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James Powderly
About James
Biography
I am a trial attorney with over 20 years of experience. I have successfully defended thousands of clients, tried hundreds of cases to verdict, and obtained acquittals in matters involving homicide, robbery, rape, drug trafficking, firearms offenses, repeat drunk driving, and nearly every other type of serious crime.
As a former prosecutor with the Bristol County District Attorney's Office, assigned to the Homicide and Major Felony Units, I gained invaluable insights into the real-time tactics, strategies, and methods employed by law enforcement and prosecutors during criminal investigations. This experience has significantly enhanced my criminal defense practice.
Recognized as a “Massachusetts Rising Star” by Super Lawyers; one of the “Ten Best Lawyers” by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys; part of the “Nation's Top One Percent” by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel; and among the “Top 40 under 40” by The National Trial Lawyers.
Practice Areas
1
Practice Area
Criminal Defense
100%
21 years | 100 cases
Fees and Rates
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Massachusetts for 21 years
State: Massachusetts
Acquired: 2004
No misconduct found
Licensed in Rhode Island for 18 years
State: Rhode Island
Acquired: 2007
No misconduct found
Location
The Law Offices of James P. Powderly
197 Palmer Avenue, Suite 172, Falmouth, MA, 02540
The Law Offices of James P. Powderly
888 Purchase Street, #317, New Bedford, MA, 02740
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James Powderly's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 15 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Silvino | February 23, 2026 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Serious professional to work with.
Mr. Powderly is a professional individual and helped me got out of jail and win a OUI 3. Thanks Mr. Powderly for your time, effort and expertise with my case. I would highly recommend James Powderly to anyone looking for help with their case. Mr. Powderly is the best!!!
Posted by Joseph | February 5, 2026 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Great defense Lawyer
Mr Powderly explained the law to us very well and confidently argued are case in front of the judge and got us a not guilty verdict which was the best out come. He didn’t try to plead us out he explained why he would win the case and won exactly how he said. I would recommend him to anyone.
Posted by Luke | February 5, 2026 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Trusted Advocate in a Challenging Situation
We had an excellent experience working with attorney James Powderly. He was highly responsive, professional, and thoughtful throughout a complex and stressful situation. His deep understanding of the legal system and ability to navigate it efficiently were evident at every step. His guidance made the...
Posted by Angelinarae | February 29, 2024 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Works until his clients outcome is reached not for broken court systems
Absolutely phenomenal legal representation! From the moment I reached out, this lawyer demonstrated unparalleled expertise, dedication, and compassion. Their strategic approach, attention to detail, and courtroom prowess resulted in a favorable outcome beyond my expectations. I highly recommend James...
Posted by anonymous | July 28, 2013
Knowledgeable Advocate
James provided excellent counsel. He reviewed the facts of the case and communicated all of the available options and explained the pros and cons of each potential outcome. James used his knowledge of the system to expedite the matter. He handled all of the painstaking paperwork and contacted the ...
James Powderly's Lawyer Endorsements
"I have known James for years through our membership and work with the National College for DUI Defense. It was no surprise, then when his reputation as a talented DUI warrior reached Florida. James is my "go-to-guy" when I need help in Rhode Island."
"James is the go-to guy for DUIs in Rhode Island. I call him when I need to refer clients or find out about RI license issues."
"Attorney Powderly is one of the best criminal defense lawyers around. Always prepared, aggressive, and does the right thing for his clients. Highly recommend."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. His insightful contributions to Avvo show his thorough knowledge of criminal law."
"I endorse this lawyer. Jim is the most gifted DUI lawyer I know. He has an in-depth understanding of DUI law and is relentless in his pursuit of justice for his clients. He's my first call if I'm ever arrested for DUI."
"Excellent lawyer."
"I first met Attorney Powederly in Orlando FL at a Field Sobriety Test Course. His work ethic and knowledge of the law truly impressed me. He has my highest endorsement as a lawyer who can successfully defend you."
"Attorney Powderly is a highly skilled attorney in the area of DUI and I recommend his services. His reputation as a fierce client advocate reaches all the way to the West Coast--he is that good."
"James approaches his cases with the right attitude: the arresting officer must prove my client is guilty, or we go to trial. The first requirement of a true advocate is teh willingness to fight. James embodies that spirit of being the client's warrior, and that spirit translates into a winning attitude for one of Rhode Island's finest criminal defenders."
"I endorse this lawyer's work. Attorney Powderly is a well trained and well educated professional who is respected in his community."
"Mr. Powderly's extensive training, knowledge and experience with regards to DUIs and criminal defense make him an invaluable asset to have on your side in the courtroom."
"Attorney Powderly has proven himself through years of intense trial litigation to be a dedicated and ethical advocate for the citizen among us who has been accused of a crime. He uses his reputation, knowledge and experience to maximize the chances of obtaining the best result possible for those who trust him to defend them. One given to fighting for his client's rights, he is not, however, given to fighting to put his client in a worse position, but rather he tactically and purposefully attacks each case in his trademark professionally aggressive style. I trust him and so should you."
"The thing that separates Jim from most other attorneys is his dedication and passion for his clients and for his work. There are few other attorneys that are as dedicated and hardworking and as a result Jim can and has achieved some terrrific results for his clients. I would highly reccommend him to someone in need!"
"Hardcore, aggressive, never give up, gets you the best deal possible or takes the prosecutor down."
"James Powderly is extremely knowledgeable, aggressive and dedicated to the representation of his client and I would highly recommend his services."
"I have worked with Attorney Powderly on several cases and I have been extremely impressed with his legal knowledge and his tenacious representation of his clients. His character is second to none and his work ethic is one of the top in the state. I endorse Attorney Powderly without hesitation."
"James is a talented lawyer. He is extremely well prepared in court, comfortable in the court room and knowledgeable about all issues relating to DUI defense."
"Jim Powderly does outstanding work for his clients. He is reliable, and has extensive knowledge of the law in the criminal field. He fights hard, and gets great results for his clients. Toughness and hard wok is what he is about."
"James takes zealous advocacy in DUI defense to a whole new level! He is committed and creative. Further, as a member of the National College of DUI Defense, he is schooled in the science of blood and breath testing. I highly recommend James!"
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Experience
Honors
2018
Massachusetts Attorneys "Ten Best", American Institute of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2015
Top 40 Under 40, The National Trial Lawyers
2015
Rising Star Selection - Criminal Defense, Massachusetts Super Lawyers
2015
Nations Top One Percent, National Association of Distinguished Counsel
2014
Top 40 Under 40, The National Trial Lawyers
2014
Rising Star Selection - Criminal Defense, Massachusetts Super Lawyers
2013
Rising Star Selection - Criminal Defense, Massachusetts Super Lawyers
Work Experience
2022 - Present
Trial Attorney, The Law Offices of James P. Powderly
2020 - 2022
Assistant District Attorney, Bristol County D.A.’s Office
2004 - 2020
Trial Attorney, The Law Offices of James P. Powderly
Associations
2016 - 2018
Bristol County Bar AdvocatesVice President
2010 - 2018
Bristol County Bar AdvocatesBoard of Directors
Education
2003
Northeastern University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2000
New York University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2018
Zealous Advocacy Training
Criminal Defense
2017
Zealous Advocacy Training
Criminal Defense
2016
Zealous Advocacy Training
Criminal Defense
2014
Bar Advocate Certification Training
Trial Strategies
2013
Bar Advocate Certification Training
Trial Strategies
Publications
2011
Thompson Publishing Group/West
Inside the Minds: DUI Defense strategies
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
I received a notice from the police department hit and run squad. What do I do now?
12 Sep 2009
Q&A
I have a bench warrant and want to turn myself in will i go to jail?
27 Aug 2009