About DuBois Law — criminal defense Buffalo, New York
DuBois Law delivers focused criminal defense representation in Buffalo, New York and throughout Erie County. Attorney Dan DuBois handles DWI defense, felony charges, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and a range of criminal matters in Erie County courts with a track record of dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable plea agreements. Criminal defense Buffalo clients describe Dan as an attorney who makes last-minute appearances with full preparation, drives more than 100 miles to court when needed, and fights tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome — including complete case dismissals in DWI matters. The firm’s associate Brent is also specifically praised for exceptional client support and case management.
Erie County’s criminal courts handle a significant volume of DWI, drug, and felony cases each year, and having an attorney with deep familiarity with Buffalo’s court system provides a measurable advantage. DuBois Law has resolved cases ranging from traffic tickets with zero points on a license to serious felony charges — bringing the same dedication to communication and preparation regardless of case complexity. Clients who needed a criminal defense attorney for the first time describe the experience with DuBois Law as setting a new standard for what quality representation looks like.
What Clients Say
Clients describe Dan DuBois as a top-tier criminal defense attorney who delivers real results in Erie County courts. Reviewers highlight his complete case dismissals in DWI matters, his last-minute case acceptance and thorough preparation, and his team’s responsiveness and professionalism. One client credits him with getting all charges dismissed after a stressful DUI process that took time and patience. Several reviewers note they would not hesitate to use him again or recommend him to anyone facing criminal charges in the Buffalo area.
criminal defense Buffalo — Practice Areas & Services
- DWI Defense: Dan DuBois has secured complete dismissals in DWI cases in Erie County courts, challenging field sobriety tests, chemical test procedures, and stop legality to protect clients’ licenses and records.
- Felony Defense: The firm handles serious felony charges in Erie County Supreme Court and County Court, working to reduce charges or secure favorable dispositions for clients facing significant incarceration exposure.
- Misdemeanor Defense: Traffic violations, disorderly conduct, petit larceny, and other misdemeanor matters handled with the same thoroughness as felony cases — protecting clients’ records from avoidable convictions.
- Traffic Violations: The firm resolves traffic tickets in Erie County and surrounding areas, successfully keeping points off clients’ licenses and reducing fine exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the DWI penalties in New York for a first offense in Erie County?
A first DWI conviction in New York (BAC 0.08% or higher) carries fines of $500–$1,000, a minimum six-month license revocation, a mandatory $250 annual surcharge for three years, and possible jail time up to one year under VTL §1192. A DWAI (driving while ability impaired, BAC 0.05%–0.07%) carries lesser penalties. An attorney can challenge the traffic stop, field sobriety administration, or chemical test to seek dismissal or reduction.
How long does a criminal case take in Erie County, New York?
The timeline varies significantly by charge and court. Misdemeanors in Buffalo City Court typically resolve in weeks to a few months. Felony cases in Erie County Supreme Court can take six months to over a year, especially when pretrial motions are filed. Early case investigation and strong pretrial advocacy can often secure favorable resolution without going to trial.
Can a DWI be expunged from my record in New York?
New York does not have a general expungement law. However, certain convictions — including DWAI charges — may qualify for sealing under Criminal Procedure Law §160.59 after a 10-year waiting period. DWI convictions themselves are generally not sealable. This makes fighting the charge aggressively at the outset — rather than accepting a plea — especially important for long-term record protection.
Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Buffalo, New York
- Erie County Arrests: Erie County law enforcement agencies make approximately 30,000–35,000 arrests annually across the Buffalo metro area — FBI Uniform Crime Report
- NY DWI Arrests: New York State recorded over 40,000 DWI arrests in 2023, with Erie County among the state’s highest-volume counties — NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services
- Buffalo Population: Buffalo has approximately 280,000 residents and serves as Erie County’s legal hub, with one of New York’s busiest county criminal court systems — U.S. Census Bureau
Related Guide: Criminal Defense Attorney Guide — ReachAttorneys


