Practice Areas Overview

New Haven, Connecticut, Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been arrested or are being investigated for a crime, I understand how the stress can affect nearly every part of your life. That is why I work hard to make sure that you receive the absolute best criminal defense possible. As a sole practitioner, your case will be managed entirely by me. You will never be passed along to a less experienced associate, but rather work with me directly as I aggressively protect your rights.

Allegations of organized crime? Hire an experienced Yale Law School graduate

Cases involving allegations of organized crime can be very complex. As such, it is best to hire an attorney who knows the law in that area and who has the necessary trial skills to protect your rights. I have been practicing for 28 years, and am detail-oriented and aggressive in court. When your freedom is at stake due to allegations of conspiracy or racketeering, call me, Diane Polan, at 203-865-5000.

• RICO and racketeering
• CCE and VCAR
• Federal drug conspiracies and trafficking

Fight murder allegations with a trial lawyer who has years of murder trial experience

If you have been accused of murder or are facing murder-related charges, you need to hire an experienced attorney who has tried multiple murder cases. I understand the legal, factual, and technical issues involved and provide my clients with the best defense possible. I do this by bringing experts into the courtroom who will testify on things like DNA, ballistics, time of death studies, and autopsy results. I also consult with forensic pathologists, medical experts, and other specialists who can use science to build you a strong defense.

• Federal murder for hire
• State murder charges

The government takes sex crimes seriously; hire a lawyer who can present an effective defense

Crimes involving sex and the internet are rapidly becoming more and more common. I have defended numerous clients against internet sex crimes. My office is a welcoming and non-judgmental place where I will work with you to develop the best defense possible.

• Federal internet and sex crimes
• Federal child pornography
• State child pornography
• State sexual offenses
• State internet crimes

While I am a skilled negotiator who can effectively bargain for you, I am always prepared to go to trial. In fact, I am an experienced criminal defense lawyer who tries multiple cases every year, and who has taught trial skills at Yale. As such, I know the law and have the trial experience to provide you with the best possible defense in front of either judge or jury.

• Federal weapons violations
• State guns and weapons charges
• White collar crimes and money laundering
• DUI and drunk driving
• Domestic violence

I work with a network of experienced and knowledgeable professionals, such as expert witnesses, and medical/mental health professionals, including psychiatrists. Using both the facts, and the law, I will work with you to explore every element of your case. As an experienced, Yale-trained trial lawyer, I am a diligent and thorough advocate.

If you know that you are being investigated for a crime, please retain an attorney as soon as possible. Also, please be aware that you do not have to talk to the police and you do not have to let them into your home unless they have a search warrant. In my experience as a criminal defense attorney, it never helps your case to speak with the police. Please call 203-865-5000.