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Your Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney in Hartford
The Law Offices of Salvatore Bonanno has served clients in Hartford and throughout Connecticut for over 30 years, specializing in criminal defense, DUI defense, and personal injury cases. Our founder, Attorney Salvatore Bonanno, brings decades of litigation and negotiation expertise to each case, prioritizing direct client communication and tailored legal strategies. With a focus on protecting clients' rights and minimizing life-altering consequences, we handle complex matters including violent crimes, drug offenses, domestic violence, and probation violations.

Our practice combines deep knowledge of Connecticut's judicial system with a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes through trial preparation, plea negotiations, and post-conviction relief options like expungements. Clients benefit from personalized attention, transparent guidance, and a proven track record of securing dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable settlements across a broad spectrum of legal challenges.
Services
DUI Defense Criminal Defense Domestic Violence Assault Charges Drug Crimes Personal Injury Probation Violations Theft Defense Weapons Crimes Expungements
Highlights and features
  • We offer 30+ years of experience in Connecticut criminal defense.
  • Direct access to lead attorney for personalized case strategy.
  • Proven track record of dismissed charges and reduced sentences.
  • Comprehensive approach to DUI, drug crimes, and violent offenses.
  • Local expertise in Hartford and statewide court systems.
Services
DUI Defense
Our DUI defense practice addresses charges related to blood alcohol content violations, prescription medication impairment, and underage drinking. We challenge evidence admissibility, negotiate reduced penalties, and protect driving privileges through ignition interlock device strategies. Clients receive guidance on license suspension timelines and court-mandated requirements while maintaining constitutional rights during chemical testing decisions.
Criminal Defense
We defend against felony and misdemeanor charges including assault, violent crimes, and probation violations. Our approach includes investigating evidence integrity, challenging witness credibility, and negotiating plea bargains. With trial experience in Connecticut's superior courts, we minimize incarceration risks and employment impacts while addressing bail reduction and protective order modifications.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence defense includes challenging protective orders, addressing firearm surrender mandates, and preventing permanent criminal records. We represent clients facing false accusations while navigating family court intersections. Strategies focus on restoring housing stability and employment opportunities through charge dismissals or alternative resolution programs.
Personal Injury
Our personal injury practice secures compensation for car accidents, slip-and-falls, and catastrophic injuries. We calculate medical expense recovery, lost income claims, and pain-and-suffering damages. Cases involve insurance negotiations, third-party liability assessments, and courtroom litigation when settlements fail to cover long-term rehabilitation needs.
Expungements
We guide clients through criminal record clearance via pardons and certificate of employability programs. This includes eligibility assessments for charge dismissals, diversion program completions, and post-conviction relief. Our process addresses employment barriers by removing barriers from background checks while navigating state-mandated waiting periods and application requirements.
People
Salvatore Bonanno
Attorney
With over 30 years of Connecticut criminal defense experience, Attorney Bonanno specializes in DUI cases, violent crimes, and personal injury litigation. He provides direct client representation from arrest through trial, focusing on minimizing incarceration risks and employment impacts while maintaining courtroom excellence in Hartford's superior courts.
Questions
What happens during a first DUI offense in Connecticut?
A first DUI offense carries up to six months jail time, license suspension, and ignition interlock device requirements. We challenge evidence to reduce penalties.
Can I get a criminal record expunged?
Eligibility depends on charge severity and completion of diversion programs. We guide clients through pardon applications and certificate of employability processes.
How does probation violation affect my case?
Probation violations risk incarceration and extended supervision. We negotiate modified terms or alternative sentencing to maintain compliance.
What constitutes a domestic violence charge?
Domestic violence involves family members and may include protective orders, firearm surrender, and mandatory counseling requirements beyond criminal penalties.
Do I need an attorney for traffic violations?
Serious violations like reckless driving impact insurance and licenses. We reduce charges to minimize long-term consequences on driving records.