Peter Gerstenzang

PRO

Peter Gerstenzang

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 54 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Albany, NY
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense

210 Great Oaks Boulevard, Albany, NY

Virtual Consultation Available

About Peter

Biography

Our goal is to deliver the highest possible quality legal services to each of our clients. Call now!

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 98%

51 years

98%
Criminal Defense 2%

51 years

2%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2015 2013
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating

Licenses

Licensed in New York for 54 years

State: New York

Acquired: 1972

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Location

Gerstenzang, Sills, Cohn & Gerstenzang

210 Great Oaks Boulevard, Albany, NY, 12203

dwilawny.com/

Peter Gerstenzang's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

33 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (33) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 11 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by anonymous | June 16, 2020 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

The Eliminator

Nothing is more demoralizing than being charged with a DWI. I know because it happened to me twice but remember you have only been charged; you have been convicted of nothing. That’s where the Gerstenzang Law Firm comes into play. Peter Gerstenzang has written the book on DWI law and nobody knows ...it better. The law clerk in my first case all most fell over when he walked in, she had been to many of Peters seminars. My second case the Judge says Mr. Gerstenzang it is an honor to have you in my courtroom. From the first time you talk to Peter you will get the sense that dam this guy believes he’s going to win and it will relieve the pressure you have been under believe me. This is the best DWI law firm in the country bar none. Do not let anyone talk you into getting anyone else or settling for DWAI, get your charges dismissed. If your officer made any mistake with ticket, probable cause, roadside test or the machine, they will find it and your problem will be solved. If you are considering the Gerstenzang Law Firm, you have found the best, now hire them. Unfortunately, 4 of my friends have also had to use them so now whenever someone get in trouble, we just call the” Eliminator”.

Posted by anonymous | September 11, 2019 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

One of the best!

Words cannot express how grateful I am to Peter and his firm. Peter not only has a passion for his work but is immensely knowledgeable. During the initial consultation, he spent over an hour discussing the incident and possible defenses. During our conversation, I felt that he truly cared and want...ed to help. His insight into DWI laws is unmatched and after our initial phone call, I immediately felt like I was in good hands. After retaining Peter he continued to be available for any questions or concerns that I had. This was very reassuring as my case was fairly complex and involved a lot of moving parts. Peter made it a point to drive from Albany to Suffolk County where the incident occurred to meet me for my court appearance. Unfortunately, I was facing my second DWI in just under 10 years, which carried serious consequences. Peter was always open and honest about the situation and never promised a particular outcome. Fortunately, Peter was able to knock my charge down to a violation, which is truly a miracle. Peter is highly regarded by his peers and I could not imagine having anyone else represent me through this unfortunate time. Without a doubt, I would recommend Peter to anyone looking for a dedicated, hard-working and truly passionate attorney.

Posted by Scott T. | July 27, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Simply the Best

Peter is, without doubt, the best attorney in this area of law in the North East and maybe the country. More importantly, he truly cares about his clients ( hard to believe in an attorney). The first and foremost concern he had, was that I get help for my drinking problem. If I wasn't willing to d...o that, than he would not take my case. I consider him part of my asset team that I use to stay sober and to get my life back together. I also consider him to be a friend. Everyone knows him and everyone respects him, including most importantly the judge. Without a doubt, he provided me with the best possible legal advice and service and it was at a reasonable price. Because I was willing to do exactly what he asked, we were able to get an unprecedented sentence. I can recommend him, without any reservation, to anyone willing to be honest about their legal problems and take responsibility for creating them. When I first spoke with him, he said he "hoped one day I would look back on my arrest as the best day of my life". I can honestly say that today, I feel that this is true. He has helped to give me my life back and for this, I will always owe a debt of gratitude. He is simply, the Best!

Posted by Stephen | February 24, 2016 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Excellence Defined

I contacted Peter after being accused of a second DWI offense, which in New York State, is a felony and a certain career-ender, as I am an attorney. I remembered his name from a seminar I attended years ago that he was teaching for attorneys regarding DWI defense. Peter was immediately responsive a...nd advised me of the severity of the situation and my possible options. Moreover, he knew the district attorney and was familiar with all local courts and judges. Essentially, I was looking at possible jail time and likely disbarment. After extensive negotiations, I was afforded the opportunity to plead to a misdemeanor upon certain conditions. Among them was enrollment in the NYC Bar Association's Attorney Assistance Program, which aids lawyers with substance abuse or other problems. In addition, I agreed to wear an alcohol-sensing anklet for a year and attend AA meetings on a daily basis. I completed this program and was able to enter the reduced plea. I mention the above as I believe it was the first time ever that an offender in my situation was able to avoid a felony conviction without jail time, if at all. This I attribute to Peter's knowledge and creativity in suggesting and fashioning such an approach. Peter saved my career. I can fully recommend Peter and his firm (his son Joseph and associate Jim Davis were also of great help). As a final footnote, through Peter's sharp insistence and the Attorney Assistance Program, I was able to put alcohol behind me for good, and am grateful for the freedom that has bestowed upon me.

Posted by Jared | September 17, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

There aren't enough kind words to give him.

I won't get into details but the severity of the crime would have ruined my life. I was falsely accused and Mr. Gerstenzang not only saw that but sought to it that justice prevailed in the end and I would not be found guilty. He did everything he possibly could, he would work tirelessly to make sure ...every detail of everything was covered/said/written down. There wasn't a stone un-turned and it was a massive relief having him on my side. I quite honestly wouldn't be in the spot I am now without him, he is a passionate, caring and loyal attorney who knows the law like the back of his hand and will do everything in his power to make sure his clients receive the best outcome possible.

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Peter Gerstenzang's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Peter
Brian J Neary headshot
Brian Neary

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Severiano Emile Lisboa IV headshot
Severiano Lisboa

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kenneth Joshua McCauley headshot
Kenneth McCauley

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"He is the best there is at what he does, and a gentleman to boot. Bonus: he actually did write "the" book on DWI defense in New York. I was in a discovery conference the other day discussing a discovery request when the Judge asked "have you checked with Gerstenzang?""

James Hal Medows headshot
James Medows

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 19

Relationship: Other

"Mr. Gerstenzang is an expert is the field of DWI/DUI. I endorse him without hesitation or reservation."

Steven Oberman headshot
Steven Oberman

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 31

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"To say Peter cares about his clients, is knowledgeable about the law, and abides by all ethical rules would be accurate, but sorely understated. Peter takes on every case as if it is a personal mission to have his client acquitted. His trial techniques and insights into the psychology of DUI trials are sought out by lawyers across the country who pay a lot of money and take time from their practice to attend his seminars. However, reading his book and attending his lectures only get them so far. While they attempt to mimic his success in the courtroom, there is only one Peter Gerstenzang. One should only hire Peter if they want every opportunity to win their case. Peter is one of only a few a great lawyers. His distinction among other lawyers and desire to help all who seek him out is, in part, why he will become Dean of The National College for DUI Defense later this year."

Michael J. Redenburg headshot
Michael Redenburg

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Gerstenzang authored the Reference Book I rely on concerning DWI cases. Further, he was easily accessible by phone when I had a question concerning his area of practice concentration and not surprisingly, knew the answer and offered his knowledge."

Joseph A Lo Piccolo headshot
Joseph Lo Piccolo

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I don't know Peter but to put it simply, he wrote the book we all rely upon, as do the Courts and the DA's even if they won't admit it. You can not do better."

Justin James McShane headshot
Justin McShane

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know and admire Attorney Gerstenzang. He has earned a national reputation for effectively representing motorists accused of a crime. He has the necessary reputation, knowledge and experience to eliminate or minimize the consequences of the government's accusation. He is a very effective and skilled litigator who has the guts to stand up to the government and their accusations to demand evidence, not simply an accusation. He is highly ethical and trustworthy. I trust him. You should too."

P. Adam Militello headshot
P. Adam Militello

DUI and DWI lawyer | Oct 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Peter wrote the book on DWI practice that other New York DWI lawyers carry in their cars and keep in their offices. The depth of his knowledge on DWI defense is impressive, and so is his willingness to share that knowledge. If you need a DWI lawyer in or near Albany, this is THE firm to call."

Victor Wallace Carmody Jr. headshot
Victor Carmody

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jun 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Peter is so very persuasive,and articulate that he teaches us all how to be more effective trial lawyers and achieve the results which have eluded others who have not benefitted from his shared knowledge and vast trial experience.When I set to write my own state DUI practice publication,my publisher Thompson/West sent me Peter's New York DUI practice book to review,in order to show me just how it is done! I patterned my written volume after consulting Peter,and reading his definitive DUI treatise.Thank you for your asistance, Peter.New York drivers are indeed fortunate to have Peter Garstenzang in their corner,and it is my honor to give Peter my highest endorsement."

Andrew Mishlove headshot
Andrew Mishlove

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Peter Gerstenzang deserves a 10+ rating. He is the dean of New York DUI defense lawyers, literally the man who wrote the book. I endorse him enthusiastically."

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Jonathan David Cohn headshot
Jonathan Cohn

DUI and DWI lawyer

John G. Leonard headshot
John Leonard

DUI and DWI lawyer

Steven Oberman headshot
Steven Oberman

DUI and DWI lawyer

W. Troy McKinney headshot
W. McKinney

DUI and DWI lawyer

Andrew Mishlove headshot
Andrew Mishlove

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael Stephen Bowser Jr. headshot
Michael Bowser

DUI and DWI lawyer

Victor Wallace Carmody Jr. headshot
Victor Carmody

DUI and DWI lawyer

Barry Thomas Simons headshot
Barry Simons

DUI and DWI lawyer

Jane Fisher-Byrialsen headshot
Jane Fisher-Byrialsen

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

AV Peer Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

2018

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2013

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2013

2013 Upstate New York Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2012

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America

2012

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2011

Top 25 in Hudson Valley, Super Lawyers

2011

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America

2011

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2010

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2010

Top 25 in Hudson Valley, Super Lawyers

2010

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America

2009

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2009

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America

2009

Top 25 in Hudson Valley, Super Lawyers

2008

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2008

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America

2007

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2007

Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America

2005

Board Certification In DUI Defense, National College For DUI Defense

Work Experience

1975 - Present

Senior Partner, Gerstenzang, Sills, Cohn & Gerstenzang

1972 - 1975

Assistant District Attorney, Albany County District Attorney

1972 - 1984

Instructor DWI Trial Testimony (part time), New York State Police Academy

1970 - 1971

Captain, United States Army

Associations

2007 - Present

Big Apple DWI Program

Chair

New York State Bar Association, Criminal Justice Section, Traffic Safety Committee

Chairman

National College for DUI Defense

Founding Member

National College for DUI Defense, Inc. (NCDD)

Board Certified Specialist

2013 - 2014

National College for DUI Defense, Inc. (NCDD)

Dean

2012 - 2013

National College for DUI Defense, Inc. (NCDD)

Assistant Dean

2004 - 2013

National College for DUI Defense, Inc. (NCDD)

Regent

Education

1970

Albany Law School of Union University

Juris Doctor

Speaking Engagements

2018

The Big Apple XVIII DWI Program- New York City

Handling the DWI Case in New York

2017

The Big Apple XVII DWI Program

Handling the DWI Case in New York

2013

NACDL, September 2013 -- Las Vegas

Cross-Examination of the Arresting Officer

2010

Representing a DWI Defendant in New York DWI Defense

Publications

2019

Thomson Reuters (updated and published annually) Handling the DWI Case in New York

1987

Thomson/West (Updated Annually) Handling the DWI Case in New York

Languages

English

Avvo Rating

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