Peter E. Kratsa Partner
610.840.0209
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“I enjoy solving problems for clients. My approach is both analytical and tactical. The goal is always the same: the best possible outcome for my client.”
Mr. Kratsa is a criminal defense attorney with over 20 years of experience defending individuals and entities accused of criminal activity. His practice includes representation of clients in state and federal criminal trials, grand jury investigations, internal investigations, appeals, state and federal regulatory matters and juvenile delinquency matters.
Mr. Kratsa additionally practices family law, including divorce, support, custody, and adoption.
Prior to joining MacElree Harvey, Mr. Kratsa was a partner in a private law practice which concentrated exclusively on criminal cases at the state and federal court level. Before going into private practice, Mr. Kratsa served as an Assistant Public Defender with the Chester County Public Defender’s Office.
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Recent Representations
- Successfully represented a client acquitted by jury of Rape and related charges after a week-long trial involving multiple factual and scientific witnesses.
- Successfully represented a client accused of Insurance Fraud. With the assistance of an investigator, developed evidence that Commonwealth witness was fabricating. Witness confronted with fabrications through cross-examination. Case withdrawn by Commonwealth; arrest records expunged. Witness confronted with fabrications through cross-examination. Case withdrawn by Commonwealth; arrest records expunged.
- Favorable disposition for multiple clients accused of sex offenses and/or violent offenses through development and advocacy of mitigation arguments.
- Successfully represented a client accused of Unlawful Restraint, False Imprisonment, and firearm-related offenses. Charges withdrawn by Commonwealth after Preliminary Hearing (cross-examination of victim and police) and filing of Omnibus Pre-Trial Motion.
- Successfully represented a client acquitted by jury of DUI.
- Successfully represented a client accused of assault. Judge granted Pre-Trial Motion to dismiss the charges.
- Successfully represented a client exonerated of Mail Fraud.
- Representation of state and federal grand jury witnesses.
- Favorable dispositions for clients charged with summary criminal and traffic offenses.
Memberships
- Chester County Bar Association
- Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (PACDL), Eastern District
- President-Elect 2018-present
- Vice President 2016-2017
- Board of Directors 2015-2016
- National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)
- American Bar Foundation, Fellow
Articles
- Do you have a criminal history? You may be unpleasantly surprised.
- Are You Recording This?! A Primer on Pennsylvania’s Wiretap Act
- How Will Child Support Be Determined?
- 23 Attorneys Named Main Line Today’s Top Lawyers 2018
- Peter E. Kratsa Receives PACDL 2017 President’s and Directors’ Commendation Award
- MacElree Harvey Attorneys named 2016 Top Lawyers by Main Line Today Magazine
- MacElree Harvey Names New Shareholder
- Peter Kratsa featured in Bloomberg Business
- Attorney Peter Kratsa Featured on CNN
- Want advice? You need a lawyer
- Attorney-Client Privilege: The Primary Principle of Criminal Defense
Videos
Practice Areas
Testimonials
Criminal Defense
My case was a fairly simple one. Public intoxication, and Disorderly conduct, both were fines, but I did not feel that I was at fault. Peter was very close to the police officer in this case, and the judge as well. The charges were completely dropped, and I felt as if I had been represented very well. I would highly recommend.
Anonymous Read more
Criminal Defense – DUI
Mr. Kratsa provided excellent representation in my case. Very knowledgeable of the law. More importantly, he knows the nuances of the judicial process and the folks that oversee it in Chester County PA--judges, magistrates, clerks etc. Very personable; great at listening and providing advice and recommendations. Overall, an excellent and successful experience.
Anonymous Read more
Criminal Defense
I was referred to Peter Kratsa through a friend who had amazing things to say about him. After speaking with him the first time, I knew why my friend thought so highly of him. You could tell, even on the phone, how much he cared about his clients & the outcomes of the cases he takes on. I felt like I finally had someone on my side who I could trust. Peter and his staff are always available to speak, promptly & they explain things in the clearest of ways so you fully understand your options. I am so pleased with working with him and I would recommend him to anyone needing legal assistance.
Anonymous Read more
Criminal Defense
GREAT ATTORNEY! Very professional and is well liked by the Chester County community. Always felt well represented. Have recommended him to many, and will continue to do so!
Aubrey Read more
Criminal Defense
Peter Kratsa is truly an exceptional attorney. He goes above and beyond to achieve successful outcomes for his clients. I give him my highest endorsement and recommend him to you enthusiastically.
Anonymous Read more
Education
- Villanova University School of Law (J.D.)
- University of Richmond (B.A., English/History)
Admissions
- Pennsylvania
- United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania
Awards
