- Altoona Legal Services
Effective. Efficient. Expeditious.
Providing Criminal Defense Services, Drug Cases Services, DUI Services and other legal services to the Altoona, Bedford, Johnstown and surrounding areas
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Mark S. Zearfaus Law Office
Attorney in Altoona, Pennsylvania
Are you looking for Altoona Legal Services in Pennsylvania? If you, or a loved one, are in search of an experienced attorney, we may be able to help.
We are effective and aggressive and will work to help you get results that you need, at affordable rates.
We have proudly served clients in Blair, Bedford and Cambria Counties in the Pennsylvania.
As a Altoona lawyer, Mark S Zearfaus provides Altoona Legal Services, including Criminal Defense Services, Family Law Services and DUI Services to the Blair, Bedford and Cambria counties, specifically Altoona, Bedford and Johnstown areas and surrounding area.
Criminal Law Defense in Blair, Bedford & Cambria Counties
At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we provide aggressive, strategic criminal defense for clients facing serious charges throughout Central Pennsylvania, including Blair, Bedford, and Cambria counties. With decades of experience—and a background as a former public defender—Attorney Mark S. Zearfaus knows how to fight for your rights, protect your record, and challenge the system when it counts. Whether you’re facing a first-time offense or repeat charges, get the right Altoona Legal Services to build a strong defense and guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.
Mark S. Zearfaus, Esquire - Attorney in Altoona, Pennsylvania
Welcome to Mark Zearfaus Law Offices
At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we provide aggressive, results-driven Altoona Legal Services for clients facing critical legal challenges across criminal defense and family law. With offices in Altoona and Hollidaysburg, we serve individuals and families throughout Central Pennsylvania, including Bedford, Johnstown, and surrounding communities.
Attorney Mark S. Zearfaus brings decades of courtroom experience—including time as a public defender—to every case. Known for his no-nonsense approach, strategic advocacy, and 24/7 responsiveness, Mark works directly with clients to deliver practical legal solutions and fight for the best possible outcome. Established as the firm of choice for any and all legal advice and representation in the Blair, Bedford and Cambria counties, specifically Altoona, Bedford and Johnstown areas. Our expertise in Altoona Legal Services, including Criminal Defense, Family Law and DUI, our skilled and competent Altoona lawyers have years of experience representing individual clients as well as big businesses and corporations.
Mark S Zearfaus 's services go way beyond court trials and out of court settlements, however. Our skilled Altoona attorneys make it a point to support their clients from the very beginning all the way to the very end, offering counsel, advice, and studying each and every case closely to ensure every detail of the case is taken into account and used to their client's benefit. We also provide follow-up services in cases where paper work or applications must be filled, as is often the case with driver's license reinstatement or the acquisition of whiskey plates.
Experienced Legal Representation in Blair, Bedford & Cambria Counties
At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we provide aggressive, results-driven legal representation for clients facing critical legal challenges across criminal defense and family law. With offices in Altoona and Hollidaysburg, we serve individuals and families throughout Central Pennsylvania, including Bedford, Johnstown, and surrounding communities.
Attorney Mark S. Zearfaus brings decades of courtroom experience—including time as a public defender—to every case. Known for his no-nonsense approach, strategic advocacy, and 24/7 responsiveness, Mark works directly with clients to deliver practical legal solutions and fight for the best possible outcome.
Criminal Law
Criminal Defense Practice Areas
When your freedom, reputation, or future is at risk, you need an attorney who will act fast and defend your rights at every turn. We handle a wide range of criminal cases, from misdemeanors to felonies:
- DUI Defense – Protect your license, avoid jail, and fight back against first or repeat DUI charges.
- Drug Offense Defense – We defend against possession, intent to distribute, and prescription-related charges.
- Domestic Violence Defense – Accused of abuse or facing a protection order? We’ll defend your rights aggressively and discreetly.
- Retail Theft, Fraud & Property Crimes – Charged with shoplifting, fraud, or vandalism? We work to protect your record and minimize penalties.
- Animal Cruelty Defense – Facing animal abuse allegations? We provide strong legal defense with discretion and strategy.
- We know what it takes to beat or reduce criminal charges—and we don’t back down when the stakes are high.
Family Law
Family Law Services
Family law cases are deeply personal and often emotionally overwhelming. We provide compassionate, straightforward guidance to help you regain control and move forward:
- Divorce Representation – From high-conflict divorce to cooperative settlements, we protect your assets and your rights.
- Custody & Parental Rights – We fight for fair, stable custody arrangements that serve the best interests of your children.
- Whether you're filing for divorce, negotiating parenting plans, or modifying a custody order, we deliver practical legal support with your family’s future in mind.
Altoona Legal Services
Professional Legal Advice
Practice Areas
Mon - Sun: 7:00am - 9:00pm
Office Hours
(814) 931-9348
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Family Law Attorney in Altoona & Central Pennsylvania
When your family is facing legal turmoil, you need more than advice—you need a dedicated advocate who understands what’s at stake. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we provide compassionate, strategic representation for clients navigating divorce, custody disputes, and the protection of parental rights. We serve families across Blair, Bedford, and Cambria counties—including Altoona, Bedford, and Johnstown—offering personalized legal support and focused courtroom advocacy to help you regain control and build a more secure future.
Mark S. Zearfaus, Esquire - Altoona Criminal Defense & Family Law Services
Why Clients Choose Mark Zearfaus
We don’t just show up—we show up prepared, focused, and ready to fight for you.
- Over 20 years of criminal and family law experience
- Former public defender with deep local courtroom knowledge
- 24/7 availability for urgent legal issues
- Direct access to your attorney—no gatekeepers
- Offices in Altoona and Hollidaysburg
- Clear communication, honest guidance, and results-focused representation
Our Core Values
- Client-Centered Service – We take the time to listen, understand, and respond to each client’s specific situation, offering clear guidance and personalized solutions.
- Integrity and Transparency – Clients receive honest advice, realistic expectations, and straightforward communication at every stage of their family law matters.
- Strategic Advocacy – At Mark S. Zearfaus Law Offices, we build customized strategies for each case, whether criminal or family in nature — negotiating when possible and litigating fiercely when necessary.
- Compassionate Representation – Criminal and Family law cases are deeply personal, and Mark provides steady emotional support while protecting clients’ rights and securing their future.
Strengths & Approach
- Highly responsive — claims 24/7 client communication and personal phone answering.
- Assertive advocacy — describes itself as "effective and aggressive."
- Hands-on service — supports clients with paperwork, DMV interactions, and license issues.
- Local experience — deep roots in Blair, Bedford, and Cambria counties; knowledge of local procedures.
Mark S. Zearfaus is an experienced, locally entrenched attorney offering strong representation in divorce, custody, DUI, general criminal defense (retail theft, domestic violence, drug offenses), with a client-centric and direct approach.
Domestic & Retail Offenses
Defending Your Rights with Skill & Dedication
At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, Attorney Mark S. Zearfaus is a trusted criminal defense lawyer in Central Pennsylvania, dedicated to defending individuals facing serious charges—including DUI, drug offenses, domestic violence, retail theft, and animal cruelty. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s criminal laws, Attorney Zearfaus provides aggressive, strategic defense aimed at minimizing penalties and securing the best possible outcome for every client.
Known for meticulous case preparation and a no-nonsense approach, Mark Zearfaus has built a strong reputation across Blair, Bedford, and Cambria counties as a tireless advocate both in and out of the courtroom. Every case is treated with the attention and urgency it deserves, and we work to secure the best possible outcome for every client—no matter the charge or complexity.
We proudly represent individuals and families in Altoona, Bedford, Johnstown, and surrounding Central Pennsylvania communities. We take the time to listen, explain your legal options in plain terms, and guide you step by step through the process with clarity and confidence. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we don’t just handle cases—we fight to protect your future.
Do You Need an Attorney?
Every legal situation—whether criminal or family-related—can carry serious, lasting consequences. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we know that you don’t need to be a repeat offender, a negligent parent, or have any ill intent to find yourself facing a legal battle. Whether you’ve been charged with DUI, drug possession, theft, domestic violence, or are navigating a divorce or custody dispute, the law doesn’t always wait for context—it acts fast, and so should you. Even a single accusation or misunderstanding can threaten your rights, your freedom, and your future. That’s why we’re here: to provide aggressive, experienced legal representation when you need it most.
Assess Your Legal Situation
An experienced attorney can help you fully understand the seriousness of your legal matter—whether you're facing criminal charges or dealing with a complex family dispute. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we handle cases involving DUI, drug offenses, theft, domestic violence, divorce, and child custody, and we know how the system works from the inside. We walk you through the potential consequences, available defenses, and legal options that may not be obvious—especially if you're relying on limited public resources or generic legal advice. When your future is on the line, having a knowledgeable advocate on your side can make all the difference.
Understand the Consequences
The consequences of a criminal charge or family law dispute can vary widely depending on the facts of your case and how Pennsylvania law applies to your situation. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we help you understand exactly what’s at stake—whether it’s jail time, heavy fines, probation, a suspended license, loss of child custody, or a permanent mark on your record. You may face enhanced penalties for repeat offenses, mandatory sentencing guidelines, protection orders, or the loss of key rights such as firearm ownership or driving privileges. In family law cases, decisions around custody, support, and property division can have long-term consequences for your financial and emotional stability. We walk you through every possible outcome—good or bad—so you know where you stand and how to fight for the best result.
Manage the Process
Navigating the legal system—whether in criminal court, family court, or through agencies like PennDOT—can be overwhelming, confusing, and time-consuming. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we manage the entire legal process for you, from completing necessary paperwork and court filings to communicating with agencies and scheduling hearings. Whether you’re dealing with a license suspension, custody petition, criminal arraignment, or protection order, we handle the details so you don’t miss critical deadlines or make costly mistakes. Our goal is to take the pressure off you and keep your case moving forward efficiently and effectively.
Representation in Court
When your case goes to court, having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we bring decades of trial and courtroom experience to every case—whether you're facing criminal charges like DUI, drug offenses, or theft, or litigating a divorce or custody dispute. We know the local judges, procedures, and strategies that work in Central Pennsylvania courts. Our firm fights to reduce charges, challenge weak evidence, negotiate favorable outcomes, or pursue dismissal when possible. If your case demands it, we’re fully prepared to stand up for you in court and push for the best result the law allows.
Not Sure if You Need an Attorney?
If you’re facing a legal issue—whether it’s a DUI charge, drug offense, domestic violence allegation, or a divorce or custody battle—you may be wondering if hiring an attorney is necessary. The truth is, even seemingly minor cases can have serious, long-term consequences. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we help clients understand the risks, the process, and the options they may not even know exist. Don’t guess your way through the legal system or rely on assumptions—get the guidance of an experienced attorney who knows how to protect your rights and fight for your future.
- Here are some General Guidelines:
- DEFINITELY
- You should absolutely hire an attorney if your legal situation involves serious consequences—such as multiple DUI or criminal charges, injuries from an incident, or risks to your license or livelihood. This is especially true for professional drivers, individuals with prior convictions, or parents involved in custody disputes. Whether it's a criminal case or a family law matter, experienced legal representation can mean the difference between a favorable outcome and long-term consequences.
- PROBABLY
- You should seriously consider hiring an attorney if you’ve been charged with a second or subsequent offense, or if your case involves aggravating factors—such as a high BAC, injuries, or an accident. Harsher penalties often apply in these situations, including longer license suspensions, mandatory jail time, and higher fines. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the increased legal risks and work to reduce the impact on your record and your future.
- MAYBE
- You should consider hiring an attorney if you’re unsure of your legal rights, the laws that apply to your case, or the consequences you may face—especially in matters like DUI, drug charges, domestic violence, or theft. Legal representation is also critical if you work in a profession that requires licensing, bonding, or a clean record, as a conviction could jeopardize your career. If you're not fully clear on the legal requirements or risks, it’s essential to get expert guidance before attempting to handle the case on your own.
Altoona Legal Services
Education, Admittance & Memberships
- 1999 - J.D., Widener University School of Law
- Admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar
- Member of the Blair County Bar Association
Area of Focus
Criminal Defense
- Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming and life-altering. A conviction may result in fines, jail time, a damaged reputation, and a permanent criminal record.
- At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we deliver aggressive defense strategies for clients accused of DUI, drug offenses, domestic violence, theft, fraud, and more. We thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the evidence, and protect your rights at every stage.
- Our goal is to fight for the best possible outcome and guide you through the legal system with clarity and confidence.
Family Law
- Family law issues like divorce and custody disputes can be emotionally draining and legally complex. The outcome can affect your finances, your relationship with your children, and your long-term future.
- At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we offer compassionate and strategic representation in matters involving divorce, child custody, visitation, and parental rights. We advocate for your interests and work to resolve disputes as efficiently and favorably as possible.
- Our goal is to help you regain control and move forward with stability and peace of mind.
