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Richard Portale

Criminal defense Attorney at White Plains, NY

4.8   19 reviews
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State NY
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Currently Registered No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Richard

Learn Richard’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    65%
    Richard A. Portale has been practicing criminal law since '98. He started as a Westchester County DA, rising to the prestigious Investigations Bureau, where he tried Narcotics & Gangs felonies. SInce leaving the DA's office, Mr. Portale has tried scores of cases to verdict, with a record that is second to none in the tri-state area. Mr. Portale has successfully overcome video-taped and hand-written confessions, clients caught on video, DNA & fingerprint evidence in defense of his clients!

    9 years, 5,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI
    20%
    Mr. Portale has tried dozens of DWI cases to verdict. He knows DWI law inside and out and will obtain the best result possible for you.

    9 years, 1,000 cases

  3. Federal crime
    10%
    Mr. Portale is admitted in the United States District Court for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York and the United States Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit. Last Month alone, he won three (3) Federal motions for a downward departure.

    9 years, 20 cases

  4. Appeals
    5%
    Recently, Mr. Portale won a remand in the United States Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit on a Federal Conspiracy to distribute PCP conviction.

    9 years, 20 cases

    Mr. Portale is known as a pit bull in the courtroom and at the negotiting table and he has the results to prove it.

 

    While attending the University of Buffalo Mr. Portale majored in Interdisciplinary Studies, Classics and Philosophy of Law, and graduated with Honors. Throughout undergraduate studies, Mr. Portale played football, basketball and rugby. After receiving his Juris Doctor,, Mr. Portale moved to Westchester County, New York where he studied for the New York Bar Exam while he co-managed the re-election campaign of then Westchester County Attorney Jeanine Pirro. That year, Ms. Pirro received a greater percentage of votes than any candidate in Westchester County history.

 

    In January 1998, Mr. Portale was hired as an Assistant District Attorney at The Westchester County District Attorney’s Office. During his almost five year tenure he was promoted through the ranks as follows: starting in the Motions and Appeals Unit, the Grand Jury Bureau, the Investigations Division and finally the Gangs Unit of the Investigations Bureau. Mr. Portale Left the DA’s Office and joined one of the most successful Plaintiff’s Medical Malpractice Firms in the nation – Duffy, Duffy & Burdo where he further honed his trial and litigation skills.

 

In addition to being appointed to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, Richard had also received the 2019 Litigator of the Year award from the American Institute of Trial Lawyers. Longing to return to his true passion criminal law, Mr. Portale pursued his dream and established his own practice in Westchester County, with a concentration in criminal matters. In May of 2009, Mr. Portale joined the firm of Pappalardo & Pappalardo as a partner.  In January, 2012, Richard was named Senior Criminal Defense at the law firm of Gaines, Novick, Ponzini, Cossu & Venditti, LLP.  In May, 2014, Mr. Portale resurrected the Law Offices of Richard A. Portale, and has become one of the busiest criminal practices in the tri-state area.  Mr. Portale has tried over a hundred cases to verdict - with a success rate that is second to none. He is admitted to the Bar of New York State, the United States Federal District Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York and the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia.

 

Professional & Bar Association Memberships:

 

New York State Bar Association (Criminal Law Section)

Westchester County Bar Association

NYS Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

NY State Trial Lawyers Association

Association of Trial Lawyers of America

Columbian Lawyers Association

 

Other Interests: Following a 10 year career playing International Rugby League for the Unites States - Mr. Portale now and has for the past 5 years, served as Legal Counsel to the American National Rugby League. In addition, Mr. Portale and his business partner Danny Bull founded the Connecticut Wildcats - their very own Rugby Tteam (). The Wildcats have won 3 National Championships in their short five years of existence. Mr. Portale is also an avid Snowboarder - he enjoys dropping off cliffs and other risky maneuvers and is just learning to play the guitar. Please like him on Facebook, Follow on Twitter, and read his Blog: The Hanover County Courthouse.

Photos and videos

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Contact Richard

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Portale Randazzo LLP
245 Main Street
Suite 340
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Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  19 customer reviews
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Posted by Daniel | July 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney!
Richard is a very knowledgeable and experienced attorney. From the moment I first spoke to him I felt assured and protected. He is a caring and compassionate man that utilizes all of his skills to represent his clients successfully.
Posted by Kim Meier, Port Washington, NY | January 22, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Above and Beyond!!
Mr. Portale and his staff were truly there for me every step of the way through a very tough process. They were always very quick to respond to all my needs and questions and walked me through everything step by step. Their price was fair and they really pulled out all the stops for me and went the extra mile. I would highly recommend Portale Randazzo LLP to anyone who needs an attorney of their kind. Kim Meier, Port Washington, NY
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Posted by anonymous | March 19, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best of the best!
I had met richard 16 years ago while he was visiting another client never realizing that one day I would have to actually put his number to use and have to hire him for my children he has worked with my family and I on 5 separate occasions once for my son and 4 different times for my daughter It is beyond me how anyone could give this man one star and i read the review i highly doubt any of it to be truth. On those 4 occasions he's worked for my daughter he could have very well took another case and made double the money he made if not triple that instead of helping a 16 year old girl out of a jam as he did and at that time he was working a high profile case as well and still tended to my daughters case in a very professional manner he went above and beyond on more then one occasion for her and believe me who ever made the remark about it being all about money i beg to differ for as many times he bailed her out a jam and what he got payed if it were any other lawyer they would have never agreed to help out like rich did. But i guess this is what happens when you hire a lawyer who cares genuinely about their field of work and clients.. we are grateful for all the tireless hours he invested into helping my kids and for all that he has done a million thank yous could NEVER be enough.
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Posted by anonymous | January 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
When your family, future, occupation and reputation could be decimated you want a legal team that will put forth the upmost dedication to defending your livelihood. One has arrived at this page reading testimonials and in need of help. At the moment you read this you may feel terrible, depressed and as if all hope is going down the drain. Legal matters can take months, as time ticks each day negative thoughts may pass across your mind. Surround yourself with supportive family and close friends who will elevate your spirits. Suggestions: NEVER answer questions asked by the authorities! Call Rich Portalie immediately, do not wait! When we met Mr. Portalie and his associate attorney Ms. Shoshany they took extensive notes about the details of the situation. Rich was interested in those personal life accomplishments bringing out the positive in the middle of a potentially dismal situation. Legal affairs are complex and require a team of dedicated and experienced attorneys who will defend your freedom. When all of this started there was only a small glimmer of hope for a positive outcome. I know that Rich and Hannah had positive thoughts from day one. The end result was that glimmer of hope. It was total and absolute success. There is no other firm that can be recommended when your family, your future, your occupation, your reputation and your life is on the line. Retain the best, and never give up, because they won’t and you shouldn’t either. With Sincerest Thanks, For managing the entire situation from the initial consolation to the positive conclusion. Life Savers!! ~Anonymous~
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Posted by Marissa | December 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
AWESOME!!!!
If you are looking for a highly qualified, intelligent and compassionate attorney, then Richard Portale is the way to go! He treats you with respect and courtesy. I made one of my best lifetime decisions retaining him for a close relative of mine. I couldn’t have made a better decision. Thank GOD for Rich Portale!
Posted by Andrew | March 27, 2015
By far the best lawyer!
I would like to take some time to show my gratitude towards Richard a. Portale. I was a client of his for just about a year. A horrifying year of my life. He was the first of 3 lawyers I met with. Right off the bat I knew Mr. Portale was a great fit for me and my family. He made us feel comfortable and explained everything to us so we could understand. I was facing very serious charges and the two other lawyers told me to take the plea even though I was well within my rights with my actions. Richard and I decided that we would fight these charges since I was innocent. I knew he would ultimately come through and prove his case. Then, 10 months later when Mr. Portale had my whole family and I meet him to discuss the case, he then pulled out a letter. A letter that would change my life forever. Mr. Portale held out his hand as he told me my case was dismissed! Even in my mind, the best case scenario was dismissal after trial. Not before it even started! I will forever be grateful to him and so will my family. This is more than the outcome we hoped for, but I wouldn’t expect anything less from Mr. Portale.
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Posted by Romeo | March 27, 2015
Help on an International level
Richard helped me with an international child abduction\retention case involving my two children. He was a great support in steering me in the right direction and letting me know exactly what steps I needed to take. His advice and counsel helped me to get one step closer to being reunited with my children. The case is still ongoing, but I am confident that with Richard's support, I can achieve results I can live with. When I need him, he is only a phone call or an email away. He is expediant in his correspondences. He also demands quality and honesty on my part and I have received nothing less from him!
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Posted by anonymous | March 27, 2015
Charges Dismissed!!
I would like to take some time to show my gratitude towards Richard a. Portale. I was a client of his for just about a year. A horrifying year of my life. He was the first of 3 lawyers I met with. Right off the bat I knew Mr. Portale was a great fit for me and my family. He made us feel comfortable and explained everything to us so we could understand. I was facing very serious charges and the two other lawyers told me to take the plea even though I was well within my rights with my actions. Richard and I decided that we would fight these charges since I was innocent. I knew he would ultimately come through and prove his case. Then, 10 months later When Mr. Portale had my whole family and I meet him to discuss the case, he then pulled out a letter. A letter that would change my life forever. Mr. Portale held out his hand as he told me my case was dismissed! Even in my mind, the best case scenario was dismissal after trial. Not before it even started! I will forever be grateful to him and so will my family. This is more than the outcome we hoped for, but I wouldn’t expect anything less from Mr. Portale.
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Posted by Tayshawn | March 26, 2015
Kept me outta jail!
I was facing some hard time after I got caught up with the wrong crew. I knew I was in trouble and needed a lawyer, so I hit up one of my boys and he told me about Rich Portale. After meeting with Rich, I knew he was my guy. He kept it real with me, always returned my calls, and went to town on those prosecutors. Im really not sure how he pulled it off, but I got zero time. Rich Portale is the real deal and id be locked up if it wasnt for him.
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Posted by Michele | March 26, 2015
Thankful!
Everyone makes mistakes and unfortunately I was one of them. I had been hanging out with the wrong people at the time. My ex-significant other (father of my child) was not the best person to be around. I was charged with crimes that had nothing to do with me but with my ex-SO. He blamed me! I did not know what to do. I thought the worst and I was worried for my child's well being. I walked into Mr. Portale's office with such negative thoughts. As soon as I spoke with Mr. Portale, I felt so much better. He explained to me the process and how my case would be handled. It all made sense. I walked out of his firm with a positive mind set. Later on, my case was dismissed. I am so thankful for meeting Mr. Portale.
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Posted by Benny | March 26, 2015
So thankful i called Mr. Portale
I caught a possession charge after I knew the cops had violated my rights and...to put it simply...Mr. Portale was a godsend! He listened to my side of the story without judging me. If I ever had a question, he wasn't one of those hard to reach lawyers. He always got back to me quickly and with all of the information I asked for. He didn't treat me like a number - from the beginning, I knew that he actually cared about me and my case. I thought the cards were stacked against me, but because of Mr. Portale's representation, I was able to have the charges dismissed. He told me to call him "Rich," but after the great job he did on my case and the professional treatment I received, I call him "Mr. Portale" out of respect. The only thing that could have gone better or differently was that I wish I called his office sooner. If I were a teacher I'd give him and his staff an A+.
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Posted by Bryan | March 23, 2015
THE Best
My experience with Richard was phenomenal. I was kept informed from start to finish and felt like I was his only client at times. When it came to my case Richard was always honest with me which both me and my family appreciated as we were going through this process together. I hope I never need his services again but if I do I would not consider anyone else representing me.
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Posted by Naomi | March 23, 2015
The Protector of Freedom & Deliverer of Justice
Richard Portale is one of a kind. Not only does he have extensive knowledge of the law, he shows compassion and is determined to make sure that justice is served for his client. A few years ago I was involved in a criminal case where the District Attorney was pushing for a trail. I contacted Mr. Portale because I felt like I was being backed up in a corner and being pushed to do something I did not want to do. Shortly after contacting Mr. Portale, I was notified that I did not have to go to court or deal with the process of my case being on trial. It was like magic! Richard Portale did not waste any time when it came to making sure that I was protected and getting the justice I deserved. A trial would have destroyed me mentally, and possibly being charged with a criminal offense would have ruined my life. I don’t know where my life would be if I didn’t contact Mr. Portale. Thank you Mr. Portale, you saved my life!
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Posted by anonymous | April 15, 2014
Deliverer of Justice...
When the odds are against you and you are under persecution, Richard A. Portale is the person you want to call because he will fight for you. I called Mr. Portale when I needed a lawyer to represent me in my domestic abuse case and he went beyond his call of duty. Richard Portale didn’t see me as a number or a check he saw me as a life worth saving and that’s what I loved most about having him as my attorney. I’ve never seen anyone put such value on another person's life. He is organized, has excellent knowledge of the law and approached my case with such conviction that I knew he was someone that I needed on my side. Thanks to his master negotiator skills and unwillingness to lose, my case was dismissed and I didn’t have to deal with the headaches of a trial. Richard Portale is the deliverer of justice; justice to the court, justice to the law and most importantly JUSTICE TO HIS CLIENT.
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Posted by Cristy | April 9, 2014
More than just a lawyer...
Richard Portale is more than an incredible and trustworthy lawyer. He is a true humanitarian and one of the most compassionate people I have ever met. I have worked with him on several subjects and each and every time he is honest, kind and fair in his assessments. It is guaranteed that he will treat you with respect and integrity. There is true passion and concern that comes from him and it automatically puts you at ease regardless of the circumstance. I highly recommend Richard Portale to everyone!
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Posted by Patrick | April 8, 2014
When only the best will do
Richard portale has represented me several times .Every case satisfaction guaranteed I was pleased and will always retain and matain him as my attorney
Posted by anonymous | April 3, 2014
Great Lawyer!
I used Richard a couple years ago for a case About my International union aganist me I hired Richard last minute and he was extremly prepared and helpful He is a knowledgeable on all matters of law and excellent In court!
Posted by Greg | April 2, 2014
Worth the Money!
I have used Rich several times and could not have been happier with the results each time. He is extremely knowledgeable and always kept me in the loop as to where my cases stood. His preparation and approach put me at ease and he delivered the results I was hoping to get.
Posted by anonymous | October 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The ABSOLUTE worse!
I can go on and on about this unprofessional egocentric attorney. Mr.portale was paid in full to represent me in my case and did absolutely NOTHING for 8 months! He pushed court date after court date to the point the prosecutor was left wondering what is even going on! He was IMPOSSIBLE to get ahold of... literally would call his office and his receptionist would give me the "oh I'll give him the message and have him call you back" never ever did it happen! I would call his cell phone and of course NO ANSWER, except this one time he actually did answer and then proceeded to rush me off the phone because he was attending to something else. Mr. Portale had a high profile case going on at the time in which it was made clear that was his mine priority and my case was of no importance to him .. I guess because my case was not on TV therefore he did NOT care. After months and months of being left in the complete dust ... I FIRED HIM!!! I had lost all faith in this guy! He pretty much took my money (since I paid for the entire case at once) and ran away with my money!! Isn't that a crime? I swear to god this guy should not be able to practice law. He was embarrassing and showed no remorse.
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 400-450 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Principal
  • Law Offices of Richard A. Portale, P.C.
  • 2004 - Present
  • Senior Criminal Trial Attorney
  • Gaines, Novick, Ponzini, et al
  • 2012 - 2014
  • Partner
  • Pappalardo & Pappalardo, LLP
  • 2009 - 2012
  • Associate
  • Duffy, Duffy & Burdo, LLP
  • 2003 - 2004
  • Assistant District Attorney
  • Westchester County District Attorney's Office
  • 1998 - 2003
  • Clerk
  • Honorable Peter Broderick, Niagara County Court Judge
  • 1990 - 1990
View all work experience

Education

  • Cleveland State University - Marshall College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1997
  • University of Buffalo
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1994

Legal Cases

  • People v. Jaerue Williams
  • Acquitted
  • People v. Cory Bell
  • Acquitted of all Felonies
  • People v. Steven Brink
  • Acquitted of all Felonies
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Arch Angel Blue
  • Board Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Federal Defenders
  • 2013 - Present
  • New York State Bar Association (Criminal Law Section)
  • 1998 - Present
  • Westchester County Bar Association
  • 1998 - Present
  • NYS Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • N/A
  • NY State Trial Lawyers Association
  • N/A
  • Association of Trial Lawyers of America
  • N/A
  • Columbian Lawyers Association
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Memeber
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • National Leadership Award
  • National Republican Congressional Committee
  • 2005
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (3)
Given (3)
Endorse Richard
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Can't emphasize the word excellent enough when it comes to Rich's criminal defense work. One of the best."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Great lawyer and man!"
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
White Plains Criminal defense Lawyer Richard Portale
Richard Portale
Criminal defense Attorney
White Plains, NY
Licensed for 24 years