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.