Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox

10/19/2026

Do police have to read you your Miranda rights for an arrest to hold up? 🚔

Attorney Eric Hackwelder is taking it to the streets of Erie to find out what Pennsylvanians know about their rights and Miranda warnings. Are people getting the law right, or are there a few surprises in store? 👀

10/15/2026

The same DUI charge can play out differently depending on where the case happens. Local prosecution policies, ARD availability, and sentencing options can all matter.

10/15/2026

Planning a home improvement project in Pennsylvania?

This article breaks down what homeowners should know about HICPA, including contract requirements, contractor registration, deposits, and your right to cancel.

Read more:
https://defenselawyerserie.com/pennsylvanias-home-improvement-consumer-protection-act-what-homeowners-need-to-know-before-signing-a-contract/

10/14/2026

Do you really need an attorney for a DUI case? From challenging the stop to pursuing ARD or alternatives to jail, there may be more options than you realize.

10/13/2026

Finding the right criminal defense attorney goes beyond who ranks highest on Google.

Stephen E. Sebald explains why looking at an attorney’s actual experience, the cases they’ve handled, and how long they’ve focused on criminal defense can give you a clearer picture.

10/12/2026

Your behavior doesn’t go unnoticed. How you treat police, how you dress, and how you carry yourself in court can all affect how you’re perceived.

10/10/2026

Police DO NOT have to show you the warrant before they search your home.

Our last video got over 800 comments, and Attorney Eric Hackwelder from Sebald, Hackwelder & Knox in Erie, PA answers the best questions (and some mean ones) about search warrants in Pennsylvania and federal law.

Can police lie about having a warrant? Do they have to show it to you? What about the Castle Doctrine, consent, and fake cops? Eric breaks it down.

Watch here and definitely subscribe 🤝

Cops don't have to show you the warrant before they search your hom...

10/09/2026

Turns out the napkin contract had a few problems.

10/08/2026

Thinking about moving with your child?

This article breaks down Pennsylvania’s relocation custody law, when a move may require notice, and what can happen if the other parent objects.

Read more:
https://defenselawyerserie.com/moving-out-of-state-with-your-child-pennsylvanias-relocation-custody-law/

10/07/2026

Your first custody meeting in Erie County isn’t a trial. Custody conciliation is designed to help both sides work toward an agreement before the case goes further.