Andrea E. Mertz

PRO

Andrea E. Mertz

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 27 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Reading, PA
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Drug Crime ... +2 more

645 Penn Street, Suite 500, Reading, PA

Virtual Consultation Available

About Andrea

Biography

Aggressive Berks attorney recently chosen as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers.

Aggressive Berks attorney recently chosen as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers.

Aggressive Berks attorney recently chosen as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers.

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 45%

I represent the criminally accused in all criminal matters.

25 years

45%
DUI and DWI 35%

Dedicated, understanding but relentless in court, I will defend all DUI charges.

18 years

35%
Drug Crime 10%

I represent the criminally accused in all criminal matters.

10%
Domestic Violence 5%

I represent the criminally accused in all criminal matters.

5%
Sex Crime 5%

I represent the criminally accused in all criminal matters.

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2017 2016 2015
...
+ 2
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2016 2015 2014
...
+ 1

Licenses

Licensed in Pennsylvania for 26 years

State: Pennsylvania

Acquired: 1999

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Maryland for 27 years

State: Maryland

Acquired: 1998

Inactive - Retired

No misconduct found

Location

Polyak Law Office

645 Penn Street, Suite 500, Reading, PA, 19601

polyaklawoffice.com/andrea-e-mertz

Online Presence

Other places you can find Andrea online.

Andrea E. Mertz's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

81 Client Reviews

Showing 11 - 15 of 25 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Andrew | October 11, 2015 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Energetic and Knowlegable

One thing that sets her apart from others is her energy. She flies around the courthouse and I couldn't help but feel that the other lawyers present appeared tired and sluggish in comparison. Andrea is a hummingbird in a courthouse. Schedule your consultation and see what I'm on about. My case: DU...I, (BAC refusal). In relation to DUI cases, Andrea demonstrated a masterey of the process and she was excellent at getting me in and out of trial quickly. Some people suggest you do not to hire a lawyer on your 1st DUI since the BAC tiers and consequences are cut-and-dry, however I do not regret spending the money. Her guidance was greatly appreciated, she told me exactly what to expect and made the process quick and painless. If you do not hire a lawyer expect to spend more time sitting in the courtroom as well as time interpreting the paperwork that the court sends your way.

Posted by anonymous | September 08, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

LOOKING FOR A ROCK STAR BADASS ATTORNEY!!? Look no further >> 2 THUMBS UP! #1 LAWYER TO HIRE - ANDREA MERTZ

No need to look further hands down the best lawyer in the state! As a college graduate, I researched & researched & researched lawyer after lawyer to find a reliable, dedicated & cost efficient lawyer to help me throughout the mess I got myself into this past year. My first ever legal issue was a... summary retail theft - Serveral months later I was involved in an antagonizing harassment legal issue containing 200+ M3 harassment charges. Andrea has guided me through the legal process & walked me through what we may or may not encounter each step of the way. Although, a summary retail theft seems to be so simple & basic it is definitely something you do not want on your record. Andrea filled out the paperwork for ARD admission - which was accepted. Program was a great experience to encounter & become a little vulnerable with a group of ALL ages it was incedible to be able to visualize why people do the things they do (trill, need, want, boredom, etc) During the process of my summary ARD submittal I did tell Andrea that I may be charged with a series of more serious charges at that point nothing was pressed - once I recieved the probable case she told me not to be shocked as to what was written - nothing stated in it would be nice. To explain the case a little - I was involved with an antagizing issue that began back in 2010 I tried Serveral times to handle to situation in a civil manner & years had gone by that nothing was ever solved. I submitted a private criminal complaint & later filled charges with an officer - both in which were denyed. Once the charges were pressed I submitted documents to Andrea in regards to what has push it to this limit. She completely understood where I was coming from and took the time to review the years of depth this case had. She reached out to the DA to inquire if ARD would be an acceptable approach with having a prior SUMMARY ARD approval within the same time frame as a MISERMEANER case. As she stated the summary ARD program was something fairly new - the DA is open for the ARD submittals/approvals due to the differential of level of charges. At this point, I wanted to do whatever it took to have no chagres behind my name considering what I have to offer in life, my education & work history - I didn't want to lose it all. Although, all the "victim" really wanted was for a record to be present behind my name - she pushed for the ARD not to be approved (THIS WAS NOT THE CASE). As Andrea reviewed the documents I submitted prior she put together a very detailed letter to the DA. In addition, during the ARD court hearing the "victim" was present & tried to make a statement for reasons why I should not be approved. Concluding her statement the judge had asked Andrea if she would like to add anything.... Too be completely honest, Andrea was 110% on point with her documents, reasonings & input towards my approval the victum later literally stumbled over words and was jaw dropped about the evidence we had behind her antagonizing image. I am beyond thankful for what Andrea has pushed for with the both ARD programs. Although, we are all human & may hit some speed bumps in life she had got me over them. I highly respect her knowledge, honesty, ability to look at the whole picture, & give a realistic perspective on the issues involved; while being upfront & addressing my concerns. (Never once was someone else's case more important then mine - she always had time or made time) & YES RETURN PHONE CALLS!! Moving forward, I NEVER want myself or anyone to be placed in this type of situation; I would recommend ANDREA MERTZ to anyone seeking competent representation!!! ; ) With Her "right arm hooks & ROCK STAR BADASS attorney skills & dedication" - my fears are now at rest!! Again, much appreciation and thanks for all your time and efforts!

Posted by D | August 12, 2015 | DUI & DWI

Understanding

Andrea was a huge help from the first time we talked on the telephone before I hired her as my lawyer. Andrea was extremely helpful, available and understanding of how stressful a DUI case can be for the accused. She is very well connected to the judicial system and was able to get me into the ARD pr...ogram. As my lawyer she stayed on top of any updates I needed, information or documents she needed or questions I had before, during and even after my hearing. If you're looking for a lawyer you can trust it's Andrea. If you're looking for a lawyer who will treat you like a person and not just a case hire Andrea. If you want one of the most knowledgable and personable lawyers handling your case especially a possible DUI conviction then hire Andrea. She helped me out of one of the biggest holes I have ever dug for myself and I will never forget her help. She is worth it.

Posted by Austin | April 30, 2015 | DUI & DWI

Highly recommend

Proactive, knowledgeable, and experienced--pretty much exactly what I was looking for. Andrea Mertz represented me for a DUI charge. She explained everything clearly and guided me through the ARD process (which was my best option). I was glad to have her help. She's very responsive and open to questi...ons.

Posted by RG | March 19, 2015 | Gun Law

Firearm violation case

I was in real need of a good lawyer for my firearm case, because my first lawyer was MIA. When I find Andrea from the first time I was very confident of her honesty and knowledge. She did remarkable presentation in the court and she delivers above and beyond. Extremely comfortable to work with and hi...ghly professional to boot. The overall process was effortless on my part and allowed me peace of mind. She was very flexible, responsive and patient. She was also helpful in guiding and advising me in an area that I was totally unfamiliar with. She negotiated a deal and managed to drop the charges from Felony to 3rd degree misdemeanor. I Had took a No Contest Plea with 1 year probation in my case which I was supposed to do 12-24 months in Jail. I would highly recommend Andrea Mertz. The best choice ever made. 2 thumbs up

See All Client Reviews

Andrea E. Mertz's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Andrea
Kevin Feeney headshot
Kevin Feeney

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Andrea is a smart and tough trial lawyer. She is a great person to have on your side."

Joseph Andres Guillama headshot
Joseph Guillama

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Andrea since the time I began practicing law and in that time I have known Andrea to be a highly effective and passionate criminal defense attorney. Not only does she truly care about her clients and their well-being, but she thoroughly knows the law and aggressively advocates for her clients at all levels of their representation. I would have no hesitation in recommending Andrea Mertz to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Mar 17

Relationship: Other

"Top-notch attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Thomas Murray Spivack headshot
Thomas Spivack

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. It is very clear from her many years of experience and her contributions that Ms. Mertz is extremely knowledgeable and highly competent. I wouldn't hesitate recommending her."

Peter John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"17 years of practicing law with 8 as a former deputy public defender is very court experienced.Her knowledge of both the law and procedure is excellent and evident in her pro bono contributions. Client reviews are stellar. READ THEM! Do yourself a favor and schedule a consultation."

Sean Cleary headshot
Sean Cleary

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community."

David Paley Schwarz headshot
David Schwarz

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly recommend this lawyer she is a true professional"

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Unknown lawyer | Nov 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Peter Francis Schuchman Jr. headshot
Peter Schuchman

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Andrea is approachable to her clients, experienced in the complexities of the issues her many clients face and aggressive in her advocacy on their behalf."

Michael Keith Hollinger headshot
Michael Hollinger

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"It takes a rare attorney to combine aggressive representation and knowledge with the oft-ignored compassion that is necessary to achieve the maximum benefit for their client. Andrea is one such attorney. It is therefore my privilege to endorse my colleague, Andrea Mertz."

Joseph L. Haines headshot
Joseph Haines

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly recommend this attorney. I have worked with Andrea and found her to be a very talented attorney."

Scott Christian Mcintosh headshot
Scott Mcintosh

Business lawyer | Mar 13

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"As opposing counsel, Ms. Mertz vigorously represented her client in a business matter. A true professional, she was a pleasure to work with. I look forward to working with her again."

Wayne Punshon headshot
Wayne Punshon

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Without reservation, I endorse this lawyer."

Tatiana Kadetskaya headshot
Tatiana Kadetskaya

Unknown lawyer | Jun 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Excellent attorney. Well respected."

Eric Michael Gibson headshot
Eric Gibson

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Elizabeth M. Ebner headshot
Elizabeth Ebner

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. She is very conscientious and cares about her clients."

View All Endorsements
Brett J. Riegel headshot
Brett Riegel

Criminal defense lawyer

Jay Michael Nigrini headshot
Jay Nigrini

Criminal defense lawyer

Daniel Patrick Emkey headshot
Daniel Emkey

Criminal defense lawyer

Andrew William Muir headshot
Andrew Muir

Employment and labor lawyer

Peter John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

Unknown lawyer

David Paley Schwarz headshot
David Schwarz

Family lawyer

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Unknown lawyer

Vanessa L. Bellino headshot
Vanessa Bellino

Criminal defense lawyer

Kevin Feeney headshot
Kevin Feeney

Criminal defense lawyer

Joseph L. Haines headshot
Joseph Haines

Commercial real estate lawyer

Joseph Andres Guillama headshot
Joseph Guillama

Divorce and separation lawyer

Judson Aaron headshot
Judson Aaron

Unknown lawyer

Scott Christian Mcintosh headshot
Scott Mcintosh

Litigation lawyer

Vincent Cimini headshot
Vincent Cimini

Medical malpractice lawyer

Michael Keith Hollinger headshot
Michael Hollinger

Criminal defense lawyer

Abby L Rigdon headshot
Abby Rigdon

Unknown lawyer

William A. Jones Jr. headshot
William Jones

Criminal defense lawyer

Wayne Punshon headshot
Wayne Punshon

Criminal defense lawyer

Susan Karnes Quirits headshot
Susan Quirits

Real estate lawyer

Barbara Hazel Beringer headshot
Barbara Beringer

Workers compensation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2016

Top 100 Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorneys, The American Society of Legal Advocates

1991

Purdue Scholar Athlete of the Year, John Purdue Club

Work Experience

2016 - Present

Attorney, Polyak Law Office

2009 - 2016

Attorney, Waldman Law Group, P.C.

2001 - 2009

Public Defender, Berks County Office Of The Public Defender

1998 - 2001

Attorney, Ellsworth, Carlton & Waldman, P.C.

Associations

2017 - Present

Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Platform Committee Member

2016 - Present

Berks County Bar Association, Criminal Defense Section

Co-Chair

2015 - Present

Berks County Bar Association, Criminal Law Committee

Co-Chair

2015 - Present

Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2009 - Present

Pennsylvania Bar Association

Attorney Member

2001 - Present

Berks County Bar Association

Attorney Member

2014 - 2015

Berks County Bar Association, Criminal Law Committee

Executive Committee

Sample of Legal Cases

Commonwealth v. B.L.

Not guilty after trial. No jail time

Commonwealth v. N.M.

Found not guilty of DUI at trial. No jail and client was free to leave.

CW v. RC

Not guilty of any charges. Free to leave.

Commonwealth v. VM

No jail time upon conviction of highest rate DUI as a second offense

Commonweatlh v. TT

Suppression Granted; All charges Dismissed

Commonwealth v. JZ

I successfully petitioned for his approval and acceptance into the ARD program which will result in the new DUI charge being expunged.

Commonwealth v. RD

ARD accepted for fourth lifetime DUI

Commonwealth v. KR

Not Guilty of 6th DUI

See More Legal Cases

Education

1996

American University, Washington College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1991

Purdue University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2009

BCTV

Intersection Between Social Security Disability and FMLA

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

Andrea earned significant contribution points in 2016.

Avvo Rating

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution