Our Team
A team of DWI focused professionals that are trained to help clients work towards their desired results.
We bring you more than just an attorney. You get a defense team.
A team that consists of attorneys, counsel attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, interns, and advocates. We give good people the defense plan they need to navigate the legal consequences of their charge and keep their life moving forward.
Ralph Alloco
Attorney
Ralph Alloco
Of Counsel Attorney
Since earning his Juris Doctorate at the Syracuse University College of Law, Mr. Alloco has dedicated his career to zealous advocacy for his clients.
Ralph Alloco began his legal career as a prosecutor at the Monroe County District Attorney’s office, giving him a unique ability to examine each case from all angles. As an assistant district attorney, Mr. Alloco was a member of the special victim’s unit, handling some of the toughest cases to come through our criminal justice system.
Over the years Mr. Alloco has handled nearly every different type of criminal case, including murder, child abuse, sex crimes, weapons charges, drug charges, fraud, assault, DWI, and traffic offenses.
Education:
Syracuse University College of Law, Juris Doctor
University of Dayton, B.A.
Admissions:
The State Bar of New York
Joanne Arndt-Coe
Senior Legal Assistant
Joanne Arndt-Coe
Mrs. Arndt- Coe has been a legal assistant for 35 years in a wide variety of high-paced, high-volume offices. Joanne thoroughly enjoys working with her team of attorneys to provide the best DWI Defense possible.
Joanne gets personal satisfaction in assisting clients during a stressful time in their lives, to inform them of what we need, what we will be undertaking and a general outline of what will happen during the pendency of their case. She also believes that no matter what the case may be, everyone deserves a strong representation in their time of legal needs.
Robert Babcock
Senior Attorney
Robert Babcock
Bob brings years of courtroom and criminal trial experience to Nave Law Firm and its clients as the Senior Attorney in Albany, New York. As the lead attorney for the firm’s New York Capital District region office, Bob is responsible for crafting unique defense strategies for clients facing criminal charges ranging from the simplest offenses to the most complex ones. He has spent most of his time in the courtroom, first as a prosecutor in NYC and then as a defense attorney fighting for his clients, and he has taken numerous cases to verdict before juries. Bob regularly researches developments in the law and incorporates new knowledge into his practice to ensure he and his team can better represent his clients.
Since his law school graduation and for the vast majority of his career, Bob has practiced criminal law and has worked with and against many of the best criminal law practitioners in New York. He is passionate about defending individuals facing criminal charges on matters ranging in complexity in state and federal courts. He understands that each client is unique, and the best result and path toward it will change from person to person.
Bob’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree (Criminology) from the University of Tampa and a Juris Doctor from Villanova University School of Law, as well as extensive trial practice training from the Queens County District Attorney’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the EDNY, and certification as a Criminal Trial Lawyer by the National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA). Bob also completed an internship with the Connecticut State Police Forensic Science Laboratory, where he studied evidence collection, preservation, and analysis and developed expertise in all matters related to the admission and suppression of evidence in criminal cases. He has testified as an expert on police tactics and methodology concerning violent crime investigations, and he has a deep understanding of New York Penal Law as it relates to pleas, final dispositions, and sentencing. He also has extensive experience with federal criminal law and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Bob devotes 100% of his practice to criminal defense matters throughout New York.
Jennifer Bisson
Senior Paralegal
Jennifer Bisson
Senior Paralegal
Jennifer Bisson has a strong background of experience. She graduated from Fayetteville Manlius High School, studied at Marist College for two years, Retail Management (Victoria’s Secret & Talbots), Graduated from Bryant & Stratton College – Associates Degree (Paralegal Studies), Workers’ Compensation Coordinator at Smith, Sovik, Kendrick & Sugnet, P.C. for almost 10 years.
“DWI Defense is truly about helping people through possibly one of the lowest points in their lives and doing what I can to assist them as best as possible to get through it and beyond it. I also believe everyone deserves the best representations no matter what their backstory is and I love to be part of a team that does their very best to ensure that is what our clients get”.
Jake Buckland
Attorney
Jake Buckland
Of Counsel Attorney
Attorney Jake Buckland has earned a reputation in the legal community as a persistent and skilled attorney that is dedicated to his clients. A Binghamton native, Attorney Buckland is dedicated to his community. After completing law school at Penn State Law (WE ARE!), he returned home to serve his community. He is a member of the Broome County Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, the New York State Defender’s Association, and the New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. As a former public defender, he has handled hundreds of DWI cases for hundreds of clients, and he understands that good people sometimes make mistakes. Attorney Buckland will be your voice and ally as you go through this process.
Javonna Buckley
Paralegal
Javonna Buckley
Paralegal
Javonna is a highly motivated and ambitious individual originally from Syracuse, NY. Graduating from Henninger High School in 2009 marked the beginning of her professional journey, which took off in the cosmetics and retail industry. Through her tireless dedication and hard work, Javonna achieved significant career advancement, ultimately reaching the prestigious role of Assistant Manager at Lush Cosmetics.
Like many others, Javonna faced the formidable challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting her to engage in profound self-reflection about her long-term goals and aspirations. Fueled by an unyielding determination to secure a brighter future for her son, she made the bold decision to pursue higher education. Javonna subsequently enrolled at Bryant & Stratton College, culminating her academic journey with an Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies in May 2023. Her relentless pursuit of excellence has now led her to be accepted into the University of Cincinnati, where she will continue her education to attain a Bachelor’s Degree in Paralegal Studies. This opportunity represents a significant milestone in her quest to deepen her knowledge and skills in the legal arena, opening up a wealth of possibilities for her future.
With her newfound knowledge and a profound passion for the legal field, Javonna is poised to embark on a gratifying career as a paralegal. She is wholeheartedly committed to offering invaluable support to legal professionals and making a lasting, positive impact in the legal community.
Madelyn Cittadino
Attorney
Madelyn Cittadino
Maddy was born and raised in the Syracuse area. After graduating from Liverpool High School, Maddy attended Le Moyne College, where she majored in political science and minored in legal studies, criminology, and philosophy. Maddy was also a part of Le Moyne College’s Integral Honors Program, where she thoroughly researched, wrote, and defended her honors thesis titled “The Land of the Incarcerated and the Home of Racial Inequality: Mass Incarceration in the United States.” Maddy graduated from Le Moyne summa cum laude with the highest distinction from her participation in the Honors Program. While studying at Le Moyne, Maddy was introduced to the legal field with an internship with DeFrancisco & Falgiatano Law Firm and a study abroad program to the international courts in The Hague, The Netherlands.
Maddy’s passion for criminal justice reform and serving those in need lead her to law school, which she attended at Syracuse University College of Law. While at the College of Law, Maddy achieved great academic success and was elected to the executive board of Syracuse Law Review, where she served as the Senior Notes Editor. As a member of Law Review, Maddy was allowed to expand on her prior research of mass incarceration, race, and poverty with her Note, “Cracks in Equal Protection Analysis: A Critique of Courts’ Treatment of Equal Protection Claims Stemming from the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986.” Maddy has also served as a research assistant to multiple professors in the legal fields of criminal law and procedure, constitutional law, international law, and administrative/labor law.
Mackenzie Fox
Digital Marketing Manager
Mackenzie Fox
Mackenzie brings over 10 years of Digital Marketing experience to the DWI Team. He attended the Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University, where he studied Marketing, Statistics and Entrepreneurship. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in Management from Stony Brook University.
Mackenzie became passionate about law firm marketing while living in Long Island. Having worked both in-house for law firms, and for marketing agencies, he brings a well-rounded approach to helping lawyers connect with people in need of their services. Mackenzie’s mission is to improve the client experience, at every touch point. His areas of specialization in Digital Marketing include: Automation, Web Design, Search Engine Optimization, Pay-Per-Click Ads, Social Media, and Email.
Jeff Franceschelli
Client Advocate
Jeff Franceschelli
Justice is easily obtainable when those who know the law pursue to fight to help others.
Jeff Franceschelli is a retired operations lieutenant with over 27 years of experience as a police officer. Jeff’s skills go beyond oral testimonies. He is a certified DCJS instructor, Evidence Technician, Crime scene preservationist, interviewer/interrogator. He is also a former DRE (Drug Recognition Expert).
Before retiring, Jeff has functioned perfectly in several offices where he demonstrated excellent skill in coordinating several human efforts towards success. He was the president of CNY Trainers Association, a member of the NYS Adult Incarcerated Education Program (NYSAIEP) board of trustees. He was also a board member of Madison County Healthy Families and chairman of the Madison County Inmate Reentry Program.
Jeff derives pleasure in helping people get through their difficult times using everything within his power as a weapon of justice. He is a man that believes in being part of the change he wants to see in the world rather than wait for others to get it done.
As a client advocate, Jeff is once again on the front lines talking with our clients and helping them through a very difficult time. This time on the defense side, Jeff will be utilizing his experience as an arresting officer. This experience will allow him to help determine if there are potential mistakes from the arresting officer. That experience will then allow our legal teams to expose potential defenses quickly.
Andrew T. Geisler
Associate Attorney
Andrew T. Geisler
Andrew is a young attorney, eager to make his mark on the legal profession. A graduate of the Elizabeth Haub School of Law (formerly the Pace University School of Law), Andrew has spent the last few years honing his craft of criminal defense. He strives to ensure his clients receive the highest quality of representation while navigating through what is likely one of the most difficult times in that person’s life, all the while achieving an outcome most favorable to the client.
Andrew took a long and winding road to the legal profession. He graduated from the University of Connecticut in 2011 with a BS in Biological Sciences and Sociology. After spending some time working in the biotech industry, Andrew decided to pursue his true passion and attend law school. During his schooling, Andrew spent time working for the New Rochelle City Court, where he closely worked with the two City Court Judges.
Following admission to the New York State Bar, Andrew began his career as a criminal defense attorney. He worked with various public defender’s offices in the upstate New York area during this time, building his small practice in the process. Andrew is excited to be making this next step joining the team at the Nave Law firm and looks forward to aiding those who might be in need in the Capital Region.
Outside of the office, Andrew is a big fan of sports and music and loves to play games of all kinds. The New York Yankees could be called his leisure-time passion, with the New York Giants coming in a close second.
David Gervais
Attorney
David Gervais
Of Counsel Attorney
Mr. Gervais’s practice with the DWI TEAM currently focuses solely on drug and alcohol offenses. Mr. Gervais has been focused solely on criminal defense for the past 11 years in New York and in Quebec. He takes particular pleasure in finding possible defenses in DWI-related cases and in taking apart the prosecution’s case when possible.
Mr. Gervais has taken DWI-related continuing education classes every year which has results in assisting, successfully taken several DWI cases to trial. Whether working on a $4 million federal drug case or a low BAC cases, Mr. Gervais takes the time to become familiar with every aspect of the case and works assiduously to obtain the best results for his clients.
Mr. Gervais’s dedication to his clients has earned him a nomination to the local drug and mental health treatment courts as staff defense counsel.
Rowan Goodman
Client Advocate
Rowan Goodman
Client Advocate
Rowan was born in Buffalo, New York, and moved to Syracuse to start kindergarten. In high school, Ms. Goodman took a forensics course that piqued her interest in studying Forensic Psychology in college. While in undergrad, Rowan was allowed to do an internship at a local police department here in the Syracuse area and became even more interested in criminology.
Rowan takes pride in being good with people. Her big heart and critical thinking skills make her empathetic and keep others’ best interests at heart. She is someone you can count on.
Scott Gouldie
Attorney
Scott Gouldie
Of Counsel Attorney
For more than 25 years, Mr. Scott Goldie has been representing Northern New York. Mr. Goldie has extensive experience in several areas of law, including drug and alcohol offenses. Mr. Goldie has an impressive list of cases that involved both negotiated and trial results.
Ralph Habib
Senior Attorney
Ralph Habib
Senior Attorney
Ralph Habib has dedicated his 25-year legal career to criminal law as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. As an Assistant District Attorney, he was assigned to both the DWI and Narcotics Bureaus, handling all types of cases from violations to the highest level felonies, including A-1 felonies. Mr. Habib’s assignment to the Narcotics unit afforded him extensive exposure to criminal investigations stages before filing charges including wiretap and search warrant applications.
As a private practice lawyer, Ralph has handled high-profile cases, including but not limited to white-collar offenders, athletes, and professionals whose livelihoods depended on favorable outcomes. Additionally, while heading his own law office, he was of-counsel for a large privately held environmental company, gaining contract, business formation, and contract negotiation experience.
Before joining the DWI TEAM, Mr. Habib’s focus has been providing top-quality criminal and traffic defense to hundreds of criminal defendants in central New York. Mr. Habib also has lectured for the New York State Bar Association.
With the firm and as a Senior Attorney, Mr. Habib will be focused on criminal matters and will be part of our Trial Litigation team.
Kevin Kelly
Attorney
Kevin Kelly
Of Counsel Attorney
Attorney Kevin Kelly believes the quality of the lawyer-client relationship is as important as the integrity of our justice system. Criminal charges, including DWI or DWAI, and disciplinary matters with colleges and universities have been a large part of Mr. Kelly’s expedience. Starting out with trial practice in the Southern Tier gave him the professional experience of felony jury trials and the fast paced consequences of DWI law. Mr. Kelly currently serves on the New York State Bar Association Criminal Justice Section Executive Committee, the Tompkins County Bar Association Board of Directors, and is a member of the Schuyler Bar Association.
Sean D. Kelsey
Chief Executive Officer
Sean D. Kelsey
Chief Executive Officer
In his role as Chief Executive Officer, Sean Kelsey orchestrates our organization’s daily functions. His purview spans a diverse spectrum: Human Resources, Marketing, Budgeting, Client Relations, Employee Relations, Protocol Development, and Finance. Sean plays a pivotal role in translating the broader firm strategy into actionable plans. His unwavering commitment to upholding company standards, procedures, and regulations underscores his collaborative approach, working closely with our team to chart the course for growth and oversee all firm services and programs.
Sean’s journey includes graduating from the inaugural Executive Leadership Development Series—a groundbreaking program that united local business leaders and prestigious educational institutions. This unique initiative, supported by Columbia College, Syracuse College, Whitman School of Management, University College at Syracuse University, Empire State College, and Leadership Greater Syracuse, honed his leadership prowess.
Sean’s response is resounding and passionate when asked about his motivation: “People. I am driven by the remarkable individuals who form our tapestry—the clients, potential clients, employees, vendors, and even our competitors. They are my constant source of inspiration. I wholeheartedly believe that we possess the most exceptional team, not just for a law firm, but for any business. Their sense of purpose and unwavering passion shines through in everything they do. Our identity, I firmly believe, is synonymous with our people.
For the DWI TEAM to thrive, Mr. Kelsey emphasizes the importance of nurturing a deep appreciation for all our clients and potential clients within the organization. He remains steadfast in a world teeming with legal professionals: “I refuse to be distracted by the plethora of attorneys available. I recognize what many overlook—behind every ‘client’ is a person seeking help, guidance, and protection during one of their most challenging times. My love and passion for what I do ignite when I can demonstrate to potential clients, current clients, and our team the profound impact of our work and how we make a meaningful difference every single day.”
Justin M. Lange
Attorney
Justin M. Lange
Attorney
Justin began his career early, working in the pizza shop owned and operated by his aunt and uncle in Latham, New York. His earliest work memories are making pizza boxes and helping out on the phones on busy Friday nights.
After graduating high school, Justin attended Union College in Schenectady, New York. While there, he held several politically-oriented positions, including an internship with the Office of Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), and on the reelection campaign of John Faso for Congress (NY-19). He began his career in the law with an internship with a Union College alum, Evans J. Legros, Esq., in the summer of 2018, primarily overseeing real estate transactions in Manhattan with the Legros Law Firm.
In June 2019, Justin graduated Magna Cum Laude from Union College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science while double minoring in History and German Language. Following his graduation and seeking to fulfill his dream of a future career in law, Justin decided to attend the Syracuse University College of Law beginning in August 2019. While at the College of Law, Justin has enjoyed academic success while also endeavoring to participate in extracurricular activities, including serving as Managing Editor of the Syracuse Journal of International Law and Commerce, as a Research Assistant for Professor C. Cora True-Frost, as a Procedural Advisor to students accused of violating the Syracuse University Student Code of Conduct, and as a Law Ambassador for the Office of Admissions.
Justin joined the Nave Law Firm in May 2021, where he primarily assists and works directly with the Managing Partner. As a result, Justin works across the firm’s practice areas but focuses particularly on criminal defense, DWI, traffic offenses, and license matters.
Megan Luton
AR/Billing Clerk
Megan Luton
Megan, a West Genesee graduate, brings over a decade of valuable Billing and Administrative experience to the Nave Law team. She holds two Associate’s degrees from Onondaga Community College and a Bachelor’s degree from SUNY Oswego while serving as an Office Manager for a local construction firm. Hailing from Syracuse, Megan’s meticulous attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills make her a valuable asset to our team. Megan is enthusiastic about broadening her expertise and forging new professional connections as she embarks on this journey with Nave Law and our clients.
Sydney Maiman
Paralegal
Sydney Maiman
Born and raised in Long Island, New York, Sydney is a graduate of Binghamton University and a Paralegal with years of experience assisting clients in vulnerable and underserved communities. Throughout her years as an undergraduate, Sydney held numerous leadership roles across campus, including presenting to incoming students on sexual assault, harassment, and hazing prevention, learning how to approach various audiences of diverse backgrounds. After an early graduation receiving her Bachelor’s degree in History, Sydney served as a lead Paralegal at a firm on Long Island assisting with matters relating to child sex abuse, handling various cases including nationwide class actions and managing confidential matters in Manhattan, New York. Additionally, she worked as a Paralegal handling external relations for Long Island’s largest provider of free civil legal services. Sydney’s empathy, leadership skills, and strong understanding of the criminal justice system make for a valuable asset to your legal team. She is proud to serve the people of the Capitol region and looks forward to continuing to advocate for fairness and justice for all.
James R. Maloney
Attorney
James R. Maloney
Of Counsel Attorney
A transformative attorney delivering client-centric professional services at every level of practice including sole practice, law clerk, assistant county attorney, and large multi-national law firm. A diverse background in law enhanced by a wealth of experience including leadership in several charity/non-profit organizations. Mr. Maloney has practiced his entire 3o years as an attorney in Western New York.
Married, father of two daughters, and an accomplished Triathlete having completed two Ironman’s, four Ironman 70.3’s, and multiple local triathlons. Developed a unique and varied set of skills as a practicing attorney; President of the Eastern Hills Sunrise Rotary; and founding member of the Eastern Hills Sunrise Rotary Foundation (1992-2004). Chaired the Raise the Roof Campaign (2018) which raised $315,000 to benefit Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Mr. Maloney is also certified in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (“SFST”) by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Karl Manne
Attorney
Karl Manne
Of Counsel Attorney
Karl Manne has dedicated his career to aggressive advocacy on behalf of clients involved in litigation, and to a competent, professional and attentive representation of clients in all other matters. Mr. Manne’s focus is always on helping clients attain their objectives as swiftly and as directly as possible.
Mr. Manne has built a law practice centered in the Mohawk Valley which has been dedicated to aggressive advocacy on behalf of its clients for over 25 years.
In addition to his private practice, Attorney Manne serves as a Town Justice for the Town of Herkimer, as Town Attorney for the Town of German Flatts, and as Village Attorney for the Village of Mohawk.
Other positions held by Mr. Manne have included Herkimer Village Justice, Frankfort Town Attorney, Director and Second Vice-President of the New York State Magistrates Association, President of the Herkimer County Bar Association, Vice-President of the Herkimer County Magistrates’ Association, member of the Attorney Grievance Committee for the Fifth Judicial District and member of the boards of directors for various non-profit organizations.
Amanda Mead
Legal Assistant
Amanda Mead
Amanda was born in Buffalo, New York, and raised in Western New York. She has been to over 35 of the 50 states and has met various unique and outstanding people in every state. She has learned that everyone can benefit from kindness and help, no matter the demographic. Studying law, assisting attorneys, and aiding clients is her direct way to contribute to those in need.
Amanda graduated from SUNY Oswego summa cum laude with a major in economics and a minor in political science. Her academic interests and studies revolved around income and educational inequalities, minority treatment in the law, individual rights in the law, and economic development. She intends to obtain a Juris Doctor with interest in constitutional law, business law, and international law.
Maria Morse
Attorney
Maria Morse
Maria is an Associate Attorney at Nave Law where her practice focuses on family and matrimonial law and civil litigation. Where Maria does not handle any DWI matters for the firm, her importance is that when someone is arrested for a DWI, many times it involved ancillary matters such as family and divorce. If those situations come up, we have a focused team that can help with those matters. So when these areas happen as a result of a DWI arrest, the DWI TEAM can ensure we help solve all legal problems, not just one
Dennis J. Nave
Managing Partner
Dennis J. Nave
Managing Partner
Syracuse criminal defense attorney, Dennis Nave has earned a reputation in the legal community as an aggressive and talented advocate for his clients. Those charged with DWI, Traffic, Criminal Charges, and License Matters seek Attorney Nave out for legal counsel because of his deep criminal law experience and firsthand knowledge of New York State, criminal court procedures, and understanding of New York States Department of Motor Vehicle rules and regulations.
Once Attorney Nave graduated Syracuse Law, he was determined to stay in New York and become one of the area’s best criminal defense attorneys. Along his path, Dennis gained experience with the NYS Attorney General Office, Onondaga County District Attorney’s office, and the largest DWI Defense firm in New York State.
He approaches each of his client’s cases as unique and each person as his equal, always going the extra mile to ensure his clients are fully educated on their case and knowing they are receiving the best quality representation. He provides 24-7 access to his clients, so when they are in need, Attorney Nave is available.
Mr. Nave is currently the founding and managing partner for Nave Law Firm, the law firm that operates and is the legal oversight for the DWI TEAM. Attorney Nave is a member of the Onondaga County Bar Association, New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the National College of DUI Defense.
Attorney Nave has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a third-party rating service, as a Top Rated DWI Lawyer. Also, he has been received recognition as a Super Lawyer’s prestigious rising star list, which recognizes no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys in each state.
Mr. Nave enjoys presented and lectured on DWI, Criminal Defense, and defensive driving and has done so with the Madison County Tavern Association, the Onondaga County Water Authority, underclassman in the Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University, and for the Onondaga County Bar Association.
Dennis firmly believes anyone charged with a crime by the government deserves to have their rights protected. “Being charged with a crime is a frightening situation, and it is part of my job to help alleviate some of that worry. I take pride in offering the best possible service to our clients, and I will work diligently to help resolve their case”.
Thomas Pickering
Attorney
Thomas Pickering
Of Counsel Attorney
Attorney Tom Pickering understands the importance of offering guidance to clients during some of the most complicated and trying times they may experience. As an attorney handling a wide variety of cases from traffic violations to the highest level felonies, domestic matters, and everything in between, Tom helps to resolve matters with a client-centric focus navigating difficult and complex situations in a manner to ensure the best possible outcomes for clients. Tom is a member of the New York State Bar Association regularly handling matters in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, and St. Lawrence County where his experience and relationships with the local courts and attorneys play a valuable role in helping to resolve matters in the most advantageous way and provide the most value to his clients. In addition to his criminal and family court practice, Tom is the defense attorney for all participants in the Clinton County Drug Treatment Court Program, the Clinton County Mental Health Court Program, the Plattsburgh City Treatment Court Program, and the Plattsburgh City Mental Health Court Program.
Tom is an Upstate New York Native returning to the area after obtaining his law degree from Wake Forest University in North Carolina. Tom obtained his undergraduate degree at SUNY Plattsburgh where received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Political Science graduating Magna Cum Laude. Tom enjoys hiking, running, playing tennis and spending time in the Adirondacks with his family.
Matthew Porter
Attorney
Matthew Porter
Of Counsel Attorney
Matthew J. Porter is from Lyons, New York. He attended the State University of New York at Stony Brook, graduating with degrees in Psychology and Sociology. He earned his Juris Doctor degree at St. John’s University School of Law in Queens, New York.
He joined the Conboy Law Firm in 2016, immediately becoming the firm’s lead criminal attorney. He became a partner in 2018. In 2020 he became the lead divorce and family law attorney in the firm’s Watertown headquarters.
Before joining the firm, he was employed by the Jefferson County Public Defender’s Office for over 13 years. He spent most of his time there as a felony defense attorney and has defended many individuals in trials ranging from traffic tickets to DWI to murder. He has appeared, worked in, and is familiar with every courtroom in Jefferson County and beyond.
He has competently, efficiently, and successfully represented thousands of clients. He has an exceptional ability to negotiate and communicate with judges, opposing counsel, and those who work behind the scenes to achieve optimal results for his clients.
Tom is an Upstate New York Native returning to the area after obtaining his law degree from Wake Forest University in North Carolina. Tom obtained his undergraduate degree at SUNY Plattsburgh where received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Political Science graduating Magna Cum Laude. Tom enjoys hiking, running, playing tennis and spending time in the Adirondacks with his family.
Hanna Renna
Attorney
Hanna Renna
Of Counsel Attorney
Hanna Renna’s entire legal career has been dedicated to criminal law, both as a prosecutor and as a defense attorney. Ms. Renna was a prosecutor for almost eight years in Florida and over 3 years in New York. As a prosecutor, she has handled a variety of cases including Murder, Attempted Murder, Lewd and Lascivious Battery, DUI Manslaughter, Leaving the Scene of an Accident Causing Death or Serious
Bodily Harm, and other serious violent felonies.
Ms. Renna’s vast experience as a prosecutor has given her a unique perspective into the criminal justice system, and it has given her an upper-hand when representing her clients. She is able to anticipate opposing counsel’s arguments and strategies, and she understands exactly how and when her client’s rights have been violated.
Ms. Renna has used her prosecutorial experience to her advantage as a defense attorney while she practiced as an Assistant Public Defender in Florida. During her experience as an Assistant Public Defender, she represented several clients charged with serious felony-level offenses from arraignment through the trial stage. She litigated multiple cases with charges including Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Aggravated Battery With a Deadly Weapon causing Great Bodily Harm, Aggravated Battery with Deadly Weapon, Sexual Battery with Deadly Weapon or Force, Kidnapping, Robbery by Sudden Snatching, Armed False Imprisonment, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Battery, Criminal Mischief, Possession of Cocaine, Grand Theft Third Degree, Tampering with a Witness.
As an Of Counsel attorney with The DWI Team, Ms. Renna will be focused on ensuring that clients in the Southern Tier will obtain top quality representation. Her goal is to make her clients feel as comfortable as possible with the criminal justice experience, to help them through the process of having a pending criminal case, and to achieve a resolution that her clients are comfortable with. She will fight for each and every client and make sure that she handles each case as if her own liberty was at stake.
Education:
Nova Southeastern University, Shepard Broad Law School, Juris Doctor, 2010
Lemoyne College, B.A., 2007
Four Year Division II, NCAA, Student Athlete, Tennis
Admissions:
Florida Bar, 2010
Michigan Bar, 2019
New York Bar, 2020
Jessica Rundell
Attorney
Jessica Rundell
Of Counsel Attorney
Endwell native Jessica Rundell has returned to her roots, bringing her passion for justice and a commitment to excellence in criminal defense to the communities of the Southern Tier. A proud alumnus of Seton Catholic Central High School, Jessica’s academic journey led her to Le Moyne College, where she majored in Political Science. Her aspirations in the field of law took her next to the prestigious Northeastern University School of Law, focused in Criminal Justice. Here, Jessica immersed herself in the legal world through a series of internships and clinics, meticulously honing her skills in criminal defense.
After earning her stripes at Northeastern, Jessica dedicated several years to the Public Defender’s Office, where she tirelessly defended clients in a myriad of high-volume criminal cases, notably including DWI and DWAI charges. Today, Jessica brings her expertise and dedication to Broome, Tioga, Chenango, and Delaware Counties, upholding the rights and defending the accused with unparalleled commitment.
Her dedication to her community and the legal profession is further exemplified by her upcoming role on the Board of Directors for the Broome County Bar Association, set to begin in May 2024. Jessica Rundell stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of returning home to serve and uplift the community that raised her.
Sean Scullion
Senior Client Advocate
Sean Scullion
Client Advocate
Before joining Nave Law Firm, Sean has spent his working career in customer service-oriented fields, including many years with the law firm of Anelli Xavier and the DWI TEAM. His vast experience allows him to have a skill set that helps create solutions to the challenges facing his clients. Creating these solutions which allows him to put clients in a position to succeed.
Sean’s strengths lie in reliability, listening, and empathy. Doing those three things are what creates trust and long-lasting relationships.
Alexander Serles
Attorney
Alexander Serles
Of Counsel Attorney
Alex Serles is an Of-Counsel Attorney in Western New York. Alex’s practice with the DWI TEAM currently focuses on drug and alcohol-related offenses as well as additional criminal driving offenses. Prior to being an Of-Counsel Attorney with the DWI TEAM, Mr. Serles was lead attorney for the DWI sector at a firm in Rochester, NY. He is a current member of the Monroe County Bar Association and the New York State Bar Association.
Aimée L. Tarin
Firm Administrator
Aimée L. Tarin
Firm Administrator
Aimée joins the DWI TEAM with over 13 years in customer service and a strong marketing and graphic design background. She was brought into the firm due to her confidence, meticulous work ethic, dedication, and ability to advocate for others. As the Firm Administrator, Aimée works with the Chief Operating Officer to manage the firm’s administrative operations, including, yet certainly not limited to, finance, accounts receivable, case management, social media, and the firm’s processes and procedures.
Ryan Wiehl
Legal Advocate
Ryan Wiehl
Legal Advocate
Ryan is a native of Cortland, New York, attending Cortland Junior Senior High School before college. Ryan studied at Buffalo State College during his undergraduate studies, later transferring to Emory & Henry College in Virginia. Ryan is not an attorney but is a Legal Advocate, supporting our potential clients, clients, and staff attorneys with various tasks.
Adam Willman
Attorney
Adam Willman
Of Counsel Attorney
Mr. Willman has the extensive skills and resources necessary to help protect your rights, preserve your liberties and improve the likelihood you will achieve the positive results you expect and deserve. As a former prosecutor, he has handled thousands of cases and litigated countless DWI cases across Upstate New York. With his unique perspective and extensive experience in DWI law, you are sure to receive the highest level of legal representation. Mr. Willman’s experience makes him all the more effective at devising the best possible strategy for your unique situation.
Maria Young
Paralegal
Maria Young
Before becoming a paralegal, Ms. Young worked as a ski instructor & in customer service positions. Her experience in customer service instilled the skills of problem-solving, organization, & unmatched compassion for others in her. She then graduated from Jefferson Community College & immediately began in the workforce as a criminal defense Paralegal. She has worked on multiple misdemeanor and felony DWI cases across New York State in addition to prepping for criminal trials & lots of document execution.
Heather Youngman
Senior Attorney
Heather Youngman
Heather is a Senior Attorney at Nave Law where her practice focuses on family and matrimonial law and civil litigation. Where Heather does not handle any DWI matters for the firm, her importance is that when someone is arrested for a DWI, many times it involved ancillary matters such as family and divorce. If those situations come up, we have a focused team that can help with those matters. So when these areas happen as a result of a DWI arrest, the DWI TEAM can ensure we help solve all legal problems, not just one.
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