John M. Gioffredi

As far as my practice style, I try to find a way to win every single case that I handle.  It's not always possible, of course, but that doesn't mean I don't try.  The "standard" plea bargain offer for a routine DWI case results in the DWI going onto the client's criminal record forever.  I can't for the life of me see that as any sort of "bargain" that would be worth accepting.  Instead, the defendant may as well take the case to trial and take his chances.  Nobody ever won a guilty plea - not even me.  And regardless of the facts, every case is potentially winnable.   I find that juries are generally quite sympathetic to misdemeanor offenders, and especially so with first time DWI defendants.  I try to use that to my client's advantage whenever I can.

I'm proud to have spoken at various legal seminars when asked, and I often stop to share ideas with other lawyers at the courthouse when I have the time.  I admire lawyers who are always trying to refine their trial skills.  In the criminal defense business, as soon as you quit trying to learn, you may as well quit the business, because you are finished. 

When I'm asked to evaluate the skills of other trial lawyers, I start with two broad measuring standards:  1) do they know what they are doing, and 2) do they care enough to fight.  Too many lawyers either don't know what they are doing, or don't care enough to fight for their clients.  I try to excel in both areas.

I am known for trying difficult cases, and finding creative ways to win them.  I'm aggressive, but I try to avoid being obnoxious, unless the situation calls for it.  Offending judges and prosecutors just for sport isn't a good long term strategy, in my opinion.  If it was, however, I would do exactly that, because I'm in the courtroom to win cases, not to make friends.

I would be very proud to represent you, or your loved one, to the fullest extent of my ability, should the need ever arise.  Defending people isn't just my job, it's my passion.