About
Frederick D. Paoletti, Jr. is a seasoned trial lawyer and founding attorney of Paoletti & Gusmano, where he has represented clients for more than three decades. His practice spans criminal defense, personal injury, appeals, business law, family law, and real estate. Recognized for his courtroom skill, he has built a reputation as a zealous advocate protecting clients’ rights and futures.
Frederick graduated magna cum laude from the University of Connecticut in 1979 before earning his Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in 1982. He is admitted to practice in all Connecticut state and federal courts, as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and the U.S. Supreme Court. His education and broad admissions provide him with the foundation to handle complex and high-level litigation.
Over the course of his career, Frederick has tried countless cases to verdict, serving individuals and businesses in both criminal and civil matters. He has earned distinction as a Connecticut and New England “Super Lawyer” in Criminal Defense from 2012 to 2019 and holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the highest level of professional excellence. As a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, he has secured significant settlements and verdicts for his clients.
Frederick is committed to contributing to the legal community. He has acted as a special master for the Connecticut Superior Court, delivered lectures to the Bridgeport Bar Association, and served on the Regional Advisory Board for Housatonic Community Technical College. He also holds active memberships in the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association, and several local and state bar associations.
Through his extensive trial experience, professional recognition, and dedication to clients, Frederick D. Paoletti, Jr. continues to be a trusted advocate for individuals and businesses facing their most serious legal challenges.
Law Office Affiliations
- Founding Attorney, Paoletti & Gusmano, Attorneys at Law
- Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member, Connecticut Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member, American Bar Association
- Member, American Association for Justice
- Member, Greater Bridgeport Bar Association
- Member, Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association
- Member, Connecticut Bar Association
Licensed State
- Connecticut
Education
- California Western School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - University of Connecticut
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Awards & Badges







- Appeals
- Car accident
- Commercial real estate
- DUI and DWI
- Domestic violence
- Drug Crime
- Litigation
- Medical malpractice
- Motorcycle accident
- Residential real estate
- Sex crime
- Slip and fall accident
- Trucking accident
- Violent crime
- Wills and living wills
- Wrongful death