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James A. Abate

Criminal defense Attorney at Somerville, NJ

4.8   50 reviews
Message
  • State Years
    New Jersey - NJ 21 years
    New York - NY 23 years
  • Licensed for 21 years
    State NJ
    Acquired 2002
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 23 years
    State NY
    Acquired 2000
    Status
    Currently Registered No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Satisfying Service
Shenghan
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
Amazing
Mike
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired Attorney
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About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    30%
    As a former prosecutor, attorney James Abate understands both sides of criminal cases. We relentlessly protect our clients' rights. Whether traffic offenses, DUI/DWI, driving with a suspended or revoked license, driving without insurance and speeding tickets we provide a competent and relentless defense, utilizing all opportunities to minimize your exposure. We also fight drug charges and other criminal accusations in trial.

    23 years

  2. DUI and DWI
    30%
    Mr. Abate regularly defends individuals accused of DWI throughout Northern and Central New Jersey, particularly in Westfield and Bridgewater.

    23 years

  3. Domestic violence
    25%

    19 years

  4. Federal crime
    15%

James A. Abate is a partner with Aiello Harris Abate Law Group.    Mr. Abate practice is focused in Criminal Law, DWI Defense, Domestic Violence and Appelate practice.  Mr. Abate is certified as an instructor in the adminstration of Standardized Field Sobrierty Testing (SFST) and Drug Recognition Evaluator (DRE) tests. Mr. Abate recently moderated the symposium "Emerging From The Pandemic" which featured a whos who of Judges, Prosecutors and Defense Counsel.   Mr. Abate is a member of the Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey (ACDLNJ), National College for DWI Defense and Mr. Abate is the Legislative Chair for the New Jersey Bar Association Municipal Court Practice Section.

Mr. Abate represents individuals from all walks of life including Actors, Athletes and Politicians.  Mr. Abate succesfully defended New York Giants corner back Kamrin Moore securing dismissal of a Temporary Restraining Order and Criminal charges securing his path for removal from the commisioners exempt list.

Mr. Abate's reported cases include the seminal Domestic Violence case of R.G. v. R.G. and State v. Thompson.  Mr. Abate has been featured in various media including ESPN, , Bleacher Report, CNN, The New York Post, NJ.Com  and the blog Advocacy for Fairness in Sports.  Mr. Abate was a candidate for New Jersey State Senate in the 2022 election.

Mr. Abate is rated by Super Lawyers Magazine as one of the preeminent defense lawyers for DWI Defense and Domestic Violence litigation. Mr. Abate holds a rating of 10.0 from Avvo- the highest ranking posible, 5.0 from Findlaw, and 4.5 from Google. You can learn further about Mr. Abate and his team from his over 100 reviews from prior clients.

Aiello Harris Abate Law Group is a full service firm and handles cases in Criminal Law, Employment Law, Personal Injury, Family Law, Workers Compensation and Appelate Practice. 

 

Contact James

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Aiello Harris Abate Law Group, P.C.
82 East Main Street
Hamon Corporate Building
Somerville, NJ, 08876
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Aiello Harris Abate Law Group, PC
501 Watchung Avenue
Watchung, NJ, 07069
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Reviews

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4.8 / 5.0
  50 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by Shenghan | July 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Satisfying Service
Staff was friendly and responds to emails/concerns very quickly. Overall great communication/reminders. James is very knowledgeable and takes the time to explain everything to us non-native English speakers.
Posted by Mike | July 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing
Hands down best experience I've dealt with kept me up to date on everything that was going on and explained everything thoroughly so I would understand what was going on
Posted by WHM | April 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Faced with Jail / multiple DWIs - Mr. Abate uncovered mistakes.
When you feel your life is on the line and things are about to crumble you got to get the best !! I started out with a different attorney (Who was a nightmare ) and on a whim ; a friend’s suggestion ..... I hired James Abate and his team ; They were so very professional, attentive and considerate. After a short time I realized (and I read) that I had inadvertently hired one of the best lawyers in NJ for this type if case. His team were phenomenally on top of everything. They were a finely tuned [machine] / on point with their approach and discovery. This is what I needed. His office team were terrific in explaining me the process, kept me informed and they all were so amazingly responsive. Early on ; We had an extremely Difficult court situation , however Mr. Abate always maintained his composure and was perfectly profesional when faced with this demeanor. I truly believe that this was the turning point in the process. At this point the judge was agreeable to Abates suggestions. I was very impressed with how Mr. Abate dissected the entire case going back many many years. So strategic; he had uncovered major issues and mistakes that turned out to be almost the entire case! SIDE-NOTE: Temporarily I had money issues. HOWEVER Mr. Abate was so understanding and he continued pursuit without hesitation. At the end - Abate‘s team delivered! So very pleased!!! We closed the case without ANY JAIL time!!!! Finally Im able to rest ......... after over a year of working this case. Thank you Mr. Abate and your hard working team!
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Response from James Abate April 14, 2021
Thank you for the kind words. This was simply a matter of the right opportunity being presented and needing to find a way. We are so happy for your family. Thank you on behalf of Megan, Ally, Dee and John.
Posted by Melissa | April 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Professional and Educated
Knew everything they were talking about and helped me out above and beyond expectations and I would definitely recommend this law firm to anyone!
Response from James Abate April 14, 2021
Thank you for the kind words.
Posted by John | April 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Right Choice
I hired James and this firm to help my family through an investigation. The staff is excellent. They stay in contact with you, and are happy to answer questions. James and John, the attorneys in the office, provided competent legal expertise throughout the process, and I'm happy to say that they were able to show that all accusations were unfounded, and no charges were ever filed.
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Response from James Abate April 14, 2021
I appreciate the opportunity to put this behind you.
Posted by Jane | April 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Abate's vast experience and understanding not only of the law made him an outstanding attorney in our h in
Mr. Abate's vast experience and understanding not only of the law, but also of people, made him an outstanding attorney in our hour of need. His communication, and that of his entire office staff was timely, accurate and instructive. He gets the highest marks and regard from our family.
Posted by Diane | October 12, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Attorney
James was just a dream! I had a domestic dispute followed by a DUI , which I was arrested for. Very weird case but was able to have it dismissed because the report was a lie and I had photos and messages to prove it. He was kind, compassionate and very thorough. His office staff was more than friendly! I would absolutely refer him to anyone that needed legal help! Thank you so much!!!!
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Posted by Jim | December 8, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Effective DWI Attorney
If you’re reading this, you’re probably looking for an attorney who can help you with a DWI violation. And you probably have, or will receive soon, 8-10 attorney letters telling you why you should have them represent you in court. I know, I went through that. I asked my local attorney (I live in Mercer County) to recommend an attorney who could represent me in the Branchburg court. I visited her and we talked about what she could do for me. She mentioned a new state law that specified less harsh penalties for drivers with DWI convictions. She said she hadn’t read the law, but would soon. Next, I called a lawyer who had sent me one of those letters—James Abate. The letter was convincing, so I thought it would be worth a free telephone call. He not only was already thoroughly versed on the new law, he recommended a strategy for me to help minimize penalties. Most attorneys defer to judges and you wonder what they do to earn their money. Mr. Abate is different. He prepared a thoroughly researched analysis of the new law and explained in detail to the judge in court how the new law’s wording applied to my case, even though I got my violation before the new law became effective in December. I was happy with the outcome. He is one of the most effective attorneys I have ever worked with, and I work with a lot of attorneys, both representing me and at arm’s length. It’s up to you to decide who represents you. All I’m suggesting is that you owe it to yourself to talk to Mr. Abate to learn how he can help you. You’ll be in good hands in court.
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Response from James Abate December 9, 2019
Thank you for the kind words. I am on a phone conference with Bar Association leadership to continue to get redress for cases like yours. Not done yet.
Posted by anonymous | November 6, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Abate did what he said he would .
Mr. Abate was straightforward and professional with his advice, and listened to our concerns. He advised us realistically of all possible outcomes but gave us confidence of what he thought the outcome would be, making no promises. We felt very confident with his representation. Mr. Abate or his staff were always available to answer any questions or to address any concerns. Would hire again without hesitation.
Read less
Response from James Abate November 20, 2019
Thank you for the kind words. I am glad that you were satisfied with our representation.
Posted by Robert | January 23, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredible Lawyer
Two years ago I had my backpack searched for "walking suspiciously." I was arrested, given 9 separate charges and had to appear in Newark Municipal Court. I checked this website and found James Abate. I went to court 3 times without a lawyer so I was not on the judges good side. Once I retained Mr. Abate, he requested the video tapes of my arrest and the discovery. I then had my court date rescheduled about 5 different times because the arresting officers failed to present any video tape, any evidence of my charges and did not come to court. Mr. Abate argued that the proceedings were taking an unreasonable amount of time and the judge hesitantly dismissed all of my charges. For all of my court dates, Mr. Abate also had to be in superior court to represent clients with much more serious charges however he took the time to see me in municipal court first. Without a lawyer, I would not have known to request the discovery and would have taken whatever plea bargain the public defender offered me. I could not thank Mr. Abate enough for sticking with me at all of those court dates when I'm sure he was losing money by not being able to take other cases those days. His retainer fee was more than I originally wanted to pay however it ended up being worth every penny plus some.
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Posted by anonymous | August 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Trial Lawer
I was offered a disagreeable plea deal by the prosecutor and James took my case to trial and secured a not guilty verdict. I appreciated his hard-work and research and arguments and the fact that he stood up against establishment. James is highly recommended.
Posted by Paul | April 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional
I have to say Mr. Abate was absolutely professional and so helpful throughout an extremely important time for me. Mr. Abate and his teams honesty and integrity shined right through, they answered my questions quickly, communicated consistently and handled my case professionally- I would highly recommend this firm. The level of comfort and assistance they delivered is unexplainable. Gigantic thanks to Mr. Abate.
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Posted by anonymous | November 20, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
quick and courteous
James was very kind to take the time to reply and be helpful and I am thankful for his concern.
Posted by anonymous | March 1, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
traffic violation
James handled my going wrong way on one way street with the great results. He keep me updated with what was going to happen and I found him to be extremely confident and professional. His team very well organized and that comes from James himself. A very satusfied client, Don D.
Posted by Joann Singer | February 27, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Juvenile criminal charges
I would highly recommend Mr Abate to represent any criminal charges. He is very professional and caring. He treats his clients with respect. He was always available to answer any question with complete understanding. He protects his clients within their legal rights and stands his ground. Thank you Mr Abate.
Posted by John | February 15, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Motor Vehicle Violations
I was charged with two motor vehicle violations, one of which carried a large fine, 8 points, and 6 months license suspension. Mr. Abate handled everything for me from the minute I first made contact with him. He, and his office staff are very knowledgeable, courteous, and efficient. James advised me of my options, accompanied me to court, and was able to have the most serious violation dropped. I highly recommend him. He is the only attorney that I would consider using in the future.
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Posted by Rigoberto | November 7, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
No time for games
Attorney James A Abate and staff were very helpful and understanding throughout a DUI case I was charged with. They were available everytime I needed an update whether it was in person or over the phone very professional from the first time I contacted him to our last meeting in the courthouse. Honest, humble, respectful, responsible, professional and very courteous to my family and myself. With his assistance I was able to get an expert to review my case and have the best outcome through this whole process as possible. If you are looking for a serious attorney who will be upfront and straightforward with your situation I definitely recommend Mr. Abate and his staff (Meghan and Ali). I had never had a problem like this one and it was as smooth as possible with their help. I'm very pleased with all services rendered
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Posted by anonymous | September 30, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Abate did a top notch job at handling my case
While the decision to drink and drive was not smart at all, the decision to select James Abate to represent me for the case was a very smart decision. I was very discouraged after the incident happened, and most of the local attorneys I spoke with sounded as if they were hesitant to accept the case, due to a high BAC reading and a court with a reputation for giving harsh sentences to these cases. Mr. Abate was considerably more reassuring and explained his experience with cases like these. Throughout the whole process, he explained every step of the way, including what outcome I would like to achieve, the likelihood of actually getting it, and the steps it would take to get there. The process dragged on for a couple of months, and some of the court appearances were futile and frustrating, but Mr. Abate remained patient and determined through it all. Aside from a few office meetings, we typically had a strategy or recap discussion either before or after the court hearings. Ultimately, the best outcome realistically possible was achieved due to his strategy and patience in dealing with the case. Other attorneys I spoke with said the result (which ultimately happened) would be unlikely to impossible so I’m confident that if someone else was selected to take the case, the sentence would have been much worse. So if you find yourself in a similar situation in a township that Mr. Abate handles cases for, one of the best things you could do at the moment would be to give his office a call and request a free consultation.
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Posted by Michael stickle | August 18, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Cell phone commercial veichle
James and the ladies in the office were very helpful and as far as james is concerned outstanding lawyer he stayed after the court trying to get evidence of the incident that the officer said he had i as humanbeing understand there could have been several outcomes to this situation but with james's dedication and staying after courts about the situation i did expect to have some type of ticket with this but james stayed with it the whole time and got the charge dismissed excellent job james
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Posted by anonymous | March 25, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A great attorney who tells it like it is
James was great and worked very hard to ensure I received an end result I was satisfied with. He, Megan and Ally kept me informed of happenings with my case from start to finish. Being that I do not live in NJ, James ensured my safety by attending my hearings for me keeping me out of the jurisdiction from a place I had already never been to. I suffer from PTSD as well as bi-polar depression and there were some very rough moments going through the motions of my case, in which pushed Mr. Abate to be frank with his advisement, which was extremely helpful to keeping myself grounded. In the end my case was dropped due Mr. Abate's diligence & determination. I am very satisfied with his work and highly recommend him.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Aiello Harris Abate Law Group, P.C.
  • 2023 - Present
  • Owner
  • Law Offices of James A. Abate
  • 2008 - 2023
  • Of Counsel
  • Lester Schwab Katz & Dwyer, LLP
  • 2005 - 2008
  • Senior Associate
  • Clausen Miller, PC
  • 2001 - 2005
  • Associate
  • Heidell, Pittoni, Murphy & Bach, LLP
  • 1999 - 2001
  • Extern
  • United States Attorneys Office Eastern District Of New York
  • 1998 - 1999
  • Judicial Extern
  • The Honorable David Trager, U.S. District Court Judge at United States District Court, Eastern District of New York
  • 1998 - 1999
View all work experience

Education

  • Brooklyn Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1999
  • City University of New York, Brooklyn College
  • B.F.A
  • 1996

Legal Cases

  • State v. Thompson 226 A.3d 961 (2020) 462 N.J. Super. 370
  • Affirmed
  • Galli v. Galli
  • Reversed in client's favor.
  • Mt. Sinai v. Mann v. Chubb
  • Plaintiff verdict
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey
  • Municipal Court Practice Committee
  • 2014 - Present
  • Criminal / Municipal Practice- Somerset County Bar Association
  • Committee Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • General Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • New Jersey Bar Association Municipal Court Practice Section
  • Board of Directors
  • 2008 - Present
  • New Jersey Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Green Brook Little League
  • Board of Directors
  • 2011 - 2014
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2023
  • Super Lawyer
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2022
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyer
  • 2021
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2020
  • Client's Choice
  • AVVO
  • 2015
  • Best of New Jersey
  • The Italian Voice
  • 2014
  • Clients Choice
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Clients Choice
  • AVVO
  • 2013
  • Trial Advocacy Award
  • Federal Bar Council
  • 1999
  • Constitutional Law
  • American Jurisprudence
  • 1999
  • Legal Writting
  • American Jurisprudence
  • 1999
  • Civil Procedure
  • American Jurisprudence
  • 1999
  • Richardson Scholar
  • Brooklyn Law School
  • 1999
  • Moot Court
  • Cornelius T. Wickersham Award
  • N/A
  • Scholarship
  • Ruth Markoff Award
  • N/A
View all awards

Publications

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Vincent J Apruzzese Mock Trial Competition
  • Judge
  • 2016
  • Education Seminar
  • What to do when arrested for DWI
  • 2016
  • Vincent J. Apruzzee Mock Trial Competition
  • Judge
  • 2015
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (38)
Given (21)
Endorse James
Britt Justice Simon headshot
Britt Simon
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 16
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"James is a real fighter. If you hire him you have a lawyer that is going to make certain your rights are protected. I would feel comfortable recommending him to anyone that is looking for high quality representation."
David L Le Roy headshot
David Le Roy
Unknown Attorney | Apr 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Abate is a highly experienced, skilled and knowledgeable attorney and effective advocate for his clients. I have read many of his informative answers to avvo questions and they clearly and consistently show his legal acumen, especially with criminal law. His client reviews and peer endorsements also show he is well liked and respected by his colleagues and his clients. I highly endorse Attorney Abate."
James Thomas McCarthy headshot
James McCarthy
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Mr. Abate and his staff are truly dedicated to their clients. He is extremely knowledgeable and works very hard to achieve the best results possible. I endorse James Abate."
Walter Michael Luers headshot
Walter Luers
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I've read many dozens of his answers on AVVO and they are uniformly excellent. Mr. Abate is an excellent choice for a criminal defense matter."
Joseph John Donatiello headshot
Joseph Donatiello
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I highly recommend Mr. Abate. During the time that I have known and worked with him, he has been the consummate professional who is constantly zealously advocating for his clients."
Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro
Unknown Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. An excellent and knowledgeable attorney who really cares about clients."
Jeffrey Nicholas Ivashuk headshot
Jeffrey Ivashuk
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A well admired lawyer in the legal community."
Michael Paul LeMond headshot
Michael LeMond
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Anna M Stathis headshot
Anna Stathis
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is a well respected member of the legal community. His comments are helpful and insightful."
Dmitriy Shakhnevich headshot
Dmitriy Shakhnevich
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
John M O'Brien headshot
John O'Brien
Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A brilliant and highly respected attorney in the legal community."
Douglas Wayne Jones Jr headshot
Douglas Jones
Unknown Attorney | Oct 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Ababte is a very active member in the AVVO community. His knowledge of the law is expressed clearly and consisely in the answers and advice he provides. A potential client would be well served by retaining Mr. Abate."
Timothy J Broking headshot
Timothy Broking
DUI and DWI Attorney | Oct 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I know James to be highly professional and familiar with all courts in New Jersey. He is friendly, knowledgeable and efficient. As a result, I endorse this lawyer."
Raymond Andrew Grimes headshot
Raymond Grimes
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Abate is a distinguished well respected attorney in the community. He is a powerful advocate for his clients."
Christopher Daniel Leroi headshot
Christopher Leroi
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Abate constantly provides excellent legal advice that not only benefit the asker of the question, but also fellow attorneys. Even though I have been an attorney for 23 years and even a judge and magistrate, I learn new aspects about the law from him every day."
John Michael Phillips headshot
John Phillips
Unknown Attorney | Feb 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Attorney Abate. From his credentials Avvo, it is clear he is dedicated to serving those in need and his clients. It's rare that lawyers spend so much valuable time helping the community and striving for more and I applaud him for doing it to such a great level. Kudos."
Eric Stepanov headshot
Eric Stepanov
Unknown Attorney | Dec 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I sincerely endorse attorney Abate. He is extremely knowledgeable, proactive and respectful! I have read and continue to enjoy his legal expertise in various facets of law! Highly recommended! Superb attorney!"
Lawrence Michael Centanni headshot
Lawrence Centanni
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Abate is very knowledgeable and proficient in criminal law. Having interacted with Mr. Abate on several occasions, he is a professional and personable. I highly recommend him for your criminal matters."
Yolanda Navarrete headshot
Yolanda Navarrete
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is knowledgeable in his field of Criminal Law. His answers are accurate. His experience works to serve his clients again and again."
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Somerville Criminal defense Lawyer James A. Abate
James A. Abate
Criminal defense Attorney
Somerville, NJ
Licensed for 23 years
Free Consultation
Message