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Michael Anthony Rossi

also known as Rossi Law Firm
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Avvo Rating10
  • Buffalo, NY
  • Licensed for 40 years
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About Michael

A tough, aggressive trial lawyer, Michael Anthony Rossi began practicing in New York in 1981 and went on to form The Rossi Law Firm. The Rossi Law firm is a “results oriented” criminal and civil litigation firm with offices in Downtown Buffalo.

 

In his nearly four decades of practice, Michael has focused his expertise in the areas of personal injury, divorce, and criminal and D.W.I. defense. Michael is a fierce advocate for his clients because he knows how important results are.

 

His long-standing reputation in the legal community has lead to unparalleled professional ratings and client reviews. Michael has received the preeminent AV rating in Martindale Hubbell, has an Avvo rating of a perfect 10.0 (Superb), and has been recognized by Avvo as a “Top Attorney” in Criminal Defense, D.W.I., Divorce, and Personal Injury. He has been named to Super Lawyers, Legal Elite of Western New York, and the lists of “10 Best” DWI Attorneys, “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” and “Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys” in the State of New York, among numerous other honors and awards during his stellar legal career.

 

Five Star client ratings have resulted in Michael receiving the Avvo “Clients’ Choice Award” in the areas of Criminal Defense, D.W.I., Divorce, and Personal Injury, in addition to a “5 Star” client rating from Super Pages.


The philosophy of the firm is quite simple. “We take on a limited number of cases, which allows us to provide an extremely high level of professional service and attention to each client. Clients need and deserve an attorney that is accessible when they call and responsive when they have questions.” - Michael Anthony Rossi.


Michael graduated Magna Cum Laude from Niagara University with a B.A. in Political Science and received his Juris Doctor degree from SUNY at Buffalo. He is licensed to practice in all New York State courts and the US District Court for the Western District of New York.

 

Call The Rossi Law Firm today.  "It may be the most important call you will ever make!" - Michael Anthony Rossi


(attorney advertising)

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Practice areas

OtherPersonal injuryDivorce and separationDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 25%

    Felonies, misdemeanors, and Traffic matters for over 31 years

    41 years

  2. DUI and DWI: 25%

    DWI and DUI Defense for over 31 years

    41 years

  3. Divorce and separation: 25%

    Divorce, Custody, Support for over 31 years

    41 years

  4. Personal injury: 15%

    Serious and complex personal injury, auto accidents, falls, medical malpractice, products liability, wrongful death for over 31 years

    41 years

  1. Car accident: 10%

    Serious and complex personal injury, auto accidents, falls, medical malpractice, products liability, wrongful death for over 31 years

    41 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

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Contact

The Rossi Law Firm

68 Niagara Street
Buffalo, NY, 14202

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
NYCurrently registered 198105/25/2021
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers13
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Super Lawyers NYC MetroThomson Reuters2019
Legal Elite of Western New YorkBuffalo Business First2019
Super Lawyers NYC MetroThomson Reuters2018
Super Lawyers NYC MetroThomson Reuters2017
Super Lawyers Upstate New YorkThomson Reuters2016
Super Lawyers NYC MetroThomson Reuters2016
"10 BEST" Attorneys in NY in Client Satisfaction in DWI DefenseAmerican Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2015
Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers in the State of New YorkAmerican Society of Legal Advocates2015
Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers in the State of New YorkThe National Trial Lawyers2015
Nation's Top One PercentThe National Association of Distinguished Counsel2015
Super Lawyers Upstate New YorkThomson Reuters2015
Legal Elite of Western New YorkBuffalo Business First2015
Top Attorney in DWIAvvo2014
Clients' Choice Award in Personal InjuryAvvo2014
Top Attorney in Personal InjuryAvvo2014
Clients' Choice Award in DivorceAvvo2014
Top Attorney in DivorceAvvo2014
Clients' Choice Award in Criminal DefenseAvvo2014
Top Attorney in Criminal DefenseAvvo2014
Clients' Choice Award in DWI DefenseAvvo2014
"10 BEST" Attorneys in NY in Client Satisfaction in DWI DefenseAmerican Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2014
Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Criminal DefenseThe National Trial Lawyers2014
Legal Elite of Western New YorkBuffalo Business First2014
Top 100 Criminal Lawyers in the State of New YorkAmerican Society of Legal Advocates2014
Client Distinction AwardMartindale-Hubbell2013
2013 Top Rated Lawyer in Personal InjuryAmerican Lawyer Media and Martindale-Hubbell2013
Top Attorney in Criminal DefenseAvvo2013
Clients' Choice Award in Criminal DefenseAvvo2013
Top Attorney in DWIAvvo2013
Clients' Choice Award in DWI DefenseAvvo2013
Top Attorney in DivorceAvvo2013
Clients' Choice Award in DivorceAvvo2013
Top Attorney in Personal InjuryAvvo2013
Clients' Choice Award in Personal InjuryAvvo2013
Universal Who's WhoUniversal Who's Who2012
AV Peer Review Rating - Preeminent (5% of US Attorneys)Martindale-Hubbell2011
Who's Who Among Executives, Professionals and EntrepreneursWho's Who Among Executives, Professionals and Entrepreneurs2009
Who's Who in American LawWho's Who In American Law1998
Who's Who of International ProfessionalsWho's Who of International Professionals1997
Two Thousand Notable American MenTwo Thousand Notable American Men1995
Million Dollar AdvocateMillion Dollar Advocates Forum1995
Two Thousand Notable American MenTwo Thousand Notable American Men1994
Who's Who Register of Rising Young AmericansWho's Who Register of Rising Young Americans1994
Who's Who Register of Rising Young AmericansWho's Who Register of Rising Young Americans1993
Two Thousand Notable American MenTwo Thousand Notable American Men1993
Who's Who in American LawWho's Who In American Law1992
Clients' Choice Award in DWI DefenseAvvoN/A
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Civil and Criminal Trial AttorneyRossi Law Firm1981 - Present
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
New York State Academy of Trial LawyersMember2011 - Present
New York State Trial Lawyers AssociationMember1993 - Present
SUNY at Buffalo Law Alumni AssociationMember1989 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember1981 - Present
New York State Bar AssociationMember1981 - Present
Bar Association of Erie CountyMember - Negligence, Criminal Law, and Matrimonial Committees1981 - Present
Niagara County Bar AssociationMemberN/A
Niagara Falls Bar AssociationMemberN/A
Association of Trial Lawyers of AmericaMemberN/A
New York Defenders AssociationMemberN/A
Bar Association of the TonawandasMemberN/A
Bar Association of Erie CountyCo-Chair of the Criminal Law Committee2016 - 2019
Grand Island, NY Mock Trial TeamAttorney Advisor2009 - 2016
Chamber of Commerce of Grand Island, NYBoard of Directors2005 - 2010
Chamber of Commerce of Grand Island, NYMember2002 - 2010
Grand Island, NY Board of EthicsChairman2001 - 2011
Exchange Club of the Tonawandas2nd Vice President1998 - 2000
Buffalo Sabre Matthew Barnaby Golf ClassicChairman1996 - 1997
Exchange Club of the TonawandasBoard of Directors1996 - 1998
Buffalo Sabre Brad May Golf ClassicChairman1994 - 1995
Exchange Club of the Tonawandas2nd Vice President1991 - 1992
DeGraff Hospital FoundationBoard of Directors1991 - 1998
Chamber of Commerce of the TonawandasPresident1990 - 1991
Exchange Club of the TonawandasPresident1989 - 1991
Exchange Club of the Tonawandas1st Vice President1988 - 1989
DeGraff Hospital Corporate Advisory BoardBoard Member1988 - 1991
Bar Association of the TonawandasPresident1987 - 1988
Niagara County Legal Aid SocietyBoard of Directors1987 - 1988
Exchange Club of the Tonawandas2nd Vice President1987 - 1988
Exchange Club of the TonawandasBoard of Directors1986 - 1987
Bar Association of the TonawandasVice President1986 - 1987
Bar Association of the TonawandasSecretary1985 - 1986
North Tonawanda, NY City CouncilMember1984 - 1987
Exchange Club of the TonawandasMember1984 - 2001
Chamber of Commerce of the TonawandasBoard of Directors1984 - 1994
Chamber of Commerce of the TonawandasLegal Counsel1984 - 1994
Bar Association of the TonawandasTreasurer1984 - 1985
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Lawyers.com Law BlogNew York DWI and DWAI Penalties2011
Lawyers.com Law BlogNew York's "Tough" DWI Law - Ignition Interlock Device (IID)2011
Lawyers.com Law BlogNew York's No-Fault Divorce2011
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
State University of New York at Buffalo School of LawJD - Juris Doctor1980
Niagara UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts1977
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Auto and Truck Claims, Accidents and Litigation 2019Criminal Law Civil Lawyers Need to Know2019
Bar Association of Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 9 DWI Basics2017
Bar Association of Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 7 "Crafting" Motions in the Defense of DWI Cases2016
Bar Association of Erie CountyDMV Regulations and Canadian Travel Restrictions in DWI Cases2016
Bar Association of Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 8 DMV Regulations, Case Law Update, and Trial Issues2016
National Business InstituteMatrimonial Settlement Agreements and Divorce Hearings and Trials2016
Attorney Featured in News ArticleHolding municipalities liable for plow damage is a tall task2016
Bar Association of Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 4 Vehicle Stop Issues and Pre-Trial Hearings2015
Bar Association of Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 2 Dissecting the Paperwork in DWI Cases and Discovery Issues2015
Bar Association of Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 5 Chemical Breath Testing and Attacking the Test at Trial2015
Bar Association or Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 6 Blood Testing and Trial Issues on Blood Test Cases2015
Bar Association of Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 3 NHTSA Manual, FSTs, and Cross Examination of Arresting Officer2015
Bar Association of Erie CountyDWI Practical Tips and Traps - Part 1 DWI Defense 101 - General Overview of Defending DWI Cases2014
International WebinarTrial Attorneys: Dilemmas & Solutions2013
IMS Barter Networking EventDWI Law in NY: An Overview2011
Attorney Featured in News ArticleDWI: The $10,000 Offense2011
Attorney Quoted in National News ArticleDebate Over Easing Teens Into Alcohol2011
YWCA Public Service EventDivorce, Custody, and Support2010
Grand Island High School Attorney CoachHigh School Mock Trial CompetitionN/A
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
People v. A.D.ALL CHARGES DISMISSED following the suppression of evidence after lengthy pretrial hearings and legal arguments.
People v V.G.ALL CHARGES DISMISSED. After a lengthy suppression hearing, Court suppressed all evidence resulting from illegal motor vehicle stop.
Benedetti v. Rho M.D.$2,260,000 Verdict in favor of Plaintiff
People v. A.B.All misdemeanor criminal charges were DISMISSED. Client allowed to plea to one disorderly conduct non-criminal violation.
People v. E.S.Both counts of DWI were DISMISSED. Client allowed to plea to one speeding violation and one failure to obey traffic control device violation.
People v. B.F.DWAI by Drugs DISMISSED without trial. Client allowed to plea to 3 traffic violations.

Reviews

(40)
5 Star
100%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review Michael Rossi

Consultation

Posted by

Had a divorce consultation with Mr. M Rossi and he was very helpful. could not retain him as I did not meet the NY state residency requirement.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

Professional, High Quality Attorney

Posted by

I needed help with a serious issue after the death of my Mom. Michael was very kind and professional in the handling of the issue. He kept in contact with me consistently. I would highly recommend Michael Rossi and his firm.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Outstanding, expert professional attorney

Posted by

Mr. Rossi is an experienced and expert attorney with a command of legal knowledge that is second to none. He handled my matter in a courteous, efficient and expeditious manner resulting in terms significantly more favorable to me that what my previous counsel was able to muster. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of quality legal representation.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Out of State

Posted by

Michael took care of my case and as I live in another state, he was able to keep me from having to travel back to NY.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Post Divorce Child Custody/Relocation

Posted by

Mr. Rossi and the Rossi Law Firm are head and shoulders above all others. My ex-wife relocated with my son without my knowledge as the primarily custodial parent. Mr. Rossi never promised that we would win our case, nor did he ever oversell me on our position. He told me that we need to "Fight Like Hell" and we did. My case was a Team Effort from ALL within the Rossi Law Firm. I felt that my case mattered to Mr. Rossi and I don't feel like I was ever taken advantage of or overcharged as there were many complications with my case. He is very mindful of the hours and cost for your fight. If you are going thru a divorce or dealing with post divorce custody issues, I assure you that Mr. Rossi and the Rossi Law Firm will do all they can to help you. Mr. Rossi only takes on a limited number of cases to ensure that you are getting the attention that you and your case needs. I feel extremely fortunate he took my case. Mr. Rossi and the Rossi Law Firm will always be the only place I will trust to handle any future case issues. The stakes are too high to choose the wrong lawyer to handle what is most precious in my life. I highly recommend Mr. Rossi and the Rossi Law Firm for any Family Law needs that you may have. I don't regret hiring him and I do not believe you will either.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

If you value yourself, hire the best.

Posted by

When my life got flipped upside from a DWI charge I had no idea where to turn. I had a very unique case that needed the attention to detail this firm presented. Unlike other interviews I had with very other known law firms, when speaking with Mr. Michael Rossi on the very first call , he outlined his experience and his goals on how he hoped to achieve a favorable outcome for me. No lavish promises on cost or how long it would take to effectively defend me. In my experience, when you hire someone you go on experience and reputation not a sales pitch filled with unknown promises. I feel I made the right call in hiring the Rossi firm. Bottom line as much as it can be difficult to pay for legal fees you get what you pay for, so buck up if your reputation and criminal record are important to you. As for Mr. Nicholas Rossi, this guy is a beast in the court room. He is very bright, extremely knowledgeable in the law and very comfortable in the courtroom , he has a very promising future. Having both of these gentleman by myside in the courtroom I felt confident as possible during a very difficult time filled with unknowns. On top of everything both of these fine attorneys have a heart, they helped me more than they know. I feel they genuinely cared. Best part of all, all charges DISMISSED! I feel very confident this firm will do everything legally necessary to defend you, leaving no stone unturned. Thank you!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great Law Firm

Posted by

I am glad that I took my son in law's advice and chose the Rossi Law firm. My case was very serious and complicated. From day one, I felt that I had not only Michael Rossi in my corner, but his son Nicholas too. So for expense purposes I had two excellent lawyers for the price of one. Mike and Nick treated me with respect and kindness. From day one, they told me "not to worry, live my life, and although my case was serious to let them use their skills to do their job". I cannot imagine anyone "working the courtroom" better than Michael Rossi. My results were far better than my hopes or dreams. Although I continue with praises, the bottom line, in my sixty four years of life experience, they rate "A" number "1". Althogh
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent Legal Services

Posted by

The Rossi Law Firm was very professional. They always put my best interests first and fought for me throughout this process.  The Rossi Law Firm was very kind, knowledgeable, proactive and kept me informed every step of the way. I would recommend The Rossi Law Firm to any friend, family member or acquaintance who needed legal assistance.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Very professional!!

Posted by

Mr. Rossi and his son did a very good job on my case and I would highly recommend them!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Quality.

Posted by

Mr Rossi was such a pleasure to work with. I was married to a Canadian and I had a very difficult case. Mr Rossi did everything he could for me to make sure my children and i were taken care of. He worked very hard and went over and above for me. He always worked with me on payment when times got tough. I can’t thank him enough and i HIGHLY recommend him to anyone looking for a quality attorney.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(21)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Joseph LaTona

Mike and I have worked together on many cases. He is a terrific attorney.

Hayley Greenberg

I endorse this lawyer. I've known him for MANY years. Stand up guy and smart. Knows what he's doing.

Leonard Krawczyk, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 31, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Somair Alam, Divorce and separation Attorney on Feb 13, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Exceptional attorney, dedicated to client success. Highly recommended.

Judd Nemiro

I endorse this lawyer for his dedication and commitment to clients.

Michael Waddington, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 1, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Michael. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.

Tracy Jong, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 5, 2013
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer. Michael Rossi is a practical, no-nonsense attorney. He approaches matters from a cost-effective strategy. More importantly, he is approachable, personal and gets back to people quickly. That is a rare combination.

Steve Boyd, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 21, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Steven Cohen, Litigation Attorney on Jul 5, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have practiced with and against Michael Rossi for over 20 years, and can attest to his professionalism and excellence as a litigator. I am pleased to endorse Mr. Rossi.

Thomas Deagostino, Personal injury Attorney on Jul 2, 2012
Relationship: Friend

I have known Mike for more than 20 years. In that time I have visited his office and over the years have spoken extensively with him about our various personal injury cases. Mike has successfully handled a wide variety of personal injury claims. His insight and experience have been invaluable to me. Mike's attention to detail coupled with his years of experience will be a real asset to any client who has been injured by the negligence of another.

Charles Bridge, Litigation Attorney on Jun 25, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Michael Rossi for many years as a fellow lawyer in the community. We have worked together on various cases and I know Michael to be extremely knowledable and competent. I highly endorse this lawyer.

Elisha Rudolph

I endorse this lawyer.

Simon Landsberg, Personal injury Attorney on Jun 7, 2012
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Anne Joynt, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 6, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Jennifer Scharf, Litigation Attorney on Jun 6, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

My office has had the opportunity to work with Mr. Rossi and his firm, and we have found him to be very skilled and professional. I enjoy working with Mr. Rossi and his firm, and would recommend his services.

John Ballow, Personal injury Attorney on May 23, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Michael Mohun, Personal injury Attorney on May 23, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Mike for over 30 years. He is highly respected in the legal community. If you have Mike for your lawyer you are truly blessed.

Jeffrey Freedman, Litigation Attorney on Dec 19, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Mike has 31 years of experience practicing law in Western New York. He truly cares about his clients and provides excellent representation. Mike has handled many referrals from attorneys who recognize and appreciate his years of experience and success.

Nicholas Rossi, Litigation Attorney on Dec 19, 2011
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I know Michael Anthony Rossi to be a knowledgeable attorney who puts his extensive experience in both civil and criminal litigation to work for all his clients, regardless of the issues they may be facing. Michael often receives referrals from other attorneys who recognize his experience and strong track-record in his practice areas. I have personally witnessed Michael's work in and out of the courtroom and I would certainly recommend Michael Anthony Rossi to anyone who needs legal advice in his areas of practice. I endorse this lawyer.

James Morris, Personal injury Attorney on Dec 16, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I am pleased to endorse this lawyer. Michael Rossi is a diligent and knowledgeable attorney. His has successfully handled cases involving complex medical issues.

Cost

RATES
  • Contingency A contingency fee is the percent of the final award a lawyer will receive as compensation. For some of these cases, lawyers will only be paid if there is a successful outcome.
    33%-33%
  • Retainer Some attorneys require an upfront payment to secure their services before they begin their work.
    Sometimes
PAYMENT METHODS

Cash, Check, Credit Card