
Mike Sherman: The Advocate You Need When Everything Is on the Line
When you're facing the devastating reality of a DUI or Homicide by Vehicle charge, your freedom, your future, and your reputation hang in the balance. You need more than just a lawyer. You need a seasoned advocate with unparalleled expertise, relentless determination, and a proven track record of success. That's where I come in. I have a background like no other.
With over 37 years of courtroom experience and a deep understanding of Pennsylvania DUI law, I've dedicated my career to standing up for individuals like you. My journey began as an attorney for the Pennsylvania State Police, where I spent eight years gaining invaluable insight into how law enforcement investigates and prosecutes cases. Today, as a criminal defense attorney, I leverage that insider knowledge to dismantle the prosecution's case and secure the best possible outcomes for my clients.
A Career Built on Excellence
From my time prosecuting liquor code violations to serving as counsel to the State Police on complex law enforcement matters, I've seen every angle of DUI and vehicular homicide cases. I've argued in courts across 30 Pennsylvania counties and presented cases before the state's highest appellate courts, including the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. My experience gives me a commanding presence in the courtroom and a strategic advantage in negotiations.
In 1999, I was privileged to serve as a member of the trial team representing Allegheny County in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the landmark “Tobacco Litigation.” This multimillion-dollar lawsuit targeted the nation's largest tobacco companies, seeking damages for the financial burden caused by tobacco-related illnesses. This high-stakes litigation showcased my ability to navigate complex legal challenges and advocate for justice on a large scale.
But what truly sets me apart is my focus on quality over quantity. While other attorneys churn through cases, my practice is built on personalized representation. I limit my caseload to make sure every client receives my full attention and benefits from my meticulous approach to case preparation.
Why Choose Me?
- I Wrote the Book on DUI Defense. Literally. As the co-author of Pennsylvania Driving Under the Influence Law and Practice, I'm regarded as a thought leader in DUI law. My work is not just relied upon by attorneys statewide; I've also trained countless lawyers on winning DUI defense strategies.
- Forensic Expertise That Wins Cases. I'm certified in forensic chromatography (the machine used to test blood), blood alcohol testing, standardized field sobriety testing, and drug recognition. This scientific knowledge allows me to uncover weaknesses in the evidence against you—weaknesses others might overlook.
- A Track Record of Results. From dismissals and acquittals to significantly reduced charges, my case outcomes speak for themselves. I've helped countless clients avoid life-altering penalties and rebuild their lives. You can see some of my results right here.
- Recognized as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer. Among my many accolades, I am proud to have been designated a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer in DUI Defense by Thomson Reuters. This recognition is awarded to a select group of attorneys who demonstrate excellence in their field and is based on peer evaluations, professional achievements, and a rigorous selection process. Being named a Super Lawyer is a testament to my unwavering commitment to providing exceptional legal representation.
A Personalized Approach to Your Defense
Every case is unique, and every client deserves a defense strategy tailored to their specific situation. That's why I work closely with you to understand your circumstances, answer your questions, and develop a plan that protects your interests. My clients have direct access to me, not just a paralegal or junior associate. When you hire me, you get my decades of experience and unwavering commitment—every step of the way.
More Than a Lawyer—Your Partner in Justice
I understand how overwhelming it feels to face serious charges. That's why I'm here to guide you through the process with clarity, compassion, and fierce advocacy. I'll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
When everything is on the line, don't settle for anything less than excellence. Contact my office today to take the first step toward reclaiming your future. Together, we'll face the challenge head-on and emerge stronger.
When everything is on the line, don't settle for anything less than excellence. Contact my office at (412) 471-5000 today to take the first step toward reclaiming your future. Together, we'll face the challenge head-on and emerge stronger.
BOOKS PUBLISHED
- Author, Pennsylvania Driving Under the Influence Law and Practice, Second Edition (Bisel Co.)
POSITIONS HELD
- Former President and Founding Member, Pennsylvania Association of Drunk Driving Defense Attorneys
CERTIFICATIONS
- ACS Forensic Chromatography: Theory and Practice V, (40 hours) Axion Analytical Laboratories, Inc., November 2-6, 2011, Chicago, Illinois
- National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA)/International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Practitioner Course (24 hours) Walden, Platt & Associates, April 21-23, 2006, Atlanta, Georgia
PUBLICATIONS
- Chapter 2: Introduction of Drug Recognition Evaluations: An Overview Driving Under the Influence: Skills that Win Cases Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 2013
- Recent Developments in PA Breath Testing & Vehicle Code Traps for the Unwary Pennsylvania Bar Association Annual Meeting Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 2013
- Chapter 4: Drug Recognition Evaluation (DRE): An Overview Evaluating the DUI Case Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 2012
- Chapter 5: Application of Bullcoming, Barton-Martin and Yohe to DUI Cases Evaluating the DUI Case Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 2012
- 10 Landmines to Avoid in Motor Cases Fundamentals of Criminal Practice Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 2010
- 10 Landmines to Avoid in Motor Cases General Practitioner's Update Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 2010
- Chapter 7: Introduction to Drug Recognition Evaluations – An Overview Evaluating the DUI Case Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 2009
- Co-Author, Chapter 2: Substantive and Evidentiary Issues Concerning Driving After Imbibing and Driving Under the Influence Prosecutions Evaluation the DUI Case Pennsylvania Bar Institute, 2009
PRESENTATIONS GIVEN
- Invited Speaker, “Probable Cause and How Statutory Language May Impact Your Case”
Driving Under the Influence: Skills that Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteOctober 22, 2013, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “The Significance of Ancillary Charges”
Driving Under the Influence: Skills that Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteOctober 22, 2013, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “The Scientific Reliability of Breath Testing”
30th Annual Statewide Criminal Law Symposium - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteJune 7, 2013, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker and Moderator, “Modern Challenges to Breath Testing”
Pennsylvania Bar InstituteMay 21, 2013, Statewide Webinar
- Invited Speaker, “Recent Developments in PA Breath Testing and Vehicle Code Traps for the Unwary”
Pennsylvania Bar Association Annual MeetingMay 9, 2013, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Blood and Breath Testing in DUI Cases”
Public Defender Training Institute - Pennsylvania Association of Drunk Driving Defense AttorneysSeptember 14, 2012, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Application of Bullcoming, Barton-Martin and Yohe to DUI Cases”
Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteAugust 24, 2012, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker and Moderator, “Penalties and Sentencing Issues”
Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteAugust 10, 2012, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker and Moderator, “Application of Bullcoming, Barton-Martin and Yohe to DUI Cases”
Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteAugust 10, 2012, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Evidentiary and Constitutional Issues in DUI Cases”
Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteAugust 3, 2012, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Application of Bullcoming, Barton-Martin and Yohe to DUI Cases”
Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteAugust 3, 2012, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Trial Strategy, ARD, and Criminal Penalties”
Driving Under the Influence: Skills that Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteNovember 29, 2011, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Detention versus Arrest and Warrantless Arrests”
Driving Under the Influence: Skills that Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteNovember 29, 2011, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Handling Your First DUI Case”
March 29, 2011, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “DUI Procedural Issues”
Fundamentals of a Criminal Law Practice - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteAugust 31, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Motor Vehicle Violations – Landmines to Avoid in Motor Vehicle Cases”
General Practitioners' Update 2010 - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteJune 23, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Trial Strategy, ARD, and Criminal Penalties”
Driving Under the Influence: Skills That Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteFebruary 18, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Use of Blood Tests”
Driving Under the Influence: Skills That Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteFebruary 18, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Field Sobriety Tests and the Breathalyzer”
Driving Under the Influence: Skills That Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteFebruary 18, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “DUI Penalties and Sentencing Issues”
Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteJuly 24, 2009, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Introduction to Drug Recognition Evaluations – An Overview”
Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteJuly 24, 2009, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Invited Speaker, “Evidentiary and Constitutional Issues Under the New DAI Statute”
Driving After Imbibing: From Last Call to City Hall - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteDecember 20, 2006, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (Televised live Via Satellite to 25 locations across Pennsylvania and live Webcast)
- Invited Speaker, “DUI Penalties and Sentencing Issues”
Driving After Imbibing: From Last Call to City Hall - Pennsylvania Bar InstituteDecember 8, 2006, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
NATIONAL TRAINING
- 17th Annual DUI Means Defend With Ingenuity Seminar – A Recipe for Success: Trial Techniques that Win! National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and National College for DUI Defense October 3-5, 2013, Las Vegas, Nevada
- NHTSA'S DUI Detection and SFST Course Overview Pennsylvania Association of Drunk Driving Defense Attorneys August 22-23, 2013, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- 2013 Summer Session at the Harvard Law School National College for DUI Defense July 25-27, 2013, Boston, Massachusetts
- 2012 Summer Session at the Harvard Law School National College for DUI Defense July 26-28, 2012, Boston, Massachusetts
- 2011 Summer Session at the Harvard Law School National College for DUI Defense July 28-30, 2011, Boston, Massachusetts
- 2011 Summer Session at the Harvard Law School (15.5 hours) National College for DUI Defense July 28-30, 2011, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- The Scientific Truth About HS-GC-FID & The Pharmacology of ETOH, Marijuana & Benzodiazepines (6 hours) The McShane Firm, LLC January 7, 2011
- 2010 DUI Means Defend With Ingenuity – Communicating Your Way to Acquittal (12.5 hours) National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers October 14-16, 2010, Las Vegas, Nevada
- 2010 Summer Session at the Harvard Law School (15.5 hours) National College for DUI Defense July 29-31, 2010, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- 14th Annual Mastering Scientific Evidence in DUI/DWI Cases (22 hours) Texas Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers/National College of DUI Defense April 19-21, 2007, Dallas, Texas
- 10th Annual DWI Means Defend With Ingenuity Seminar (12 hours) National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers October 12-14, 2006, Las Vegas, Nevada
- 11th Annual Mastering Scientific Evidence in DUI/DWI Cases (22 hours) National College of DUI Defense April 22-24, 2004, Atlanta, Georgia
Recent Blog Posts
Why CDL Drivers Should Think Twice Before Entering Pennsylvania’s DUI ARD Program
Tailoring Legal Representation to Get the Right Fit: Why One Size Doesn't Fit All
Pennsylvania Passes Tough New DUI Law
Do You Know What Happens When You Get a Felony Conviction?
MIKE SHERMAN TEACHES DUI LAW TO PENNSYLVANIA LAWYERS
Recommendations
- I searched ads and found Mike Sherman Law and did the research on him and found that he gets the job done for you ! Mike Sherman Law for my case got the job done for me like clock work , he took me through every step of the way with no hassle and made me feel a lot better about my case. They did ...
- Highly recommended! Attorney Sherman always returned phone calls, answered all my questions, and made me feel calm about my case. If I ever find myself or a loved one in any trouble there's no other attorney I would even consider!
- “I have a CDL license. I was charged with my 1st DUI. Another lawyer told me to take ARD. I went to Mr. Sherman for a 2nd opinion. He told me I would lose my CDL for 1 year if I took ARD. He was able to get the DUI changed to another charge so I wouldn't lose my license. I highly recommend Mr. Sh...
- “I was facing my 3rd DUI. I was at risk of losing my job, my house and my whole world. I found Attorney Mike Sherman online and arranged to meet with him to discuss the details of my predicament. From the very beginning, Attorney Sherman was very understanding. He was not judgmental, and was very...
- “Attorney Sherman was honest and extremely knowledgeable in the handling of my case. I appreciate someone who gets to the point without sugarcoating the truth and that is exactly what you get with Attorney Sherman. Down to earth and honest explanantion of possible outcomes, best case scenarios, a...
- “I did not hire Mr. Sherman but would recommend him to anyone as he was prompt in returning my inquiry, helpful and thorough in assessing my particular situation and directing me to the appropriate services. My particular needs were not his specialty, however I was quite impressed with him!”
- “Mr. Sherman kept me informed every step of the way. He was very thorough in covering every aspect of my case. The case went on for a while, but his encouragement never faltered. Without him I would never had such a positive experience or outcome with the courts. I would highly recommend Mr. Sher...
- “I was facing my third DUI and a year in state prison. My future was looking very bleak. However, unlike the contemptible attorneys I've hired in the past who simply take your money and plea you out, Attorney Mike Sherman, and attorney Nick, challenged the prosecutions evidence against me. With t...
- “Friendly, knowledgeable, respectful, and I always felt like a priority.”
- “I hired Mike Sherman for my DUI case.I also had a PennDOT refusal case. Mike won the refusal case and got the D.A. not to give me a license suspension in my DUI. I recommend him without hesitation.”
- “Michael helped my family and I through a very difficult period in my life. He was very knowledgeable of the situation i was involved in. He kept me very informed of his decisions pertaining too the case. My case went to trial, Michael dazzled the judge with his professionalism and strong court r...
- “I was arrested for my first DUI offense and my friends and the cops told me not to get a lawyer. I talked to about 5 lawyers and they told me to just take ARD. I called Mike Sherman and he met with me and looked at my paper work. He was able to get my blood level lowered so I only had a 30 day l...
- “Mr. Sherman provided me with the most professional representation. He kept me informed and provided me with information in every aspect of my situation. His knowledge of the law in DUI cases was above and beyond my expectations. Without reservation, he has my highest respect and I would recommen...
- “I was facing a very hefty DUI charge with a case that included many complicating factors. If convicted of the DUI, I would have lost my job and likely have had a very large black mark on my record. Attorney Sherman was always positive and always told me everything was going to be fine. When we w...
- “Being charged with a DUI is embarrassing and overwhelming for someone with no criminal history. Mike Sherman eased my mind. He was very understanding and armed me with information about each step in the process. I knew Mike was working on my side and would certainly work with him again in the fu...
- “I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your excellent representation. I could not of wished for a better outcome. This is such a great peace of mind. I feel like a new life has started over. Thank you for taking my case. I will recommend you to anyone I hear of who gets a DUI.”
- “When I hired Mike Sherman, 2 other lawyers told me there was nothing I could do to fight my case. They told me to plead guilty. Mr. Sherman told me he couldn't guarantee the outcome but we at least had a chance if we hired an expert to fight the blood test result. I feel I wasn't drunk and I had...
- “I am a former client of Michael Sherman and I would highly recommend this man. First off, I had a DUI charge that I knew to be false and I wanted to fight it. Before arriving at Mr. Sherman's office I had visited and spoke with a few other lawyers. Mr. Sherman was the only one that truly listen...
- “As I received a letter in a mail from Michael Sherman after my DUI arrest. Lost and confused on where to start with my hearing coming up, so I eventually decided to give him a last minute call (in tears), as I was in the neighborhood. Three minutes later, I am in his office, face to face with hi...
- “Michael Sherman helped me out more then words can explain. As a Florida resident I needed much more assistance then an average client, and Michael never hesitated to assist. He was always quick to respond and very comfortable to talk to about even the most personal issues. Great lawyer, and an e...
- “Nineteen months ago I was charged with DUI second offense. Michael Sherman proved to be an expert DUI attorney. Mr. Sherman's DUI knowledge and trial experience was effective in a not guilty verdict in my case. I strongly recommend consulting Mr. Sherman before pleading guilty to any DUI.”
- “I was arrested for a 3rd DUI within 10 years. I met with a couple of attorneys before I decided to hire Mike Sherman. I was looking at a 1 year prison term mandatory under the minimum sentencing guidelines for PA. I own several businesses and I knew my life would be over if I had to serve a pris...
- “I am a professor at a local university and when one of my kids was arrested for a DUI I did not know who to turn to because I was not prepared for (or expecting) such a situation. I did a search and was really impressed with Mike Sherman's experience on “both sides” of the court system – as a st...
- “Mr. Sherman was very attentive. He defended my nephew that was on his third DUI charge and alcohol level was at the highest level. He was looking at automatic jail time and extremely high fine. With his experience he was able to get a reduced sentenced based on my nephew's willingness to get bac...
- “Attorney Sherman defended my brother. After our first meeting with him we were confident that we had made the right choice. He was always respectful and professional when dealing with not only my brother but all individuals involved in my brothers case. I was not always able to be present for ...
- “Absolutely phenomenal lawyer. He was hired to assist with a third DUI offense and helped SEVERELY lower the punishment associated with the case. I was looking at potential jail time and the risk of losing my job. He helped to ensure that wouldn't happen by striking a bargain that reduced the sen...
- “Mr. Sherman is a highly talented and down to earth attorney. He was pivotal to my husband's DUI case. We were scared and didn't know the legal process. Mr. Sherman explained the details we needed to know and guided us through each step of the case in a non-judgmental manner. I hope we never have...
- “Attorney Sherman and his office promptly returned my messages, answered my questions, and responded to all my concerns. Sherman law helped me to achieve a better result than I expected.”
- “After I got my DUI I interviewed quite a few lawyers and Mr. Sherman stood out just from talking to him. During the court proceedings he was extremely knowledgeable and quick on his feet. During the deliberations he and Nick were well researched and constantly prepared. In the end the judge dism...
- “I was facing my third DUI charge within ten years. My third charge was at the lowest end of the scale from a breath analyzer. I watched the machine fail in front of me twice. I had a case here I wanted to fight. My previous lawyer was one who always wanted to plea. I hired Mike and he was a god ...
- “Mike is extremely knowledgeable. I was facing some serious charges related to my DUI and he was able to get most of them dropped or reduced. I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome of my trail.”
- “Mr. Sherman came highly recommended to me by a couple of people. He discussed my case with me thoroughly, he gave me the best advice he could, and was very personal as well as professional. When it came to deliver in court room he brought out all the points we discussed and more. His motions, fa...
- “When my husband was charged with a 3rd tier DUI last year, needless to say, we were in complete turmoil. My husband's work requires him to maintain a CDL and the notion of losing it and potentially his job was overwhelming. Everything he had worked so long and hard for was at risk. I made appoin...
- “Hired Mike for a 1st dui offense. I would have lost my CDL if I had been convicted and ultimately lost my job. As the breadwinner for my family this was very scary. I previously hired another lawyer who had advised me to take ARD and told me I would not be able to beat the dui charge. I decided ...
- “I was facing my second DUI after abnormal stop, mike and his firm worked every angle possible to ensure the case was dismissed. Mike gave me 100% effort during my case and consistently kept in touch while representented me when i could not be present due to my busy work schdual. I would recomend...
- “Michael Steven Sherman was worth every penny. Me and my boyfriend were extremely impressed with Mr. Sherman. He was upfront on all scenarios and his first instinct was right. He got the DUI dismissed in the first half hour of court. He is worth every penny, if not more. I highly recommend you hi...
- “I highly recommend Attorney Mike Sherman. I was charged with DUI and originally hired a different attorney. My first attorney tried to convince me to simply plead guilty even though I had told her from the beginning that I refused to do that and I wanted (and paid) to go to trial. I ended up fir...
- “Attorney Michael Sherman along with his associate Michael McFarland saved my life. I made a stupid mistake a few years prior and now I was facing my second DUI. I make my living driving, so if convicted I would have lost my drivers license for a year which meant I would have lost my house and my...
- “About a year ago, I was charged with my second DUI. As a result, I reached out to Mike Sherman, who had represented me for my first DUI some years before. The first thing I remember Mike telling me was “Even good people can make mistakes. We will take care of you and stay positive!” The stakes ...
- “I contacted Michael about 10 months ago after researching hundreds of lawyers as my case was unique and I knew I needed the best. My case was almost 14 yrs old. I was accused of a DUI and several other misdemeanor charges that I felt were not legitimate. For years I was scared, confused and los...
- “I give a very high recommendation to Attorney Mike Sherman and his entire staff! Over the 1 ½ year time period it took to navigate the legal system to bring my case to completion, they have been very professional , and were very willing to answer any questions and help me understand the issues t...
- “I was facing a 2nd DUI offense, highest tier. As a prominent businessman in a small south central Pennsylvania community, a conviction on this offense would have been devastating to my career. I, immediately, did an intensive Internet search for DUI attorneys. Several names showed up but one nam...
- “I was facing 2 DUI's within a 3 year time period. Attorney Michael Sherman along with his office staff are a team of professional, knowledgeable and skilled experts. With my first one that Attorney Sherman assisted me with he proved to be the cutting edge in DUI defense, we hired an expert to de...
- “Getting my 2nd DUI charge was definitely a sadtime in my Life. Especially coming only after a year from my last one. Only thing I could think about was losing my Job, not having my drivers license, and what people would think of me. I was so depressed. So I did what anyone would do and that was ...
- “Mike is a solid DUI attorney.”
- “Mike Sherman made me feel comfortable despite a very uncomfortable situation. His knowledge of DUI law is incredible, and while he's attentive and proactive, he's also realistic. Mr. Sherman helped me understand my position and to reach the best possible outcome. ”
- “He literally wrote the book on DUI. Mike and I have worked on many cases together and I highly recommend him.”
- “Mike did a great job representing me in my case. I feel that he was extremely knowledgeable.”
- “Absolutely confident in choosing Mike Sherman Law. We were immediately made to feel comfortable and that our case was defendable. Mr. Sherman's background, specifically his work as an attorney with the State Police and authoring the book for the state's DUI law. Mike also was committed to fighti...
- “We were comfortable and treated with respect. We felt well represented during our case. Mike Sherman Law was highly recommended to us.”
- “Mike was an excellent choice. Professional, understanding, informative, I am very appreciative of his representation. He came highly recommended.”
- “Treated Well! They Were Courteous and Looked at all the Issues and my needs.”
- “Without Attorney Sherman. I would have 2 DUIs. He is the best and I would recommend anyone to use this knowledgeable Law firm. As a Veteran, I am Well Pleased with the Service Provided! I look at the background. Who wouldn't hire somebody that teaches other lawyers how to defend against DUI case...
- “I was treated extremely well and was very comfortable. Best decision I ever made! Referred by a family member.”
- “Very well, great firm. Found online, impressed with Mike and his team.”
- “You guys were very professional treated me with respect and put my mind at ease.”
- “Mike handled the entire situation with care and was a complete professional.”