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Michael Charles Cimasi

DUI and DWI Attorney at Amherst, NY

5.0   24 reviews
  • State Years
    Texas - TX < 1 year
    New York - NY 9 years
  • Licensed for less than one year
    State TX
    Acquired 2023
    Status
    Eligible to Practice in Texas No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 9 years
    State NY
    Acquired 2014
    Status
    Currently Registered No misconduct found

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

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. DUI and DWI
    40%
    Represent clients in local and county courts for simple and complex DWI cases.

  2. Criminal defense
    30%
    Perform criminal defense in courts across Western New York including white collar crime, violent crime, and property crime.

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket
    20%
    Represent both personal and commercial drivers for vehicle and traffic tickets and DMV proceedings including speeding, mechanical violations, and unlicensed operation.

  4. White collar crime
    10%
    Represent clients in local and county courts for simple and complex fraud, embezzlement, and larceny cases.

My practice pattern at the Cimasi Law Office is focused on DWI, criminal defense, and traffic matters (e.g. speeding, mechanical violations, unlicensed operation, etc.) in courts across Western New York.  I also represent clients on parole violations and landlord-tenant matters.  I am a highly meticulous and diligent practitioner who seeks to provide dedicated service to each client, regardless how big or small the matter.  I am always available by phone, and there is no fee for initial consultations.

I also teach courses in sociology and legal studies to undergraduates at the University at Buffalo ("UB") and Buffalo State College.  After years of direct involvement as the Director of the UB legal aid office, I still routinely assist and counsel  both domestic and international on legal issues.  

My recent service work has included pro-bono legal services through the Volunteers Lawyers Project, tutoring elementary school students through the Lawyers-for-Learning Program, serving on the Zoning Board or Appeals for the Town of Amherst, New York, serving on the Alumni Board of Governors for Canisius High School, and serving as School Board Secretary for, St. Benedict School.

Photos and videos

Town of Grand Island Justice Court
Cheektowaga Town Court circa 2017
Erie County Bar Association Pro Bono Award 2017
Erie County Bar Association Pro Bono Award 2017
View more

Contact Michael

Similar lawyers nearby

Cimasi Law Office
66 Park Circle
Amherst, NY, 14226

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  24 customer reviews
5 Star
 
96%
4 Star
 
4%
3 Star
 
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1 Star
 
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Posted by Cedric | September 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer
Mr. Cimasi is the best. He cares about your concerns and listen to every detail. Then he execute very decisively that I was truly please with. Thank you for your expertise and knowledge. Continue to be the best at what you do. Best regards.
Posted by anonymous | July 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Concerned mother
I recommend Michael Cimasi without reservation. He values his family and treated my son and myself as individuals who are important as people as well as clients. He accomplished exactly what he promised us concerning my son's traffic ticket and got back to us immediately. Thank you!
Posted by kk | April 29, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
quick response
i called the number listed and there was a call back within minutes. Questions answered promptly. Best Case and Worst Case scenarios.
Posted by Rick | February 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Rick L
Mr. Cimasi has done and excellent job for me this past year. I received a speeding ticket and he got it reduced to a parking ticket. He also handled another case with a family member with similar results. I highly recommend Mr. Cimasi for any legal counsel.
Posted by anonymous | January 3, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
VERY SATISFIED
Helped to reduce moving violation to non moving violation and avoid points on the CDL.
Posted by Sharon | November 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Traffic Violation
I recently received a speeding ticket and am so glad I contacted Michael Cimasi, Esq. I know him to be very trustworthy, efficient and knowledgeable- he was certainly all of that and more! He guided me through the entire process (basically he did it all for me) saving me much time and effort. He is the best and I highly recommend him!!
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Posted by Nelson | November 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Made auto accident less painful
I was issued a traffic citation following an accident when an unlicensed driver collided with my auto in an intersection. I felt the ticket, written by an officer who only later came to the scene was based on a less than full evaluation of the circumstances (the other driver’s imprudent speed and failure to maintain control of her car). A friend advised me to deal with the matter by contacting Michael Cimasi, and I sent him information regarding the accident and the citation. He responded within a day, and after discussing the matter with me and explaining the issues involved, I felt confident he would be able to resolve the issue with the court. He did and consequently, I was able to avoid a court appearance, and continue without any marks on my license. I especially appreciated the advice and prompt attention Michael gave me in handling this matter, and would recommend him highly.
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Posted by Douglas | November 2, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Communicative, Empathetic, and Intelligent
Mr. Cimasi recently represented me during what will hopefully be my one and only brush in with the law (DWI related). Naturally I was nervous, uneducated on the legal processes involved, and just overall very upset. Mr. Cimasi was patient and understanding in his approach to explaining all the steps that were going to take place throughout the course of my situation (and this was just in the consult). After consulting with him it was clear he would represent me and my best interests intelligently and effectively. After retaining his services, he was very responsive to questions whether it be via email, phone call, or face to face conversation. There was never a moment during my case where I felt like I was in bad hands. The favorable outcome of my case proved that Michael Cimasi is more than just communicative and understanding. He walked me through his strategy of representation and then executed that strategy. Given, I understand every case is different and that your attorney can only represent you, not dictate the outcome of a trial. However, he DID produce results for me, and even without the result I still would stand behind the statement that Mr. Cimasi represented me at an elite level. Retaining Michael Cimasi was the right choice. If you find yourself in a legal situation that falls within his expertise then I would highly recommend you invest in yourself by procuring Michael Cimasi's services.
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Posted by Mohab | October 10, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesom
Just paid him and he did the rest , didn’t even had to go to court once and my case got dropped:) I highly recommend him for any HTA
Posted by Janae’ | August 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Spectacular Attorney
I am not a New York state resident and was arrested while visiting New York. Due to the level of the charges, a criminal misdemeanor, I was mandated to attend a court hearing five weeks later. During the time of my arrest, I was in the process of interviewing for positions and had the real concern that an arrest appearing on my background check would eliminate my opportunity for employment. My employment search, coupled with my ignorance of the criminal justice system and New York laws, had me overwhelmed with anxiety. I looked at several attorney profiles; analyzed their reviews and websites, as well as called the attorneys directly to discuss my case. Needless to say, some of my early findings and telephone encounters made me more anxious. Then I found Michael! On the first attempt to contact Michael, he answered his phone (FYI he always answered his phone every time I called him). Immediately, Michael was very personable, patient and extremely knowledgeable with my potential options. Initially, as an out of state citizen, I felt my level of control was non-existent. However, Michael made me feel extremely empowered and relaxed during the entire process leading up to my court date. He explained every detail about my case in layman terms which were easy for me to understand. He answered ALL of my questions in record breaking time for attorney responses (that is how great he is with answering your questions). Having Michael as my attorney, dramatically reduced my level of anxiety and increased my level of comfort with the process. He is an outstanding communicator, providing you with step-by-step information and breaking down law/court concepts to their most simple terms. Another fantastic quality that separates Michael from any other attorney is that he teaches criminal justice/law courses in higher education. As a professor, his knowledge is current and sharp! He not only understands law and court policies, but is able to synthesize the information and find the solution that is most beneficial to you as his client. Overall, I am tremendously happy I had Michael on my team. He is an effective and efficient communicator, compassionate, trustworthy and transparent throughout the process. I highly recommend Michael to any seeking above and beyond attorney representation.
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Posted by Kathy | July 18, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent
He made the process so simple and easy and got my ticket reduced to a non moving violation. He was very informative and answered any question is a very timely manor
Response from Michael Cimasi July 23, 2018
Thanks, Kathy! I wish you all the best!
Posted by anonymous | June 23, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional results
Mr. Cimasi consulted me and chose to represent me in a highly sensitive issue of great importance to my business. His conduct towards me was comforting and professional. The strategy he selected to employ provided the best results possible. I cannot say enough about my gratitude and his superior representation.
Response from Michael Cimasi June 30, 2018
Thank you. I am glad you were pleased with the outcome! Cheers, Michael Charles Cimasi, Esq.
Posted by Tess | April 13, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Intelligent, Responsive, and Trustworthy Attorney
I am a highly-trained and experienced attorney. During the past several years, Michael C. Cimasi, Esq. and I have consulted on a number of legal matters. During our consultations, I have found him to be intelligent, responsive, and trustworthy, which are traits that I deem absolutely essential for effective and proper client representation. I recommmend him highly and without reservation for both criminal and civil work.
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Response from Michael Cimasi June 30, 2018
Thanks, Tess! I appreciate your courtesy in reviewing my services! Cheers, Michael Charles Cimasi, Esq.
Posted by anonymous | March 23, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Traffic Tickets
I hired Michael for several traffic tickets I had in two courts. He explained the process, dealt with the courts & I was offered parking tickets without points on my DMV record. He gave me an appearance waiver so I did not have to miss work to appear at court on the tickets. He answered his phone when I called him and did an excellent job. I recommend him.
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Response from Michael Cimasi June 30, 2018
Thank you! It can be a complicated and time-consuming process. I am happy to help! Cheers, Michael Charles Cimasi, Esq.
Posted by Mary | March 15, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer for traffic tickets!
I got 3 speeding tickets in a short period of time and my license was in danger of being revoked. I called Michael and he appeared on my behalf in 2 courts and instead of a revocation, I ended up with 3 parking tickets. He is very responsive by phone and email and clearly laid out my options. Very reasonable rate! I was pleased with his services and happy to write a review for him.
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Response from Michael Cimasi March 16, 2018
Thank you, Mary. I wish you all the best!
Posted by anonymous | February 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
I hired Mr. Cimasi to help me with a traffic ticket and he did an excellent job. He is efficient and personable, and explains everything well. He also understands the dynamics of the courts in Western NY, which puts him above the more nationally advertised firms. I recommend him very highly.
Response from Michael Cimasi March 22, 2018
Thank you for your feedback! Cheers, Michael Charles Cimasi, Esq.
Posted by Tim | November 30, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
School District Appeal
My child’s public school district tried to remove him based on allegations of non-residency because my wife and I are separated and living apart. Michael contacted the district’s attorneys, submitted an appeal, and they decided to rescind their prior decision. His help was invaluable to keep my son in his school for his senior year of high school. The district had one of the larger law firms in Buffalo, but Michael really came through for us on our appeal. I would recommend his services to anyone needing a lawyer.
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Response from Michael Cimasi December 14, 2017
Best wishes to you and your son, Tim. Cheers, Michael Charles Cimasi, Esq.
Posted by Ann | August 17, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Caring Attorney for Drug Charges
Michael represented my grandson on a variety of drug charges and drug court issues in Buffalo and Grand Island. He steered us well and my grandson was released from custody almost immediately and got into a rehab facility. He is caring and was always available for us. I recommend his services for any criminal court case.
Response from Michael Cimasi March 22, 2018
Thank you, Ann. I wish you and your grandson all the best! Cheers, Michael Charles Cimasi, Esq.
Posted by Jim | August 9, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Traffic Ticket - Automobile Accident
Michael represented my daughter in a case where she received a traffic ticket as a result of a recent auto accident. He reviewed the accident report filed by the Police Officer, our insurance carrier as well as my daughters account of the accident. She was advised to plead not-guilty and accept a court date from the Town of Amherst where he represented her in this case. His guidance and expertise ultimately lead to a reduced non-moving violation and no further action needed on her part. He was very professional and I would definitely recommend Michael to others needed legal advice.
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Response from Michael Cimasi March 22, 2018
Thanks for the review, Jim. I was happy to help your daughter. Best wishes, Michael Charles Cimasi, Esq.
Posted by Jason | August 9, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dedication and Excellence make for a great combination.
Most respectful and knowledgeable attorney I have ever had the please of working with. Well spoken, polite, but hard as a nail to get the job done. There is a reason I have him as my attorney. I only want the best and in my opinion, he is the best.
Response from Michael Cimasi March 22, 2018
Thanks, Jason. I hope all is well with you and your family! Cheers, Michael Charles Cimasi, Esq.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Adjunct Professor
  • State University of New York at Buffalo - Millard Fillmore College & Sociology Department
  • 2014 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Cimasi Law Office
  • 2014 - Present
  • Member
  • Zoning Board Of Appeals For The Town Of Amherst
  • 2015 - 2018
  • Judicial Clerk-Intern
  • US Immigration Court - Buffalo, NY
  • 2012 - 2013
  • Director
  • SBI Legal Assistance (SUNY Buffalo Legal Aid Office)
  • 2011 - 2016
View all work experience

Education

  • State University of New York at Buffalo
  • MA - Masters
  • 2015
  • Suny Buffalo Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2013
  • State University of New York at Buffalo
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2006

Legal Cases

  • DWI Case
  • Dismissal of All Charges
  • Traffic Stop with Drug & Resisting Charges
  • Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal
  • Weapons Charge while Crossing Border into US
  • Dismissal of All Charges

Associations

  • St. Thomas More Guild
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • New York State Defenders Association
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • New York State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Bar Association of Erie County
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2020
  • Rising Star
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2019
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2017
  • Pro Bono Award - Buffalo Housing Court
  • Erie County Bar Association
  • 2017
View all awards

Publications

  • UB Career Services Office
  • Know Your Rights - Employment Contracts
  • 2014

Speaking Engagements

  • UB International Student Orientation
  • Legal Aid for International Students
  • 2016
  • UB Medical School Graduate Education Program
  • Stark Law & Anti-Kickback Primer
  • 2015
  • Employment Contracting Basics for International Student Career Advisors
  • Employment Contracts
  • 2014
  • Rental Awareness & Tenants' Rights
  • Landlord-Tenant Law
  • 2013
  • Housing Discrimination Workshop
  • Housing Discrimination
  • 2013
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (5)
Given (13)
Endorse Michael
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Cimasi for many years and have had the opportunity to have common clients spanning various aspects of law and as counsel representing co-defendants. Mr. Cimasi is always diligent in his representation of his clients, thinks out of the box and provides his clients with the best available representation. Those in need are in good and capable hands."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Cimasi for almost 20 years. He is a great human being and highly effective attorney. Very knowledgeable and caring."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael C. Cimasi is highly dedicated and knowledgeable, which always benefits his clients. He is a professional with an excellent working relationship with all Courts in Erie County and WNY."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have seen Michael practice all over Erie County and beyond in front of numerous judges. Aside from being courteous, friendly and approachable, I have witnessed him fight tirelessly for his clients and obtain wonderful outcomes."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have gotten to know Michael over the past three years in-and-out of various courts in Erie County as a fellow criminal defense attorney. I know him to be honest, highly-intelligent and possessing an incredible work ethic. I highly recommend and endorse this lawyer."
Marriage and prenuptials
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
General practice
Criminal defense
Landlord or tenant