Lawyer of Firm Description

About Stephens & Stephens, LLP — Criminal Defense Buffalo, New York

Criminal defense Buffalo residents and families need when federal charges, radiation exposure claims, or serious legal matters arise can be found at Stephens & Stephens, LLP at 2495 Main St. Attorney Hugh Stephens has spent years representing clients in complex Department of Labor cases — particularly under the RECA and DEEOIC programs for workers exposed to uranium and nuclear materials — while also handling personal injury and criminal defense matters throughout Erie County. He is known for sharp legal acumen paired with genuine empathy, treating clients not as cases but as people whose futures depend on the outcome of his work.

Buffalo is Erie County’s largest city and its criminal courts handle a significant caseload spanning state misdemeanors, felonies, and federal matters handled in the Western District of New York. Stephens & Stephens brings the same thorough, communicative approach to every matter — clients describe receiving regular updates, having complicated processes explained in plain language, and feeling supported throughout proceedings that can span years. For clients dealing with occupational illness claims from nuclear or uranium work, the firm’s specialized knowledge of federal DOL programs is particularly valuable. Buffalo residents facing criminal charges can also review criminal defense attorneys across New York for additional representation options.

Criminal Defense Buffalo — Practice Areas & Services

State criminal defense in Erie County courts
Federal criminal defense in the Western District of New York
Department of Labor RECA and DEEOIC claims for nuclear workers
Personal injury and workers’ compensation matters
Impairment benefit claims and DOL appeals
General civil representation for individuals and families

What Clients Say

Clients of Stephens & Stephens describe a firm that goes the full distance on every case. Reviewers highlight Hugh Stephens’ compassion alongside his legal skill — one widowed client describes being left financially stable because of his efforts on her husband’s compensation claim. Multiple clients dealing with uranium worker benefit programs describe finally getting results after other attorneys failed to move their cases forward. The firm’s staff, including paralegal Breanna, also receive consistent praise for professionalism and follow-through. Clients who have dealt with the complexity of federal DOL programs describe Stephens & Stephens as an invaluable guide through a process that is easy to get wrong.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common criminal charges handled in Buffalo’s Erie County courts?

Erie County courts see a broad mix of misdemeanor and felony charges, from DWI and drug possession to assault, theft, and more serious violent offenses. Buffalo’s crime statistics have shown improvement in recent years — overall index crime in New York dropped 4% statewide in 2024, with counties outside New York City reporting an 8% decline. Regardless of the charge, the outcome of a criminal case in Buffalo depends heavily on how quickly you retain experienced counsel, how effectively your attorney communicates with prosecutors, and the quality of your defense at each court appearance.

How does New York’s criminal justice process work for Buffalo defendants?

In New York, criminal cases begin with arraignment, where charges are formally read and bail is set or denied. Misdemeanor cases are typically handled in Buffalo City Court, while felonies proceed to Erie County Court after a grand jury indictment or felony hearing. The discovery process in New York changed significantly in 2020 — prosecutors must now disclose evidence early, which benefits defendants and their counsel. Federal charges go to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York in Buffalo. An attorney with experience in both state and federal courts can assess which forum presents the best strategic position for your specific situation.

Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Buffalo, New York

NY Statewide Crime Decline (2024): Overall index crime dropped 4% statewide in 2024; counties outside NYC saw an 8% decline — NY Division of Criminal Justice Services
Buffalo Shooting Reduction: Shooting incidents in Buffalo fell 6% in early 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 — Governor Hochul’s Office
NY Discovery Reform: New York’s 2020 discovery law requires early evidence disclosure, strengthening defendants’ ability to build a defense — NY CPL § 245

Related Guide: Criminal Defense Attorneys in New York

AI-Powered Reviews Summary

Stephens & Stephens, LLP, located in Buffalo, New York, is a highly regarded law firm specializing in personal injury cases, with a focus on providing exceptional client service. Reviewers consistently praise the firm for their knowledgeable, compassionate, and professional staff, who effectively guide clients through complex legal processes while ensuring timely communication and support. Many clients express deep gratitude for the firm’s dedication and expertise, highlighting their ability to achieve favorable outcomes and provide peace of mind during challenging times.

Users Reviews Comments – Google

I would like to thank everyone for their help on my father’s RECA claim. They are very knowledgeable and kept us informed on the case.

Stephens & Stephens was very helpful in getting my claim processed and helping me in getting my settlement, staff was knowledgeable and professional and very kind if I call and needed to ask a question they would call me back within a timely manner. Thank you so much for your help .Continue to be blessed Gloria

I was astounded with the service I received from Mr. Hugh Stephens in regard to my husband’s compensation claim. He was not only efficient, but also compassionate, and communicated clearly and frequently. Because of his outstanding efforts and expertise, I, who am now a grieving widow, am unexpectedly stabile and secure. I had little to do. He did all the heavy lifting. I’m so very grateful for his help. I’ll always remember not only his professionalism, but also his kindness.

From: Laurence Ogletree

I highly recommend Stevens and Stevens. Hugh Stevens and his staff are very professional and very friendly. They’re extremely good at making sure you get the full amount of money you deserve. If you need a DOL lawyer, I highly recommend this team. I can’t be more happy that I picked Stevens and Stevens.

Stephen’s and Stephen’s has kept fight for my dad. Now they are fight for my mom. They are on top of things and I would recommend them to anyone who needs help and guidance with the Uranium mines.

Robert and I are very pleased with Mr. Hugh Stephens and all that he has done for us. From the first moment we spoke, we sensed that though Mr. Stephens exhibits sharp business acumen, he cares deeply about his clients and he has a huge heart.

I tried to get others to help me with this claim, and it wasn”t until I hired Mr. Stephens that things started happening. I would recommend any one to get in touch with him . I would go to him again, if i ever needed to.

I very much appreciate the successful litigation concerning my husband’s Hanford work related illness. Stephens & Stephens LLP were thorough, caring, considerate, and fair during this difficult time.

Mr. Stephens was able to simplify an otherwise complicated lengthy process (DEEOIC) to file an initial claim as well as a claim for impairment benefits.

I had other attorneys hired in Cortez, Colorado and Grand Jct., Colorado to assist me with receiving my uranium claim, but they were not successful. I was advised by an employee of CNS of Stephens & Stephens, LLP good work. I contacted them & they took my case It was settled very quickly. I have been very pleased with this group & would advise others of their prompt service. I would recommend them to others. Respectfully, Frankie Knuckles

My family used Stephen’s and Stephen’s for a settlement case. We were extremely pleased with all they did. They were very professional, easy to get a hold of, and invaluable when it came to answering questions and handling complicated Department of Labor issues and forms. They also did everything in a very timely manner. I have already recommended them to other people.

I have been represented by Hugh Stevens for several years now, He and his staff has made everything so easy for me. I had lung cancer from working in the uranium processing industry, they have opened so many doors for me and made dealing with DOL so much easier. They always answer my questions in a very timely manner. I have referred several other people to him and he has been able to get them through this process also. There are benefits that I was not aware of that he has brought to my attention and been able to lead me through the process of obtaining them. I would most highly recommend him to lead anyone through this process.

When I first contacted Stephens & Stephens I was at the end of my rope with DOL. Hough and his staff got me on track and handled everything with DOL and just made this process so easy. Do not know where I’d be with out them. They are able to communicate at a layman’s level and understand the client. Would strongly recommend this firm.

Our initial conversation with Mr. Stephens was productive & reassuring. His previous experience with similar cases was obvious and very helpful, in both asking us specific questions for clarification & also addressing our own questions. Breanna is also a great asset to their team.