Joseph M. Devecka

I have been a practicing attorney since October 16, 1979.  My focus has been on Criminal Defense work since that time.  In fact, I conducted my first trial about six weeks after my admission to the bar.

In 1980, I was admitted to the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.  Next, in 1981, I was admitted to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.  Then in 1992, I was admitted to the last District in Pennsylvania, the Western District.  In 1985, I was admitted to the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.  Finally, in 1993, I was admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court.  In short, I may practice in all of the 67 counties in Pennsylvania and all of the Federal Courts having jurisdiction anywhere in Pennsylvania.

I have appeared as Defense Counsel in criminal cases on various matters in 48 of Pennsylvania’s 67 counties and conducted trials in 21 of those counties.  Similarly, I have represented persons in all three of the United States District Courts in Pennsylvania and the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

My undergraduate degree in History is from Penn State and my law degree is from the University of Pittsburgh.  Following my graduation, I began practicing law in State College.

I live with my wife and son in the Blue Spring Farm House in the Historic Village of Boalsburg. I have been married to Patricia S. Devecka, for more than 25 years. Our son, Martin, was born on Memorial Day in Boalsburg in 1983. He graduated from State College Area High School and is currently attending University of Chicago.