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TESTIMONIALS

5 Stars
SMT Legal is incredible. My case was very unique, and they took it on with open arms. Jonathan and team communicated every step of the way and never stopped advocating for me. They answered every question and made me feel heard. Attitude and outlook are unmatched, they truly went to bat for me and made the impossible more possible than I ever could have imagined. They’re honest, fair, and fight for their clients endlessly. Thanks to all of you, I have my life back. A thousand thank yous isn’t enough.

Nicole Battaglia

5 Stars
SMT Legal represented me when three other firms would not take my case. They were proficient, aggressive and compassionate from my intial phone call thru my settlement. They exceeded my expectations and fought for every dollar amount I deserved. I would highly recommend SMT Legal and without hesitation use them again in the future.

Anthony Lefcakis

5 Stars
I appreciate Mr. Chris for the work that he has done for me. He is definitely a great and caring attorney and I certainly do not hesitate to recommend him to anyone that I know. Highly satisfied with my experience.

Dyamond Brown

5 Stars
Chris is a great attorney! He was very professional and made me feel at ease during the whole process. He communicated everything every step of the way. He was always able to get in touch with and got back to me. He got me what I wanted and is just overall a very nice guy! Thanks so much for all your help.

Sheila Rugg

5 Stars
I was in an accident in 2015 and I was injured. Jonathan Stewart at SMT represented me and did an amazing job. Jonathan was always understanding and at no point did I not believe that Jonathan wasn’t in my corner battling it out against the insurance company. I also have to give a shout out to Mary Imperator, Mary is so awesome and helpful. If you have an issue with medical billing or whatever Mary will figure it out and get it fixed super fast. Mary is awesome! My experience with SMT Legal is 100% positive.

Also another shout out to Christopher Thomas, for my job I often find myself testifying at the magistrate a lot for minor criminal cases. I’ve watched many preliminary hearings and Christopher Thomas is a grade A top notch criminal defense attorney, he’s definitely a ruthless legal fighter, he’ll employ the most effective legal defense you can have. Again can’t say this enough, he is very very good in legal arguments, I’ve watched countless attorneys in court over the last 3 years and he is one of the best. If you were in an accident call them, they are very good

Rob McMeekin

5 Stars
With this being the first time I’ve ever had to retain legal counsel to advocate on my behalf, I was not sure what to expect. From the start, Jonathan and his team not only listened to me explain how my dog and I had been attacked by a Pitt Bull, they were thoughtful with their questions to get a comprehensive understanding of what had happened to us and beyond empathetic. Throughout the entire process, they took the time to explain each step we’d be taking in the legal process using layman’s terms and were consistently and readily accessible to me whenever I needed them. I was impressed with how down to earth they all were, clearly outlining a realistic outcome based on their experience with these types of cases. There were no sugar coated claims or slick promises, which I appreciated. They earned my trust and confidence by the measure of their character and actions, advocating on my behalf and boldly negotiating for a fair settlement. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience and outcome.

Kate Benz

5 Stars
With the help of attorney Chris Thomas and his other colleagues at the law firm, my case was handled with the utmost care and attention and the result was one of my charges being dropped and over all, the whole process went seamlessly. I will absolutely use this law firm for any future legal proceedings and will highly recommend Chris and the rest of the team to anyone who needs professional, supportive legal aid. Everything from the pricing to the over all feel of my experience with them was superb, truly. Also I’d like to send a personal thank you to the whole team that worked on my case. You all made a scary, nerve wracking experience into a down to earth, understandable, digestible happening. I couldn’t be more appreciative to all of you for how my case was handled.

Samantha Rodgers

5 Stars
By far the best representation I could have ever asked for. Everything was very clear throughout the process with complete satisfaction. I would recommend Christopher Thomas and his team to any and everyone that could use the help. SMT Legal is by far a cut above the rest!!!

Christopher “Slim” O’Domes

5 Stars
Christopher Thomas hands down THE BEST CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY IN PA. I went to jail and he gave me tremendous legal advice and that got me out of multiple FELONIES. Nothing went further than the preliminary no restitution no probation everything was dropped!!!!! I have been working with Devin and Chris for a few years now and I can confidently say I would never go to anyone else except them!! They vary from civil cases to criminal cases with serious charges. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this company & these amazing gentlemen.

Amanda Donahue

PITTSBURGH LEGAL BLOG

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Understanding Your Legal Rights After Being Sexually Abused by a Trusted Institution

When abuse occurs within a trusted group or setting, such as a school, church, medical facility, or youth organization, the resulting harm often extends beyond the actions of any individual

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Pennsylvania and How To Recover Compensation

One key element of a motorcycle accident claim is identifying how the crash happened and who caused it. Otherwise, you can’t connect your injuries to the responsible party’s careless actions,

What Damages Can You Recover in a Pennsylvania Car Accident Claim?

When lawyers talk about “damages” in a car accident claim, they’re referring to the compensation you can receive for your losses from the crash. Many injured drivers accept less than

What Evidence Should Be Admitted in a Wrongful Death Suit?

Pennsylvania law allows families to file wrongful death claims when their loved ones die as a result of other parties’ negligence or misconduct. These claims aim to recover compensation for

How Pennsylvania Car Insurance Laws Can Affect Your Accident Claim

Most states use either fault-based or no-fault insurance systems for car accident cases. But Pennsylvania has a unique “choice” no-fault system. In this system, your medical benefits coverage will cover

What Is the Difference Between Negligence and Wrongful Death?

Did you recently lose someone close to you in a preventable accident? If so, you might have heard terms like “negligence” or “wrongful death” and felt unsure about what they

What if You’re Injured in an Uber or Lyft Accident in Pittsburgh?

Using Uber or Lyft in Pittsburgh has become a regular part of life. Whether you’re heading to work, meeting friends in Lawrenceville, or trying to avoid downtown parking, these rideshare

Who’s at Fault in a Multi-Car Accident in Pennsylvania?

When a motor vehicle accident involves two vehicles, figuring out who caused what can feel like a puzzle with missing pieces. However, if you’ve been hurt in a multi-car crash

What Drivers Need to Know About the New PA Hands-Free Law: “Paul Miller’s Law”

Starting June 5, 2025, it is illegal to hold your phone while driving in Pennsylvania. Under the new Senate Bill 37, also known as Paul Miller’s Law, you must use

PA Supreme Court Rules ARD Is Not a Prior DUI Offense for Sentencing: What Commonwealth v. Shifflett Means for Your Case

If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania, a recent court decision could have a big impact on what happens next. On May 30, 2025, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court

Negligent Supervision and Pool Safety: When Drownings Lead to Lawsuits

Pools can be a great way to cool off during hot Pittsburgh summers, but they also pose serious risks, especially for children. Drowning is one of the leading causes of

What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Pennsylvania

Slip and fall accidents are surprisingly common in stores, sidewalks, and offices. In Pennsylvania, property owners must keep their spaces reasonably safe. If they don’t and someone gets hurt, the

Who Is Responsible If I’ve Been Bitten by a Dog in Pennsylvania?

Dog owners in Pennsylvania are responsible for the victim’s medical expenses if their dog bites someone. If you or someone you love suffered injuries in an animal attack, a dog

Big Damage, Bigger Consequences: What Business Owners Must Know About Commercial Property Loss

Fires, natural disasters, and other incidents can cause commercial property loss, leading to significant expenses. Fortunately, many businesses are covered by commercial property insurance. However, getting a fair settlement from

Injured on Someone Else’s Property? Your Legal Options Explained

Property owners in Pennsylvania bear a significant responsibility to maintain safe environments for visitors. When someone gets hurt due to unsafe conditions on another person’s property, the law provides pathways

What Are the Penalties for a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Offense DUI in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania treats driving under the influence (DUI) offenses with increasing severity based on two key factors: your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level and your prior offense history. Understanding these penalties

Can You Sue for Injuries Caused by a Defective Product in Pennsylvania?

Defective products can cause devastating injuries that can alter your life forever. When a product fails due to poor design, manufacturing errors, or inadequate warnings, Pennsylvania law provides strong protections

What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania has strict drug possession laws. Whether it’s a small amount of marijuana or a controlled substance like heroin or prescription opioids, the consequences can range from fines and probation

Comparative Fault in Pennsylvania Personal Injury: How Will It Affect My Case?

Comparative fault allows courts to assign blame to multiple parties in a personal injury case. If someone suffers an injury, they might share some responsibility for what happened. Instead of

5 SMT Legal Attorneys Named 2025 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

Five attorneys at SMT Legal won Super Lawyers or Rising Star honors for 2025 in the areas of personal injury law and criminal defense. Attorneys Jonathan Stewart, Patrick Murray, and Christopher

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Car Accident Caused by a Distracted Driver in Pennsylvania

Distracted driving is so dangerous that Pennsylvania has recently banned using interactive mobile devices (IMDs) while driving. However, distractions come in many forms. Whether talking or texting on the phone,

Understanding Medical Malpractice Claims in Pennsylvania: Your Rights and Options

We place significant trust in our medical doctors. When a healthcare provider makes a mistake, however, it can seriously harm the patient. In Pennsylvania, patients harmed by a provider’s negligence

How Do I Sue My Insurance Company?

Before considering a lawsuit against your insurance company, it’s essential to review and understand your policy. This document outlines your rights and your insurer’s obligations. Familiarize yourself with the coverage

How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Challenge Evidence in Pennsylvania?

How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Challenge Evidence in Pennsylvania? Evidence can support or weaken the prosecution’s case in a criminal trial. Prosecutors might use physical evidence, witness testimony, or

What Are the Penalties for a Second DUI Offense in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania’s DUI laws impose strict penalties based on a driver’s prior offenses and the circumstances of the arrest. Second-time DUIs result in higher fines, longer jail time, and extended license

How Are Wrongful Death Settlements Calculated in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, wrongful death settlements aim to provide financial support for families who have lost a loved one due to another person’s negligence or misconduct. Calculating these settlements involves considering

What Is the Average Compensation for Personal Injury Claims in Pennsylvania?

Following an accident, it’s common to consider the potential financial recovery you can achieve by filing a personal injury claim against the party at fault for your injuries. Although there

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim, and Who Can Make It?

When someone loses their life because of another person’s carelessness or wrongdoing, the surviving family members might be able to file a wrongful death claim. It is essential to understand

What Is the Necessity Defense in PA?

The necessity defense is an argument a defendant and their defense lawyer might invoke if they acted to prevent a greater harm. This defense strategy acknowledges that, while the person

What Makes a Pennsylvania DUI More Serious? Additional Penalties by Law.

Driving under the influence (DUI) is serious, but certain factors in Pennsylvania can lead to even more severe penalties. Knowing what can elevate a DUI charge is essential for understanding

Do You Lose Your License for First Offense DUI in Pennsylvania?

If you have been charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) for the first time in Pennsylvania, one of your biggest concerns is probably whether you’ll lose your driver’s license.

Acquittal on a homicide case trial

Can a Felony Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor in Pennsylvania?

A felony can significantly impact your life. From a lengthy prison sentence to losing the ability to vote or carry a gun, a felony carries many consequences. Your ability to

Charges for Parents of School Shooters Highlights Developing Direction of Criminal Liability

With school shootings committed by students becoming an all-too-common occurrence in the U.S., recent incidents have highlighted the potential for parental liability for the injuries and deaths caused by their

Can You Sue for Pain and Suffering in Pennsylvania?

After suffering injuries in an accident, you may be facing unexpected bills and other expenses related to your injuries. You may wonder how you will cover these costs if you

What Happens If I Get a DUI in Pennsylvania?

If a police officer stops you on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania, you may be arrested if they have probable cause you were intoxicated. A DUI

How Long Do You Have to Sue Someone for Personal Injury in PA?

It’s common to hear talk of suing to recover personal injury compensation after an accident. In reality, most cases close through negotiation and settlement rather than through a court verdict.

What Are My Options When Injured by Negligence?

Someone else’s choices led to your injuries, but you are not without power in this situation. As the victim of an injury accident, you choose how to respond to your

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$2,000,000 awarded to family after a tractor-trailer fatality

Jonathan Stewart at SMT Legal has successfully secured a $2,000,000 settlement for the family of a road worker tragically killed by a tractor-trailer.

Travel Sports Team Parents and Public Drunkenness

Public Drunkenness and Travel Sports Team Parents If you’re a travel sports parent, you’re well aware of how hectic an out-of-town sporting event can be. After all the chaos of

What Are The Types of Defense Strategies Criminal Defense Attorneys Use in Pennsylvania?

No two Pennsylvania criminal cases are alike, and neither are the ways such cases are defended. Defense attorneys have quite a bit of latitude when it comes to defending their

IS IT ILLEGAL TO RUN A YELLOW LIGHT IN PITTSBURGH?

A yellow light is an indicator of a change in traffic flow. Intersection accidents are common in Pittsburgh. However, running a yellow light does not always indicate actions of negligence.

EXAMPLES OF UNSAFE WORK CONDITIONS

Employees spend many waking hours providing a service for a business or industry, expecting that their safety is an employer’s priority. However, far too many workers are at risk of

IMPORTANT GUN LAWS IN PENNSYLVANIA (2024)

Gun laws may arguably be among the most important for keeping members of our community safe. Many of us know that gun laws can vary from state to state. Of

UNDERSTANDING PENNSYLVANIA’S CAR SEAT LAWS (2024)

In the last ten years, the Pennsylvania General Assembly has made several changes to the car seat laws in the Commonwealth, bringing the requirements more in line with the recommendations

NEGLIGENCE IN PERSONAL INJURY LAWSUITS EXPLAINED

If you’re filing a personal injury lawsuit, it’s typically because you have suffered an injury and believe it to be due to someone else’s negligence. However, this would suggest we

BASICS OF BICYCLE LAWS IN PENNSYLVANIA

Whether for commuting to work, exploring scenic trails, or simply enjoying the outdoors, riding a bicycle offers a sense of freedom and mobility. Just like driving a car, cycling comes

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WORKPLACE INJURY LAWS IN PA EXPLAINED

Being hurt in a work-related injury means you could lose income while you recover. However, Pennsylvania allows various ways for employees to seek benefits and compensation to help them pay

LEADING CAUSES OF CAR ACCIDENTS IN THE US AND PENNSYLVANIA (2024)

Data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in recent years sheds light on the leading causes of car accidents. Through an earlier survey the National Motor Vehicle

INJURED WORKERS RIGHTS AFTER AN ELECTRICAL ACCIDENT

We work for income and, hopefully, health insurance. We do our best to stay healthy and in good “working condition” so we can support ourselves and our households by earning