Judge McShane

Judge Katherine McShane was elected to serve on the Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas in 2025. She brings to the bench extensive experience in criminal law, earned through years of dedicated advocacy in both public service and private practice.

Born and raised in Colorado, Judge McShane graduated from the University of Colorado in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in December 2007 and was admitted to the Colorado Bar in 2008.

Judge McShane began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney with the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office in Golden, Colorado, where she prosecuted a wide range of criminal matters. After three and a half years, she transitioned to private practice, focusing on DUI and criminal defense.

In 2012, she met her husband, Justin McShane, at a DUI defense lawyers’ conference, and the following year she moved to Pennsylvania. After her admission to the Pennsylvania Bar in 2013, Judge McShane continued her practice in the Harrisburg area, representing clients in DUI and other criminal defense matters throughout the region.

As a lawyer, Judge McShane was known for her professionalism, thoughtful advocacy, and commitment to her clients, while maintaining the highest respect for the rule of law. Her career reflects deep experience with the criminal justice system, strong analytical skills, and a dedication to justice that she brings with her to the bench.

She resides in Lower Paxton Township with her husband, Justin McShane, Chairman and CEO of the McShane Firm, and their three children. Outside the courthouse, Judge McShane enjoys spending time with her family, reading, crafting, hiking, flying, and exploring the outdoors.