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John C Nelson

also known as John Nelson
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Avvo Rating10
  • Ellicottville, NY
  • Licensed for 9 years
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About John

In representing clients, I always take the approach to represent a client the way I would want to be represented in his or her situation. I always evaluate, research, investigate and zealously defend a case as the client requests as long as it complies with my ethical duties.

 

Frequently, I compare the attorney-client relationship to that of a taxi cab driver-passenger relationship. The taxi cab driver knows the fast roads, best routes and has the skills to get where the passenger needs to go. Like the passenger, the client decides what direction the case goes. I try to do everything in my power to get my clients to their destination.

 

The majority of my experience is in criminal law, with some prior family law experience. For the past year, I have focused my practice on DWI, Criminal and Traffic Defense. Instead of dabbling in many areas of law, I practice only what I know best, so I can give my clients the best possible representation.

Practice areas

OtherViolent crimeCriminal defenseSpeeding and traffic ticketDUI and DWI
  1. DUI and DWI: 50%

    10 years

  2. Speeding and traffic ticket: 25%

  3. Criminal defense: 10%

    10 years

  4. Violent crime: 5%

    10 years

  1. White collar crime: 5%

    9 years

  2. Juvenile law: 1%

    10 years

  3. Appeals: 1%

    10 years

  4. Credit card fraud: 1%

    10 years

  5. Expungement: 1%

    10 years

  6. Sex crime: 1%

    10 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

3818706 1365991289

3818706 1370912048

3818706 1370912125

3818706 1370912142

Contact

8-10 Washington Street
address map

The Nelson Law Firm

8-10 Washington Street
PO Box 595
Ellicottville, NY, 14731

Law Office of John C. Nelson

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
NYCurrently registered 201112/09/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers19
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Top 10 Under 40 Attorney Award for the State of New YorkNational Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys2014
Leadership Achievement AwardThomas M. Cooley Law School2010
Cum LaudeThomas M. Cooley Law School2010
Dedicated Service to the Student BodyCooley Student Bar Association2010
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
OwnerLaw Office of John C. Nelson2013 - Present
Adjunct ProfessorGenesee Community College2010 - Present
Town JusticeEllicottville Town Court2013 - 2015
AssociateThe Trbovich Firm2012 - 2013
AssociateWard & Kutzuba2010 - 2012
Extern Law ClerkDekalb County Superior Court2010 - 2010
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
National College of DUI DefenseMember2012 - Present
Wildflower AssociationPresident2012 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense AttorneysMember2012 - Present
New York State Defenders AssociationMember2012 - Present
New York State Bar Association, House of DelegatesDelegate2011 - Present
Bar Association of Erie CountyMember2010 - Present
Arcade Lions ClubMember2010 - Present
Lions ClubMember2010 - Present
Curriers Rural Cemetery AssociationBoard of Directors2010 - Present
Wyoming County Bar AssociationPast Vice President2011 - 2012
Cattaraugus County Bar AssociationTreasurer/Secretary2011 - 2012
Arcade Area Chamber of Commerce2nd Vice President2011 - 2012
Student Bar AssociationFormer President2008 - 2010
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
New York DWI Defense FormsCo-Author2017
Arcade HeraldDOT to Mill and Fill2014
Ellicottville TimesOur Bill of Rights2013
The DocketThe Co-existence of Suspension Pending Prosecutions and Temporary Suspensions2013
The Ellicottville TimesWhy the Move Over Law Doesn’t Always Require You To ‘Move Over2013
Ellicottville TimesDWAI and Canadian Entry2013
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Thomas M. Cooley Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor2010
Canisius CollegeBA - Bachelor of Arts2005
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Delta Kappa Gamma MeetingA Child's Perspective to Court Proceedings2013
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Tonawanda ScrapperDismissed

Reviews

(44)
5 Star
98%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
2%
Review John Nelson

Felony DWI/AUO

Posted by

After hiring a different lawyer in February 2018 that was diligently working on my case, we ended up pairing with John about 9months into the case. John was diligent, informative and took a real interest in my case. We spoke about my options and listened to my requests. John worked throughout the weekend before my probable cause hearing to find holes in the officers story. I was facing prison time as it would have been my 3rd DWI. After the hearing John was able to get my felonies reduced to one misdemeanor DWAI and a conditional discharge. I would highly recommend John to anyone as he takes a true interest and doesn’t just go through the motions.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

JOHN NELSON SAVED MY LIFE!!

Posted by

John saved my life and my job! I have a habit of getting huge speeding tickets. I got yet another one and this was MAJOR! I was going to lose my license, my job, and I was going to have to pay hundreds and hundreds of dollars in driver responsibility fees along with the fires and surcharge on the ticket as well as all of the points on my license. John and his staff were super polite and professional throughout the entire process. Any questions I had were immediately answered. When we went to court, I was thinking my best case scenario was going to be 2 or 4 points and a huge fine. Somehow John got me a PARKING TICKET! 0 POINTS!!! I don’t know how he did it but John Nelson’s Number is now in my speed dial. He was worth every penny, I would highly recommend him, and I would definitely call him again ! Thanks John!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

John was a great lawyer

Posted by

John Nelson was a fantastic lawyer. His office was on top of everything for me throughout my legal affair and when it came time to deal with the actual court he deivered as positive a result as possible. If you ever find yourself in legal trouble as I did (a misdemeanor) you would be smart to use Mr. Nelson's services. His expertise, experience and decorum were of the highest level and I can't recommend him enough.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great lawyer

Posted by

John Nelson got my husband out of his first ever DUI and got it reduced tremendously. He is military and had limited time for the court case but John dealt with it all amazingly. He has great skill and knowledge in this area. Would highly recommend him!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Could not have asked for more!

Posted by

John was incredibly professional and helpful! he asnswered all my questions and was available anytime I needed him! If you are looking for an attorney who will give you the personal touch you need...john is the attorney for you! I would HIGHLY recommend John to anyone in need of an attorney.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Best Lawyer -- Worth Every Penny -- Above and Beyond Customer Service

Posted by

I got 6 points, while traveling from Maryland to Buffalo New York. Initially I had no hope but after searching online I found John C. Nelson office. I hired Mr. Nelson as my lawyer, and against every odd he got ticket to 0 point. He himself and his all staff is extremely helpful, and explain exactly what to do. I experienced the best customer service ever. I'd definitely/sincerely recommend him to everyone. v/r Jawad
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Above and Beyond. Proffesional and Personable.

Posted by

Without question, I would recommend John be the FIRST person to call for any offense. I contacted Mr. Nelson regarding my brother who was facing a felony. From the moment I called his practice, he and his office were the MOST attentive out of anyone I had spoken with previously, by far. Not only did he call me back within 30 minutes, but expressed a true concern over the case and took time to listen, consider, and advise. I called on a Friday afternoon around 3:30pm to hire him; within that time he took the case and cleared his weekend to prepare for trial that Monday. Things turned out great in my brother's case and everything was handled not only professionally, but with the care that people sometimes need in times of desperation. He listens. He commits. He delivers. Yes, without question I would recommend John be the first person to call for any offense.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

John Nelson saved my life

Posted by

If I could rate more than 5 stars I would! John Nelson was my attorney when I was caught with a Fake ID at a concert at Darien Lake. I was facing tremendous charges, AA classes, and a possibility of my license being suspended for 4 months, but with John's intelligence and hard work put into my case, he was able to get it reduced to a parking ticket. Not only did he save me from a huge ticket and a chance of this going on my record, but he was very kind and pleasant to be around! I HIGHLY reccomend him!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Amazing Lawyer

Posted by

I received a parking ticket for driving at 100mph in a 55mph zone. It would have got my license suspended for sure. Thanks to John, it got reduced to a parking ticket. John was really caring and guided through the entire process.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

When the judge said I got a good deal, I knew I had the right lawyer

Posted by

As a 62 year-old retired professional from out of state, I was in near panic when arrested on a 5th degree marijuana possession charge. The closest I had previously come to the criminal justice system were a few stints at jury duty. Attorney John Nelson handled everything in the best way possible - always respectful, competent and reassuring. I never once questioned his judgement or his commitment to me as his client. And when the judge said I got a good deal, I knew I had the right lawyer. My highest recommendation.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(26)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Kevin Habberfield, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 25, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

John is a hardworking and responsive attorney. He and I have worked together on the NYSBA House of Delegates for some time now. He is valued member of the bar and I do not hesitate to endorse him at all.

Nikole Wynn, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 18, 2013
Relationship: Co-worker

John Nelson is a stellar attorney. I have witnessed him in practice and interacting with clients, and I have to say, he goes above and beyond what is required of an attorney. He is dedicated to providing his clients with the best defense available and he truly lives up to the term “zealous advocacy.” Not only is John an excellent attorney, but he is a well-rounded individual and has been a personal mentor to me as well. Although we no longer work in the same office, I still look to John as a source of guidance and information. John has gone out of his way to help me gain experience in local courts and his insight has been invaluable. I highly recommend John for any criminal matter.

Michael Kuzma, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 11, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I highly endorse this lawyer. Mr. Nelson works tirelessly for his clients. If you need a great attorney in Cattaraugus County, look no further than Mr. Nelson.

Timothy Brooks, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 8, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have personally observed John's unwavering dedication and attention to detail when it comes to his client's needs with regard to their cases. He has a seemingly endless amount of energy, drive and determination, which most assuredly benefit each-and-every one of his clients. I hold John in the highest regard and endorse him completely.

Brian Degnan, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jan 5, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I always enjoying speaking with John while waiting to speak with the District Attorney as John is a sharp individual who knows the ins and outs of DWI Defense. You will have a smart, down to earth, and hard working lawyer fighting for your legal rights.

Amir Soleimanian

I endorse this lawyer.

Jason Henskee, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 8, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have know John for years and see him frequently throughout various justice courts. John and I consult with each other from time to time regarding various criminal defense issues. I see John represent his clients effectively and zealously in Court.

Jennifer McGhan, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 20, 2015
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

I highly recommend this lawyer's work. John is extremely knowledgeable about complex criminal defense issues. He is very hard-working and provides excellent representation for his clients. No one will work harder to achieve the best results!

Ryan Parisi, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 2, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Shady Yassin, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 26, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Benjamin Bonarigo, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 24, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Thomas Mafrici, Speeding and traffic ticket Attorney on Jul 1, 2013
Relationship: Worked together on matter

John is competent, attentive, responsive. Everything you want in a lawyer. He has my endorsement.

Brian Palumbo

I have known John Nelson for over a decade and he is intelligent and works hard for his clients. He is professional and treats his clients with respect. I endorse this lawyer.

Nicholas Rossi, Criminal defense Attorney on May 16, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Nelson is a knowledgable attorney who works hard to obtain the best possible results for his clients. I endorse this lawyer.

Heidi Carroll, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 9, 2013
Relationship: Friend

I endorse this lawyer.

James Kiebel, Criminal defense Attorney on May 9, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

John’s passion and commitment to his clients is unmatched. He is an outstanding attorney who consistently obtains exceptional results. I would not hesitate to send family or friends to Mr. Nelson. I endorse this lawyer.

Justin Stringer, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 7, 2013
Relationship: Worked together on matter

When it comes to defending against an accusation of drunk driving in New York state, I don't know anyone better than Mr. Nelson.

Peter Kulas

I've known John since law school. He always stood out as an intelligent student and he's a great advocate for his clients. He is a very knowledgeable attorney. I endorse this lawyer.

Jacob Piorkowski, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 7, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

John is an excellent attorney. He is caring, trustowrthy, and works with determination. Above all, he knows the law, and is not afraid of stepping in a courtroom.

Daniel Michalek, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 5, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known attorney Nelson for years; throughout that time, he has systematically gone 'above and beyond' for all endeavors he has taken on, while maintaining a charismatic, kind, and honest approach when achieving these results. Without hesitation, I would recommend him to anyone looking for top-notch legal representation with their criminal law or DWI issue.

Andrew Fiske, General practice Attorney on Apr 29, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

John Nelson is an excellent attorney who has great working relationships and is highly thought of by judges, prosecutors, and the entire criminal defense community. I endorse this lawyer.

Elaina Monte, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 26, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.