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Michael Spano
About Michael
Biography
Michael is the only board certified criminal trial lawyer in New York State. Each lawyer certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy must undergo an extensive and rigorous screening of his or her credentials. The screening process consists of an assessment of their experience, judicial and peer references as well as an exam.
In addition to being New York State's only board certified criminal lawyer, Michael was selected as a "Super Lawyer" in 2011. Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a rigorous multiphase process. Peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third party research. Usually only 5% of lawyers in a geographical area are selected as Super Lawyers.
Michael was an Assistant District Attorney with the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office from 1998 to 2008. He was eventually promoted to Chief Assistant District Attorney in charge of the Homicide Bureau.
Practice Areas
6
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in New York for 32 years
State: New York
Acquired: 1993
No misconduct found
Location
Law Offices of Michael Spano
The Crown Building, 304 South Franklin Street, Syracuse, NY, 13202
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Michael Spano's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 28 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Deanna | November 7, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Thankful
I can’t thank Attorney Michael Spano enough for the outstanding job he did representing my son. He handled the case with professionalism, compassion, and genuine care. From the beginning, he explained everything clearly, treated my son with respect, and fought for the best possible outcome. Becaus...
Posted by Lee | January 2, 2023 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Absolutely the best.
Michael Spano is unquestionably the best attorney I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. He represented my son in a very serious criminal matter and I found him to be extremely articulate, knowledgeable, understanding, and compassionate. Michael's integrity is beyond reproach, he candidly ad...
Posted by anonymous | August 15, 2022 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Life in prison
Devastating results coming out of Broome County. Innocent man will spend life in prison. Absolute police scandal and cover up sends an innocent young man to prison, heart breaking!
Posted by Chris | March 4, 2021 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Wonderful Experience! Couldn't ask for better!
Mr. Spano took on my case and was professional, communicative, and understanding. He was very quick to respond to any of my emails and always answered any questions I had. I truly will recommend him to any individual! Thank you Mr. Spano for all that you have done! Words cannot describe how thankful ...
Posted by Jean | November 3, 2016 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Couldn't ask for better!
On two occasions this year I needed the services of Michael Spano and he was quick to respond. He has the communication skills and the perseverance to complete the work necessary and drive it to a successful conclusion. In both situations, I was pleased with the results of his work and the decisions ...
Michael Spano's Lawyer Endorsements
"Having worked with Michael on various legal matters over our lengthy careers, it is truly an honor to recommend one of the most prominent Criminal Defense Attorneys in all of Upstate New York. Additionally, Michael and I have worked on many Criminal cases while he was in private practice as co- counsel in Auburn New York. Michael subsequently was hired as an Assistant District Attorney in Syracuse New York for the Onondaga District Attorney's Office. Michael quickly rose through the ranks and was promoted to lead the Homicide Division as a Chief Prosecutor in Onondaga County for many years. He subsequently opened his own private practice of Law in Syracuse New York. Michael is the best of the best at what he does and I would highly recommend him without reservation to anyone in need of an Attorney regarding any high level Criminal matter."
"Phenomenal trial attorney!"
"I strongly endorse Michael Spano. Michael is among the elite defense and trial attorneys in Central New York. I have witnessed him in trial on several occasions and always came away extremely impressed with his skill, knowledge, preparedness and advocacy. You can not find a better or more well-respected attorney than Michael."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Michael Spano is truly one of the better trial attorneys in the area. His reputation speaks for itself. I not only endorse this lawyer, but would recommend my own family and friends to him. Many attorneys call themselves "trial lawyers," but very few are actual true litigators. Michael is a true courtroom litigator, and one of the best at it."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse Michael. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"Michael Spano is a true professional and highly skilled lawyer. I would strongly recommend him to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney."
"I endorse Michael to the fullest. As a young prosecutor I watched many attorneys seek out Mike for guidance, experience, and advice. He conducts his legal practice in the same manner by always being available, providing sound legal opinions, and ensuring customer satisfaction."
"Mike is a skilled attorney with an excellent reputation and a proven track record in and out of the courtroom. I strongly endorse him for criminal defense."
"I endorse this lawyer - great criminal defense attorney!"
"I have known Mike as both a prosecutor and fellow defense lawyer. He has extensive experience as a criminal trial lawyer, works hard and achieves great results for his clients. I can think of few other lawyers I would recommend as highly."
"I have known Mike for several years and on several occasions have referred people that I know to him for representation. He works hard for his clients and is committed to obtaining the best possible result. I strongly endorse Mike."
"I have worked with Mike Spano for many years when he was an assistant district attorney in Onondaga County. He was always accessible and fair. Now, as a defense attorney, he has an excellent reputation and has represented defendants in numerous high-profile cases. Plus, he was well liked in the office of the district attorney's office and I am sure he has good connections there."
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Experience
Honors
2018
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2017
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2016
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2015
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2014
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2013
Super Lawyer, New York Super Lawyers
2013
BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2012
Super Lawyer, New York Super Lawyers
2012
BV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2011
Super Lawyer, New York Super Lawyers
N/A
Board Certified, National Board of Trial Advocacy
Work Experience
1998 - 2008
Chief Assistant District Attorney, Onondaga County District Attorney's Office
1993 - 1998
Partner, Bentkofsky, Simmonds & Spano, LLC
Associations
2013 - Present
American College of Board Certified Attorneys
2010 - Present
National Board of Trial Advocacy
Onondaga County Bar Association
Member
Education
1992
Syracuse University College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1989
Nazareth College
Speaking Engagements
2013
Criminal Law Seminar
Direct Examination