Douglas Deane Rudolph

PRO

Douglas Deane Rudolph

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 9 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at New Haven, CT
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Violent Crime ... +2 more

65 Trumbull Street, Second Floor, New Haven, CT

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Douglas

Biography

Good people make mistakes, and everyone deserves a proper defense

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 30%

Aggressive criminal defense for misdemeanor and felony cases. I protect your rights while helping you navigate the criminal justice system.

30%
DUI and DWI 30%

Representation of individuals charged with DUIs (includes criminal defense and dealing with civil penalties e.g. license suspension/revocation).

30%
Sex Crime 15%

15%
Violent Crime 15%

15%
Expungement 10%

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Retainer

Sometimes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2019

Licenses

Licensed in Connecticut for 7 years

State: Connecticut

Acquired: 2018

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Minnesota for 9 years

State: Minnesota

Acquired: 2016

Inactive

No misconduct found

Location

Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph

65 Trumbull Street, Second Floor, New Haven, CT, 06510

rudolphdefense.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Douglas online.

Douglas Deane Rudolph's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

25 Client Reviews

5 star (25)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (0)

Posted by Jeff | June 6, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Great attorney, highly recommend.

For the first time in my life, I found myself involved with criminal courts. It was a highly publicized situation. Attorney Rudolph took the time to guide me through the process and get the best result possible. He also took time to speak with my mom, wife and daughter. The way he handled the press w...as quite impressive.

Posted by Shayna | May 29, 2023 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Great Outcome from Serious Charges

Doug is an AMAZING attorney. I found myself in the lowest place of my life charged with 1 felony and 6 misdemeanors. The most serious of my charges was Assault with a Motor Vehicle in the Second Degree, which typically means three years in prison. I can happily say I spent 0 days in jail and was able... to walk free, all because of the amazing services that Doug provided. I interviewed basically all of the major attorneys in Connecticut, and Doug was the ONLY attorney who spoke with me as if there was hope in my situation. He was transparent with me in the seriousness of my charges, however, the reason I chose him was because he BELIEVED that there was a way out. My situation occurred in the beginning of COVID, when the courts were extremely backdated, and Doug stayed with me for three whole years throughout the entirety of the process. He made phone calls with me frequently, and broke down exactly what was going on in language that was easy for me to understand. He always made time to have phone conversations and answer all of my questions through text and by email. It was clear to me from the information that Doug provided that he is extremely experienced with tough cases, and has amazing working knowledge of the court system and legal processes. He prepped me for each of my court dates, step-by-step on what was going to happen, so that I always felt prepared. It was not easy going through the process, but Doug made it so much more tolerable, and gave me courage that I didn't know I had. The most memorable instance for me was my very last day of court when I was giving my statement, I began feeling emotional and started stumbling on my words. Doug gave me a pat on the back, told me that this is it, I'm doing a great job, and this will all be over soon. Those words gave me the strength to continue my statement and close things out peacefully. The way things were done and presented by myself and Doug in court, even the judge was moved by the case. Doug also helped me in my substance use recovery journey by introducing me to a non-profit organization which I am still active with today. It's things like this that can't be taught in Law school, but make Doug a great attorney and an overall great human. He truly believed in me, and vouched for me throughout the entire time my court case lasted. If you have found yourself in a legal situation, THERE IS A WAY through it with an amazing attorney like Doug. If I had chosen anyone else, I know my outcome would have been so much different, and my life would not have gone in such a positive direction. I will forever be grateful for everything that Doug has done for me. THANK YOU!!!

Posted by anonymous | March 11, 2020 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Outstanding Attorney!!

In the summer of 2019, I was involved in a criminal case that made the news. As this was my first serious involvement with the law, I was overwhelmed and at a loss navigating the justice system. After meeting with several attorneys, Doug was the only one that stood out from the lot. From our first FR...EE consult appointment, Doug offered far more advice and guidance than I would have ever anticipated. He showed genuine interest and a desire to help ease the burden of facing criminal charges. Before officially signing him on to being my defense attorney, Doug made a point to sit with me and go over the contract with a fine toothed comb, making sure to explain things in terms the average person would understand. No matter how many questions I asked (even if some of them were repeated several times), Doug was patient, cordial, and very informative. He was reliably responsive to calls, texts, and emergencies. Throughout all of the preceedings, I always felt in as much control as possible. He always made sure to give me all of my options and explained them in thorough detail and never once did I feel strong-armed into any decision proving his genuine interest for the well-being of his clients as he never cut corners. Each day before every hearing, he would make a point to call me and go over the details so I could walk into the courtroom with confidence. Doug is well-spoken, experienced, and adamantly dedicated to his career- his help was indispensable. My case was resolved in a surprisingly favorable manner and my life can finally go back to normal. While I never anticipate being in this type of situation again, if the situation were to arise, I would have Doug represent me again with no hesitation!

Posted by anonymous | February 29, 2020 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Review

Doug was very available and communicated very well throughout the process. He explained the options in a clear and understandable way. Ultimately we got a good result.

Posted by anonymous | January 16, 2020 | Consulted Attorney

This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.

Appreciation ❤️

Mr Rudolph is kind hearted an a very knowledgeable lawyer who invest his time in caring about his clients not just about money he has sat an talked to me all though my situation maybe different he is definitely someone I highly recommend as hiring as a defense lawyer or even an opinion on the opposit...e side as in my case going through the abuse with my husband being 3 months pregnant with his child being physically mental emotional broken my husband is a master criminal some call him a career criminal ( persistent vilont offender ) he beasts woman an children an mr Rudolph had taken his time to listen an give me advice on the matter as to what will most likely happy an what I hope happens thank you so much for all your help❤️

See All Client Reviews

Douglas Deane Rudolph's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Douglas
Rachel Anne Mirsky headshot
Rachel Mirsky

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Rudolph is very passionate about his craft. He is undeterred in working towards getting his clients the best results possible. He demonstrates his unstoppable dedication to his clients while handling multiple trials simultaneously to achieve these results. I endorse Attorney Rudolph without reservation."

Michelle Hubbard headshot
Michelle Hubbard

Unknown lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent representation in a matter involving a mutual client. Thorough, responsive, and attentive."

Jennifer Elizabeth Olson headshot
Jennifer Olson

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Doug is a phenomenal person and lawyer. His knowledge of the law is superior, but more importantly he is a tenacious advocate for his clients. I would refer Doug to friends and family with enthusiasm!"

Michael James DeAgro headshot
Michael DeAgro

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 03

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have worked closely with Doug for about 5 years doing social justice work in the nonprofit sector. I have found Doug to be highly diligent in fulfilling his commitments and responsibilities. He is a self-starter that learns quickly and has strong instincts for problem-solving. He is attentive to substantive details, and equally attentive to individuals' unique personal needs. Clients and other attorneys can rely on Doug to be very honest, thorough, and intelligent."

Andrew Elias Davis headshot
Andrew Davis

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Doug more than 20 years, both professionally and personally. He is an outstanding trial lawyer that uses his charismatic personality and unique life experiences to set himself apart from other attorneys. Doug is devoted and dedicated to his clients. I am a criminal defense attorney who strongly endorses Doug's ability to represent you in any criminal matter."

Jonathan Stickney headshot
Jonathan Stickney

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Douglas for years. He is a tenacious advocate who always looks out for his client's best interests. He is a smart and extremely capable attorney who I wholeheartedly endorse."

Gregory T. Klich headshot
Gregory Klich

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 11

Relationship: Friend

"I personally know Douglas. He is a strong attorney that will fight for your rights. I strongly recommend Douglas to handle all your legal needs."

Bejeir Delayne Brooks headshot
Bejeir Brooks

Personal injury lawyer | Nov 10

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known Counselor Doug for many years both professionally and as a friend. Doug is a consummate professional and is both willing and able to use both obscure and common legal theories to defend and promote his Clients' best interests."

Elliott John Nickell headshot
Elliott Nickell

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Doug always puts his clients first. He works tirelessly to achieve the best possible results for his clients. I endorse this lawyer."

Cody L Hayes headshot
Cody Hayes

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 24

Relationship: Other

"Doug Rudolph is a man of character who became a lawyer to help people through difficult times when they have been accused of committing crime(s). The key word here, as Doug tells me, is "accused" of committing crimes. If you are ever accused of a crime, dial Doug and let him help you out of (or through) the difficulty. Doug won't let you down."

Robert Henry Ambrose headshot
Robert Ambrose

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christopher Wesley Keyser headshot
Christopher Keyser

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Rudolph is a passionate and dedicated advocate who brings a unique perspective and experience to the table. I recommend his services to anyone seeking thorough and non-judgmental representation."

View All Endorsements
Forest E Green headshot
Forest Green

Criminal defense lawyer

Rachel Anne Mirsky headshot
Rachel Mirsky

Probate lawyer

Michelle Hubbard headshot
Michelle Hubbard

Criminal defense lawyer

Jennifer Elizabeth Olson headshot
Jennifer Olson

Personal injury lawyer

Michael James DeAgro headshot
Michael DeAgro

Health care lawyer

Andrew Elias Davis headshot
Andrew Davis

Criminal defense lawyer

Jonathan Stickney headshot
Jonathan Stickney

General practice lawyer

Bejeir Delayne Brooks headshot
Bejeir Brooks

Intellectual property lawyer

Gregory T. Klich headshot
Gregory Klich

Family lawyer

Elliott John Nickell headshot
Elliott Nickell

Criminal defense lawyer

Jennifer Lynn Casanova-Roers headshot
Jennifer Casanova-Roers

Criminal defense lawyer

Christopher Wesley Keyser headshot
Christopher Keyser

Unknown lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2024

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2023

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2022

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2022

Connecticut Rising Stars, Super Lawyers

2021

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2021

Connecticut Rising Stars, Super Lawyers

2020

Connecticut Rising Stars, Super Lawyers

2020

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2020

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers Association

2019

Best of New Haven 2020, New Haven Register/Go

2019

Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys

2019

Client's Choice, Avvo

2019

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2018

Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys

2018

Top 40 Under 40, National Trial Lawyers

2014

CALI Excellence Award - Criminal Procedure: Adjudication, Western New England University School of Law

2014

CALI Excellence Award - Legislative Lobbying and Advocacy, Western New England University School of Law

Work Experience

2016 - Present

Attorney, Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph

2014 - 2015

Student Attorney, Public Defender's Office

2013 - 2016

Policy Director, Young People in Recovery

2013 - 2013

Legal Intern, New Haven Legal Assistance Association

Associations

2018 - Present

New Haven Bar Association

Member

2018 - Present

Connecticut Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Member

2018 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2018 - Present

National Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2018 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys

Member

2016 - Present

Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

State v. A

Acquittal

State of Connecticut vs. Baker

Dismissed

State of Connecticut vs. Schexnayder

Dismissed

State of Connecticut vs. Vega

Pending Dismissal

State of Connecticut vs. Tekien

pending dismissal

State of Connecticut vs. Jean

Dismissed

State of Minnesota v. Findell

Dismissed

State v. Mohammad

Amended to Disorderly Conduct

Ruben vs. State of Minnesota

Granted and Charges Dismissed and Removed from Record

State of Minnesota v. Jaramillo

Stay of Adjudication

State of Minnesota v. Saldana

4/5 charges dismissed; probation

State of Minnesota v. Morgan

reduced to non-criminal payable citation

State of Minnesota v. Levine

Dismissed

See More Legal Cases

Education

2015

Western New England University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2007

Augsburg College

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2014

Webinar

HIV & Recovery in the Workplace: What You Need to Know

2014

National Leadership Conference

Advocacy 101

Publications

2018

Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph Blog Five Key Things to Know About DUI Arrests in Connecticut

2018

Law Office of Douglas D. Rudolph Blog Q&A: Erasing a Criminal Record in Connecticut

2017

Center for Addiction and Recovery Training: Recovery Coach Academy for Young Adults Addiction in the Workplace: Understanding Your Rights and the Limitations of the Law

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution