Animal Cruelty Defense
Accused of animal abuse or neglect? Mark Zearfaus Law Offices provides strategic, discreet defense for clients facing animal cruelty charges in Central Pennsylvania.
Animal Cruelty Defense Attorney in Central Pennsylvania
Serving Blair, Bedford & Cambria Counties
Being accused of animal cruelty or neglect in Pennsylvania is a serious and emotionally charged matter. These charges can result in criminal penalties, public backlash, and lasting damage to your personal and professional reputation—even before you step into a courtroom. At Mark Zearfaus Law Offices, we understand the sensitivity and complexity of these cases, and we provide strategic, discreet legal defense for clients facing animal-related criminal charges in Altoona, Bedford, Johnstown, and surrounding areas.
We understand that charges and matters of the law are often unplanned and happen without notice, we always ensure that someone is available to take on your case and dedicate his or her time to you in a timely fashion. The sooner you have an attorney on your side, the easier it is to build a strong case and come to a successful resolution.
What Constitutes Animal Cruelty in Pennsylvania?
- Under Pennsylvania law (Title 18, § 5531–5539), animal cruelty charges may involve:
- Neglect or failure to provide food, water, shelter, or veterinary care
- Physical abuse, injury, or killing of a domestic or wild animal
- Animal fighting or baiting (felony offense)
- Transporting or keeping animals in dangerous or inhumane conditions
These offenses can range from summary citations to misdemeanors or even felony charges, depending on the circumstances and whether prior offenses exist. Law enforcement and prosecutors often pursue these cases aggressively due to strong public sentiment around animal welfare.
Why You Need an Experienced Defense Attorney
A conviction for animal abuse can carry hefty fines, jail time, court-ordered psychological evaluations, and permanent restrictions on pet ownership. But what many people don’t realize is that these cases often involve misunderstandings, incomplete evidence, or disproportionate charges filed in the heat of the moment.
Attorney Mark S. Zearfaus has spent over two decades defending clients in high-stakes criminal cases, including those that carry a strong emotional or public component. He approaches animal cruelty cases with the same tenacity and focus he applies to every criminal defense matter—working to suppress bad evidence, negotiate dismissals or reductions, and protect your rights throughout the process.
Common Defenses to Animal Cruelty Charges
- Depending on your situation, we may pursue defenses such as:
- Lack of intent or knowledge
- Mistaken identity or false accusation
- Lawful conduct misunderstood as neglect
- Improper search and seizure or flawed police procedure
- Unconstitutional or overbroad enforcement
- Every case is fact-specific, and having a skilled defense attorney early in the process can be the difference between resolution and conviction.
Get a Strong Defense—Without the Spotlight
We recognize that animal cruelty cases can be embarrassing, isolating, and publicly damaging. Our firm provides discreet, judgment-free legal support focused on protecting your legal standing and restoring your reputation. Whether you're facing charges as a pet owner, breeder, or someone caught in a neighbor dispute, we’ll fight for the best possible outcome.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you’ve been charged or are under investigation for animal cruelty in Blair, Bedford, or Cambria County, contact Mark Zearfaus Law Offices immediately. Early intervention is critical—and we’re available 24/7 to protect your rights from the start.
