About VanDette Law PLLC

Western New York Lawyers with Deep Local Roots and Proven Results

VanDette Law PLLC is a Buffalo-based law firm committed to serving individuals, families, and businesses across Western New York and the Southern Tier. With offices in Buffalo and Dunkirk, we deliver trusted legal counsel and strong advocacy in personal injury, criminal defense, family law, real estate, landlord–tenant law, business matters, and estate planning.



We believe in personal attention, honest guidance, and results-focused representation. Every case we take is handled with care, strategy, and a commitment to achieving meaningful outcomes for our clients.


Our attorneys combine deep local insight with decades of collective experience—allowing us to serve our community with confidence and clarity in and out of the courtroom.

Our Roots Run Deep in Richmond

Founded in 1951, Blank & Marcus began as a small firm focused on injury, trial, and civil cases in downtown Richmond. Over the decades, we’ve grown into one of Central Virginia’s most trusted personal injury law firms. From helping families in the Fan to taking on high-stakes trials in Chesterfield and Powhatan, we’ve been showing up in courtrooms for over 70 years.


That long history matters—because we know the local judges, the regional defense attorneys, and how insurance companies try to lowball claims in this part of Virginia. And they know we don’t play games when it comes to protecting our clients.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Meet Our Attorneys

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James M. VanDette – Founding Attorney

Personal Injury | Criminal Defense | Family Law

James brings over 15 years of litigation experience in serious injury cases and criminal defense. He’s recovered millions for victims and defended high-stakes felony and misdemeanor charges.

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Patrick A. Makin

Personal Injury | Criminal Defense | Real Estate | Business | Estate Planning

Patrick delivers clear, practical legal counsel—whether handling injury claims, closings, or criminal defense.

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Richard J. Morrisroe (Fluent in Spanish)

Personal Injury | Criminal Defense | Real Estate | Landlord–Tenant | Business

 A bilingual advocate with 13+ years of experience in injury, criminal, and civil matters across WNY.

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Christina Tretter-Herriger

Real Estate | Personal Injury

Highly regarded for her precision in real estate closings and expanding personal injury work.

Practice Areas at VanDette Law PLLC

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Personal Injury

Our injury attorneys fight for individuals hurt in car crashes, slip and falls, dog bites, construction accidents, and more. We pursue full compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering—whether in settlement or at trial.

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Criminal Defense

Charged with a crime? We defend clients in Buffalo and across WNY against DWI, drug offenses, violent crimes, theft, and felony or misdemeanor charges. Our criminal defense lawyers protect your rights and your record at every stage.

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Family Law

From divorce and custody to support and Family Court petitions, we guide clients through difficult transitions with compassion and legal clarity.

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Real Estate Law

We provide smooth, efficient closings for buyers, sellers, and investors—residential or commercial. Our real estate attorneys manage every detail from contract to keys.

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Landlord–Tenant Law

We represent landlords in eviction proceedings, lease disputes, and rent enforcement matters across Buffalo and surrounding communities.

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Business Law

From startups to established companies, we handle formation, contracts, compliance, and general counsel services.

Why Clients Choose VanDette Law PLLC

Our Commitment to You

Direct Access to Your Attorney

At VanDette Law PLLC, you’ll work directly with a dedicated Buffalo attorney—no case managers, no call centers.

Results That Protect Your Future

Whether it’s a personal injury claim, criminal defense case, or real estate matter, we fight for outcomes that make a real difference.

Local Legal Knowledge That Wins

We know Buffalo and the Southern Tier inside and out—from the courts and judges to the strategies that work.

Responsive, Client-First Service

We keep you informed, involved, and confident at every step of your legal journey.

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Proudly Serving Western New York

From our offices in Buffalo and Dunkirk, we represent clients across Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany Counties. Whether you need a Buffalo personal injury lawyer, a Southern Tier criminal defense attorney, or a trusted legal team for family, business, or property matters—we’re ready to help.

Let’s Talk About Your Case

We offer free consultations and straightforward answers. Call now to speak with a lawyer and get the guidance you need to move forward with confidence.