Emily Wallshein, Esq. joined Passalacqua & Associates, LLC, in December of 2025 as a member of the Criminal Defense Team.

She is a dedicated criminal defense attorney with a strong foundation in both criminal and civil litigation. Prior to transitioning to defense work, Ms. Wallshein served as a criminal prosecutor in the New York Metropolitan Area, where she handled a broad spectrum of criminal cases, with a particular focus on Special Victims and domestic violence matters.

In that role, she handled complex, sensitive, and high-stakes matters, gaining deep insight into how these cases are investigated, charged, and litigated. This experience gives her a strategic advantage in anticipating prosecutorial tactics, evaluating case strengths and weaknesses, and negotiating favorable outcomes for her clients.

Ms. Wallshein began her legal career in civil practice, developing sharp research, writing, and motion advocacy skills that continue to inform her approach in criminal litigation. She brings a detail-oriented and analytical mindset to every case, with a particular focus on suppression issues, evidentiary challenges, and pretrial litigation.

With several years of active litigation experience, Ms. Wallshein has handled cases involving violent felonies, DWI offenses, domestic violence and sex crimes, arson, and complex procedural issues under New York law, including discovery compliance under CPL § 245 and litigation of constitutional issues such as unlawful searches, seizures, and identifications.

Ms. Wallshein is a strong and committed advocate for her clients. She is known for her thorough preparation and practical approach to client counseling. She ensures that every client is informed, supported, and strategically positioned throughout the legal process.

She understands the high stakes involved in criminal cases and works closely with each client to understand their goals and unique circumstances, developing a tailored defense strategy and always seeking a resolution that serves their best interests – whether that means aggressively litigating motions or negotiating a favorable disposition.

Ms. Wallshein earned her J.D. from Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University in 2021, and was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2022.