Strong, Strategic Defense When You Need It Most

Don’t Let One Mistake Define the Rest of Your Life

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, the road ahead may feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m Terry Hess, a hometown attorney and former public defender who’s been standing up for people in State College and Centre County for years. I don’t treat clients like case numbers—I build real relationships and take the time to truly understand what you're going through. My goal is simple: to help you move forward with dignity, confidence, and the strongest defense possible. I offer experienced, nonjudgmental, and aggressive criminal defense for good people caught in difficult situations. Whether it’s your first offense or a repeat charge, I’ll work closely with you to protect your rights, fight for your future, and guide you toward the best possible outcome.

Located in State College, Pennsylvania, I serve clients throughout Centre County and beyond with straightforward legal advice and a strong commitment to results.

Call   |   814-880-4377
Strong, Strategic Defense When You Need It Most

Practice Areas

Criminal charges can have lasting effects on your future, your reputation, and your freedom. I offer skilled legal defense in the following areas:

DUI & Alcohol-Related Offenses

If you've been arrested for driving under the influence or alcohol-related misconduct, I can help you fight license suspension, minimize penalties, and avoid long-term consequences. This includes underage drinking, public intoxication, and refusal to submit to testing.

Drug Charges

Whether you’re charged with simple possession, intent to distribute, or drug paraphernalia, I’ll work to suppress unlawful searches, challenge the evidence, and fight for reduced or dismissed charges.

Traffic Violations

Even minor traffic offenses can affect your driving record and insurance rates. I handle speeding tickets, reckless driving, license suspensions, and other citations to help keep points off your record and you behind the wheel.

Crimes on Campus

Students facing disciplinary or criminal charges—like assault, theft, harassment, or using a fake ID—need an attorney who understands both the legal system and campus disciplinary procedures. I represent Penn State and other local college students in defending their rights and futures.

Misdemeanor & Felony Offenses

If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence or alcohol-related misconduct, I can help you fight license suspension, minimize penalties, and avoid long-term consequences. This includes underage drinking, public intoxication, and refusal to submit to testing.

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Protecting Students and Young Adults

Protecting Students and Young Adults

College Should Build Your Future—Not Destroy It

If you're a college student or recent graduate facing criminal charges, the consequences can follow you far beyond the classroom. A conviction could mean:

  • Suspension or expulsion from school
  • Trouble applying to graduate programs
  • Difficulty passing background checks
  • Limited job opportunities after graduation

At Terry Hess Law, I understand what's at stake and provide the focused defense you need during this pivotal time. I’ve helped many Penn State students and young adults minimize the impact of a criminal charge—and I can do the same for you.

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A Local Lawyer Who Knows How to Help

As someone who grew up in State College, PA and served as a public defender, I know the legal system—and the people in it. I’ve earned the trust of clients, judges, and fellow attorneys by showing up, speaking honestly, and doing the work. That experience matters when your future is on the line.

At my firm, I focus on quality over quantity. I intentionally keep my caseload manageable so that every client gets the time, care, and attention they deserve. You’ll never be passed off to an associate or left in the dark—I’ll be with you from day one through resolution.

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Client Reviews

  • "Mr. Hess did an outstanding job helping me reduce my traffic citation. He was professional, knowledgeable, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. His expertise and attention to detail truly made a difference, and I appreciate his dedication to getting the best outcome possible. If you need legal help with a traffic issue, I highly recommend Mr. Hess!"

    Hao W

  • "Mr. Hess was extremely professional and explained every step of the process. He made sure to answer every question and always made himself available. I recommend him fully."

    Michael A

  • "The best. Helped me throughout the entire expungement process without skipping a beat, quick response times, and expeditious. Don't look any further, this is who you want representing you."

    Richard Vargas (Renegade Footy)

  • "Terry was professional, efficient, and delivered the results he promised. He communicated with us every step of the way and made sure we knew both the risks and the benefits of choice. Highly recommend him for any legal help you may find yourself needing!"

    John Barlett

  • "Terry Hess was very professional as well as helpful in our legal process. He was there anytime we had a question or concern and answered any questions we had in a quick timely manner. Couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer!!"

    Julie Rogers

  • "Terry was professional, responsive, organized, and everything one would wish for in an attorney. He helped me resolve my case with ease and I am grateful that I selected him to represent me. I 100% recommend Terry for those seeking legal help!"

    Caroline Engel

  • "He is an amazing lawyer, very kind, answer all my questions and still after my case was done he still contacted me and checked on me. One of the best lawyers I ever had. I will definitely recommend him to anybody and everyone, I can't say it enough."

    Janet P

  • "Terry was super professional. Always followed up and gave an impression that he really cared about my case. HIGHLY recommend to anyone looking for amazing experience with a lawyer!

    Ofek Mussafi

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Why Choose Terry Hess?

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

I’ve built my practice around protecting the rights of people in our local community.

No Judgment—Just Results

You deserve a second chance. I offer honest advice and a clear path forward.

One-on-One Legal Guidance

I handle your case personally from start to finish, not an associate or paralegal.

Local Knowledge, Aggressive Advocacy

I know the local courts, judges, and procedures—and how to work within the system to your advantage.

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Don’t Wait—Start Protecting Your Rights Today

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Centre County or anywhere in Central Pennsylvania, time is critical. The sooner you speak with a knowledgeable defense attorney, the better your chances of success.

Call my State College law office at (814) 880-4377, or use the form below to request a consultation. Let’s get your life back on track—starting today.