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Robert F. Schalk

DUI and DWI Attorney at Mineola, NY

5.0   46 reviews
  • Licensed for 17 years
    State NY
    Acquired 2006
    Status
    Currently Registered No misconduct found

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

About Robert

Learn Robert’s areas of practice.

Robert Schalk is a former Nassau County Assistant District Attorney experienced in all aspects of criminal law. Prior to forming the law firm of Schalk, Ciaccio & Kahn, PC he spent five years as a Nassau County Assistant District Attorney. There he tried numerous cases to verdict, including a number of high profile media cases. During his tenure in the office he was appointed to the position of STOP DWI Prosecutor where he prosecuted serious Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) cases. In that position he was trained by law enforcement in DWI protocol including the administering of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST’s), accident reconstruction and police procedure. Thereafter and until his departure from the office, he prosecuted cases in the Major Offense/Homicide Bureau. There he prosecuted and tried serious felony cases, including murder and vehicular manslaughter, while gaining tremendous insight into a wide variety of criminal law cases and courtroom proceedings.

 

As a long-time Nassau County Assistant District Attorney, he spent years working closely with law enforcement in investigations and is thoroughly familiar with police tactics, investigation practices – and has familiarity with prosecutors and judges, as well as court personnel and law enforcement officials.

 

Upon leaving the District Attorneys Office and entering private practice he has zealously represented and defended the rights of his clients accused of a wide variety of criminal charges that include but are limit to – Driving While Intoxicated, Assault, Drug Possession and Drug Sales, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, Forgery, Robbery, Burglary, and Murder. Robert has successfully litigated numerous cases at the pre-trial hearing stage and trial stage on behalf of his clients.

 

Robert has been asked to be a guest lecturer at his alma mater, Hofstra University School of Law, on the topics of trial advocacy, trial theory and case management. He is also a member of their faculty at the yearly National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA) Program. He has been interviewed by the media on numerous criminal topics where he has been quoted in newspapers such as the NY Times, NY Post, Newsday, and Wall Street Journal.

 

Robert is also a regular guest Legal Analyst for Fox News Channel where he has commented on a wide variety of legal topics in the fields of Constitutional, Criminal, Civil and Labor Law.

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Contact Robert

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Schalk, Ciaccio & Kahn PC
259 Mineola Blvd
Suite 200
Mineola, NY, 11501

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  46 customer reviews
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Posted by RB | November 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Case Dismissed
If I could leave a 10-star review I would. Bob is the only attorney you need to call.
Posted by anonymous | October 18, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
KM
Bob was very reassuring, and at the same time realistic and honest about expectations during my court process. He addressed my concerns immediately. His knowledge and experience showed through with confidence and support which really helped with the stress of a criminal case.
Posted by TK | September 28, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
An angel in the form of a lawyer
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that I wouldn’t be alive, if it wasn’t for Bob. I got caught into a nightmare of a situation, because of some lies from an intimate ex partner, who had ulterior motives for her actions. Anyhow, I was charged with more felonies than fingers on my hand, and well on my way to Rikers. In fact I asked my then court appointed lawyer, how comfy the beds are there? I then remembered that I had Bob’s number saved on a piece of paper that the cop gave me (in retrospect that was a very nice gesture of him). When I contacted him, Bob provided him instructions on what to say to the judge. When the lawyer mentioned that I am being represented by Robert Schalk, his attitude visibly changed. The $75,000 bail that was set was dropped and I went under supervised release. From there on he hand held me on a 1 year journey resulting in the complete dismissal of the case. He trusted me when I told him I’m innocent and he gave me advice to carry on with life and stay strong. The fact that he trusted me meant so much to me that I gathered a will to survive and fight for my life. I wouldn’t be a victim, lost in the criminal system over lies made by a petty, honestly psychotic ex. Because of Rob, I kept my job and he offered me a payment plan. Honestly I don’t think any amount of money is enough. He was a mentor, was providing legal advice, and went above and beyond in terms of taking ownership of the case. Wether it was 2 am or 12 pm, he would immediately text back. Also the way he navigated the case in such a bold fashion was awe inspiring. When most lawyers would say to not testify at the grand jury, he told me to go -round resulting in me not getting indicted on the serious charges. Later when most lawyers would take a plea deal, he pushed towards dismissal. His relentless pursuit for victory and clever maneuvering, akin to a military general, was awe inspiring. Honestly, as a human being he is one of the best people I’ve ever met. He is compassionate, fierce, competitive, and extremely intelligent. I trusted Bob with my life, and so should you. He is a winner, a rare breed of men that transcend manhood and into angel territory.
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Posted by anonymous | August 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DWI
I can not truley express how thankful i am for bob and his team. i was in a dwi case which was one of the scariest moments in my life because i could have lost my job as a teacher if found guilty and worst of all reamined with a criminal record. Bob fought hard and was there at all times through this process. We achieved the result that we wanted, no criminal record and charges were dropped to a violation with a small penalty fee. best of all my job was saved. if you are looking to hire bob and his firm, DONT HESITATE, you will not regret it. Thank you bob!
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Posted by TR | August 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend
Rob was great. Had a DWI case and he was able to get me a really good plea deal. He is very smart, informative and was transparent with me throughout the process. Anytime I had a question he got back to me right away. I highly recommend this attorney especially with DWI or DUI cases.
Posted by anonymous | July 24, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Attorney Review
Writing this review related to Bobs representation as my attorney. Bob was very knowledgeable and informative of the law and my legal situation. He handled things in an expeditious manner, guided me throughout the entire process and provided me with a very favorable result. I’d recommend Bob to anyone.
Posted by Michael B | May 1, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If you need an Dwi attorney look no further , Highly reccommend
I couldn't say enough about Bob and his team Look unfourtanilty everyone makes a mistake , sometimes these mistakes require professional help and guidance Bob and his team were very professional, courteous, and confident from the day I met him My turn out wind up much better than every expected Bob and his team went above and beyond for me ! If you need an attorney , I highly reccommend Bob !
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Posted by anonymous | March 14, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professor MP
This was a new, difficult and sensitive time for me. Mr. Schalk, I believe, sensed that, and carefully and effectively negotiated me through all the processes required, always available for questions and advice. It's not easy finding good, reliable and qualified people. We often rely on luck and hope. I was lucky.
Posted by anonymous | September 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyers in town!
From start to finish Mr. Schalk made sure that he did his due diligence throughout the case. From the time that we had our first conversation he made sure that he explained the process every step of the way. Every phone call that I made either he or his partners were there to follow up. My case was dismissed and I was able to move on with my life. If you want assistance and need knowledge of the law then you need to hire Mr. Shalk!
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Posted by anonymous | July 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The only lawyer and firm I will ever use !
Robert Schalk is not only professional and knowledgeable, but his personal attention to his clients is remarkable. Even after my case was over, Robert was still there for us to answer questions and provide additional support. Hands down - the best lawyer and with the best group on Long Island!
Posted by Gary | June 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Case Dismissed!
Hired Bob Schalk to handle my DUI case as it was my first and only arrest. He expended significant efforts including setting up a call with the District Attorney's office, recommending getting letters of reference and providing excellent counsel and advice. His former experience in the DA's office was invaluable and his track record and expertise in handling DUI/DWI cases made all the difference in the outcome. His 81 page motion to dismiss was recently granted in court and I couldn't be any happier with the outcome.
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Posted by LT | March 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very efficient
Bob and George helped to dismiss my DWI case. From the start, they both patiently explained the process that was so new to me. They took a lot of the stress off me because I knew how much experience they had and how many other cases they have won. They went above and beyond by calling me the night before every court appearance to remind me of the time. They we’re always early to every court appearance and would clearly explain what that day held. They provided me with a letter to give my job about how each day in court went. They both worked relentlessly to help my case be dismissed. They always fought with my best intention in mind and did not settle for a lesser ticket. I am very happy and thankful that they were able to have my case get dismissed and would recommend them to everybody! I would definitely use them again if needed.
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Posted by PR | February 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer
I had a dwi case back in September and was referred to Schalk, him and his partner from the very beginning made me feel comfortable they know what they are doing. All I had to do was make sure I went to court, they were always available for any questions or concerns that I had and would always remind me of my court dates. My case was dismissed in February, grateful for the both of them they are understanding and I would definitely recommend them. Thank you so much for everything - pr.
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Posted by KN | February 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Lawyer!!
Would recommended Mr. Schalk to anyone who needs an attorney. He is exceptionally thorough, very reliable, professional and knows the law inside and out. Originally i was very concerned about finding a good attorney. Mr. Schalk was recommended by a close family friend and it was the best referral ever. The outcome of my case was much better then i ever expected! i will always be so so grateful to him.
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Posted by anonymous | February 2, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Robert Schalk
Robert was amazing in helping win my case in a timely manner. He is thorough and has a very honest and calming presence! He answers his phone each and every time no matter what time! I will be recommending him to anyone who may need help like I did! Et
Posted by anonymous | January 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great outcome excellent attorneys
I called at 4:00 in the morning. It was an emergency. I actually spoke to a human being and was assured that the lawyer would call me back at 6:00am. Robert Schalk called me and assured me he would be there in court to represent my son. Him and fellow attorney George Michel met me at court that same morning and assured me the felony charges would be dropped down to a violation with no record and my son would be released without bail. Everything they promised came true. Very trustworthy, excellent attorneys. I would highly recommend this firm. These are the attorneys you need if you have a serious legal problem.
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Posted by anonymous | November 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
HUGE HELP!!
Bob was able to help me out of a very tight situation when coming back to visit family and friends. He was able to work with me even though I lived way out of state. He also was able to get my speeding knocked off the table and got the best deal that was given in the DWI situation. I'd HIGHLY recommend Bob Schalk and company to anyone needing legal help.
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Posted by anonymous | October 11, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer Around
I received a DUI last year and did not know where to turn. I went to a few lawyers to seek advice and once I sat down with Bob Schalk i knew i did not have to see anyone else. Bob walked me through the whole process about the next steps and was honest and thorough about everything. He put me at ease during this unsettling time. I could tell, while in court, that Bob was well respected by the other lawyers and more importantly the Judges. Bob got me the results I wanted and I would recommend Bob to everyone I know who gets into trouble. This event could have ruined my life and Bob did not allow that to happen. I have nothing but good things to say about him.
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Posted by KL | September 27, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best of the best!
Words cannot express how grateful I am to have had Mr. Schalk represent me. My case was a nightmare to begin with dealing with the whole slowing down of the courts due to Covid. My career and reputation were on the line with a sexual misconduct case literally ruining my life with no end in sight. Once I hired Mr. Schalk it was GO GO GO. He promised me that if I hired him he would put the pressure on the DA’s office and get my case moving. He did all that and more eventually getting my case dismissed. Also very easy to talk to and will either answer or get back to you right away. Knows what he is doing! You will not regret having Mr. Schalk as your attorney whatever your case might be.
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Posted by Mark | August 16, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Perfect Attorney
Bob was nice enough to take this case even though I had been appearing in court monthly for almost two years before I finally realized how incompetent my first attorney was. The next time I appeared in court he had the plea I asked for. He responded to all my emails & phone calls. I could not have asked for a better attorney.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Schalk, Ciaccio & Kahn, PC
  • 2014 - Present
  • Associate
  • Collins, McDonald & Gann, PC
  • 2010 - 2014
  • Assistant District Attorney
  • Nassau County Attorney's Office
  • 2005 - 2010

Education

  • Hofstra University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2005
  • University of Scranton
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 2002

Associations

  • Nassau County Bar Association, Nassau Academy of Law
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Criminal Courts Bar Association of Nassau County
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • New York State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • Former District Attorneys' Association of Nassau County
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
View all associations

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2018
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Lawyers
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Lawyers
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2016
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2016
  • Rising Stars - NY Metro Area
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Lawyers
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2015
  • Top Contributor DUI
  • Avvo
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Lawyers
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2014
  • Top 100 DWI Attorneys in NY
  • National Advocacy for DUI Defense
  • 2013
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Legal Analyst - Fox News
  • Legal Issues for Legalized Marijuana Businesses
  • 2014
  • Legal Analyst
  • Michael Dunn Murder Trial - Fox News
  • 2014
  • National Institute for Trial Advocacy
  • Trial Advocacy Clinic - Hofstra Law School
  • 2013
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (22)
Given (18)
Endorse Robert
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked with Mr. Schalk as a prosecutor and defense attorney - he is a consummate professional."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 27
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Bob is second to none in the field of criminal defense. His experience as a Special DWI Prosecutor and a seasoned District Attorney has given him the experience and wealth of knowledge clients can only dream for. However, what sets him apart from the rest is his drive. I have never met an attorney who fights as hard for his client's rights as he does. If there is a will, with Robert Schalk, there is a way. I strive to achieve the level of success and customer service that Bob has achieved, and it is truly an honor and a blessing to be able to work for a lawyer with his work ethic and moral character. If you want the best, just call Bob and you can expect nothing less."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Schalk is a true professional and always puts clients first."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bob Schalk is an extremely knowledgeable and skilled attorney. I worked with him at the District Attorney's Office where he was responsible for handling the county's most serious criminal cases. He is an experienced litigator who gets excellent results. I strongly endorse Bob Schalk."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I strongly endorse Robert Schalk. I met Robert when I was a public defender at The Legal Aid Society of Nassau County and he was then working as an ADA. He was well respected by the defense bar, his colleagues and judges alike. Since that time, he has transitioned brilliantly into private practice, and he has become one of the leading criminal defense attorneys in the area. I highly recommend him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bob Schalk gets tremendous results for his clients because he is one the premier criminal defense attorneys on Long Island. Bob is a skilled negotiator and talented trial attorney. He cares about and works tirelessly for his clients. Previously, I worked with Bob when we were both prosecutors in the Nassau County District Attorneys Office. He was relied upon to handle and try murders and serious crimes by the District Attorney. He has brought those skills and experience to the private sector as a criminal defense attorney. I endorse Bob Schalk without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Schalk is an experienced criminal defense attorney with a stellar reputation. He is knowledgeable, personable and always strives to achieve the best results for his clients. It is without hesitation that I endorse Mr. Schalk."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Mar 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Robert Schalk is a fierce courtroom advocate who has spent years specializing in DWI litigation. He is truly an asset to anyone facing DWI prosecution and I recommend him without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I was fortunate to work as a Nassau County Assistant District Attorney with Bob, where he successfully prosecuted countless major cases. Since then, I have handled cases with Bob both as an adversary and as a contemporary, and I can honestly say that he is one of the most talented and skilled trial lawyers I know. I highly recommend Bob and his firm for any criminal matter."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have had the pleasure of working with Robert on several criminal cases throughout his career. I have found Robert to be hardworking, honest, quick on his feet and dedicated to obtaining the best possible results for his clients. I highly reccomend Robert."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I had the pleasure of working with Bob in the District Attorney's Office. Bob is extremely prepared and his ability to question witnesses is absolutely unrivaled. I have had the pleasure of watching Bob on trial, and working cases as co-counsel with him. His attention to detail was remarkable. If a family member of mine was in trouble with the law, I would want Bob representing them. I endorse Bob Schalk as one of the best around."
Unknown Attorney | Jul 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Robert is a sharp witted, outside-the-box thinker who brings these attributes to the table for his clients' benefit."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Schalk is a skilled and respected member of the legal community. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"As a criminal defense attorney, it is a pleasure to read Mr. Schalk's thoughtful and analytic responses to criminal defense questions on Avvo. I endorse him without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 20
Relationship: Other
"Mr. Schalk has demonstrated through his answers on AVVO an excellent understanding of the Penal Law of the State of New York. He also has demonstrated through his answers on AVVO a clear understanding -beyond the provisions of the New York Criminal Procedure Law- of how the criminal justice system works in the State of New York which can only be obtained through experience."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have had the opportunity to work with Mr. Schalk as an adversary and as co-counsel and I can say without hesitation that I prefer to work with him as co-counsel. Mr. Schalk is a zealous advocate and consistently gets excellent results for his clients. I strongly endorse him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 27
Relationship: Co-worker
"I had the pleasure of working with Robert (Bob) Schalk for several years and I have watched him first hand become one of the preeminent criminal defense attorneys in Nassau County. A regular legal analyst for the Fox News channel and former Assistant District Attorney, Bob has had experience on both sides of the aisle, as a Prosecutor and now as a Defense attorney, which inures to the benefit of his clients. I know that when I recommend my clients, friends or family to Bob, that they are in great hands."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Bob Schalk is the epitome of what one hopes to find in a defense attorney. He makes certain that he is accessible to his clients literally 24 hours a day, he is driven to get the best outcome legally possible for each and every client, and he is very personable and easy to work with. For something as small as a traffic ticket to a major felony charge, he treats every client with the same level of urgency and importance. Not only that, but the respect he gives and is shown in court by judges, fellow attorneys, and his clients speaks for itself."
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