Clifton C. Carden

Clifton C. Carden

also known as Clifton C. Carden, III, Esq., Carden Dotzler Hammond, PLLC

4.9
Rating: 9.7

Licensed for 18 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Syracuse, NY
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Speeding & Traffic Ticket, Family, Divorce & Separation

100 Madison Street, Syracuse, NY

About Clifton

Biography

Practice Areas

4

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 55%

Former DWI prosecutor handling driving while intoxicated offenses, ignition interlock violations, and aggravated unlicensed operation crimes.

13 years

55%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in New York for 18 years

State: New York

Acquired: 2007

Due to Reregister within 30 days of Birthday

No misconduct found

Location

Carden Dotzler Hammond, PLLC

100 Madison Street, Syracuse, NY, 13202

The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers

100 Madison Street Tower 1, Suite 1220, Syracuse, NY, 13202

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Clifton C. Carden's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.9 /5.0

58 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 9 reviews | Compassion

Posted by Jennelle Rose | May 01, 2017

Goes above and beyond!

Mr Carden is highly recommended by myself and my family! He went above and beyond for us! When i first sent a voicemail, he was on his family vacation and got back to me within the first half hour that I called. He answered every phone call and text with no waiting time. Mr. Carden was very informati...ve and made it a point to explain all the options that we had and also all off the possible scenarios that could play out within our case. I am completely satisfied and thankful for all that he has done for us. Our situation was very time sensitive and he made it a point to fit us in and get done what needed to be done. We are greatly appreciate all of the time and effort he out in making all of the necessary arrangements to help us and out and set our minds at ease! Please don't consider anyone else for the job, he is the one that is gonna be the best, hands down!

Posted by anonymous | September 13, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Employment & Labor

Great lawyer

Hiring Clifton was one of the best decisions I have made. I found his firm through an ad online and was skeptical at first, but all the positive reviews were right. I was able to get to know Mr. Carden as a caring, compassionate and intelligent lawyer as he met with me numerous times and answered any... questions that I had. There were several issues regarding my case and employment was contingent upon the swift action that Clifton took in order to resolve my case quickly . Clifton was able to negotiate a fair and adequate solution. I found that Clifton was diligent in his efforts to advocate on my behalf. He will stick by you until the end. Clifton always returns your calls, and he never leaves you hanging. Clifton is very knowledgeable and great to have on your side. I was very happy to have Clifton Carden working on my case."

Posted by Linda | July 08, 2015 | DUI & DWI

Excellent representation start to finish

My son recently got charged with a DWI. The experience was nerve-wracking for all of us. He searched for lawyers to represent him. I was telling him to go with the firm we see advertised on television. But my son didn't want to do that. He made some calls and after he spoke with Mr. Carden, he s...aid he felt a great sense of confidence in him. He said Cliff spent time talking to him that Saturday afternoon, and he clearly felt he was the best person to represent him. I am glad we listened to our son. Cliff was not only was there for him, he was there for me as well. I had so many questions and he even met with us on a weekend to go over what to expect, options and more. We all left that initial meeting knowing we had the right person helping us through this. Along the way, Cliff not only answered calls and emails to my son, he also answered mine. I was informed all the way through the process. Cliff also set up conference calls between the three of us, so that we were always on the same page during this process. His knowledge, his patience and his compassion made this unfortunate experience so much easier. We were very satisfied with the outcome. I can't recommend him enough!

Posted by anonymous | June 11, 2015 | DUI & DWI

Fantastic Representation

When I was charged with a DWI, my first call was to a well advertised law firm that I had heard about on the radio. When I called them I was very worried as I was told several scary things about my case and that I could be in deep trouble. The legal end of my trouble was only the beginning as bei...ng a part time student in between careers, with a large family I was probably not going to be able afford the VERY HIGH figure I was quoted by the well known law firm. Panic set in as I did not want (and probably didn't qualify for) a public defender. When I did not respond quickly enough the large law firm called me continually (like a creditor) to see if I "have the money yet, so they could begin to defend me against these very serious charges" (they wanted thousands). At that point I decided to do some research on my own and on a legal review site I found 3-4 attorneys that were well reviewed and had the experience I was looking for. I called Clifton Carden because of his experience as a prosecutor in charge of DWI for the Onondaga County DA but got FAR MORE than I bargained for. Upon our first conversation Mr Carden informed me that should he be retained I was in NO DANGER as described by the other firm and providing I followed his direction he would see me safely through this experience. Also Mr Carden was exceptionally generous in his dealings with me financially and wasn't concerned about his "next envelope" (my next payment) as much as he was in defending his client. I was at ease but we had not entered a court room yet. My first time in front of the judge was interesting as the judge (who seemed to be a little irritated that day) threatened me because of a procedural matter that was out of my control (and I knew nothing about!). Mr Carden immediately jumped to my defense and informed the judge that there was no violation of procedure quoting section and line of the criminal code. The judge stammered and looked at his notes. The judge turned to the prosecutor and asked "Do you have anything to refute this?" The prosecutor looked like an amateur, stammering around and conceded immediately to Mr Carden. I left the courtroom confident that I had made the right choice but wary of what may lay ahead. Throughout the process Mr Carden guided me patiently and with care. He answered ALL correspondence and questions quickly and thoroughly. He worked with me, putting together a plan not only for his own payment but had me "work the system" to complete the requirements of the court in a way that protected my financial interests against the system as well. He was confident, patient, presents very well in court and does not flinch or show doubt in the face of pressure. Upon conviction of a lesser charge the judge asked me "are you satisfied with the representation you have chosen and that you have been adequately defended in this matter" (they ask everyone as some of you know), I responded truthfully "I could not be more satisfied with my attorney and the defense I have received in this matter" (I wanted it "in the record"). The judge was surprised but I was being honest. As we left court I assumed that Mr Carden's services were no longer needed/available as my case was resolved in court and that he would go his own way. When he shook my hand and congratulated me at the end of my case he said "my services do not end because this is over. I desire to see you whole and restored as you were before all this took place. If you have any questions or need any help navigating the state/DMV end of things I am still here to assist you." I was floored. Let me just cut to the point here....If you are in trouble, especially a DWI, forget the fast talking radio guys, Clifton Carden is the best there is. A personalized, professional, caring and far above average defense will be your reward.

Posted by anonymous | June 17, 2014 | DUI & DWI

Definitely the best choice

Clifton is a hardworking experienced lawyer who makes you feel very comfortable and informed throughout the entire process. I received a DUI in New York City. It was my first offense and it felt like the end of the world. I have never done anything wrong and the embarrassment and humiliation I felt ...was awful. When I called Clifton he reassured me that I wasn't a terrible person and took the time to carefully explain everything to me. The entire process took well over a few months but he kept me up to date on everything happening and made sure I was doing everything I needed to to help the case along. He never made me a promise he couldn't keep and was extremely fair. I was aware that he had many other cases but anytime I had a concern he was attentive to my needs. He was able to negotiate an extremely fair outcome and I was very pleased with the effort he made for me. I hope no one has to go through this terrible ordeal but I would 100% recommend Clifton if you do.

See All Client Reviews

Clifton C. Carden's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Clifton
Robert Patrick O'Leary headshot
Robert O'Leary

Real estate lawyer | May 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. What sets Cliff apart from other attorneys is that he has attention to detain and seemingly really cares for his client's overall welfare. Cliff has earned my respect and the respect of the legal community."

Theodore Lyons Araujo headshot
Theodore Araujo

DUI and DWI lawyer | May 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Cliff is an intelligent, energetic, experienced and knowledgeable attorney. Having someone on your side who has been a prosecutor is an invaluable benefit. I was searching for someone for a particularly difficult referral and Judge I know recommended Mr. Carden (not in his Court!). There is no substitute for Expertise and knowledge of the Court and Offense."

Michael R. Cardinale headshot
Michael Cardinale

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 20

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. You could not find a nicer individual. He was always very responsive and professional as a prosecutor. I have seen him in court and admire his level of preparedness and knowledge of the law. He will represent you well."

Kevin Bernard McKie headshot
Kevin McKie

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community. I wholeheartedly recommend Clifton Carden to anyone looking for an attorney who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."

Matthew James Turman headshot
Matthew Turman

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Mark Lynwood Rowe headshot
Mark Rowe

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clifton Carden aggressively pursues every angle of a case on behalf of his clients. He is thorough, detail-orientated, and works tirelessly to protect his clients rights. I highly recommend him."

Gary Anthony Anderson headshot
Gary Anderson

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clifton Carden is prompt, thorough, and dedicated to his clients. I would recommend his services to anyone looking for representation in a DUI and DWI law matter."

Donald Philip VanStry headshot
Donald VanStry

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 27

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I defended cases against Cliff when he was in the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office and now work with him on some matters in private practice. He is a skillful attorney and a consummate gentleman. I highly endorse him."

David Hammond headshot
David Hammond

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know Clifton well. He is the epitome of professionalism and a top-notch attorney. His greatest attribute: an unrivaled ability to influence people and obtain results. I endorse this lawyer."

John Carlo Jensen headshot
John Jensen

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 07

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Mr. Carden is a hard working and dedicated advocate. He has built his reputation on defending the rights of others."

Derek S Andrews headshot
Derek Andrews

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know Clifton to be an excellent attorney who always has his clients' best interests at heart. It is always reassuring to see him help his clients in the courtroom and elsewhere. I endorse this lawyer."

Jason Bay Zeigler headshot
Jason Zeigler

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 24

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I know Cliff both from his days as a prosecutor and now as a defense attorney. I remember a trial where my client, who Cliff was prosecuting, was impressed with Cliff's ability to relate to the potential jurors during jury selection. Cliff brings a Marine's work ethic to the practice of law. Cliff's work ethic coupled with his experience prosecuting DWI cases serves his clients well. I endorse this attorney."

Iman Abraham headshot
Iman Abraham

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"The one thing you always get with Cliff is an honest, true assessment of where you stand and what you can expect. Cliff is never shy to tell his clients the truth, but always works hard to get them the best results they are entitled to. Cliff is an extremely hard worker and always presents himself well in Court. I highly endorse this lawyer."

Brandon Rice Roseman headshot
Brandon Roseman

DUI and DWI lawyer | Aug 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Clifton takes time to assist the general public in answering questions and offers sage advice."

Peter John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jul 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Mr. Carden. As a prior Assistant Deputuy District Attorney he has one distinct advantage. "They know that he knows what they know". Read the excellent reviews and endorsements and than don't hesitate in setting up a consultation if you in or near Syracuse."

George F. Hildebrandt headshot
George Hildebrandt

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 05

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I highly endorse Cliff as a criminal defense lawyer, particularly in the area of DWI. I had many cases with Cliff when he was a DWI prosecutor. He was a strong advocate, and always had a great command of the legal and factual issues in what is a very intricate area of the law. He has a great depth of experience in the area of DWI, and his skill and knowledge would be a tremendous advantage to any client he represents!"

Thomas Bruno Mafrici headshot
Thomas Mafrici

DUI and DWI lawyer | Mar 05

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Clif was a competent prosecutor and has had several notable victories since leaving that position. Clif certainly has the background to mount a credible defense to a DWI or criminal charge."

Dontae Lamont Bugg headshot
Dontae Bugg

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jan 06

Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Carden since we attended law school together at the University of Richmond. I have always known him to be a sharp and intelligent legal mind."

Michael Evan Greenspan headshot
Michael Greenspan

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 24

Relationship: Other

"Attorney Carden has an impressive background in civilian and military law enforcement coupled with his experience handling DWI prosecutions for the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office. Such a background is invaluable for an attorney in the defense of drunk driving and drugged driving prosecutions. I endorse this lawyer."

Ralph Habib headshot
Ralph Habib

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Clifton in a professional capacity for the better part of five years, both as a former Assistant District Attorney and current defense attorney, and I wholly and unreservedly endorse Clifton. I have found his commitment to his work focused and determined. Not only is his knowledge of the DWI laws impressive, but his ability to isolate the relevant issues renders that grasp of the subject matter most productive. He is a man of unassailable integrity and character. As a former ADA myself who has handled numerous DWI cases, Cliff is on a short list of those whom I would highly recommend. To anyone who is seeking to engage a reliable, substantive lawyer to defend their interest in DWI defense, Cliff is your man."

View All Endorsements
Theodore Lyons Araujo headshot
Theodore Araujo

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Robert Patrick O'Leary headshot
Robert O'Leary

Estate planning lawyer

Michael R. Cardinale headshot
Michael Cardinale

Criminal defense lawyer

Matthew James Turman headshot
Matthew Turman

Personal injury lawyer

Mark Lynwood Rowe headshot
Mark Rowe

Defective and dangerous products lawyer

Gary Anthony Anderson headshot
Gary Anderson

Personal injury lawyer

Donald Philip VanStry headshot
Donald VanStry

Family lawyer

John Carlo Jensen headshot
John Jensen

Litigation lawyer

David Hammond headshot
David Hammond

Criminal defense lawyer

Jason Bay Zeigler headshot
Jason Zeigler

Criminal defense lawyer

Derek S Andrews headshot
Derek Andrews

DUI and DWI lawyer

Brandon Rice Roseman headshot
Brandon Roseman

Criminal defense lawyer

Iman Abraham headshot
Iman Abraham

Business lawyer

Peter John Marek headshot
Peter Marek

DUI and DWI lawyer

George F. Hildebrandt headshot
George Hildebrandt

Criminal defense lawyer

Thomas Bruno Mafrici headshot
Thomas Mafrici

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Dontae Lamont Bugg headshot
Dontae Bugg

DUI and DWI lawyer

Michael Evan Greenspan headshot
Michael Greenspan

DUI and DWI lawyer

Ralph Habib headshot
Ralph Habib

Criminal defense lawyer

Michael Spano headshot
Michael Spano

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.7 (Superb)

Honors

2017

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2015

For efforts dedicated to citizens accused of DUI., National College for DUI Defense

2013

For tireless dedication and devotion, Onondaga County District Attorney

Work Experience

2015 - Present

Managing Partner, Carden Dotzler, PLLC.

2013 - 2015

Partner, Azria Law Office

2008 - 2013

Assistant District Attorney, Onondaga County District Attorney's Office

2007 - 2008

Owner, Office of Clifton C. Carden, III, Esq.

2003 - 2004

Law Clerk, Hanover County Commonwealth Attorney's Office

1998 - 2002

Sergeant, United States Army Reserves

1994 - 1998

Sergeant, United State Marine Corps

Associations

2015 - Present

New York State Defenders Association

Member

2015 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2015 - Present

New York State Bar Association, Criminal Justice Section

Member: Town, Village and Justice Court Committee

2008 - Present

New York State Bar Association

Member

2007 - Present

Onondaga County Bar Association

Member

2012 - 2015

Onondaga County Bar Foundation

Editorial Board

Sample of Legal Cases

Peo v. R.Nunna (Onondaga)

Three charges reduced to traffic violation with no need for the ignition interlock device.

Peo v. M. Scoggins

Traffic Violation, fine and surcharge.

Peo v. Zach G.

1st Court date the matter was reduced to a violation with minumum fine and surcharge and no loss of license.

Peo. v Kelley N. (Salina Town Court)

Closed case at first court appearance with traffic violation and fine.

Peo v. J. D. (Madison Co.)

No jail or probation. Plea to one offense with $750 fine. Client eligible for conditional license during suspension.

Peo v. P. B.

One plea to lowest DWI charge, no jail or probation, minimum fine and surcharge allowed, permitted to drive on conditional license while case was pending.

People v. A.S. (Onondaga)

Plea to traffic violation without the need for an ignition interlock device or license revocation.

Peo v. K. Y. (Syracuse)

Dismissed

Peo v. T. Y (Onondaga County)

Violation, minimum fine, and no need for the ignition interlock

Peo v. T. W (Onondaga County)

DWAI, minimum fine, and no need for the ignition interlock

Peo v. MB (Monroe County)

Adjourned in contemplation of dismissal, no order of protection

Peo v. D.C. (Herkimer)

After a review of the plea, case, and equites the sentence was reduced to 6 months incarceration

People v. J. J. (Syracuse NY)

Traffic violaiton with no need for ignition interlock device. Conditional license granted upon settlement of the case.

People v. J. D (Salina NY)

Non-Alcohol Disposition, no suspension, no interlock

People v. C.P. (Madison Ny.)

Traffic violaiton with no need for ignition interlock device

People v. A.L. (Greene)

All charges dismissed

People v. J. H. (Oswego, NY.)

All charges adjourned in contemplation of dismissal

(DWI) People of the State of New York v. D.D (Chenango)

Violation with minimum fine and no need for ignition interlock device

(DWI) State of New York v. R.L. (Syracuse)

Violation, minimum fine, driving privileges maintained and no need for the ignition interlock

(DWI) State of New York v. J.T. (Onondaga)

A violation with no need for the ignition interlock device.

(DWI) State of New York v. D.I. (Onondaga)

Reduced to a violation with minimum fine and no need for the ignition interlock device.

(DWI) State of New York v. V.I. (Oswego)

Reduced to a violation with minimum fine and no need for the ignition interlock device.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2010

Delaware State Police

Homicide Investigation Certificate

2006

University of Richmond, The T. C. Williams School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2002

Christopher Newport University

BS - Bachelor of Science

2000

City of Norfolk Police Academy

DWI Detection & Standardized Field Sobriety Certification

Speaking Engagements

2017

2017 Bridge the Gap Motor Vehicle Traffic Law and DWI

2013

Driver's Safety for County Employees

The consequences of DWI for government employees

2013

Driver Improvement for CDL Employees

The rights of drivers upon New York roadways

2013

17th Annual Bridge the Gap Program New York DWI and Vehicle and Traffic Offenses

Publications

2013

Onondaga County Bar Association Bar Reporter Past Experience Shapes Career Sucess

Languages

English

Activity

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