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James Kousouros

Criminal defense Attorney at New York, NY

4.9   33 reviews
  • Licensed for 37 years
    State NY
    Acquired 1986
    Status
    Currently Registered No misconduct found

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

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

FIGHTING VIGOROUSLY, RELENTLESSLY, & STRATEGICALLY AT EVERY STAGE OF YOUR DEFENSE. CALL 855-381-6203

The Law Offices of James Kousouros — with offices in midtown Manhattan and Queens — focuses primarily on criminal defense advocacy. As such, Mr. Kousouros and his counsel handle the full spectrum of state and federal criminal prosecutions. These cases include prosecutions for complex securities and other white-collar crimes, racketeering charges, homicide, narcotics violations, DWI, domestic violence, and simple assault, among others. As an inherent part of our practice, we represent clients in all stages of the criminal process: from the pre-arrest investigatigatory stage, to grand jury proceedings, indictment, plea negotiations, trial, as well as at all levels of the appellate process, including post conviction litigation and appeals. Our practice takes us to all state courts in New York and to federal courts throughout the country, as well as to international courts. Our clients have come from every walk of life, and their cases have been of both high notoriety and of little notice. In each and every case, Mr. Kousouros has demonstrated his commitment to providing an equally vigorous, aggressive and effective defense.

In over 20 years of private practice, Mr. Kousouros has earned a distinguished reputation for providing and maintaining the highest levels of professional and ethical standards. Known for his meticulous preparation, Mr. Kousouros is highly regarded as both a fierce and passionate trial lawyer and as an effective and forceful negotiator. In addition to these qualifications, James Kousouros and the firm’s counsel provide something more: frequent client contact. Mr. Kousouros believes that this is not only necessary to ensure that every case is properly and thoroughly investigated, but also to ensure that the client fully understands all of the options available — an understanding which is crucial to our goal of achieving the best resolution possible.

Awards

Client's Choice 2019,2015
Client's Choice
2019 2015

Contact James

James Kousouros, Esq
260 Madison Ave Fl 22
New York, NY, 10016-2401

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  33 customer reviews
5 Star
 
97%
4 Star
 
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3%
Client's Choice 2019
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by anonymous | October 14, 2014
Small firm attention with big firm expertise
There is no state more vulnerable or frightening than being a criminal defendant. At such a time, there is no stronger presence by your side than James Kousouros. He is extremely knowledgeable. And he is indefatigable on behalf of his clients. My case concerned both new & traditional areas of law. Mr. Kousouros, with his decades of knowledge & expertise knew exactly how to handle my defense. Additionally, his keen legal instinct & dedication gave me a sophisticated, cutting edge defense. I could see the respect his defense engendered in both the judge & the prosecution. He sees holes in the prosecution case that others don't. He came up with avenues of defense for which the prosecution was unprepared. And his competence in the courtroom is astonishing: he skillfully questions witnesses into revealing every advantageous fact while minimizing every disadvantageous one, and he is equally adept in his arguments to the judge. Mr. Kousouros combines the best of small & big law firms in the defense he provides to his clients. There is no avenue of defense he won't chase. No amount of work is too much if it can advance your defense. He is thorough. He is respected, which means that both the prosecution and the judge takes him seriously, a huge advantage for a defendant. He does not give easy reassurances. He respects his clients & tells them the truth. I would trust no one else with my defense should I ever again need one. & I would recommend him above anyone else to friends & family.
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Posted by Bernard | September 10, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Recommendation
I was contacted over a weekend in August 2015 by the parents of Irish Students who had been detained and charged with a felony in New York. The parents were very distressed and worried and needed immediate assistance. Through a contact in the Brown Rudnick New York Office I was put in touch with James. It is rare, if ever, in 33 years of my practice as a lawyer that I received the fulsome, genuine and wonderful comments about what James did for these students in New York. His kindness, professionalism, support, dedication and to top it all a great result will not be forgotten. These young Irish Students owe James back their lives. Well done James. Bernard McEvoy, Partner, Brown Rudnick, Dublin.
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Posted by Tom Hoey | June 4, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If you want a Seasoned Pro that is in the zone? Hire Kousouros.
After hiring over a dozen criminal lawyers, and losing not only my liberty, but every court motion and court filing that they presented, I hired James Kousouros. He calmly reviewed all of my court filings and gave me my first victory. He won for me a huge victory in the appeals court and convinced the government to drop all charges against me. If you are faced with criminal prosecution and need an attorney, THERE IS NO BETTER MAN FOR THE JOB THAN JAMES KOUSOUROS. I am a free man today because of his efforts to help me when all was lost.
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Posted by anonymous | November 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experienced and Honest
We hired James to defend my son on a serious list of charges that looked daunting. James was upfront on what he could achieve, never over promised but delivered a great result that left my son free to get his life and career back on track. James has strong experience and a formidable track record.
Posted by anonymous | November 3, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer
In 2017 my husband was arrested on federal charges. We were recommended Mr.Kousouros by a state lawyer. The minute I walked in to James office I knew he was going to be the one to defend my husband. I knew deep down in my heart he was going to be the one to bring my husband back to me. He was always straight forward with us never told us what we wanted to hear instead told us the truth. He is the most genuine respectful and caring lawyer Ive meet. My husband returned back home to us all thanks to James hard work and dedication. James is more then just my husband’s lawyer he has become part of our family!
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Posted by anonymous | August 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great at his job
James is a beast at what he does.. I was looking at some serious time.. James like always figured out how to finagle and make it beneficial for my behalf.. He is my personal lawyer and became a friend that I call for advice or when there’s any problems…
Posted by anonymous | January 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
No one ever wants to need a defense attorney, but if you do, James is the one you want!
We were referred to James by a friend who is a former prosecutor. Our case was extremely complex and involved several areas of the legal system, but this did not deter James. He was able to skillfully manage all of the different court systems and deal with several different attorneys, all while tackling the main aspect of this case. He and his team of investigators, experts and associates meticulously dug through thousands of pages of evidence and were able to uncover a ton of evidence that ultimately led to 2 of the major charges being dropped. He was able to successfully negotiate a plea for the remaining charge, for a fraction of the time initially presented to us. Not only is James a phenomenal attorney, he is also an incredible person. Literally from the minute he was retained he was available for us around the clock. I have repeatedly referred to "us" and "our" case here because most people who have been involved in a legal matter know that the entire family is affected, not just the accused. This was most certainly the situation here. Our family is very large with many personalities. James was happy to engage everyone and held several family meetings to update us on what was happening and what the next steps were. He was always up front about the potential outcomes, both positive and negative. Our family also experienced a major crisis during this time, and James repeatedly stepped up to assist in any way he could. He was also able to manage the media as to prevent the family from having to be in the public eye. We cannot say enough positive things about James, Emma and the incredible team at Kousouros Law. We are so very grateful for all of their hard work, dedication and devotion to this case and to our family.
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Posted by Fawad | November 14, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Professional!
Over the last 5 years James has become part of my family, and I could not thank him enough for all the time and attention he gave to my family and I over the course of my case. Since the day I spoke with him following the indictment, until today, his demeanor and outlook have always been positive and comforting. His professionalism, experience and dedication to every aspect of a complex case helped us stay ahead of and win some key issues. Healthcare fraud is a very complex web, which he was able to breakdown the case, reduce my exposure, and ultimately helped me keep my medical license in the face of very long odds! He is aggressive in his defense of his clients, and is always reachable with comforting advice. At your darkest hour, this is the person to have in your corner fighting on your behalf. 
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Posted by Naiya | November 8, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best
He is the best lawyer period,, so passionate about his work and honest. My husband hired him in December 2019 for his case and he couldn’t ask for a better lawyer. I want to thank James for all he has done for my husband. I highly recommend him to anybody who’s looking for great lawyer cause he’s it. Thank you for your services!
Posted by Mark M | February 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Lawyer Experience
About 3 years, when I was in trouble, my brother hired James Kousouros, we both didn't know him at all, but I am grateful to god that we hired him. James , is truly the best at what he does. He is very experienced, dedicated, and committed to his clients from beginning to the very end. James has been keeping me informed with all my options throughout entire process. It was very stressful but James made sure to keep me calm at all times. He fights for you as if you are his own family. I was facing at least 10 yrs in prison, but with a lot of hard work and dedication from James and his assistant, we were able to beat my case. I highly recommend James to other people who needs great lawyer who makes miracles happen.
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Posted by Deja | February 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Defense Attorney
James is a Beast!! I've known James for 12 years and retained his services on multiple occasions. He's official, honest, and provides results!!! He will let you know exactly what you need to know whether good or bad. He has the depth and experience few attorneys possess -- while maintaining a good rapport with prosecutors and judges in the court system, which aids him in providing superb services to his clients. James is definitely in a category of 5 star service. His personalized touch is excellent not to mention he's a funny guy. I feel 100% confident always having him on my team. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING JAMES!!!
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Posted by DB | December 22, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The BEST Lawyer you can have at your side
You will never find an attorney as great & HONEST! He does everything he can for his clients. He fights for them like he’s fighting for his own family. By the end of the experience, you will feel like he IS part of your family! He’s always checking in on his clients wellbeing and encouraging to stay strong & that there will be light at the end of tunnel. He sincerely cares and examines all angles of case to achieve the best outcome for his clients. In my opinion, he is the most knowledgeable & experienced criminal defense attorney in the city. He also has a very strong & genius support team working for & with him. He literally saved my life & I’m now working to start moving forward again with my life... all thanks to him. I thank God everyday in my prayers for him and his brilliant team and all the hard work they did fighting to protect me.
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Posted by Jovanna | November 8, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phenomenal lawyer
Mr kousouros James was absolutely an amazing lawyer to have on your team always answered my phone calls , my emails , my question my concerns , couldn’t ask for a better lawyer what an amazing person .
Posted by anonymous | November 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Trust this guy
I was facing at least a decade of prison time. After a lot of hard-work, guidance, and good client-attorney decision making, I have avoided hard time and won't miss out on years with my spouse, children, and grandchildren... all thanks to James.
Posted by Chrissy | November 4, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE BEST ATTORNEY IN NY
I can not speak highly enough about Mr Kousouros and his practice!!! From the moment you meet him you know he is going to give your matter top priority and see every aspect through personally to the end. He is very knowledgeable in all area's of his profession and is fluent in both trial and the art of negotiation to reach the best out come possible in all of his cases, I know this first hand Mr Kousouros has helped me personally in past matters and he is the one attorney I do trust!!!
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Posted by anonymous | October 29, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommended
We have known Mr. Kousouros for over ten years. He has represented one of my family members on more than one occasion. His honesty, knowledge, courtesy, and friendship have become extremely important to my family during his representation. His professionalism and ethics are of the highest standards. He is extremely committed, passionate and dedicated to his clients.
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Posted by Tawanda | October 19, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ddefendant's Fiancee
My family worked with James for 4 years on my fiancee's case. The moment I walked into the office James had a full packet put together on the case all from the little info I gave over the phone. I was truly impressed. He always had our family's best interests at heart. James was always honest about the case and made sure we fully understood all sides of the case. There were many bumps along the case where my fiancee made it worse for himself and James was still diligent in trying to get the best possible outcome. James is a man of his word who will not give you false hope. I appreciate all the hard work James and his team put into this case. James work ethic speaks volumes to the man he is. Even when his own personal life was turned upside down he made it his business to make sure he continued to work on this case. I am forever grateful for you James, Emma, Jeremy, and Sarah and anyone else behind the scenes on this team for working as hard as you did. May God continue to bless you all. Thank you.
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Posted by arun | December 18, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply The Best
James Kousouros, is simply the best criminal attorney you can hire. James is attentive and looks after your needs. Being a former client of James, I have had the privilege of working with James during the hardest time of my life. He visited me in prison weekly and worked on my case diligently, everything he said he would do he did. In addition to being a bright legal mind and one of the most connected people I know he cares for you and even your loved ones. I highly urge you to work with James. Simply the best!
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Posted by Jasmine | December 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My positive experience
I wanted to share my experience with James because I wish I would have had someone recommend James from the start of my fathers case. My father was facing very serious federal narcotic charges. I spent a lot of money on lawyers who just cared about the money and didn’t care about the position they left my family in emotionally or financially. After my horrific experience James was recommended by a family friend. From the moment I met James I knew it wasn’t about the money, he was so different from my previous experience with lawyers. Not only was it evident that he was very knowledgeable about the law, he genuinely cares about the people he defends. James is honest and tells you the truth about your case. He explains how the law works so you and your family can make informed decisions. He takes his time and explains things in a way any person can fully understand. His 30 plus years of experience shines through in just a 5 minute conversation. After every visit my dad has had with James since I retained him, he always says to me “I wish I would have had James from the start of my case”. I could never thank James enough for coming in and giving my dad hope and a chance at being with his family again. In short, all I can say is if you are looking for a lawyer that you can trust will do his best to defend you or your loved one, please don’t hesitate in hiring James.
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Posted by anonymous | April 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Attorney !
Having worked with multiple high profile New York law firms on my case, I can say without exception that Jim's legal experience , wisdom and hands on involvement were the instrumental factors in the incredible outcome of my case. I would highly recommend to anyone in need of an attorney to meet with him before retaining alternate counsel.
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Contact for Details

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Principal
  • Law Office of James Kousouros
  • 1986 - Present
  • Clerk
  • Appellate Division Third Department
  • 1985 - 1985
  • Assistant District Attorney
  • Bronx District Attorney's Office
  • 1985 - 1986

Education

  • California Western School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1985
  • State University of New York, College at Oneonta
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1982

Associations

  • New York City Bar Association
  • Board of Directors
  • 2015 - Present
  • Queens County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1986 - Present
  • New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • N/A
  • New York City Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • New York State Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Preeminent Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015

Speaking Engagements

  • Visiting Professor
  • American Criminal Law
  • 2013

Attorney endorsements

Received (9)
Given (2)
Endorse James
Unknown Attorney | Feb 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Federal crime Attorney | Aug 09
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer."
Federal crime Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Being an attorney for almost 30 years, I have had the opportunity to work with thousands of attorneys. I have never met a criminal defense lawyer who impressed me more than Mr. Kousouros. He is simply the best of the best! I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"James is well known as one of the hardest working and most thorough criminal defense lawyers in New York."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 23
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I strongly endorse Mr. Kousouros. As an associate at his firm, I have witnessed first-hand his expertise in and dedication to the practice of criminal defense. I find myself always impressed by his skills as an attorney and his ability to time and time again achieve amazing results for our clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Jimmy is bright and very hard working. He is an excellent lawyer and a brilliant strategist. I was fortunate to work with him on a case a couple of years ago and found him to be insightful and courageous. I strongly endorse him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"James Kousouros is a high-caliber and excellent attorney that excels at everything he does. His judgment and skills are impeccable and I highly recommend him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 30
Relationship: Co-worker
"Since joining his practice as an associate, I have been consistently impressed by the quality of the results he has been able to achieve for our clients. I am proud to be a member of his team."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Kousouros is an experienced and dedicated attorney who is well-respected in legal field. Mr. Kousouros handles complex criminal cases with expertise and dedication. I highly recommend him"
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New York Criminal defense Lawyer James Kousouros
James Kousouros
Criminal defense Attorney
New York, NY
Licensed for 37 years