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DWI coordinator in Upstate New York faces DWI charges

Anyone can face charges for driving while intoxicated in Upstate New York. Often, these allegations extend to other charges that can significantly enhance the penalties depending on what the officer claims to have found during the investigation. In some cases, the person arrested works in a job where their duties include handling DWI cases and Read More

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Upstate New York school principal arrested on DWI charges

When Upstate New Yorkers are arrested for driving while intoxicated, the first thing that will come to mind is the potential consequences they will face if there is a conviction. The legal problems can be significant and result in lost driving privileges, jail time, fines and more. However, a too-often forgotten aspect of DWI charges Read More

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Teen driver faces speeding and DWI charges in Rochester

When young people in Rochester first get their driver license, they are prone to make mistakes that they do not realize will have potential consequences that can cause problems for their entire lives. This can include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, being reckless, distracted driving and more. When law enforcement stops Read More

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Bus driver arrested for DWI charges on the job

Being arrested for drunk driving in Rochester can spark serious problems in a person’s life if they are convicted. This is made worse if the allegations are made when they are working. If they are placing people in danger while they are on the job and allegedly under the influence – especially children and other Read More

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How does a DWI affect your insurance?

Drunk driving comes with a multitude of possible consequences: car accidents, injury or death, license suspension, jail time, and so on. A DWI affects other areas of life, as well. For example, losing your license could make it difficult to show up to work and earn the money to pay fines. One consequence you may Read More

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Repeat DWI offender arrested again in Upstate New York

Charges for driving while intoxicated can be challenging for New Yorkers as it can lead to a litany of penalties that will negatively impact their lives in multiple areas. When they have been convicted in the past, a repeat DWI can make matters far worse as the penalties are often much more severe. While DWI Read More

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Avoid a DUI after your party for the big game with these tips

If you can believe it, 2019 is already in full swing, and Super Bowl LIII (53) is less than a month away. You may have plans to attend a party or host one. Whether watching the game at a house or going to a sports bar, there is a heightened risk of you getting arrested for Read More

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Man faces DWI charges after crashing into police car

When a person is alleged to been driving under the influence and is facing drunk driving charges, it will often stem from a traffic stop in which Rochester law enforcement will see the vehicle operated in such a way that implies the driver is under the influence. In other instances, there is an accident and, Read More

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Drunk driving and other offenses subject to holiday crackdown

New Yorkers will generally wait to consider hiring a legal professional to provide defense for drunk driving offenses and other traffic violations until they have been charged. Obviously, this makes sense. However, for people who are heading out during the holidays and through the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations, it is important to understand that Read More

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Field sobriety tests in New York State

If a New York State law enforcement officer stops you on suspicion of DWI, he or she may ask you to take a field sobriety test. As during the rest of your interactions with police officers, remain polite. However, you do have the right to refuse to take these tests or to answer questions such Read More

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Man faces DWI offenses after head-on crash in New York

Being arrested and charged with drunk driving in Rochester can be intimidating and worrisome. This is made worse when there is an accident and other people are injured. While the focus will be on the injured people, it is important to remember that the driver has rights. Part of their rights involves their ability to Read More

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Man with prior DWI conviction faces new aggravated DWI charge

Anyone facing drunk driving charges in Rochester should know that they will be vulnerable to a litany of penalties should there be a conviction. This can include a driver’s license suspension, fines, jail and more. When the arrest comes after a previous conviction, there is the likelihood of harsher penalties. While driving under the influence is dangerous, Read More

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Man arrested for drunk driving after accident

In Rochester and the surrounding areas, drivers are advised to adhere to the speed limits and refrain from driving under the influence. When there is a crash, law enforcement will immediately seek to discern if there were issues with the driver that could have sparked the accident. This is true whether it is a single-car Read More

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What happens if one refuses a breath test?

Drivers in New York who are stopped by law enforcement and asked to take field sobriety tests or submit to a chemical test will often be confused as to what their rights are. Many might be under the impression that refusing a breath test or declining to take part in field sobriety tests falls under Read More

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What penalties will a commercial driver face for DWI offenses?

Being arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated in New York State carries with it serious potential consequences should there be a conviction. Anyone who is confronted with allegations of DWI offenses must be cognizant of what they can face, but it is even more important for those who are commercial drivers and need their Read More

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New York State Police arrests 28 drunk drivers

Motorists in New York understand that law enforcement takes a strong stance against drunk driving. Because of that, major campaigns are issued in an attempt to address drunk driving in the state. In these efforts, officers may set up checkpoints or increase patrol in certain areas, resulting in more stops and more arrests. When a Read More

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Penalties for a DWI in New York

Being pulled over in New York and other states can be nerve wrecking for motorists. In some cases it may not be clear why he or she is being pulled over. In other cases, a motorist may have an idea; however, they seek to get off just a warning. Whether it was a traffic violation Read More

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Guiding our clients through a defense against a DUI

The dangers of drunk driving are well known. This is why the state of New York and other states are harsh on this crime. Being accused of drunk driving is much more serious than receiving a traffic violation. One is faced with much more than minor fines. Thus, it is important to understand how a Read More

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Helping Rochester motorists fight a DWI charge

During the summer months, individuals in New York and elsewhere are likely to spend his or her weekends and evening out and about, enjoying the fun summer events or just the nice weather. With this, many individuals are also likely to consume alcohol during these outings. While this can be a perfectly legal and safe Read More

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Penalties for boating while intoxicated in New York

During the summer months, many New Yorkers enjoy getting out on the water. A day on the boat is a great way to soak up some sun and enjoy water activities. For many, a day on the boat also means grilling and enjoying some adult beverages. While consuming alcohol on a boat is legal, consuming Read More

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Penalties in New York for drunk driving

While consuming alcohol until one become intoxicated is not a crime for those of legal age, it is a crime when a person decides to get behind the wheel of a vehicle no matter his or her age. Being accused of drunk driving is not like being issued a speeding ticket. It means going through Read More

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Penalties for multiple drunk driving offenses

For most New York residents, consuming alcohol is an occasional habit. Having a drink or two with fiend or colleagues is a great way to unwind. However, when consumption increases and an individual decided to get behind the wheel of a vehicle, this can present issues. Even when a driver believes they are still able Read More

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New York judge requested for removal after DWI

No one is immune from criminal charges. This means that individuals from all walks of life could be accused of committing a crime. Whether the charges are minor or severe, it is possible to even have criminal allegations harm the personal and professional reputation. And when motorists are pulled over for a suspected drunk driving, it Read More

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Can you appeal your New York drunk driving conviction?

Were you convicted of drunk or drugged driving in New York? If you were, you may already be dealing with a license suspension or revocation. These penalties — and others — can affect your ability to earn a living or to live your life in the way you want to. Depending on the circumstances of Read More

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Competent DUI defense may be able to exploit prosecutorial errors

To the untrained eye, many drunk driving cases can seem pretty open and shut. The police can make claims of seeing a driver acting intoxicated, which may be corroborated by witnesses and field sobriety, breath and blood tests can all point to a blood alcohol content that is beyond the legal limit. Yet, the truth Read More

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Ignition interlock device can accompany DWI conviction

Being accused of drunk driving is no small thing. Merely being accused of such a crime can cause damage to an individual’s reputation. A conviction, though, can wreak havoc on a person’s life. Depending on the severity of the offense, a conviction could land an individual in jail or prison for a long period of Read More

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How a traffic violation can lead to a DWI arrest

You may not think driving a little buzzed is a big deal. However, if law enforcement stops you for another traffic violation, it can become one. You do not even need to drink enough alcohol to show visible signs of intoxication. Any indication that you’ve been drinking can lead to an arrest for a DWI. Looking Read More

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Representing New Yorkers facing drunk driving charges

The holiday season is here, and along with it comes social gatherings and happiness. New Yorkers need to be aware, though, that police patrols often increase this time of year as the authorities try to crack down on drunk driving. As we discussed in a previous post, the penalties handed out upon a drunk driving conviction Read More

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The penalties faced for NY drunk driving offenses

Being accused of drunk driving is no small thing. A criminal conviction on one of the many criminal offenses related to drunk driving can negatively affect an individual’s life for years to come. Jail, prison and fines may all be real potential penalties, and a conviction can cause severe damage to one’s reputation. Fortunately, there Read More

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We stand up for those accused of drunk driving

If you’re facing drunk driving charges, then you were probably subjected to field sobriety tests which the police claim you failed. Prosecutors will use this evidence in an attempt to obtain a conviction, whether through plea negotiations or trial. However, simply because the police say you failed a field sobriety test does not mean that you Read More

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New York bicyclists hit, drunk driving allegations levied

Anytime a car accident occurs, the police investigate to determine if any criminal wrongdoing occurred. Those who become the subject of one of those investigations can be in for an uphill battle. Although an individual should be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, too many times the court of public opinion Read More

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How legitimate are breathalyzer tests?

There can be many parts to a DUI prosecution. First, prosecutors may have to show that the initial stop that led to the arrest was legal. Second, they will likely have to prove that evidence collected by police officers, as well as witness accounts, is enough to demonstrate that the accused individual is guilty beyond Read More

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DWI charges in New York require a strong defense

Drunk driving charges carry serious potential penalties and consequences, including criminal penalties and administrative consequences such as license suspension, that it is important to be aware of. The potential penalties and consequences can increase if the accused individual has more than DWI offense and is on their second DWI offense for example. Drunk driving laws are commonly Read More

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How are field sobriety tests conducted?

Getting caught up in a drunk driving situation is not something anyone desires. Unfortunately, mistakes are sometimes made that result in law enforcement conducting various tests to determine if an individual is indeed inebriated. In an effort for law officers to determine whether an accused driver is driving while impaired, the National Highway Traffic Safety Read More

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Fourth of July holiday means barbecues, beer and DWI

Summer’s at its peak, the days are nice and warm, the sun’s out almost the longest we see all year, and many of us are off work for the day or maybe even a long weekend. The Fourth of July weekend for many Americans is a time to celebrate our freedoms as a nation. Whether Read More

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Man arrested on DWI charges with toddler in car

In New York State, there are different levels of DWI charges that a driver can face when arrested. If convicted and depending on the circumstances, a driver will deal with fines, be sent to jail, lose driving privileges and more. Some circumstances are taken more seriously than others. For example, if the driver is arrested Read More

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Judge convicted of DWI faces problems due to alleged violations

For those in Rochester who are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol and are facing the penalties for that action, the case is not over once the judgment has been issued. For example, there might be an ignition interlock device placed on the driver’s vehicle and other attempts on the part of the Read More

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Court upholds lifetime suspension for multiple DWI offenders

New Yorkers who are arrested for on DWI charges are keenly aware of the potential consequences that go along with a conviction. However, they might not realize just how severe and life-changing the punishments can be. If there is an accident, it might be understood that the punishments are harsh, but even those who are Read More

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Man faces DWI charges after breath test reveals high BAC level

In New York State, driving under the influence can cause major, long-term problems for anyone convicted of it. Law enforcement is in a constant state of awareness of drivers who might be under the influence and will not hesitate to make a traffic stop to investigate. Those who are stopped by the police and arrested Read More

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Drunk driving: its factors and offenses in New York State

People in New York State invariably understand that being arrested and charged with drunk driving can lead to various consequences. The amount of alcohol in the system is important for drunk driving charges, but it is not necessary to be above the generally accepted level of .08 blood-alcohol content to be charged. Less alcohol in Read More

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DWI offenses, ignition interlock and Leandra’s Law

New York State residents who are placed under arrest for DWI offenses might have a vague notion of the penalties they will face if they are convicted. Depending on the circumstances, the potential consequences can include hefty fines, a suspension of driving privileges and even a jail sentence. However, there are other penalties that can Read More

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With a full schedule of sports comes added DWI enforcement

It promises to be an incredibly busy next few days for sports fans here in New York, as not only are the Rangers, Sabres and Islanders all scheduled to take the ice, but the Yankees are also scheduled to play their season opener. This is not to mention, of course, the NCAA Final Four games Read More

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Were you charged with underage drinking in New York?

If you are under the legal drinking age in New York, even a small amount of alcohol in your system can get you into legal trouble. The penalties for those under the age of 21 who willfully drink alcohol and then drive are serious. While you may not go to jail, your license may be Read More

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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.

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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…

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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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    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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    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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    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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