James B Seplowitz

PRO

James B Seplowitz

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 22 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Hackensack, NJ
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Juvenile

24 Bergen Street, Suite 200, Hackensack, NJ

About James

Biography

I am devoted to vigorously defending the accused in a system that is too frequently unjust.

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 65%

Defending individuals charged with all crimes, including, drug crimes, sex crimes, assaults, vehicular crimes, homicide, white collar offenses, official misconduct, disorderly conduct, gambling, prostitution, forgery, theft, contempt, domestic violence, and weapons offenses.

65%
DUI and DWI 30%

Substantial experience representing individuals accused of driving under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs or illegal drugs.

30%
Juvenile Law 5%

Substantial experience representing clients in the juvenile justice system in Bergen County, New Jersey.

5%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating
Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2016 2013

Licenses

Licensed in New York for 21 years

State: New York

Acquired: 2004

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Licensed in New Jersey for 22 years

State: New Jersey

Acquired: 2003

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Foy & Seplowitz LLC

24 Bergen Street, Suite 200, Hackensack, NJ, 07601

foyseplowitz.com

James B Seplowitz's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

33 Client Reviews

5 star (33)
4 star (0)
3 star (0)
2 star (0)
1 star (0)

Posted by Susie | November 1, 2025 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Peace is the fruit of justice..

Came highly recommended by another reputable family law attorney in Bergen County who worked with him on the Ethics Committee. He proved to be extremely professional and ethical in a way that is the antithesis of a sleazy criminal defense lawyer. Didn't push me to settle once I was given a lot of in-...person time to explain my testimony and evidence and proved to be excellent at trial -very prepared, calm and able to squeeze in all the relevant points necessary to "win" an FRO. Well versed in the nuances of coercive control in DV cases and restored my faith in the justice system. Thank you!

Posted by David Katz | June 22, 2023 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Hire this attorney!

James was a consummate professional in all of my dealings with him. From our first conversation to the successful completion of my case, he was warm, understanding, knowledgeable, thorough, disciplined, and non-judgmental. As someone who has dealt with many attorneys, I highly recommend James for yo...ur matter.

Posted by anonymous | December 17, 2022 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

Turned a bad situation into a positive one

When I found James, one of the first things he mentioned to me on the phone was that it was his job to worry about my case now, and I should do my best to put it out of my mind. That comment alone turned my entire state of mind around lifting the stress and anxiety that had been weighing on me. Jam...es was excellent at communicating, explaining, and in getting me the best results possible. I would absolutely recommend his services if you are in need.

Posted by Amanda | July 8, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

James Seplowitz is the best attorney I've ever worked with!

I hired James a year ago to represent me in a matter against an individual who was using the criminal justice system to stalk and harass me. My case was a difficult, complicated and emotional case, dealing with an individual who was not emotionally stable. From the beginning, James was the right la...wyer for the job. He didn't over-promise, but he handled my case with sensitivity, while, at the same time, was amazingly strategic in how to plan my case. James prepared diligently for my case and got me the exact result that I needed, But, what was most important to me, was not only that he got me the result that I needed, but how he treated me throughout the year. James ALWAYS took or returned my phone calls immediately. James always answered my emails. James ALWAYS made me feel like my case mattered to him, and like I mattered to him as a client and a person. I always knew he had my back and that he truly was putting 1000% into fighting my case. I would unequivocally recommend James to ANYONE who needs an excellent criminal defense attorney who will go the extra mile, who will fight like hell for you, and will never make you feel like you're in it by yourself. He is truly the best criminal defense attorney in New Jersey.

Posted by Robert | May 4, 2021 | Hired Attorney

This review is from a person who hired this attorney.

The perfect experience

James provided me with the best care possible. He was completely understanding of what I was going through and made sure to look for every detail that can assist me for my situation. He gave incredible insight and advice as well as making the process as comfortable as possible. He constantly follows ...up and makes sure to keep great relationships during and after the process. He, not only acted as a lawyer throughout my time with him, but was also a friend when it came to the difficult times and made sure to provide all realistic and expert information when it came to all the next steps regarding the case. I would recommended James to anyone who is in need of representation regardless of the situation. I hold him to a very high standard when it comes to the industry and expect him to continue to show to the state that he really is one of the best.

See All Client Reviews

James B Seplowitz's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James
Vando Emanuel Cardoso headshot
Vando Cardoso

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 14

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Mr. Seplowitz is a high-skilled criminal defense attorney. He is a true gentleman in the courtroom. He is always prepared and has a strong grasp of the criminal code. He goes above and beyond for his clients to ensure they get the best possible outcome available. I strongly recommend this attorney."

Christopher Michael Waters headshot
Christopher Waters

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 11

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"James is a fantastic lawyer who is very familiar with the the criminal justice system in both New York and New Jersey. Working with him was a pleasure and it is a privilege to know such a helpful attorney. He is extremely knowledgeable and I would recommend him to anyone in need of a criminal defense attorney."

Laura Sutnick headshot
Laura Sutnick

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 06

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"James is an excellent attorney who is well respected by judges and other attorneys. He is smart, hard-working and a strong advocate. I highly endorse this lawyer."

Warren S Sutnick headshot
Warren Sutnick

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 31

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is an outstanding attorney. He is very knowledgeable and well respected in the legal community. I have had the pleasure of working with James on several matters and believe he is a very skilled advocate. I highly recommend James to any prospective clients."

William J Quirk headshot
William Quirk

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James Seplowitz is one of the finest attorneys I have had the pleasure of working with in New Jersey. His knowledge of the law and approach to the profession are to be admired. He is an attorney of the highest caliber."

Carmine LoFaro headshot
Carmine LoFaro

Criminal defense lawyer | Jul 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known James since his internship with a prominent NJ Superior Court Judge, and suffice it to say, the strong, positive impression I had of him those years ago has not only been confirmed, but strengthened. He is a first-rate attorney of the highest caliber and integrity."

Joseph P Rem Jr headshot
Joseph Rem

Criminal defense lawyer | May 08

Relationship: Supervised lawyer

"Mr. Seplowitz and I worked together for 9 years, so I know his abilities and experience well. He is far more than just an excellent lawyer. He not only knows and understands the law, but he knows how to anticipate changes to it, how to strategize cases for the best possible result, how to use his extensive network of connections and his well-deserved reputation with prosecutors to get his clients outcomes they could not have imagined. If I were to get in trouble, he is the attorney I would turn to."

Alan Peyrouton headshot
Alan Peyrouton

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 20

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I've been very fortunate to work with James on many criminal matters involving multiple co-defendants. I've seen first hand how considerate and patient he is with his clients. He answers every question honestly and carefully. It becomes very clear from working alongside James that he wants his clients to understand the charges facing them and the alternatives they have available. If they insist they are innocent, he has the rare courage to take the case to trial. I'm proud to consider him my friend."

Benjamin G Kelsen headshot
Benjamin Kelsen

Unknown lawyer | Feb 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known James for many years and have always found him to be helpful and extremely knowledgeable. I readily endorse him as an attorney."

Marcelino Gustav Lopez headshot
Marcelino Lopez

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I had the opportunity to meet Attorney Seplowitz while attending a National Criminal Law Seminar. After spending time with Attorney Seplowitz I have to say I was amazed about his insights into the criminal matters presented and about his insights into my own cases. It is rare to find an attorney who spends significant time developing his knowledge of the law. It is even more rare that the attorney is personable, smart and not afraid to take his client's case to trial. It is without hesitation that I endorse Attorney James Seplowitz."

Sanjay Sethi headshot
Sanjay Sethi

Criminal defense lawyer | Jan 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joshua H. Reinitz headshot
Joshua Reinitz

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have known James since he began his legal career and consider him one of the top criminal defense/dwi defense attorneys in the area. James has an encyclopedic knowledge of cases and fights for the results his clients need. James is a great resource for fellow attorneys and always willing to go out of his way to help."

View All Endorsements
Vando Emanuel Cardoso headshot
Vando Cardoso

Unknown lawyer

Alberto A. Ebanks headshot
Alberto Ebanks

Criminal defense lawyer

Eli M. Moore headshot
Eli Moore

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Tamra Dawn Katcher headshot
Tamra Katcher

Criminal defense lawyer

Christopher Michael Waters headshot
Christopher Waters

Criminal defense lawyer

Scott Jared Rothenberg headshot
Scott Rothenberg

Personal injury lawyer

Warren S Sutnick headshot
Warren Sutnick

Unknown lawyer

William J Quirk headshot
William Quirk

Unknown lawyer

Laura Sutnick headshot
Laura Sutnick

Unknown lawyer

Carmine LoFaro headshot
Carmine LoFaro

Litigation lawyer

Warren Scott Gottlieb headshot
Warren Gottlieb

Litigation lawyer

Joseph P Rem Jr headshot
Joseph Rem

Criminal defense lawyer

Alan Peyrouton headshot
Alan Peyrouton

Criminal defense lawyer

Benjamin G Kelsen headshot
Benjamin Kelsen

Criminal defense lawyer

Marcelino Gustav Lopez headshot
Marcelino Lopez

Unknown lawyer

Sanjay Sethi headshot
Sanjay Sethi

Criminal defense lawyer

Joshua H. Reinitz headshot
Joshua Reinitz

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine

2019

Bergen's Top Lawyers, (201) Magazine

2019

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2017

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine

2017

Bergen's Top Lawyers, (201) Magazine

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Bergen's Top Lawyers, (201) Magazine

2016

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Super Lawyers Magazine

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2015

Bergen's Top Lawyers, (201) Magazine

2015

Super Lawyer, Criminal Defense, New Jersey Super Lawyers Magazine

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2014

Rising Star, Criminal Defense, New Jersey Super Lawyers Magazine

2013

Rising Star, Criminal Defense, New Jersey Super Lawyers Magazine

2013

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

New Jersey's Top Legal Minds, Inside New Jersey

2012

Bergen's Top Lawyers, (201) Magazine

2012

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

Rising Star, Criminal Defense, New Jersey Super Lawyers Magazine

N/A

AV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

Work Experience

2013 - Present

Partner, Foy & Seplowitz LLC

2009 - 2013

Partner, Rem Zeller Law Group

2004 - 2009

Associate, Rem Zeller Law Group

2003 - 2004

Law Clerk to the Hon. Donald R. Venezia, J.S.C., Superior Court of New Jersey, Bergen County, Criminal Part

Associations

2016 - Present

District II-B Ethics Committee

Member

2014 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

2010 - Present

New Jersey Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2004 - Present

New Jersey State Bar Association

Member

2003 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2011 - 2022

Bergen County Bar Association, Municipal Court Committee

Co-chair

2008 - 2009

Bergen County Bar Association, Young Lawyers Section

President

2008 - 2011

Bergen County Bar Association, Criminal Practice Committee

Co-chair

2006 - 2008

Justice Morris Pashman Inn of Court

Member

Education

2011

University of Cincinnati

Masters

2003

Yeshiva University, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2000

Yeshiva University, Yeshiva College

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2023

Boardwalk Seminar

DWI Updates

2022

CLE Seminar

Expunging and Sealing Criminal Records in New Jersey

2022

CLE Seminar

Expunging and Sealing Criminal Records in New Jersey

2020

CLE Seminar

Can You Be Driving While Asleep in a Parked Car?

2019

CLE Seminar

Everything You Need to Know About the New DWI Laws

2018

New Jersey Bar Association

Hot Topics in Municipal Court Law

2018

Criminal Law Society

Criminal Defense Practice

2017

CLE

Sentencing Enhacements

2017

CLE

Introduction to Municipal Court Practice

2017

CLE

Dos and Don'ts in Municipal Court Practice

2016

CLE

DWI Primer

2016

CLE

Expungement Law Update

2016

CLE

Expungements 101 and the Changing Law on Expungements

2015

CLE Seminar

DWI & Refusal - Evaluating the Case

2014

Cardozo Alumni Reception

Working in New Jersey

2013

CLE Seminar

To Text or Not to Text - The Effect of Technology on Professionalism

2013

CLE Dinner Meeting

Reds Whites and DWI Blues

2012

CLE Dinner Meeting

Reds Whites and DWI Blues

2011

Continuing Legal Education

Handling First DUI Case

2011

CLE Seminar

Avoiding Common Mistakes In and Out of Court: A Guide to Professionalism and Ethics

2011

CLE Dinner Meeting

Reds Whites and DWI Blues

2010

Young Lawyers Section Dinner Meeting

A Survival Guide to the Municipal Courts

2010

Moderator of CLE Seminar

Everything You Need to Know About Criminal Record Expungements

2009

BCBA Rising Stars CLE Seminar

Criminal Law Practice

Publications

2015

Inside the Minds (Aspatore Books) Drugs Bunny: When Does the Personal Use Defense Lose Its Bounce?

2013

Inside the Minds (Aspatore Books) Knowing Your Witnesses and Building a Successful Defense for the DWI Client

2012

New Jersey Law Journal Synthetic Marijuana Ban Raises Novel Questions For Defense

2010

New Jersey Lawyer Magazine Seeing Double: Representing a New York Driver in a New Jersey DWI Case

2008

New Jersey Law Journal Time to Get Rid of a Draconian Law

2008

Bergen Barrister "Driving" While Intoxicated When Sleeping in a Parked Car?
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