Ernest D. Preate
Law Office of Ernest D. Preate, Jr. • Scranton, PA
Criminal DefenseGeneral PracticePersonal Injury
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Contact
Email
Phone
(570) 843-1650
Address
Scranton, PA, US
Professional
About
**Ernest D. Preate, Jr. - Attorney at Law** **Law Office of Ernest D. Preate, Jr.** **Scranton, PA** Ernest D. Preate, Jr. is a distinguished attorney and former Pennsylvania Attorney General, renowned for his extensive legal experience and commitment to justice. Born on November 22, 1940, Preate has dedicated his career to public service and legal advocacy in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. As Attorney General, he notably argued before the United States Supreme Court in the pivotal case of *Planned Parenthood of Southeast Pennsylvania v. Casey*, representing then-Governor Robert P. Casey. This case, along with *Blystone v. Pennsylvania*, where he addressed critical issues surrounding the death penalty, solidified his reputation as a formidable legal strategist. Prior to his tenure as Attorney General, Preate served as the District Attorney of Lackawanna County from 1977 to 1989, where he earned acclaim as an active trial prosecutor. His expertise in homicide and drug-related cases has made him a recognized figure in the legal community, achieving a remarkable success rate with all 19 murder cases he took to verdict, including five death penalty convictions. Preate’s notable appellate work includes significant arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court, where he played a key role in affirming the constitutionality of Pennsylvania’s Death Penalty Law and its Abortion Control Act. Before embarking on his legal career, Preate honorably served in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1969 as an Infantry Platoon Commander, earning five medals for valor during his 13 months of combat in Vietnam. His military background has instilled in him a profound sense of discipline and dedication to his clients. At the Law Office of Ernest D. Preate, Jr., located in Scranton, PA, he continues to provide expert legal services across a broad range of practice areas in general law, leveraging his extensive experience to advocate fiercely for his clients' rights and interests. Whether navigating complex legal issues or guiding clients through challenging circumstances, Preate’s commitment to justice remains unwavering.
About Criminal Defense Law
Criminal defense attorneys represent individuals accused of crimes, protecting their constitutional rights throughout the legal process. They work to achieve the best possible outcome through negotiation or trial. Common matters include dui/dwi, drug charges, assault, theft.
Credentials
Education
1965 University of Pennsylvania Law School JD - Juris Doctor 1962 University of Pennsylvania BS - Bachelor of Science 1958 Scranton Preparatory School,
Languages
English
Recognition & Involvement
Associations
Lackawanna County Bar Association Director Pennsylvania Bar Association Member Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Member
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Updated: May 25, 2026