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
10 years
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Languages spoken
English
The Nelson Law Firm
8-10 Washington Street
PO Box 595
Ellicottville, NY, 14731
State | Status | Acquired | Updated |
---|---|---|---|
NY | Currently registered | 2011 | 12/09/2020 |
Legal answers | 19 |
Legal guides | 0 |
Award name | Grantor | Date granted |
---|---|---|
Top 10 Under 40 Attorney Award for the State of New York | National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys | 2014 |
Leadership Achievement Award | Thomas M. Cooley Law School | 2010 |
Cum Laude | Thomas M. Cooley Law School | 2010 |
Dedicated Service to the Student Body | Cooley Student Bar Association | 2010 |
Title | Company name | Duration |
---|---|---|
Owner | Law Office of John C. Nelson | 2013 - Present |
Adjunct Professor | Genesee Community College | 2010 - Present |
Town Justice | Ellicottville Town Court | 2013 - 2015 |
Associate | The Trbovich Firm | 2012 - 2013 |
Associate | Ward & Kutzuba | 2010 - 2012 |
Extern Law Clerk | Dekalb County Superior Court | 2010 - 2010 |
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Association name | Position name | Duration |
---|---|---|
National College of DUI Defense | Member | 2012 - Present |
Wildflower Association | President | 2012 - Present |
National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys | Member | 2012 - Present |
New York State Defenders Association | Member | 2012 - Present |
New York State Bar Association, House of Delegates | Delegate | 2011 - Present |
Bar Association of Erie County | Member | 2010 - Present |
---|---|---|
Arcade Lions Club | Member | 2010 - Present |
Lions Club | Member | 2010 - Present |
Curriers Rural Cemetery Association | Board of Directors | 2010 - Present |
Wyoming County Bar Association | Past Vice President | 2011 - 2012 |
Cattaraugus County Bar Association | Treasurer/Secretary | 2011 - 2012 |
Arcade Area Chamber of Commerce | 2nd Vice President | 2011 - 2012 |
Student Bar Association | Former President | 2008 - 2010 |
Publication name | Title | Date |
---|---|---|
New York DWI Defense Forms | Co-Author | 2017 |
Arcade Herald | DOT to Mill and Fill | 2014 |
Ellicottville Times | Our Bill of Rights | 2013 |
The Docket | The Co-existence of Suspension Pending Prosecutions and Temporary Suspensions | 2013 |
The Ellicottville Times | Why the Move Over Law Doesn’t Always Require You To ‘Move Over | 2013 |
Ellicottville Times | DWAI and Canadian Entry | 2013 |
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School name | Degree | Graduated |
---|---|---|
Thomas M. Cooley Law School | JD - Juris Doctor | 2010 |
Canisius College | BA - Bachelor of Arts | 2005 |
Conference name | Title | Date |
---|---|---|
Delta Kappa Gamma Meeting | A Child's Perspective to Court Proceedings | 2013 |
Case name | Outcome |
---|---|
Tonawanda Scrapper | Dismissed |
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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.
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.
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.
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.