Thomas Melanson | Kingston Criminal Lawyer
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About Thomas
Call today for your initial consultation.
Experience
Criminal Defense Attorney
Thomas J. Melanson, Esq
May 2011 – Present
Kingston, NY
Managing Director
Thacher Associates, LLC
August 2008 – May 2011
Assistant District Attorney
Ulster County District Attorney’s Office
January 2008 – August 2008
Ulster County
Assistant Deputy Attorney General
New York State Attorney General's Office - OCTF
January 2006 – December 2007
New York State
Associate Attorney
Vinson Talley Richardson & Cable
April 2005 – November 2005
Assistant District Attorney
Tallapoosa / Paulding Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office
January 1998 – March 2005
Tallapoosa / Paulding
Assistant Solicitor-General
Solicitor-General’s Office
February 1997 – January 1998
Admission
New York
2005
Education
Boston College
Master of Arts (Philosophy)
1991 – 1993
Lenoir-Rhyne College
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) (Philosophy)
1991 – 1993

Recognitions & Achievements
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National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
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New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
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New York State Defenders Association
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National College of DUI Defense Member
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Top 100 Trial Lawyers National Trial Lawyers2015
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10 Best for Client Satisfaction American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys2015
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Member National College for DUI Defense2014
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Top 100 Trial Lawyers National Trial Lawyers2014
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Top 100 Trial Lawyers National Trial Lawyers2013
Questions & Answers
Please describe a case in the last year or two where you made a big difference.
When I defend my clients, it is very helpful to go to the scene with them. The scene could be a house, a parking lot, or the interior of the car. Wherever it is, it helps. This helps me get a much greater understanding of what happened. This always proves to be very helpful, as I learn about aspects of the case that were not covered or addressed in police reports. Additionally, this gives me additional questions for my client, and lastly, when the prosecutor learns that I've been to the location, he knows I care about the case and am putting forth the effort to do everything it takes. For instance, I recently had a case where a search was done at a hotel. By going to the scene, I was able to demonstrate to the police officer my detailed knowledge of the environment and ultimately get him to agree to facts which did not support the prosecution. This undermined their case and helped me obtain a much more favorable outcome for my client.
How did you build a successful practice?
I built my practice by being responsive to my clients, open and honest in my assessment of their case, and by working hard to get the best possible result.
What should clients look for in a lawyer?
Clients should look for someone who can and will work for them, who is honest with them, and who responds to their needs.
What differentiates you from other lawyers in your community?
I have almost 20 years of experience handling criminal matters from both the prosecution perspective and defense side. I have tried over 80 jury trials, and handled countless hearings. I have handled murder cases, complex white collar crimes, serious drug and weapons cases, gang cases, and sexual assault cases. I have gone to trial in every variety of criminal case.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is being able to stand up for someone when the entire system is lined up against them.
Additional Info
Melanson Law Office, PC Highlights
Criminal, DUI-DWI, Felony, Misdemeanor, White Collar Crime, Criminal Defense, DWI / DWAI / Drunk Driving, Drug Crimes, Organized Crime, Violent Crimes, Civil Forfeiture