James Matthew Polyak

James Matthew Polyak is a distinguished criminal defense attorney located in Reading, Pennsylvania. He holds degrees from Penn State and Widener University School of Law. His legal career began with an internship at The Berks County District Attorney's Office, where he was later appointed as a full-time Assistant District Attorney in 1992. During his tenure, he prosecuted cases involving Robbery, Rape, Burglary, Drug Possession, Theft, Assault, and DUI. In 1994, Mr. Polyak advanced to Chief Prosecutor of the Child Abuse Unit.

After acquiring substantial prosecutorial experience, Mr. Polyak transitioned to criminal defense. Since then, he has effectively represented thousands of clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges in Reading, PA. Notably, he has served as lead trial counsel in over 100 criminal jury trials, including death penalty cases, without any client receiving a death sentence.

Mr. Polyak frequently appears in the United States District Court, managing complex federal criminal cases. He holds the distinction of handling more criminal jury trials in this court than any other defense attorney in Reading, PA. Since 1994, he has been an active member of The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Polyak has contributed to legal education as a former Criminal Law Instructor at Reading Area Community College and the Reading Police Academy. He also served as the former Chairman of the Berks County Bar Association Criminal Law Committee.