What do you do?

       Mr. Riendeau has focused on litigation since winning his first criminal trial in 1983.  While many of his cases are resolved without trial, the preparation and ability to try every case is a hallmark of the firm’s practice.  The firm approaches cases with a problem solving  model.  The goal is to obtain the best result possible under the circumstances for the client.

Are you experienced?

       Mr. Riendeau is a trial lawyer with more than 24 years of experience.   He practiced law  in Minneapolis from 1983 to 1989 and now practices in Watertown.  Between 1989 and  1998 Mr. Riendeau worked for Prisoner’s Legal Services and the St. Lawrence County Public Defender.    Mr. Riendeau has represented people accused of  everything from homicide cases to speeding tickets.  Mr. Riendeau won an acquittal in his first case in Minneapolis in 1983,  and since then won acquittals  in cases involving Burglary 1º; Burglary 2º,  Rape 3º; Arson 3º; Promoting Prison Contraband 1º,   Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 5º; Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance 3º, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3º; in addition to many misdemeanor trial victories.  

 Mr. Riendeau has also successfully litigated copyright (artists rights) matters,  as well as commercial torts and white collar crime cases.

Where were you educated?

       Mr. Riendeau graduated from Yale University  in 1979 where he received  a B.A. with Honors in History.   Before going to law school, Mr. Riendeau  managed field data collection for the Capital District office of the United States Census Bureau during the 1980 decennial census.  In 1983, Mr. Riendeau  received a J.D. from the law school at the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1983.
 

       He is admitted to practice law in  the states of Minnesota and New York and the United States District Courts for the Districts of Minnesota, Nebraska and the Northern District of New York, as well as the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.

What can you do for me?

       The first thing this firm does is listen. It is important for your lawyer to understand your side of the story.   From our initial conference we will work together to build a thorough understanding of the problem.  Based on that understanding Mr. Riendeau will make suggestions and offer guidance.   Experience helps the firm understand the difficulties that arise with strong emotions,  difficult situations,  drug and alcohol use,  issues regarding relationships and sexuality,  as well as anger and frustration. 
       Once we understand the situation,  the firm will advocate for you.  Advocacy may mean a trial, or a plea bargain, or other settlement.   When you have a problem, you want it over.   Mr. Riendeau understands that feeling, but also recognizes that matters of importance shouldn't be rushed, and you shouldn't be pressured.    Understanding all the mitigating factors in your case is important to quality representation.  Many times when people make mistakes there is a reasonable explanation.  Just because someone is accused doesn’t mean that they cease to be human,  it usually means that they have been very human.

How do I contact you to schedule  an appointment?

       The office  telephone number is :          (315)  786-8536.  

           
       The phone  is monitored most evening and weekends for emergency situations.   

       The firm uses office automation, so you may need to leave a message.       

       The firm requires an appointment and does not accept walk in visits .  

       The firm usually responds promptly to emergency situations and when required Mr. Riendeau can meet you at a police station or jail.  

       You can also contact us by  e-mail.

Enjoy your liberty. 

                    Don't let a criminal charge take it away.