Criminal Defense Law Firm Serves Clients from Rochester to Albany

New York criminal law attorney fights to protect your rights

Any person who has been arrested can face aggressive interrogation by police and overly zealous prosecution, regardless of guilt or innocence. Not every defense lawyer is equipped to manage tough cases that can alter the course of a defendant’s life. But, as a former state trooper and prosecuting attorney, James L. Riotto knows exactly how the system operates. He understands what’s at stake and he can anticipate the tactics authorities will use to win a conviction. His unique perspective has produced consistently positive results, and he will press his clients’ rights through every step of the legal process.

Asserting your rights upon arrest

You’ve no doubt heard police officers issue Miranda warnings on TV and in the movies. This is because the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that suspects must be informed of their rights so they can make an informed decision about whether to answer questions. However, the law only requires officers to Mirandize a suspect after an arrest. To fully protect yourself, you should be aware that you have the same rights before an arrest, namely:

• To remain silent — You can refuse to answer questions at any time.
• To have an attorney present — You should not answer any questions without getting advice from counsel.

If you fail to assert your rights, law enforcement can subject you to rigorous questioning, and your answers may unwittingly confirm their suspicions, leading to your arrest. You should cut off questioning and demand to see an attorney. When you call the Law Office of James L. Riotto, you get immediate assistance and a defense of your other rights as well, such as your right to be charged or released, your right to fair bail, and your right to see the evidence against you.

Proven advocate provides a staunch defense against misdemeanor and felony charges

In New York, misdemeanor crimes are serious charges that can lead to incarceration in county jail as well as stiff fines and the loss of certain privileges, such as your driver license. Felony crimes are even more serious and can result in lengthy state prison sentences, high fines and the loss of civil rights, such as your right to own a firearm. With so much at stake, you need proven and determined legal representation from James L. Riotto.

Mr. Riotto defends individuals facing state and federal criminal charges that include:

• Assault and battery — Altercations can quickly escalate to threats and violence. If you are accused of an assault crime, your reputation and your liberty are on the line. An assertive defense can help mitigate the damage done by an arrest and prevent a single incident from tarnishing your future.
• DWI — These charges are far more serious than simple traffic violations, calling for jail time, high fines and the suspension of your license. As an experienced DWI lawyer, James L. Riotto can protect your rights and build a defense that fits your unique circumstances.
• Drug crimes — A felony drug crime conviction can take years from your life, but even a misdemeanor conviction for simple possession can have serious, lasting consequences. Take advantage of your right to counsel and get proven, personalized legal support from James L. Riotto.
• Juvenile adjudications —New York has one of the toughest juvenile justice systems in the country, so a youth faced with delinquency proceedings could be looking at prolonged detention. Mr. Riotto believes that the best way to give your child a second chance is to provide determined legal representation in juvenile court.
• Traffic violations — Every point added to your driving record for a traffic violation brings you one step closer to the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges. Tickets for moving violations also drive up your insurance premiums, potentially costing you thousands of dollars over time. Skilled representation from a criminal defense lawyer can help preserve your license and your bottom line.
• Parole and probation — Although parole and probation are different processes, both allow a convicted person to be at liberty under certain conditions. But if you are accused of violating the terms of your parole or probation, you could once again face incarceration. Lawyer James L. Riotto represents offenders at hearings to determine if violations have occurred and fights aggressively to help offenders avoid jail time.

Mr. Riotto represents clients facing an arrest or criminal investigation. Get aggressive and thorough defense representation from a lawyer determined to protect your rights and fight for positive results.

Contact an experienced Rochester criminal defense lawyer

If you or a loved one faces criminal charges anywhere from Rochester to Albany, you can trust the Law Office of James L. Riotto to provide an aggressive defense. To schedule a consultation, call 866-772-2122 or contact us online.