Michael J. Skinner

Michael J. Skinner is the founder of Skinner Law Firm and has been practicing criminal law for many years. As a former Assistant District Attorney in Chester County, Michael has handled various types of criminal cases, including DUI cases, drug charges, violent crimes, and homicide cases. His insight into how the criminal justice system works and how prosecutors think is valuable to successfully defending any criminal case.

Before deciding to open his own criminal defense firm, Michael spent several years working for the Chester County District Attorney’s (DA’s) Office. He began working as an intern during law school, but upon graduation and demonstration of a high level of talent and knowledge, he was quickly promoted to Assistant District Attorney.

Through this position, he handled hundreds of criminal cases in a variety of practice areas and prosecuted numerous DUI cases. Before his time at the DA’s office, Michael gained significant criminal defense experience working for a private law firm.

Prior to attending college, Michael – a Pennsylvania native, spent several years working as an arborist in his father’s tree business, where he learned the values of hard work and responsibility. He was born and raised in Delaware County, and has been living in Chester County since 2001.

Bar Admissions

  • United States District Court – Eastern District of Pennsylvania, 2008
  • Pennsylvania, 2007
  • New Jersey, 2007

Education

  • Widener University School of Law, J.D., 2007
  • West Chester University of Pennsylvania, 2003

Notable Verdicts/Settlements

  • Man acquitted of murder, not guilty on all charges
  • Third-degree murder withdrawn, reduced to aggravated assault
  • Aggravated assault dismissed, reduced to summary offense
  • DUI dismissed, charges dismissed for lack of evidence
  • Chemical test refusal dismissed, DUI refusal suspension overturned
  • Felony rape and kidnapping dismissed, charges reduced
  • Felony sex crimes dismissed, all charges dismissed

 

View other notable case results

Honors and Awards

  • Main Line Today Magazine, Top Lawyers, 2015 – 2019
  • Super Lawyers, Rising Stars Selectee, 2017
  • National Trial Lawyers, Top 100 Trial Lawyers, 2015 – 2017
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, 10 Best for Client Satisfaction, 2015
  • American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys, 10 Best for Client Satisfaction, 2015
  • Chester County District Attorney’s Office, Appreciation of Service and Dedication, 2011

Professional Associations & Memberships

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Member, 2015 – Present
  • American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, Member, 2015
  • American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys, Member, 2015
  • National College for DUI Defense, Member, 2015 – Present
  • Rotary Club of West Chester, Member, 2015 – 2018
  • Better Business Bureau, Member, 2013 – 2015
  • Chester County Bar Association, Young Lawyer’s Division – Past Secretary-Elect, 2012
  • Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Member, 2011 – Present
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association, Member, 2007 – Present
  • Chester County Bar Association, Member, 2007 – Present
  • American Bar Association, Member, 2007 – Present

Publications

  • PRWEB , Supreme Court to Decide if Dissipation of Alcohol in Bloodstream is Exigent Circumstances, 2013
  • PRWEB , Sexual Offenses and Penalties in Pennsylvania Among Recent Sex Abuse Allegations, 2012
  • PRWEB, Pennsylvania Sexting Law Goes into Effect, 2012
  • PRWEB, Medical Marijuana Legislation Recently Proposed in Pennsylvania , 2011

Work Experience

  • Skinner Law Firm, LLC, Founder, 2011 – Present
  • Chester County District Attorney’s Office, Assistant District Attorney, 2006 – 2011
  • Delaware Civil Clinic, Trial Counsel, 2006
  • Goldberg, Meanix & Muth, Legal Assistant, 2003 – 2004

From experience this is your #1...

“5-star A1 Blue-collar No B.S. review. 2 clients under this review Mike is a fantastic lawyer from PFA to Dui Beyond…Avoiding B.S.. Felony charges from West Goshen police in Chester County Pa. working with Judges and DA knowing the laws….

5 Stars Review 5

08-15-2024

I will be forever indebted to...

I am thankful I found and chose Michael Skinner.

5 Stars Review 5

05-17-2019

Mr. Skinner is approachable and made...

“Attorneys can be intimidating but Mr. Skinner is approachable and made me feel at ease. His office staff is professional but friendly, too. He worked hard for our family and I appreciate that.”

5 Stars Review 5

10-16-2018

I couldn't recommend Skinner Law Firm...

“I couldn’t recommend Skinner Law Firm more. Great outcome a genuinely good lawyer helped me through the whole process with a payment plan that I could handle.”

5 Stars Review 5

07-01-2025

Mike Skinner in the best.

He is very nice and will work with to help get you the best possible outcome.

5 Stars Review 5

07-08-2018

They made this entire process stress-free...

“Working with Mike and his staff, Lindsay and Delaney, was so easy and reassuring. They made this entire process stress-free and made us feel at ease and always well informed. Mike was efficient and confident, but always took his time…

5 Stars Review 5

10-11-2023

Thank you, Mr. Skinner

Michael Skinner is an excellent lawyer that knows your rights, and he will indeed fight for you.

5 Stars Review 5

12-04-2018

Hire him. Don't wait.

I don’t think it is possible for a better outcome than what was achieved by Michael J Skinner.

5 Stars Review 5

12-14-2017

Don't hesitate to reach out to...

“Michael Skinner and his wife Lindsey and his whole team helped me and my wife. They’re very honest. Trustworthy. They’re paralegal. Steve was also very good at keeping me updated and at the end of the day you want a…

5 Stars Review 5

02-05-2025

Mike Skinner and his team at...

“Mike Skinner and his team at Skinner Law Firm are consummate professionals. Their expertise, attention to detail, and dedication to client success make them a top choice for legal representation. I highly recommend their services for anyone seeking reliable and…

5 Stars Review 5

10-24-2024

Do not hesitate to have Mike...

“My son was working with a public defender who was looking at his situation in “black & white” and really didn’t listen to his story. We were told to expect 7 to 23 months jail time. Scared, but not financially…

5 Stars Review 5

05-14-2020

He was able to have everything...

His diligence and professionalism are unmatched making it a pleasure to have been a client.

5 Stars Review 5

12-19-2018

Michael had listened intently

I would highly recommend him to anyone facing charges or violations in Chester County.

5 Stars Review 5

08-16-2019

Mike Skinner and his team are...

“Having been faced with a daunting legal issue, my family and I were so relieved to have connected with Skinner Law Firm. Mike’s calm demeanor coupled with his extensive knowledge and expertise proved invaluable. It is clear he genuinely cares…

5 Stars Review 5

06-18-2020

I am beyond grateful.

Going above and beyond for their clients is an understatement.

5 Stars Review 5

12-20-2018

Recommend him 110 %

Working with Mr. Skinner has been a pleasure.

5 Stars Review 5

12-19-2018

Mike Skinner helped me immensely.

Mike’s attention to detail and professionalism put my mind at ease.

5 Stars Review 5

09-10-2019

Michael skinner is your go to...

“My dad’s good friend referred us to Michael Skinner and I’m super happy with the outcome! Michael and his staff were super professional and always got back to any questions I had in a timely manner. This was my first…

5 Stars Review 5

01-23-2025

Mike is by far the best...

His calm presence is also very reassuring for his clients. Highly recommend choosing him.

5 Stars Review 5

05-21-2019

He was very thorough and professional...

“I was referred to Mr. Skinner by the bar association. From my experience he’s knowledgeable about law and made me feel at ease every step of the way. I’m definitely glad he accepted my case and recommend him highly. He…

5 Stars Review 5

10-19-2018

Mr. Skinner gave us our life...

“Mr.Skinner was nothing short of amazing. My husband had a, driving under a suspended license (DUI related) charge. He would have had to spend time in jail and possibly lose his job that he has had over 5 years. We…

5 Stars Review 5

04-14-2016

Professional and Understanding

He is very professional and understanding of each person’s needs.

5 Stars Review 5

05-19-2019

Best lawyer in Delaware County

He was extremely helpful and knowledgeable.

5 Stars Review 5

06-14-2018

One of the best lawyers I’ve...

“One of the best lawyers I’ve ever dealt with, he gave me a second chance to do the right thing in life. Best money ever spent , very genuine person too he always kept it real with me. He went…

5 Stars Review 5

04-17-2024

Placed into the ARD program.

Michael and Nichole made me feel comfortable as you truly feel that you are discussing your problem with friends.

5 Stars Review 5

11-15-2018

He is honest, straight to the...

“Attorney Mike Skinner is the best attorney in West Chester to help you with criminal court. He is honest, straight to the point and will help you out as much as he can. He is helping me with a current…

5 Stars Review 5

10-17-2018

A Very Positive Experience

“My experience with Mr. Skinner was very professional. He’s been in the business for awhile & knows his stuff. Lindsay, at front desk, was extremely warm & personable. Overall, very positive experience.”

5 Stars Review 5

06-06-2025

They made a stressful situation more...

“I had a great experience working with Mr. Skinner. From the start he was knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cared about the case. They took time to explain each step of the process clearly and always kept me informed. They made…

5 Stars Review 5

06-11-2025

I would highly recommend Mike Skinner...

“I have nothing but good things to say about Mike Skinner. We found Mike searching for an option other than a public defender. He made the time to meet with us quickly. He assessed the information and gave his honest…

5 Stars Review 5

10-20-2020

We are very appreciative of the...

“We have been very pleased with the professional advice and help of the Skinner Law Firm. Both Mike Skinner and Nicole Welch have helped our family immensely. They are very knowledgeable, easy to talk to and easy to get ahold…

5 Stars Review 5

10-10-2018

Mike is the guy to call!

A top-notch attorney in West Chester.

5 Stars Review 5

10-10-2019

He listened and told me where...

Michael was able to give me clear guidance on my legal options and explained each step of the process.

5 Stars Review 5

11-15-2019

I’m very happy with Mike Skinner’s...

I was a little nervous about everything and just 5 minutes of talking with Mike, I felt at ease.

5 Stars Review 5

12-18-2018

A masterful defense lawyer

Michael Skinner and his staff made me completely comfortable and confident

5 Stars Review 5

07-11-2019

There for me every step of...

From day one I felt comfortable with him and confident that he would help me get the best outcome available.

5 Stars Review 5

12-19-2018

Mike Skinner is an excellent attorney.

He was able to get me a lesser sentence and always treated me with respect throughout.

5 Stars Review 5

12-08-2019

His drive to achieve the best...

“Skinner helped a relative of mine with a case. His drive to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients is impeccable. I suggest his services to anyone that wants to have their case fought until the end. He went…

5 Stars Review 5

05-18-2018

Mr. Skinner is very patient, kind...

“In need of a criminal lawyer, my brother’s friend found himself in trouble and came to my brother and me for help. We immediately thought about Mr. Skinner who had represented my family four years ago. Mr. Skinner is an…

5 Stars Review 5

10-11-2017

Mr. Skinner was very Professional &...

“Mr. Skinner was very professional and efficient. It was a pleasure doing business with Mr. Skinner as well as his associates!”

5 Stars Review 5

10-01-2025

Mike Skinner is a terrific guy...

“Mike Skinner is a terrific guy and a fantastic lawyer. He is honest, intelligent, and all of his moves are carefully calculated. I would highly recommend Mike to anyone who has hit a legal “speed bump” throughout the course of…

5 Stars Review 5

10-21-2015

I highly appreciated him and the...

“I was looking for a Lawyer and I reached out to Micheal Skinner & his team. My situation needed to be handled professionally and it was dealt with properly! The outcome was great despite the duration of the matter, Mr.Skinner…

5 Stars Review 5

10-10-2024

Gave me realistic advice.

He was able to reduce my son’s sentence from a potentially harsh fine, loss of driving privileges or even jail time, down to a few community service hours.

5 Stars Review 5

10-11-2018

Mr. Skinner went above and beyond

He is very informative and knowledgeable. I had no trouble contacting him to answer questions or give me advice.

5 Stars Review 5

11-29-2019

I highly recommend Skinner Law Firm

“Mike and his team were great to work with, and he secured an excellent outcome for my case. I highly recommend Skinner law Firm to anyone requiring legal support.”

5 Stars Review 5

06-04-2025

I am grateful he helped me.

Extensive experience with defending DUI’s and I saw this confidence in the courtroom.

5 Stars Review 5

12-17-2018

More than exceptional

He was very negotiable and understanding of my circumstances.

5 Stars Review 5

11-14-2018

Mr Skinner is an amazing attorney

“Mr Skinner is an amazing attorney. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my family.I would highly recommend using Skinner Law Firm. Mr Skinner and staff are amazing and very professional team. I would recommend them for…

5 Stars Review 5

10-05-2024

Nothing but compliments for Mike and...

“Nothing but compliments for Mike and his team. Would definitely recommend to family and friends. Thank you for all your help. Best, John”

5 Stars Review 5

07-09-2025

Micheal and his firm are top...

Michael Skinner EXPERTLY handled a very sensitive case.

5 Stars Review 5

12-10-2018

He’s worth every penny.

If you work with him, he will get you what you want/deserve.

5 Stars Review 5

06-13-2018

Thank you guys for everything

“The Skinner law firm has been amazing throughout my whole case. They have been very understanding and flexible with my situation and I couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you guys for everything.”

5 Stars Review 5

06-19-2025

I would highly recommend reaching out...

“Mike is a fantastic lawyer who is extremely knowledgeable of the law. If you are someone in need of legal advice, I would highly recommend reaching out to Mike and his team. Not only are they always well prepared and…

5 Stars Review 5

08-17-2023

Mr Skinner is an excellent lawyer

“Mr Skinner is an excellent lawyer. He was referred to me and he couldn’t have been more kind, HONEST, and patient. His calm and empathetic demeanor is refreshing. He is very detailed, extremely professional and always made me feel as…

5 Stars Review 5

10-15-2020

Thank you, Skinner Law!

I went to Skinner after researching all the law firms in the area and without a doubt would go to him for everything.

5 Stars Review 5

05-15-2019

I am eternally grateful

Mike Skinner resolved this case in the best way possible, and I am eternally grateful for his advice and counsel.

4 Stars Review 4

11-30-2019

I could not thank him more.

He took me through everything step by step and charged me a fair price for his service.

5 Stars Review 5

11-26-2019

Always available

Anyone faced with a DUI charge needs Mike Skinner.

5 Stars Review 5

12-17-2018

Has a lot of knowledge and...

Mr Skinner always kept us updated about the case and was prompt with his responses.

5 Stars Review 5

12-13-2018

I would highly recommend him.

I was nervous regarding my situation, but after a brief conversation describing my charges and the delicacy of my situation, Michael assured me he could easily handle this case.

5 Stars Review 5

11-23-2019

My experience with Skinner Law Firm...

“My experience with Skinner Law Firm has been nothing short of excellent. Not only is Michael Skinner compassionate and eager to help; the people he keeps in his corner as staff are equally intelligent and supportive. His secretary Ms Cinaglia…

5 Stars Review 5

08-13-2020

Mike Skinner is a phenomenal attorney...

“Mike Skinner is a phenomenal attorney and an even greater person. He arrived early to my hearing and ran through the game plan with me beforehand so I knew what to expect. Due to his great negotiation skills, we were…

5 Stars Review 5

10-14-2021

I would definitely refer him to...

“I was looking for a Lawyer and got referred to Micheal Skinner and I’m happy with the results. Had a case open for years that I never got handle and Mike did a great job on the outcome. He and…

5 Stars Review 5

10-08-2024

I Could Not Have Better Representation...

“I could not have had better representation for my son. The plea Mr. Skinner was able to work out was even better than we anticipated. Mr. Skinner and his staff are the most professional and supportive individuals, I never waited…

5 Stars Review 5

08-13-2025

Average 4.98412698413 out of 5 rating based on 63 Reviews
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