William H. Paetzold | Glastonbury Criminal Defense Lawyer

• Federal Bar Association Board Member
  2012 - 2015
• Connecticut Criminal Defense Lawyers Association Member
  1995 - 2014

• Super Lawyer | Super Lawyers
• Certificate of Appreciation | Federal Bar Association

A former client was facing federal time on a serious drug conspiracy charge. She was a heroin addict who needed significant drug treatment intervention. At her initial presentment before the magistrate court, I was able to get her into a 30-day detox program, and then transition her into a sober house, where she remained for almost 18 months. At her sentencing my client faced 37-46 months in prison but received a three year period of probation. She is now drug free and enjoying life with a clear mind.

I built a successful practice through hard work, and honest communication with my clients. It's extremely important to always return phone calls, and to be completely transparent with clients. A lawyer must also build credibility with judges and prosecutors. In this profession, a person's word is their bond. Once you have developed credibility with your opponent and/or the Court, it becomes much easier navigating a case through the system.

Integrity, honesty, and sincerity.

It's very important for a lawyer to become familiar with the unique custom and practice of each courthouse. If you are unfamiliar with the protocol, or don't know the important "players" in a courthouse, then you are doing a disservice to your client.

Whenever I have a client call me concerning a potential case, I try to understand first the specific need of the client, and then I try to ascertain the client's expectation. Once I establish this, I can properly advise the client with possible startegies to pursue or direct them to various programs that may be available to them that would likely reduce their legal costs.

Conccenring criminal cases, I usually ask for a brief background of the case, the town where the alleged offense occurred, and the person's prior criminal history.

What differentiates me from other criminal defense lawyers; (1) my many years of experience, (2) a stellar reputation with prosecutors, judges and the defense bar, (3) outstanding work product, and (4) accessibility to clients. When you hire me, you will not have an associate or paralegal in the firm perform the work.

The most rewarding aspect of this profession is when a client thanks you for your hard work and zealous advocacy. A simple email, card or voice message keeps the fire burning.

When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time with my family. I also appreciate nature so I like the outdoors, playing my guitar, and fixing things around the home.

Unfortunately, the many long hours that I spend on my clients' cases, and my devotion to my family, prevents me from getting involved in community affairs.