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David Hammond

Criminal defense Attorney at Syracuse, NY

5.0   22 reviews

also known as J. David Hammond, Carden Dotzler Hammond, PLLC


Licensed for 15 years

Free consultation

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    60%
    Focusing on DWI, traffic, and criminal defense in Central New York

  2. DUI and DWI
    20%

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket
    20%

RELIABLE. RESPONSIVE. RESULTS.

I listen.  I call you back and make every effort to do so the same day.

Reliability and responsiveness are the tenets of my law practice.  If you’ve ever hired a lawyer, how many times did you find yourself waiting by the phone for that lawyer to call you back with an answer to a seemingly simple question?  A failure to communicate is too often associated with today’s legal profession.

Not in my office.

I am reliable and responsive because I understand why you hired me.  You need an advocate who will guide you through what might be one of the most difficult and agonizing experiences of your life.  You’re not just a “client file” here.  I’m passionate about helping my clients through the legal process.  Achieving a positive outcome in your case is my priority.

I achieve results because I’m disciplined.  The military forged self-discipline into my character.  I served nine years and two combat tours as an active duty US Army officer.  Then I joined the Reserves and settled down in Syracuse to be near family.

You should know that about me, too.  Family is important and my law office puts families and people first.

In the Army, I was a prosecutor and spent years in the courtroom honing my advocacy skills.  I advised commanders and leaders in combat on the legal parameters of warfare.  I defended Soldiers accused of serious criminal offenses on appeal.  Here in Syracuse, I put the same level of commitment into my law practice.  I look forward to working for you. I am also a Partner of The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers, which is specialized in defending clients who have been accused of traffic infractions, from simple traffic tickets to DWI or Reckless Driving.

Reliable. Responsive. Results.  Call me today and I’ll prove it.

Awards

Client's Choice 2018,2017
Client's Choice
2018 2017

Photos and videos

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Licensed for 15 years
State NY
Status Currently Registered
Acquired 2008
Updated 11/17/2022

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

Contact David

Carden Dotzler Hammond PLLC

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  22 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
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3 Star
 
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2 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2018
Client's Choice
David received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2018
Posted by Teresa | March 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He makes a difference!
David Hammond helped a family member get a traffic violation dismissed. He was very professional, knowledgeable, prompt and thorough. He walked us through the process and was excellent at keeping us up to speed at each point. What stood out to me the most was his genuine concern for helping us. He is someone that goes above and beyond. This was evident. David came highly recommend to me and I highly recommend him to others. You want him on your side. His caring, determination and passion to help others are just a few more qualities that show he is the right choice.
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Posted by Kashif | April 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Service
David Hammond has done excellent job helping to protect my wife’s driving history. He is prompt, reliable and gives great piece of mind. If nothing else, he has allowed me not to worry or even think about the citation my wife received. For driving related offenses He would be the only attorney I would need to call and be confident I am getting my best defence. His prices are very fair, not to mention the savings you’ll get from fines given his expertise. He makes the process easy and keep you informed of any next steps. Once again thank you so much David and Karen for excellent service.
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Posted by September | December 18, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
David Hammond is the best!!
David Hammond was so wonderful he was easy to contact and listened to me and my needs, he was very straight forward and reassuring and worked hard to take care of my case and guide me that the terminology and what he was going to do for me. When court came he was the best he took care of everything and got me the deal I was hoping for and able to help put this all behind me. I highly recommend Dave I'm telling everyone about him he makes a really scary and unknown situation breathable and able to give me peace of mind. Bless!!!
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Posted by Heather | November 2, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Wonderful
My case was a little different, as I was issued an appearance ticket and did not have to hire an attorney. David was the defense counsel representative that night at court and I have thanked my lucky stars since then. David explained everything for me in detail and made things a lot less scary for me, as this was the first legal issue I had ever had. David answered all of my questions with patience and a smile and responded to my emails immediately. Thankfully, he was able to get my case dismissed. If you are looking for an attorney who cares about his client, I highly recommend David Hammond!
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Posted by Daviana | May 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent service, very nice person!
It was our very first time dealing with any kind of legal situation. That can be scary, especially when the case is considered a misdemeanor. Luckily, Mr. Hammond was very good at explaining everything thoroughly and making the case go smoothly and almost transparent to us. Also, he was very patient with my uncle who doesn't speak English and he allowed me to translate for him. Mr. Hammond had his traffic violations and the whole case dismissed!! Mr. Hammond, thank you SO much!! Me and my family are very happy and grateful for your prompt and excellent service, and are currently recommending your services to another relative. Best regards!!
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Posted by Mary | December 12, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A True 5-Star Lawyer
He caught me at the end of long and difficult journey to getting my license back, and could not have been better. He was assigned to my point-potential case, but got me off with just a ticket. He is professional, intelligent, and friendly; a rare combination. I am very thankful there are people like him practicing law.
Posted by Jennifer | November 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Speeding ticket
Mr Hammond was so helpful and nice when I was ticketed for speeding . He went above and beyond. He made sure to email me when things were dismissed which was super fast and he made it so easy . His communication was great . I will be sure to recommend him in the future!!!! Thank you Mr . Hammond !
Posted by Lori | September 5, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very Professional
Mr. Hammond was a court appointed attorney that my son was assigned. Thank goodness! He was very professional. He went above and beyond the call of duty. He communicated w/us and described everything we needed to do to get our case dismissed in the court of law. We cant thank him enough. :) We highly recommend him.
Posted by Eric | July 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review of legal services
Mr. Hammond proved to be efficient and very effective, always professional but friendly and accessible. His recommendations were excellent as was the outcome. Definitely top-notch!
Posted by anonymous | June 19, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Consultation (military law)
I'm a military officer with more than a decade of service and I contacted Mr. Hammond to get information and advice on a situation I'm currently experiencing. Mr. Hammond responded immediately and held a detailed discussion with me on each question I had. He also provided the relevant military regulations and discussed my potential options for handling the situation. As a result of our conversation, I now have the information I need to make an informed decision. I truly appreciate the time Mr. Hammond spent and his knowledgeable input. I would highly recommend Mr. Hammond to any friend, family member, or colleague.
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Posted by Prakash | May 29, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
True Gentleman
Mr. Hammond is very sincere, true to his words and professional. His conduct throughout the process when handling my traffic ticket was simply outstanding. It is rare in this day and age to find lawyers like him. I recall there was this case when I was dealing with a lawyer on a home purchase. That lawyer charged me the full service fee, although the purchase didn't go through due to the seller's financial problems. Mr. Hammond reminds me that there are lawyers and then there are few like him that one can really trust.
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Response from David Hammond May 30, 2017
Prakash - you were an absolute pleasure to work with. I appreciate your business and I wish you the very best in future endeavors.
Posted by Jonathan | April 15, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Traffic tickets
Mr. Hammond made sure that I was not taken advantage of. He spoke up for me to make sure I was heard. He made sure I knew what was going on before he spoke also what the outcome was when he finished. He stayed in contact with me throughout the whole ordeal. Great lawyer
Response from David Hammond April 17, 2017
Thank you, Jonathan. It was a pleasure working for you and I very much appreciate your review.
Posted by anonymous | April 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Lawyer
Mr. Hammond is an amazing attorney. Very sincere and responsive. I cannot be happier with the service I received from him.
Response from David Hammond April 5, 2017
Responsiveness is a central theme of my law practice. I am pleased that I was able to take care of your situation. As always, don't hesitate to contact me if you need further assistance.
Posted by Christine | March 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Service
He was respectful and incredibly responsive to my situation. Very skilled and was able to take care of things allowing for me. Since I have never needed legal help before he put me at ease and made things the best they could be given the circumstances.i would highly recommend David if you are ever in need and feel at a loss as to where to turn. It pays to seek representation and in the Syracuse NY area I doubt there is anyone better.
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Response from David Hammond March 24, 2017
Thank you for your review, Christine. I am glad I was able to assist in the dismissal of the charge in your case - the best possible outcome!
Posted by anonymous | March 2, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DWI
Reduced the DWI to a DUI. David was always in contact with us every step of the way. Extremely helpful, I would use his services in a heartbeat should I ever need a lawyer in the future
Response from David Hammond March 3, 2017
Thank you. It was a pleasure working with you and please do let me know if I can provide further assistance in the future.
Posted by Reggie | February 25, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Exceptional customer service!
Hammond was very helpful and very attentive to my case. They offer great consultation. I would highly recommend this attorney!
Response from David Hammond February 27, 2017
I was glad to provide you with a consultation, Reggie. Thank you for the review. Good luck!
Posted by Jonathan | February 3, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Awesome!
This was my first serious offense so I wasn't sure what was going to happen. Right from the start Mr. Hammond was very thorough and explained everything very well. He always responded to my calls within the first hour of leaving a message. and he did it all for free. I can't thank him enough.
Response from David Hammond February 10, 2017
I appreciate your review, Jonathan. I am very happy I was able to help with your situation.
Posted by Chelsie | January 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Would recommend
Hammond was very knowledge and helpful. I loved that I never had to play phone tag with him, and he seemed to actually care about getting the best outcome for me. He was great at listening and providing feedback. I went into it all not knowing what to expect, with very high anxiety over the whole thing. He quickly lessened my stress and made me feel okay about the situation. I would one hundred percent recommend him.
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Response from David Hammond January 5, 2017
Thank you Chelsie for your review. I enjoyed helping you through this stressful situation and I am very happy things went so smoothly and the charge was dismissed!
Posted by anonymous | January 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing!!
Dave Hammond might be the most responsive lawyer in the Syracuse area. Always called me back within a day, always answered my questions, and most importantly, genuinely seemed to care about my case. Thank you Dave!
Response from David Hammond February 22, 2017
I appreciate the kind words. I do try to communicate with my clients often. I believe this to be one of the most important things a criminal defense attorney can do for a client.
Posted by Sonia | December 25, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Pleased
I was very pleased with the outcome of my case. David did an excellent job of explaining everything to me. He was available for discussions and quick to return my calls. Thank you!
Response from David Hammond December 27, 2016
Thank you for the review, Sonia. I am very happy the charge against you was dismissed--the best possible outcome! Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need anything else.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
  • Hourly Rates $ 100-250 per hour
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.7 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Carden Dotzler Hammond, PLLC
  • 2017 - Present
  • Founding Attorney
  • Law Office of J. David Hammond
  • 2016 - 2017
  • Appellate Defense Counsel
  • U.S. Army Legal Services Agency
  • 2014 - 2016
  • Battalion Judge Advocate
  • 2d Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne)
  • 2012 - 2014
  • Operational Law Attorney
  • 3d Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division
  • 2010 - 2012
  • Judge Advocate
  • United States Army
  • 2008 - 2016
  • Trial Counsel
  • U.S. Army Research, Development, & Engineering Command
  • 2008 - 2010
  • Intern
  • The Ferguson Group
  • 2006 - 2006
  • Extern
  • Oneida County Family Court
  • 2005 - 2006
  • Legislative Intern
  • North Carolina General Assembly
  • 2005 - 2005
View all work experience

Education

  • Syracuse University College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2007
  • North Carolina State University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2004

Associations

  • Onondaga County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • New York State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Top Lawyer
  • Global Directory of Who's Who
  • 2017
  • Meritorious Service Medal
  • U.S. Army
  • 2016
  • Meritorious Service Medal
  • U.S. Army
  • 2014
  • Bronze Star Medal
  • U.S. Army
  • 2014
  • Bronze Star Medal
  • U.S. Army
  • 2012
  • Combat Action Badge
  • U.S. Army
  • 2011
  • Distinguished Graduate
  • U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School
  • 2008
  • Award for Professional Merit
  • American Bar Association
  • 2008
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Syracuse University Seminar
  • Forensic Science Applications in the Deployed Environment
  • 2017

Attorney endorsements

Received (9)
Given (8)
Endorse David
General practice Attorney | May 09
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have had the pleasure and honor of working directly with Dave Hammond on a variety of cases. His tireless devotion to his clients, encyclopedic knowledge of the law, and consistently professional demeanor all help him stand out as a truly amazing attorney. I am happy to offer my endorsement for Dave Hammond and truly believe that any client should count themselves lucky to have him as their lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Hammond is an excellent and dedicated attorney. He served his country proudly for many years, and is now doing the same for our community. He practices with the utmost professionalism and always provides his clients with great service."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I, without question, endorse Dave Hammond. Not only is he a zealous advocate in the courtroom, he is a skilled legal researcher and writer and, most importantly, a compassionate human being."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Hammond is a courteous, hard working attorney who has handled complex and difficult matters with great professionalism. I gladly endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I know David from attending some of the same training sessions and seeing him litigate in court. His confidence and experience shine through in everything he does. Whether you are in a civilian or military court, with David you are in good hands."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"David is one of the premier criminal defense attorneys in the Syracuse and Central New York area. I have personally witnessed his professional demeanor in the courtroom, zealously advocating for and defending his clients. I have heard his clients comment on his responsiveness to their needs as well as the personal interest he displays in each of their cases."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"David is tremendously valuable to both the legal field and his clients. His leadership and professional demeanor make everyone around him better. His clientele are constantly satisfied with the results and experience that David provides on a daily basis. I'm proud to know Dave and refer clients to him without hesitation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 21
Relationship: Co-worker
"I highly endorse Dave. Dave fights for his clients to get the best possible results. I frequently turn to Dave as a subject matter expert in military and criminal law. Do not hesitate to contact Dave if you have a legal issue."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 09
Relationship: Friend
"James and I have been friends and colleagues for over 10 years - I can't speak highly enough of his professionalism, legal skills, and dedication to the law. I give him my highest recommendation for any representation."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Medical malpractice
Litigation
Criminal defense