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The Ruane Difference
Ruane DUI & Criminal Defense Attorneys is a law firm founded on one guiding principle – put the client first. Since founding partner James J. Ruane began practicing law in 1978, we have been making a difference both inside and outside of the courtroom. If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, get the team trusted by clients with over 1000 Google Reviews and a rating over 4.8 stars.

★ 4.8 (Google Rating)
Full Read: 4 minutes
The Ruane Difference
Finding the right criminal defense lawyer in Connecticut is no easy task. You want a law firm that treats you with dignity, that is meticulous in their skills and communication, and that has the knowledge to defend you properly. We get it. Finding the right lawyer can sometimes feel like a shot in the dark. But we want to explain why we are up for the challenge of defending your rights and freedom.
Services Offered
At Ruane DUI & Criminal Defense Attorneys, we handle most Connecticut criminal charges that a person might face. This includes:
- DUI defense
- Drug defense
- Juvenile defense
- Military defense
- Gun rights defense
- Theft defense
- Domestic violence defense
- Failure to appear defense
- Assault defense
- Murder defense
- Manslaughter defense
- Sex crime defense
- Computer crime defense
- Financial crime defense
- Asset forfeiture defense
- Felony defense
- Traffic ticket defense (for both crimes and infractions)
In addition we handle post conviction appeals for those who believe that they have been wrongfully convicted. We also handle pardon applications and clean slate matters for clients who are looking for a fresh start after a criminal conviction.
Our Prices
We pride ourselves on keeping our prices competitive and affordable. We charge flat rates to ensure that there are no “surprise bills” for extra hours worked on a case. We also offer payment plans and a range of payment methods, including cash, credit card, and check.
Availability
Ruane DUI & Criminal Defense Attorneys serves every town and city in the state of Connecticut. Our lawyers are familiar with each courthouse in the state. In addition, we have offices in:
- Bridgeport
- East Windsor
- Hartford
- Manchester
- New Britain
- New Haven
- New London
- Norwich
- Shelton
- Westport
Our lawyers are available to meet you at any of our office locations, so you can pick the one that is most convenient for you if you would like to meet in person. Of course, we are also available for phone calls and virtual meetings if that is easier for you. We will also be in touch via email and text message.
Our staff is available during business hours, and we have a staff member available to answer calls after hours and on the weekends.
The Ruane DUI & Criminal Defense Attorneys Difference
People hire our law firm because they want more than just a lawyer handling paperwork. They want a team that understands what is at stake when someone is facing a DUI, criminal charge, or motor vehicle offense in Connecticut. Some of the biggest reasons clients trust Ruane DUI & Criminal Defense Attorneys are our decades of experience with Connecticut law and in Connecticut courthouses. Our attorneys understand both the courtroom process and the real-world consequences a criminal charge can create.
We are also proud to have built a strong reputation for client service and communication. We have more than 1,000 Google reviews with ratings consistently around 4.8 stars, and many reviews describe us as responsive, compassionate, and proactive during difficult situations. Clients frequently mention feeling supported, informed, and treated with respect throughout their cases.
Another factor that sets our firm apart is leadership and professional recognition. Attorney Jay Ruane has been recognized by organizations such as the Connecticut Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, has served in leadership and teaching roles within the criminal defense community, and has been selected to Super Lawyers for multiple years. Founding partner James J. Ruane is recognized as one of the few Certified Criminal Defense Specialists in Connecticut.
What ultimately sets us apart is our firm’s philosophy: “Criminal Defense for Non Criminals®.” Our attorneys understand that many clients are good people facing a bad moment, not lifelong criminals. Instead of treating clients like case numbers, we emphasize education, strategy, communication, and helping people protect their future, reputation, license, career, and family.
If it sounds like we can help with your situation or a loved one’s situation, reach out to us here on our website or call us at 203-925-9200.

