Our focus is litigation — state, federal and local; civil and criminal defense. We bring the skill, preparation, and courtroom experience that the highest-stakes cases demand.
Mr. MacKay graduated magna cum laude early from the University of Buffalo Law School. Following law school, he served as a federal judicial law clerk in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado before returning to Western New York to open his own practice.
As a litigator, Mr. MacKay has represented clients in civil, criminal and enforcement actions in state and federal trial and appellate courts. An experienced trial lawyer, he has tried criminal cases to jury verdict involving first- and second-degree murder, federal drug trafficking, bribery and public corruption, and assault — resulting in acquittals and hung juries in high-profile federal and state cases.
White collar and criminal defense make up a significant portion of our practice. From first-time DWI charges to large-scale federal prosecutions, your freedom and reputation should be protected by lawyers who have done this work in the toughest of cases.
Learn MoreWe handle business disputes in excess of $100,000, regulatory litigation involving government scrutiny, and civil rights enforcement. Our criminal defense experience allows us to approach regulatory matters with a protective mindset.
Learn MoreWe handle civil and criminal appeals, as well as post-conviction collateral challenges. Our appellate practice has changed the law in tremendous ways — from federal disability discrimination standards to blocking major corporate construction projects.
Learn MoreAcquittals and hung juries in serious criminal cases including murder, federal drug trafficking, and public corruption. More time in federal court trials than most attorneys have combined in their careers.
Chosen by other attorneys and judges to represent them when their own interests are at stake. Frequently appointed directly by judges to handle difficult or complex criminal matters.
One of the only lawyers in the area qualified to represent in death penalty-eligible cases. Experience litigating against national top-tier law firms and handling multi-million dollar matters.
Experience with criminal cases that have captured national and international media attention. Skillful media engagement to protect client image and minimize collateral issues.
We approach every case — criminal or civil — as if it will go to trial. This preparation-first mindset delivers stronger negotiating positions and better outcomes for our clients.
Frequently referred by prior satisfied clients. Our results and client relationships speak for themselves — we earn trust through outcomes, not advertising.
Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes. These representative matters demonstrate the level of skill and commitment we bring to every case.
Repeat sex-offender client facing 6 consecutive life sentence predatory sexual assault charges across 2 indictments, case resolved with plea to 2 non-sex offense misdemeanors.
Trial co-counsel in acquittal for murder in the second degree.
Reversed federal district court's dismissal of ADA/Rehabilitation Act claims. The resulting decision established the national standard for educational institution discrimination cases.
Successfully annulled SEQRA determination, stopping Wal-Mart's last attempt to build in New York State against their top-tier law firms.
Trial counsel for defendant in second-degree murder jury trial; successfully obtained mistrial due to prosecution's improper entry of evidence.
Handgun possession charge tied to gang murder case — dismissed.
Whether you are facing criminal charges, a complex business dispute, or need to protect a hard-won result on appeal, we bring the trial-tested experience your case demands.