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 Institute

  October 22, 2013, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “The Significance of Ancillary Charges”
  Driving Under the Influence: Skills that Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  October 22, 2013, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “The Scientific Reliability of Breath Testing”
  30th Annual Statewide Criminal Law Symposium - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  June 7, 2013, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker and Moderator, “Modern Challenges to Breath Testing”
  Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  May 21, 2013, Statewide Webinar

• Invited Speaker, “Recent Developments in PA Breath Testing and Vehicle Code Traps for the Unwary”
  Pennsylvania Bar Association Annual Meeting

  May 9, 2013, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Blood and Breath Testing in DUI Cases”
  Public Defender Training Institute - Pennsylvania Association of Drunk Driving Defense Attorneys

  September 14, 2012, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Application of Bullcoming, Barton-Martin and Yohe to DUI Cases”
  Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  August 24, 2012, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker and Moderator, “Penalties and Sentencing Issues”
  Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  August 10, 2012, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker and Moderator, “Application of Bullcoming, Barton-Martin and Yohe to DUI Cases”
  Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  August 10, 2012, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Evidentiary and Constitutional Issues in DUI Cases”
  Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  August 3, 2012, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Application of Bullcoming, Barton-Martin and Yohe to DUI Cases”
  Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  August 3, 2012, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Trial Strategy, ARD, and Criminal Penalties”
  Driving Under the Influence: Skills that Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  November 29, 2011, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Detention versus Arrest and Warrantless Arrests”
  Driving Under the Influence: Skills that Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  November 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 Institute

  August 31, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Motor Vehicle Violations – Landmines to Avoid in Motor Vehicle Cases”
  General Practitioners' Update 2010 - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  June 23, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Trial Strategy, ARD, and Criminal Penalties”
  Driving Under the Influence: Skills That Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  February 18, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Use of Blood Tests”
  Driving Under the Influence: Skills That Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  February 18, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Field Sobriety Tests and the Breathalyzer”
  Driving Under the Influence: Skills That Win Cases - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  February 18, 2010, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “DUI Penalties and Sentencing Issues”
  Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  July 24, 2009, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Invited Speaker, “Introduction to Drug Recognition Evaluations – An Overview”
  Evaluating the DUI Case - Pennsylvania Bar Institute

  July 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 Institute

  December 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 Institute

  December 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