Charles Sclafani | West Springfield Lawyer

• Hampden County Bar Association | Member
• Business Network International President/Vice President
  2010 - 2012

• BV Rated Martindale-Hubbell
  2016
• Rated Attorney Lead Counsel
  2015

I recently tried a case for a client charged with Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol, 3rd Offense. This was a long time client who was caught in a situation where the officers wrongly decided he was operating a motor vehicle while impaired due to the consumption of alcohol. After reviewing the facts, we never considered a plea, but determined trial was the only option. Furthermore, a conviction on this offense would have involved jail time and an extended period of loss of license, plus extensive probation conditions and fees. We were ultimately successful at trial, with the booking video (not offered into evidence by the prosecution) becoming a significant part of the defense decision leading to acquittal. At the close of the trial, instead of being cuffed and lead to jail with this on his record, my client walked out the front door of the court house with a huge feeling of relief. Most certainly, this result made a big difference in this client's life.

I built a successful practice by focusing on each new client and their issues, treating each one as the most important concern at that time. It has always been most important to listen to each person's needs and feelings while clearly identifying the desired result and the manner of achieving that result. Right from the start I look to alleviate client's fears and anxieties and put together a plan of action that makes sense.

Clients should look for a compassionate and competent attorney who gets the job done for a reasonable fee.

Local knowledge is always a great advantage. It is not a deal breaker, but adds significant advantage to the situation.

A free phone conference allows me to obtain the necessary outline of the person and their issues. I can then make an initial determination of the correct course of action and appropriate recommendations.

In an initial phone consultation I require an accurate outline of who the client is, the particulars of his/her situation and pertinent information about the issues facing the client.

I have been in practice for over 30 years and have an extensive background as a local prosecutor, defense attorney and trial experience in many varied areas of law, including family law. I also have been a bankruptcy law and general practice attorney for the same period of time. This myriad and varied areas of experience allow me to be comfortable and proficient with analysis, preparation and follow through with many areas of law.

The most rewarding part of my job is helping deserving client's achieve their desired result.

I am a very active person outside of the law. I enjoy spending time with my family, including with my three adult sons and yellow lab ""Lucy"", playing baseball, tennis, golf, weigh training, boating, martial arts, cooking, reading and, of course, the Red Sox and Patriots.

I participate in varied community issues, including community preservation matters and animal rights.