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Juvenile Crimes

Rochester & Albany Juvenile Defense Lawyer

Experienced attorney serving Monroe County, Orleans County, Livingston County, Wayne County and Genesee County

New York typically tries children charged with delinquent acts in family court. But children between the ages of 13 and 15 can face charges for serious or violent acts as adults. While the New York Juvenile Justice System focuses on rehabilitation, some consider it to be one of the harshest systems in the country.

The Law Office of James L. Riotto in Rochester provides skilled legal support for young defendants throughout the specialized legal process.

An underage drinking attorney helps families facing a common legal issue

New York law considers adults age 21 and older intoxicated when they have a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .08. But the law holds individuals under the legal drinking age to a stricter standard. Operating a motor vehicle after consuming any alcohol, even with a BAC of as little as .02, represents a significant criminal act for an underage driver. And underage drivers who operate a vehicle while ability impaired, typically with a BAC of .05 to .07, can lose driving privileges for at least one year, with repeat convictions extending revocation to the longer of one year or until age 21. Rochester DWI attorney James L. Riotto carefully examines all records to refute BAC test results and works with clients to identify mitigating circumstances that can get charges dropped or reduced.

Skilled support for minors in possession of drugs

Although New York sentencing for juveniles is typically less severe than for adults, youthful offenders can still face significant penalties, even for drug convictions related to possession of relatively small amounts of marijuana. But no matter how minor the charges, children need an experienced attorney by their side from the moment of arrest and throughout the legal process. As a former state trooper, drug defense lawyer James Riotto understands how law enforcement works and knows how to represent his clients to protect their rights.

Contact an experienced juvenile defense attorney in Rochester

Any child facing charges of delinquent acts needs a juvenile defense lawyer in Rochester who understands how to work with children to develop an effective defense and protect their rights within the complex New York juvenile justice system. The Law Office of James L. Riotto supports youthful defendants throughout the criminal process, providing personalized attention, 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
  • google
    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

  • google
    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

  • google
    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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    Expertise Best Criminal Attorney in Rochester
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