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Drug Crimes

Rochester & Albany Drug Defense Lawyer

Experienced legal support in Rochester and surrounding counties for drug possession and trafficking

New York drug laws are extremely complex, with charges and penalties affected by many variables, including the following:

  • The law treats offenses pertaining to marijuana differently than those for narcotics, hallucinogens or stimulants.
  • Possession results in less severe consequences than trafficking, but quantity makes a difference.
  • Involving children in any way — including by selling drugs in or near a school — adds to the severity of charges.

If you face drug charges in Monroe or surrounding counties, you need to recognize the importance of immediately retaining lawyer James L. Riotto. His unique background includes experience in law enforcement and criminal prosecution, providing him with the insight needed to develop effective defense for your specific circumstances.

A thorough investigation makes a difference to your defense

Even when the evidence seems stacked against you, many supposed facts can prove untrue upon thorough investigation. For example, police may find you sitting on a park bench with a bag of marijuana behind your feet. They may charge you with possession, while you may have been unaware of the presence of the bag.

In criminal cases, the prosecution must prove cases beyond a reasonable doubt. As an experienced marijuana lawyer with law enforcement experience, James Riotto begins your defense by listening to your side of the story. He then examines all evidence. If the prosecution has only circumstantial evidence, Mr. Riotto can refute that evidence in court.

Not all convicted offenders serve prison sentences

Before significant changes were made to New York drug laws in 2009, many individuals convicted of relatively minor drug possession offenses faced harsh prison sentences. But the new laws provide a greater degree of judicial discretion, which can help keep qualified offenders who are convicted out of prison, often with a probationary period involving monitoring and treatment through the Drug Treatment Court program. Rochester parole and probation attorney James Riotto recognizes the importance of this program for the future of a first-time offender.

Protecting a minor’s future

Without skilled legal support, one poor choice related to drugs can have a profound effect on a child’s future. In cases such as minors in possession, attorney James Riotto focuses on developing a strong defense that provides a fresh start for youthful offenders.

Seek immediate support from an experienced Rochester drug crime attorney

Drug crimes lawyer James Riotto provides the same skilled level of legal support across a full range of drug charges — from low-quantity marijuana possession to trafficking of dangerous drugs. As a former state trooper who also has criminal prosecution experience, James L. Riotto understands how the criminal process works. If you face drug charges in Rochester or in the counties of Monroe, Ontario, Wayne, Orleans, Genesee or Livingston, the Law Office of James L. Riotto works with you to obtain the best possible outcome for your case. The Law Offices of James L. Riotto provides personalized support, keeping you informed throughout the legal process and promptly answering all questions. Call us at 866-772-2122 or contact us online.

James L. Riotto Attorney Photo
James L. Riotto
Criminal Defense Lawyer

James L. Riotto is an accomplished criminal defense attorney serving clients in New York. With an extensive background in law enforcement and criminal prosecution, his approach to each case is unique and informed by years of experience with the New York criminal justice system. As a graduate from Albany Law School and before going on to start his own practice, James worked at the Albany County District Attorney's Office, where he helped prosecute many DWI offenses. His inside knowledge of the tactics used to gain convictions provides him with a particular advantage when defending against DUI and other criminal charges.

Adam D. Staier Attorney Photo
Adam D. Staier
Of Counsel

About Attorney Adam Staier has spent the last seven years practicing criminal defense law throughout upstate New York and the Capital Region. He began his legal career through internships in civil law, indigent legal representation and federal energy law regulation. Finding a passion in criminal law, Mr. Staier held internships handling both prosecution and defense…

William M. Swift Attorney Photo
William M. Swift
Associate Attorney

About William M. Swift is an associate attorney at the Law Office of James L. Riotto and brings 20 years of experience to our clients. His practice focuses on personal injury cases and criminal matters. He has successfully represented individuals in felony, misdemeanor cases. Additionally, he has extensive knowledge in DMV administrative proceedings involving suspensions…

  • What to do if pulled over for a DUI


    How to deal with a DWI traffic stop

    How you handle getting pulled over for a DUI/DWI can significantly affect your defense down the road. For instance, declining the officer's request to search your vehicle and avoiding specific answers when asked about any substances you may have consumed could help you when combating DUI/DWI charges in court.
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Reviews and Ratings
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    5.0/5.0

    "I had an exceptional experience with the Law office of James L. Riotto in a traffic case. His professionalism and experience were evident from the beginning. He guided me through the legal process with clarity and tranquility, and in court, his abil...

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    Me da lo Mismo

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    5.0/5.0

    With anything in life you get what you pay for, And when your family and life hang in the balance due to a miscarriage of the justice system these are the people you want by your side. Everyone in the office is understanding and makes sure you are pa...

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    Michael Waterhouse

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    5.0/5.0

    I would highly recommend Mr Riotto and his law firm. Their experience, diligence and persistence led to my case being dismissed from town court. I wouldn't hesitate to use the practice again, but sure hope I never have the need :)

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    Sandra Newland

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    5.0/5.0

    James Riotto help me with a traffic issue i had since november of 2023 the court kept pushing the dates back and making me extremely nervous about it but the partners of the law office helped me and i felt comfortable and i left it in their hand than...

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    Pete Pereyra

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    My interactions with the office was professional, the communication was facile and there was a satisfactory outcome. I am glad I used them.

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    Abhay Singh

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