The Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Rochester, NY
Finding yourself in need of a criminal defense attorney can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. As a resident of Rochester, NY, it’s important to find an experienced lawyer you can trust to provide you with the best possible legal representation and counseling during this difficult time.
I’ve put together this guide to highlight some of the most capable and trusted criminal defense attorneys currently practicing in the Rochester area. These lawyers have proven track records of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing a wide range of criminal charges – from DUI and drug offenses to domestic violence and homicide cases.
Whether you’re dealing with state or federal charges, these attorneys have the skills and experience to aggressively defend your rights, freedom and future. Read on to learn more about Rochester’s top-rated criminal lawyers and how they can help with your specific legal needs.
James Egan – A Seasoned Criminal Defense Attorney
Leading the list is James Egan, principal of James Egan Law. With over 16 years of experience spanning thousands of cases, Egan is a smart choice for individuals charged with criminal offenses in Rochester and the surrounding areas.
Egan represents clients facing charges ranging from gun and drug possession to DUI, domestic violence, homicide and white collar crimes. He is also experienced in defending complex federal cases involving accusations of tax fraud, money laundering and other financial crimes.
Clients appreciate Egan’s straightforward, honest approach and the personalized attention he devotes to each case. He works tirelessly to understand the details and build the strongest possible defense on his clients’ behalf.
The Legal Team at Tully Rinckey PLLC
The attorneys at Tully Rinckey PLLC offer decades of combined experience defending the rights of people charged with criminal offenses in Rochester and throughout New York state.
Their legal team includes several former prosecutors now devoted to defending the accused against the very charges they once pursued. This unique perspective provides insights into the prosecution’s strategies and helps the firm build rock-solid defense cases.
Tully Rinckey represents adult and juvenile clients facing state and federal criminal charges ranging from traffic tickets to violent felonies. Their team can handle every aspect of a case, from bail hearings and pre-trial motions through negotiating pleas or taking a case to trial.
Robert King – A Passionate Advocate for the Accused
Veteran Rochester defense lawyer Robert King brings over 35 years of courtroom experience to defending individuals charged with state and federal crimes.
King, founder of the Law Office of Robert King, has tried hundreds of cases and earned a reputation for his meticulous trial preparation and zealous advocacy for his clients. His practice areas include DUI, drug possession, sex offenses, assault and other violent crimes.
Attorney King also represents clients in personal injury lawsuits. This dual expertise allows him to maximize recovery for clients injured as a result of another party’s criminal actions.
The Respected Team at The Law Office of Lindsey Pieper
Lindsey Pieper heads this boutique criminal defense firm providing focused, personalized representation to clients throughout the Rochester area.
Attorney Pieper has successfully defended hundreds of misdemeanor and felony cases during her decade-plus career. Her experience includes winning dismissals and acquittals in cases involving charges of drug possession, assault, sex offenses, DUI and white collar crimes.
Pieper is joined by a small team of dedicated lawyers who work closely with every client to build an airtight defense drawing on their thorough investigation skills and trial experience.
Willman & Napolitano – Former Prosecutors Defending Your Rights
The Rochester law firm Willman & Napolitano leverages the unique insights of its founding partners – both former Monroe County prosecutors – to build strong criminal defense cases.
Adam Willman and Lorenzo Napolitano have almost 20 years’ combined experience handling criminal matters from both sides. This gives them an edge when it comes to anticipating the prosecution’s strategies and identifying weaknesses in the state’s case.
Their areas of expertise include defending DUI, drug crimes, sex offenses, domestic violence and homicide charges. Willman & Napolitano are known for their relentless pursuit of the most favorable outcomes for their clients.
What to Look for in a Rochester Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges in the Rochester area, it’s critical to have an experienced attorney in your corner from the very start. When researching lawyers, keep the following qualifications in mind:
- Trial experience – It’s not enough for an attorney just to negotiate plea bargains. Look for a lawyer with an established record of taking cases to trial and winning dismissals or acquittals. This signals they have the skills to mount an aggressive defense if needed.
- Knowledge of local courts – Understanding the procedures, personalities, and tendencies of local judges and prosecutors is invaluable in building a defense strategy. Seek out lawyers deeply familiar with the courts in your jurisdiction.
- Resources – A solo practitioner may not have the time and resources to thoroughly work up a defense compared to a larger firm. Make sure your lawyer has adequate support staff to handle the demands of your case.
- Communication skills – The attorney-client relationship requires open and frequent communication. Ensure your lawyer is responsive and keeps you informed at every stage.
- Affordable fees – Rates can vary widely between criminal defense attorneys in Rochester. Find one who offers competitive pricing suited to your budget.
No one expects to be charged with a crime. But if you find yourself in that situation, I hope this guide provides a useful starting point for identifying the very best legal representation in the Rochester area. The attorneys profiled here have the skills and experience to protect your rights and achieve the most favorable outcome in your criminal case.