Rochester Domestic Violence Lawyer
Former Monroe County Prosecutor. 25 Years Defending the Accused.
New York law doesn’t recognize domestic violence as a standalone crime. Instead, courts pursue specific criminal charges — assault, harassment, stalking, and others — and Monroe County Family Court may handle the matter simultaneously as a family offense. The state defines domestic violence as a pattern of behaviors used to maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Conduct the state considers abusive includes emotional abuse, sexual abuse, economic abuse, physical abuse, and threats.
Before starting my own practice, I served as Chief of the DWI Bureau at the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office. I know how prosecutors build these cases and where they make mistakes. I use that knowledge every day to build defenses that stay ahead of the state’s moves. I focus exclusively on criminal defense, I offer free initial consultations, and I’m reachable by phone outside normal business hours.
When you choose me as your Rochester domestic violence defense attorney, I can:
- Review every detail of your case, starting from before the police investigation
- Provide clear legal guidance so you’re prepared at every stage
- Remain available to you outside normal business hours
- Build a customized defense backed by hard evidence
- Advocate for your future both in and out of the courtroom
How Serious Is a Domestic Violence Charge?
A domestic violence conviction reaches far beyond the courtroom. The consequences can include a criminal record, disrupted child custody arrangements, the loss of gun rights under federal law, restrictions on where you can live, and lasting damage to your professional standing. In Monroe County, a domestic violence charge may proceed simultaneously in criminal court and Monroe County Family Court at the Hall of Justice. These are two separate legal tracks that require coordinated defense from day one.
New York’s mandatory arrest law makes these cases especially urgent. When police respond to a domestic complaint involving a felony or a violation of an order of protection and have probable cause, they must take the suspected offender into custody. This can happen even if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges. A protective order issued in criminal or family court can restrict where you live, limit your access to your children, and upend your daily life immediately, before any conviction. These stakes exist from the moment an accusation is made, which is why representation can’t wait.
If you are facing charges for domestic violence in Rochester, New York, contact Christopher K. Rodeman Attorney at Law at (585) 928-4193 for the defense you deserve today!
Testimonials
Helping Clients Move Forward
-
“Mr. Rodeman was able to get us the plea deal we needed from a difficult judge. He was honest and up front about the difficulties we could face, but prevailed to help us resolve our issue.”- Ray
-
“Chris is down to earth, caring and understanding about the situation. He is very likeable and very well connected and never stops working for you until completion. Things turned out very favorable for us and we are grateful.”- Boylin
-
“Chris made what could have been a horrible situation into a much more manageable one and in the process helped turn my life around as well.”- Bob S
-
“Mr Rodeman knows the system and its players from his days as a prosecutor. He is extremely professional, non-judgemental, and so competent in court. I could go on and on about how much we appreciate his help in our case.”- Kiki France-Perry
-
He is truly a phenomenal lawyer. He cares about his clients and knows the Law. If you’re reading this, he is the person to go to. Mr. Rodeman is very dedicated and will help you receive the best possible outcome. He does a great job.
Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges in Rochester
Because domestic violence isn’t a standalone crime in New York, the line between a domestic dispute and chargeable conduct can be contested. That distinction is a legitimate defense angle. False accusations also surface in divorce and custody disputes, where one party may use allegations to gain leverage over the other. I’m willing to take on complex, high-risk cases that other attorneys decline, and I go further to negotiate, file motions, and advocate on both sides of the courtroom door. Many of my dismissals have come from identifying illegal police stops, searches, and arrests. I write detailed suppression motions and cross-examine officers directly about their conduct.
Defense approaches I may employ include:
- Insufficient evidence
- Faulty police investigation or report
- Fabricated allegations by the alleged victim
- Self-defense
- Accident
- Consent
- Failure to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
What Qualifies as a Family Offense in New York?
Under New York law, family offenses are crimes committed between a child and parent, current or former spouses, family members, or household members.
Family offenses include:
- Forcible touching
- Second- and third-degree assault or attempted assault
- First- and second-degree harassment
- Second-degree aggravated harassment
- First-, second-, third-, and fourth-degree stalking
- Third-degree sexual abuse
- Second-degree sexual abuse (if the victim cannot consent for a reason other than being under seventeen years old)
- Criminal mischief
- First- and second-degree strangulation
- Second- and third-degree menacing
- Criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation
- Disorderly conduct
Why Choose Christopher K. Rodeman Attorney at Law?
-
Experience as a Special Assistant District Attorney
-
Flat-Rate Pricing for Cases Involving DWI
-
24/7 Availability for Emergency Calls
-
Affordable Payment Plans
What I Bring to Your Defense
Domestic violence charges carry serious legal, personal, and professional consequences. If you’re facing an accusation, you need a domestic violence attorney in Rochester who focuses exclusively on criminal defense and understands exactly how Monroe County prosecutors build these cases. I served as Chief of the DWI Bureau at the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office before starting my own practice, and I now use that insider knowledge to anticipate the state’s tactics and challenge their evidence from every angle.
My domestic violence defense services include:
- Full legal representation in domestic violence cases
- Defense against restraining orders and protective orders
- Negotiation with prosecutors for reduced charges
- Guidance through Monroe County court proceedings
- Advocacy for your rights and interests at every stage
I maintain open communication throughout your case so you always know where things stand. I don’t rush meetings, and I make time for every question. My fees are fair and predictable, with payment plans available. Clients who walk into my office are treated with respect and without judgment. Contact me today for a free, confidential consultation.
