I cut my teeth as an attorney with the U.S. Navy. As a Naval Officer, I had the privilege of representing the men and women who swore to defend our way of life. I still have the thank you note that my first client wrote to me after winning his acquittal. Together we faced down allegations involving drugs that threatened not only his military career, but his freedom.
My service in the Navy trained me to think in terms of capabilities and limitations. Whether it is a criminal or civil case, an attorney’s “Caps and Lims” will directly translate into the range of outcomes you can expect. When facing litigation, an attorney limited by his or her capability to take a case through trial is a liability. As a Navy Judge Advocate General (google “A Few Good Men”), I have tried a variety of cases ranging from the mundane administrative hearing or DUI charge to more serious accusations involving sexual assault, national security violations, and attempted murder. I took these cases through trial as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. Consequently, I understand the mentality on both sides.
After my honorable discharge from the Navy, I moved to Connecticut and began working as a private criminal defense attorney with Pattis & Smith, LLC. There I learned the impact an aggressive litigation firm can have when the prosecutor brings allegations of criminal conduct. I witnessed firsthand what happens when the state or federal government sets its sights on someone for criminal prosecution. A case develops differently when the government knows the attorney it is up against is ready for trial.
Next, I transitioned to New York and began working as a public defender with Brooklyn Defenders Services (BDS). There I applied my passion for criminal defense to serve and protect Brooklynites facing allegations of criminal activity. Joining BDS made my transition from Connecticut to a New York legal practice seamless. It was only a few days before I was back to augmenting my capabilities by defending all types of criminal cases.
I spent a year with BDS learning the ins and outs of the criminal practice in New York before opening my firm. I take cases in New York and Connecticut. If the state accuses you or a loved one of criminal conduct, how you respond will dictate what outcomes are available. The attorney that represents you should send the state a message. Here at the Law Offices of Chris La Tronica our message is clear: “Ready For Trial.” Selecting an attorney with an aggressive litigation background will send the message that you are not playing games.
Ultimately, the choice to go to trial is in your hands. However, having an attorney with the capability to do so will help ensure you achieve the best result. Don’t let an attorney’s limitations narrow your options. When you are ready for trial, make sure you choose an attorney that is too.
Comments