ADA Mr. McKenzie prosecuted numerous adult and juvenile cases, from inception through appeal, whereby he expounded on his innate skills of preparation, presentation, and negotiation. By the time of his departure from the office, Mr. McKenzie had established himself as a firm but fair prosecutor amongst the peers with whom he did battle and the Courts before whom he did advocate.
The beginning of 2007 saw many changes for Mr. McKenzie. In addition to moving to the suburbs of Philadelphia, marrying his college sweetheart Chrissy, and purchasing a home, Mr. McKenzie ventured into private practice, joining the firm of Cipriani & Werner, P.C. While at C&W, Mr. McKenzie focused his practice on general casualty litigation as well as workers’ compensation defense litigation. It was at C&W that Mr. McKenzie first discovered and explored his aptitude for written composition. While it broadened his horizons, it did not sustain him. Mr. McKenzie soon found that he missed the brisk pace of the criminal law he once readily practiced. Mr. McKenzie parted ways with Cipriani & Werner, P.C. in the Fall of 2008 thankful for both the experience and colleagues he had gained.
In late 2008 Mr. McKenzie joined the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Agriculture in the role of Assistant Counsel. In his new role Mr. McKenzie had the unique opportunity to return to the aspects of both the criminal and civil law in which he thrived while gaining proficiency in the particulars of administrative law. Though charged with representing the Department in all of its agencies’ litigation matters, Mr. McKenzie’s primary role was as Pennsylvania’s Dog Law prosecutor. Through the initiative of Governor Rendell, October 2008 yielded the passing of a revitalized and revolutionary new law Dog Law aimed at Pennsylvania’s pervasive puppy mill problem. Mr. McKenzie and his esteemed colleagues were first to tackle the nuances of this law and, through their tireless efforts, brought about a welcomed change in Pennsylvania.
Mr. McKenzie founded McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. in 2010 in an effort to further broaden those horizons he had diligently worked to expand throughout his professional career. It is Mr. McKenzie’s unwavering goal that he utilize the education and unique experiences from which he has benefitted to the success and satisfaction of all his clients’ legal needs.
In November of 2011, Mr. McKenzie threw his hat into the ring of politics, running for a contested position as Commissioner within his local township. Mr. McKenzie was successful in his endeavor and, as a result, sits on the Board of Commissioners for West Norriton Township. Then in November 2014, Mr. McKenzie ran for a seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, 150th District, against an 8 term incumbent and county chair of the opposing party. Though he lost the election, Mr. McKenzie gained many new friends and allies through his seemingly endless voter canvassing and political fundraising. He brings the same dedication and passion to the needs of West Norriton and District 150 residents as he does the clients of the McKenzie Law Firm, P.C.
Practice Areas
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Pennsylvania for 22 years
State: Pennsylvania
Acquired: 2003
No misconduct found
Location
McKenzie Law Firm, P.C.
325 Sentry Parkway, Building 5 West, Suite 200, Blue Bell, PA, 19422
McKenzie Law Firm, P.C.
630 Freedom Business Center Dr, King Of Prussia, PA, 19406
McKenzie Law Firm, P.C.
600 Eagleview Blvd, Ste 318, Exton, PA, 19341
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David Craig McKenzie III's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
88 Client Reviews
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Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Case Results (56)
Recommendation (34)
Advocacy (30)
Responsiveness (27)
Professionalism (26)
Communication Style (20)
Practice Area Knowledge (19)
General Knowledge (14)
Character & Conduct (12)
Cost of Services (11)
Trustworthiness (9)
Compassion (4)
Payment Plans (2)
Punctuality (2)
Free Consultations (1)
Showing 1 - 5 of 9 reviews | Trustworthiness
Posted by anonymous | November 30, 2018 | Hired Attorney
Talks
Talks a big game. Nice guy but doesn’t come through at all. Your better off throwing your money away. Promising you the world but never came through. He will take your money but never got anything but what the law says. Thought lawyers are supposed to fight for you. At times I felt like I was working...
David McKenzie
Replied last November 30, 2018I have been racking my brain trying to figure out who you could be as these sentiments were never expressed to me in person. Moreover, no client of mine has ever received the most severe penalty for a first offense DUI refusal. Piecing things together; however, from this review, a review on another forum, and from speaking with a colleague of mine (who advised you that I defended you quite well), I believe you are M.D., a client who had a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and had refused a chemical test when pulled over for a DUI. You were charged with DUI. Separately from the DUI, your licenses were suspended by PennDOT because you refused. Thus, you had criminal charges and an administrative/civil matter to address. I was able to secure the ARD program for you which you begrudgingly accepted because you did not want to go to trial. Despite denying the following to me, it was crystal clear from the dash cam that you were indeed intoxicated (you admitted as much) and refused after being read the required form. Your acceptance into ARD was not necessarily a foregone conclusion. I had represented you a year or 2 prior on a domestic assault charge which, due to my representation, was dismissed. While your record remained clear, the Commonwealth was nevertheless aware with your brush with the law. As I write this response it occurs to me that you were irked with the prior case’s conclusion despite it going away. I could not save your CDL. No one could. ARD does not affect its suspension The only way to save it would be to go to a bench trial and be found not guilty. I would not have been doing my job had I not told you the chance of success was slim to none. I represented you at your PennDOT suspension appeal as well. There the burden on the Commonwealth is even less than in a criminal matter. As such, you agreed that we would resolve it in such a way that would allow you to start driving 6 months sooner. I think it goes without saying that I do not appreciate your review, not because it’s negative but because it’s inaccurate and incomplete. You chose to cast dispersions against me for others to see, never identifying yourself, claiming I did not fight for you when quite the opposite occurred. I worked hard for you, as I do every client, despite you not appreciating it. I take my reputation seriously. I never promise anything. I do not sell sunshine and rainbows. I give you all the information and analysis so you can make educated decisions. With all of the above said, I still wish the best for you and your future. You are welcome to email or text me if you have any more complaints or concerns.
Posted by anonymous | November 05, 2016 | Hired Attorney
Thankful!
David understood my current issues and so helped navigate appropriate consequences So appreciative!
Posted by anonymous | August 08, 2016 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI
T.K.
I searched a lawyer to replace a lawyer I hired because I didn't think he worked for my best interest. I found Mr. McKenzie online, and didn't have much expectation, just hoped that he was better than the one I was looking to replace. After a few months of observing him working on my case, I was re...
Posted by anonymous | June 29, 2016 | Hired Attorney
Awesome
Was very knowledgable about my case and what to do to get me the best outcome, which he was able to do in the end. He was always very easy to get in touch with and speak to. He was always up-front about the details and what to do at each step of the process.
Posted by Joshua | January 26, 2016 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI
Five star service
My experience with David was nothing but exceptional! When I first was charged with a second DUI offense I didn't know what to expect and my mind was racing. While I had spoken with numerous other attorneys specializing in DUI defense, after speaking with David my mind was put at rest. David laid ou...
David Craig McKenzie III's Lawyer Endorsements
"Dave is an aggressive, hard working yet compassionate lawyer who works hard for his clients. He has great legal experience being a former District Attorney. Now that he has worked on both sides of the cases, Dave has the knowledge, know how, and strategy to maximize the results for his clients. Highly recommended!"
"A former prosecutor, now criminal defense attorney, Attorney McKenzie uses his reputation, knowledge and experience to stand up for the citizen among us who has been accused of a crime. If you want an attorney with guts and skill, look no further."
"When my clients get in trouble in Pennsylvania, David is the guy. He knows the law, knows the system and will get a good result."
"David McKenzie is my go-to choice for all things DUI and Criminal in Pennsylvania. As a DUI and Criminal Defense attorney in Virginia I rigorously screen who I send clients to when they have an out of state charge. David is at the top of my list. His tenacity and knowledge of the law are unmatched."
"David McKenzie is an extraordinary lawyer who gets results for his clients. Any future client who retains him should rest assured they are in good hands. He is an expert in his field and asset to the the legal community. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. McKenzie is highly knowledgeable and well respected in his field."
"I have known Attorney McKenzie for more than a decade, dating back to his time as a prosecutor in Harrisburg. He is a zealous and meticulously prepared advocate who truly cares about his clients. Anybody would be hard-pressed to find better representation."
"When Atty. McKenzie worked as a prosecutor, we were on opposite sides of many cases. He was always well prepared, reasonable and more interested in seeking justice and fairness for everyone involved. I respect him as a fellow attorney and he is a wonderful person."
"I endorse this Dave McKenzie. Dave is an experienced trial attorney. I had cases against Dave when he was in the District Attorney's office. Dave took all matters seriously and strived for fair outcomes."
"Dave is an exceptional and highly respected attorney who always represents his clients with the utmost of skill,knowledge and understanding.i can readily endorse him without hesitation or reservation."
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"David is an exceptional lawyer with honesty and integrity. He is dedicated to his clients."
"I'm proud to endorse David McKenzie. David has been a friend for many years. His thoughtful and conscientious representation of each and every client is a testament to his dedication to achieve the best result for those who place their trust in him."
"I have known Attorney McKenzie for many years and I am pleased to endorse him. Attorney McKenzie is a well prepared advocate. I have been impressed with his dedication and service to his clients. Attorney McKenzie is a strong advocate in the courtroom - a skill that serves his clients well."
"I've known and practiced law in the same jurisdiction with Attorney McKenzie for nearly a decade. He has a reputation for honesty, diligence and professionalism. I consider him an expert in the court system and trial practice and trust that any clients I refer to him are in good hands."
"I endorse Dave as for his skill and expertise in matters ranging from criminal defense to municipal law. He is a competent professional."
"I had the pleasure of working with David when he worked for the Dauphin County District Attorney's Office. He was always very fair. When his hands were tied and we ended up in litigation, he definitely knew what he was doing and was a worthy opponent. He continues to be very professional and a great attorney... definitely not one to back down easily. I would recommend him to anyone."
"I endorse this lawyer. Dave works tirelessly for his clients. His experience is vast and dedication to achieving results is unmatched by others."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known and worked alongside Dave for many years. I have always found him to be knowledgeable and prepared. I do no hesitate in recommending him."
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Criminal defense lawyer
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Criminal defense lawyer
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Slip and fall accident lawyer
Edward Spreha
DUI and DWI lawyer
Gary Lysaght
DUI and DWI lawyer
Ari Weitzman
Criminal defense lawyer
Joseph Curcillo
Criminal defense lawyer
Justin McShane
Criminal defense lawyer
Douglas Marsico
Criminal defense lawyer
Sean Kilkenny
State, local, and municipal law lawyer
Experience
Honors
2016
Top 40 Lawyers Under 40, American Society of Legal Advocates
2015
Rising Star, Pennsylvania Super Lawyers
2015
Top 40 Lawyers Under 40, American Society of Legal Advocates
2015
10 Best Under 40, American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys
2015
Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers
2015
Preeminent, Martindale-Hubbell
2015
Top DUI Attorney in Pennsylvania, National Advocacy for DUI Defense
2014
Rising Star, Pennsylvania Super Lawyers
2001
Book Award, St. Thomas School of Law
Work Experience
2010 - Present
Owner, McKenzie Law Firm, P.C.
2014 - 2014
Candidate for State Representative, Pennsylvania District 150
2008 - 2010
Attorney III, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
2007 - 2008
Associate Attorney, Cipriani & Werner
2003 - 2007
Deputy District Attorney, Dauphin County District Attorney's Office
Associations
2011 - Present
Area 11 DemocratsMember
2011 - Present
West Norriton Board of CommissionersCommissioner
2011 - Present
McKenzie Law Firm GroupFounding Member
2010 - Present
Montgomery County Bar AssociationMember
2010 - Present
Delaware County Bar AssociationMember
2010 - Present
Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2003 - Present
Pennsylvania Bar AssociationMember
2011 - 2014
Nation College for DUI DefenseMember
Sample of Legal Cases
Comm. v. Timothy Pecsenye - CP-46-CR-0003241-2014
10 days work release followed by house arrest
Com. v. Paul McNamara - CP-46-CR-0006559-2014
Negotiated Plea.
Com. v. Paul McNamara - CP-46-CR-0006559-2014
Negotiated plea.
Com. v. Curtis Rubendall - CP-46-CR-0003954-2014
Negotiated Plea.
Com. v. Paul McNamara - MJ-38120-NT-0000378-2014
Negotiated plea.
Com. v. Colin Denker - CP-64-CR-0000403-2007
Dismissed.
Comm. v. Christopher Luzeski - CP-46-CR-0006568-2013
ARD
Com. v. David Butler - CP-46-CR-0003065-2014
Negotiated plea.
Com. v. Emily Hayden - CP-46-CR-0000712-2014
Negotiated Plea.
Com. v. Adam Marrow-Bey -CP-23-CR-0002497-2014
Negotiated Plea.
Com. v. Randy Wood - CP-23-CR-0002497-2014
Negotiated Plea.
Com. v. Chelsea Holmes - CP-46-CR-0007733-2013
ARD
Com. v. Gerald Lunsford - CP-23-CR-0001861-2014
Negotiated Plea.
Com. v. Christopher Pecci - CP-46-CR-0008656-2013
Negotiated plea.
Com. v. Stephen Rhindress - CP-46-CR-0008168-2013
ARD
Com. v. James Cade - CP-23-CR-0006496-2013
Negotiated Plea.
Com. v. Paul McNamara - CP-46-CR-0004090-2013
ARD
Comm. v. Olivia Bruecks - CP-46-CR-0004072-2013
ARD
Com. v. Jarrad Sandman - CP-46-CR-0004165-2013
ARD
Com. v. Sonya Hodges
Case dismissed. Client free.
Com. v. Hakeem Thomas - MJ-32237-CR-0000379-2013
Dismissed
Com. v. David Melle - CP-46-CR-0001609-2013
Dismissed
Commonwealth v. David Strub; CP-46-CR-0008564-2011
5 day minimum sentence down from 30 days.
Education
2015
Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyers 2015 DUI & Motor Vehicles
2015
Traffic Ticket Defense
2015
License Suspensions & the Collateral Civil Consequences of DUI's
2014
ALLEYNE V. UNITED STATES: The Effect This Case Had On Mandatory Minimum Sentences In PA
2014
Ethics and Social Media
2014
Criminal Law for the Nonexpert
2014
Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers - Statewide Conference
2013
Attorney-Client Privilege under Federal Evidence Rule 502
2013
Fundamental Formation and Governance Issues Affecting Your Small Business Clients
2012
Laywers Concerned for Lawyers
2011
Laywers Concerned for Lawyers
2011
6th Edition and Revised Sentencing Guidelines and Sentencing in Pennsylvania
2003
Pennsylvania State University, Dickinson School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2000
Franklin and Marshall College
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2014
Meet the Candidates
Pennsylvania Politics
2014
Area 4 Annual Event
Policitial Climate in PA
2014
Annual Franklin & Marshall Legal Network Meeting
DUI in Pennsylvania
2012
F&M's pre-law honor society meeting
Pre-law Courses
Publications
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
What happens if you get a dui and then get another without being convicted of the first one?
29 Apr 2015
Q&A
Is it possible to get my DUI case dismissed or thrown out with a BAC level of exactly .08?
14 Apr 2015
Q&A
What are the chances I'll do 90 days in jail for first dui?
07 Apr 2015