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Neil Steven Ruskin

PRO

Neil Steven Ruskin

5.0
1464 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 53 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Brooklyn, NY
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Sex Crime ... +2 more

188 Montague St, Suite 900, Brooklyn, NY

Free Consultation

About Neil

Biography

Top Rated Highly Reviewed Criminal Defense Attorney

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 20%

20%
DUI and DWI 20%

20%
Domestic Violence 20%

20%
Drug Crime 20%

20%
Sex Crime 20%

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2026 2025 2024
...
+ 9
Silver Client Champion

Licenses

Licensed in New York for 53 years

State: New York

Acquired: 1973

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Location

Neil S Ruskin

188 Montague St, Suite 900, Brooklyn, NY, 11201

neilruskinlawfirm.com/

Neil Steven Ruskin's Reviews

Showing 21 - 25 of 234 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Ariel | April 17, 2025 | Criminal Defense

TERIFFIC LAWYER

Today I went with my sister to see attorney Neil Ruskin. I went there to discuss a criminal case, Neil is a Terrific lawyer. I sat with my sister and discussed the case with Neil for over an hour. Neil gave us a free consultation and explained everything completely. Neil does not want to see my siste...r get in trouble. Neil is hopeful, the court apointed lawyer will be able to help her without any complications. Neil really cares and is very compassiont. Neil hallowed at my sister to let her know it is time for her to start thinking. Neil is a terrific lawyer and very sensitive.

Posted by Lloyd | April 16, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

The absolute best.

I hired attorney Neil Ruskin. I hired Neil because he's the best. Neil spoke to me and convinced me he knew how to win. I was convinced it was the right attorney for my wife's criminal case. Neil is loud strong and a real fighter. I went to court with Neil and I am absolutely convinced he is the be...st. He is the Babe Ruth of the criminal Justice system.

Posted by Jack | March 30, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Amazing Lawyer

Hiring Neil Ruskin was the best decision I could have made during one of the most stressful times of my life. From the moment I first spoke with him, I knew I had someone in my corner who was not only incredibly knowledgeable about criminal law but also deeply committed to protecting my rights and fu...ture. Neil has an unmatched presence—he’s sharp, confident, and commands respect. You can tell immediately that he’s been doing this for decades and that he’s seen it all. But what sets him apart even more is the way he treats his clients. He took the time to explain everything to me in clear, honest terms—no sugarcoating, no false promises, just straight talk backed by years of experience and results. He answered every call, every text, and never made me feel like I was just another case. He genuinely cares, and that shows in the way he handles every detail. Neil is strategic, thorough, and always two steps ahead. He knows how to navigate the system and uses every tool available to build a solid defense. It’s not just his legal skill that stands out—it’s his presence, his confidence, and the peace of mind he brings. When you're facing serious charges, you want someone who knows how to fight and who will fight for you without hesitation. That’s exactly who Neil Ruskin is. He’s one of the best criminal defense attorneys out there, and I would recommend him to anyone who wants a true professional in their corner—someone who will protect you like family and give you the absolute best chance at justice.

Posted by Chani | March 26, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Chana

Neil is a very knowledgeable and expert criminal lawyer; He is very attentive to details. Definitely would hire him again.

Posted by Eliyahu Cohen | March 25, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Boss bugsy Siegel

From the moment I met Neil Steven Ruskin, I knew I had found more than just a lawyer—I had found a true fighter, a legal mastermind who would stop at nothing to ensure justice was served. Facing a simple assault charge was one of the most stressful experiences of my life, and from day one, Neil made ...it clear that he had my back. This was not an open-and-shut case; it was an ongoing battle that required patience, expertise, and a deep understanding of the law. But Neil never wavered—he was there through every twist and turn, meticulously analyzing the details, crafting brilliant strategies, and proving time and again why he is one of the best criminal defense attorneys out there. His ability to dismantle the prosecution’s case was nothing short of astonishing. Every argument they tried to present, he countered with precision, confidence, and an in-depth legal knowledge that left no room for doubt. He saw opportunities that others might have missed and used them to turn the case in my favor. But what truly sets Neil apart is not just his legal brilliance—it’s his presence. When he walks into a courtroom, he commands respect. Judges listen, prosecutors take him seriously, and juries recognize that they are in the presence of someone who knows exactly what he is doing. His confidence is contagious, and no matter how difficult the situation seemed, he always made me feel secure. There was never a moment where I doubted his ability to get me through this. He is not just a lawyer—he is a force to be reckoned with, a leader who refuses to back down. He doesn’t just represent his clients; he fights for them as if their battles were his own. What’s even more impressive is his dedication. Many attorneys would start to lose interest in a long, drawn-out case, but Neil never did. He remained just as committed from day one to the very last moment, ensuring that no stone was left unturned. He answered every question, addressed every concern, and made sure I understood exactly what was happening at every stage. He didn’t just work for me—he worked with me, making me feel like I was part of the process rather than just a bystander in my own defense. His ability to break down complex legal concepts into simple, understandable terms was invaluable, allowing me to stay informed and confident throughout the case. And when it finally came to an end, he delivered exactly what he had promised—victory. Thanks to his expertise, his tenacity, and his refusal to accept anything less than the best possible outcome, I was cleared of all charges. What once felt like a hopeless situation turned into a moment of triumph, all because I had the right lawyer in my corner. There is no doubt in my mind that without Neil, the outcome could have been very different. If you are ever in need of a criminal defense attorney, do not waste your time looking anywhere else. Neil Steven Ruskin is the best there is. He is the kind of lawyer who doesn’t just take cases—he wins them. He is the kind of advocate who doesn’t just stand beside you—he fights for you like your freedom depends on it, because he understands that it does. His knowledge, his experience, and his sheer determination make him an unstoppable force in the courtroom. But beyond that, his personality, his leadership, and his unwavering support make him someone you can truly trust in your darkest moments. He doesn’t just get you out of legal trouble—he gives you back your peace of mind, your confidence, and your future. There is no one else I would ever trust with my freedom, and I will always be grateful for everything he has done for me. If you need someone who will go to battle for you and emerge victorious, Neil Steven Ruskin is the only choice.

See All Client Reviews

Neil Steven Ruskin's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Neil
Adam Benjamin Feder headshot
Adam Feder

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I know him professionally for almost 30 years. He is one of the smartest and most tenacious criminal defense attorneys in Brooklyn. I highly recommend him as he also is a man of his word!"

Afia Sengupta headshot
Afia Sengupta

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 06

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Neil is a wonderful human being and an excellent mentor. I am only grateful that he has always guided me. I have known Neil for almost 8 years now and he zealously fights for his clients and goes above & beyond."

Jacob Uriel headshot
Jacob Uriel

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 22

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"When I was a prosecutor, I went up against Mr. Ruskin on a few cases. One of the cases we had against each other was a complex vehicular manslaughter. There, I saw what an excellent lawyer Mr. Ruskin was. He knew the case inside and out, advocated zealously for his client, and was always a gentleman."

Tony Mirvis headshot
Tony Mirvis

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Ruskin is a great attorney. I have seen him work on an almost daily basis and can say he exhibits many traits that one should look for in an attorney. He is fair and honest with his clients. And when the going gets tough, Neil is ready for anything and everything the prosecution throws at him. I have worked with him in the past and it was a pleasure."

Matthew J. Galluzzo headshot
Matthew Galluzzo

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Neil is an excellent lawyer with a wide range of experience. He is a professional and genuinely cares about his clients. He is also a very likable gentleman with a great sense of humor. I endorse him wholeheartedly."

Kevin M. James headshot
Kevin James

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 02

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have known Mr. Ruskin for over 10 years as a criminal defense lawyer. I worked as a prosecutor at the Brooklyn District Attorney's office during that period. I found Mr. Ruskin to be a formidable attorney who knows the law and fights hard for his clients. I highly recommend Neil to anyone needing a criminal defense lawyer."

Mahmoud R Rabah headshot
Mahmoud Rabah

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Of the handful of attorneys in New York City who actually know how to manage, try, and win a criminal case, Neil Ruskin stands tall. He is a tremendously successful and experienced attorney. And, most of all, he knows how to win. I can't even imagine the sheer number of cases he has handled, and, I'm positive, obtained excellent results. I fully respect him as a fellow litigant and wholeheartedly endorse him for any criminal matter."

Yan Katsnelson headshot
Yan Katsnelson

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Neil is an excellent attorney. Niel and I have worked together on a couple of matters and his knowledge of the law, professionalism and presence in the court room is excellent. I highly endorse and recommend Neil."

Todd Douglas Greenberg headshot
Todd Greenberg

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Neil. Neil Ruskin has been a friend and co-counsel for many years. Very few attorneys match the time and preparation that he puts into each and every case. This hard work leads to many victories in his Criminal cases. Neil cares about his clients and is always willing to go the extra mile on their behalf."

Darran Winslow headshot
Darran Winslow

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is familiar with the court house, knows the law, and has a proven track record of success."

Henry A Martuscello headshot
Henry Martuscello

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I enthusiastically endorse Neil Ruskin. I have known Neil for over 40 years. He is an experienced, diligent and highly skilled criminal defense attorney whose reputation in the legal community is stellar and beyond reproach. Most importantly, he cares about his clients and the fair administration of justice for all."

Michael Dreishpoon headshot
Michael Dreishpoon

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Neil is an excellent attorney with tons of experience. He pays attention to details, gets great plea deals for his clients and isn't afraid to try a case. I highly recommend him."

Jacob Zev Weinstein headshot
Jacob Weinstein

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I know Neil from my time as a Prosecutor. Neil is an outstanding advocate for each client. It was always a pleasure to work with him."

Rachel L. Kugel headshot
Rachel Kugel

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Mr. Ruskin, he is one of those lawyers that walks the walk and fights the good fight everyday. He is always in court fighting for his clients and eager to share a story or strategy with a peer. He is the real deal."

Ezra C. Levy headshot
Ezra Levy

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 25

Relationship: Other

"Neil Ruskin is a gentleman and and a zealous advocate for his clients. He also has a great reputation among the defense bar and is well accepted by judges and prosecutors."

Jay S. Duskin headshot
Jay Duskin

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer.I have known Neil Ruskin for over 30 years.He is an excellent Criminal Lawyer who is concerned with his clients and the outcome of the case no matter how big or small the case may be. He takes every case personally as if it were a Family member."

Robert E. Brown headshot
Robert Brown

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Neil has decades of experience, but somehow maintains the enthusiasm of a new lawyer. He is well know and well respected throughout the city and always does a great job for his clients."

Jay K Goldberg headshot
Jay Goldberg

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I know Neil for over 20 years. He is an excellent lawyer and well respected in the legal community. Neil knows the system and knows how to get the best possible results for his clients."

Lonnie Hart Jr headshot
Lonnie Hart

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Neil is a very knowledgable and dedicated criminal lawyer who goes the extra mile for his clients. I highly recommend his services to anyone needing a criminal attorney."

Izabel Olszowa Garcia headshot
Izabel Garcia

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Mr. Ruskin. He is a dedicated and talented criminal attorney who is well respected in the legal community. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a criminal lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Afia Sengupta headshot
Afia Sengupta

Criminal defense lawyer

Jacob Uriel headshot
Jacob Uriel

Criminal defense lawyer

Kenneth Panzer headshot
Kenneth Panzer

Immigration lawyer

Tony Mirvis headshot
Tony Mirvis

Criminal defense lawyer

Matthew J. Galluzzo headshot
Matthew Galluzzo

Criminal defense lawyer

Kevin M. James headshot
Kevin James

Criminal defense lawyer

Mahmoud R Rabah headshot
Mahmoud Rabah

Criminal defense lawyer

Yan Katsnelson headshot
Yan Katsnelson

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Nelson Fleischman headshot
Michael Fleischman

Divorce and separation lawyer

Todd Douglas Greenberg headshot
Todd Greenberg

Criminal defense lawyer

Nestor H. Diaz headshot
Nestor Diaz

Criminal defense lawyer

Darran Winslow headshot
Darran Winslow

Criminal defense lawyer

Marc Harris Ruskin headshot
Marc Ruskin

Criminal defense lawyer

Henry A Martuscello headshot
Henry Martuscello

Criminal defense lawyer

Jacob Zev Weinstein headshot
Jacob Weinstein

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Dreishpoon headshot
Michael Dreishpoon

Criminal defense lawyer

Rachel L. Kugel headshot
Rachel Kugel

DUI and DWI lawyer

Ezra C. Levy headshot
Ezra Levy

Criminal defense lawyer

Robert E. Brown headshot
Robert Brown

Criminal defense lawyer

Jay S. Duskin headshot
Jay Duskin

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2020

Client's Choice, Avvo

2019

Client's Choice, Avvo

2018

Client's Choice, Avvo

2017

10 Best, American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys

2017

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2017

Top Attorneys in America, Who's Who Legal

2017

Client's Choice, Avvo

2016

Client's Choice, Avvo

2015

A+ Accredited Business, Better Business Bureau

2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2015

Who's Who Legal, Who's Who Legal

2015

Top 100 Trial Attorneys, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys

2015

Client's Choice, Avvo

2006

Who's Who Legal, Who's Who Legal

2003

Who's Who in American Law, Who's Who In American Law

2002

Who's Who in American Law, Who's Who In American Law

Work Experience

2015 - Present

Of Counsel, BRUS CHAMBERS International Law Firm

2013 - Present

Mentor, New York City College of Technology, Paralegal Intern Program

1972 - 1975

Public Defender, Legal Aid Society New York City

1970 - 1970

Social Worker/Case Worker, New York City Department of Social Services

1968 - 1970

Teacher, New York City Board of Education

Associations

2015 - Present

BRUS CHAMBERS International Law Firm

Lawyer / Associate

1990 - Present

Jewish Community Center of Bensonhurst Alumni Association

Member

1990 - Present

Temple Israel Kavod/Honor Society

Member

1990 - Present

World Jewish Congress/American Section

Member

1990 - Present

Temple Israel Reform Congregation of Staten Island

Board Member, Congregant, Brotherhood Member

1979 - Present

U.S Supreme Court

Admitted to Practice

1975 - Present

New England School of Law Century Club

Member

1975 - Present

Long Island University Alumni Association

Member

1975 - Present

U.S. Federal Court - Southern District of New York

Admitted to Practice

1975 - Present

U.S. Federal Court - Eastern District of New York

Admitted to Practice

1975 - Present

Kings County Criminal Bar Association

Member

1972 - Present

New England School of Law Alumni Association

Member

1970 - Present

Lafayette High School Alumni Association

Member

1995 - 2000

New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

1990 - 1996

Southern Poverty Law Center, Clan Watch

1985 - 1990

American Bar Association

Lawyer / Member

1985 - 1990

New York State Bar Association

Lawyer / Member

1985 - 1990

Kings County 18B Homicide Panel

Lawyer / Member

1985 - 1990

New York Urban League

Member

1985 - 1990

New York Civil Liberties Union

Member

1985 - 1990

American Civil Liberties Union

Member

1980 - 1985

Southern Poverty Law Center

Member

1975 - 1990

Kings County 18B Panel

Lawyer/ Member

Education

1972

New England School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1968

Long Island University

MA - Masters

1967

Parsons College

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Languages

English

Avvo Rating

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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