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James A. Schiff
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About James
Biography
Former Manhattan prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney. I have lived in New York my entire life. I have been fortunate to work with some great clients on complex matters as part of a team of outstanding criminal lawyers, paralegals and staff. I have both prosecuted and defended a host of complicated white collar crimes including wire fraud, money laundering and insurance fraud.
The Law Office of James A. Schiff is a premier criminal defense firm, handling both state and federal crimes. Contact Us At (833) 644-7357
The Law Office of James A. Schiff is a premier criminal defense firm, handling both state and federal crimes. Contact Us At (833) 644-7357
The Law Office of James A. Schiff is a premier criminal defense firm, handling both state and federal crimes. Contact Us At (833) 644-7357
The Law Office of James A. Schiff is a premier criminal defense firm, handling both state and federal crimes. Contact Us At (833) 644-7357
Practice Areas
3
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
50%
26 years | 1,000 cases
Federal Crime
25%
15 years | 44 cases
White Collar Crime
25%
15 years | 30 cases
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Licenses
Licensed in New York for 22 years
State: New York
Acquired: 2003
No misconduct found
Location
The Law Office of James A. Schiff
(212) 260-6918
Fax
521 Madison Avenue, 17th Floor, New York, NY, 10175
jschifflaw.com/Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find James online.
James A. Schiff's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
16 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (16)
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Practice Areas
Showing 1 - 5 of 6 reviews | Advocacy
Posted by anonymous | February 17, 2020 | Hired Attorney
Top Notch Manhattan Lawyer
James went above and beyond to protect me and bring forth justice. Professional, honest, and service minded, he had my best interest always in mind, and I will be forever grateful.
Posted by Hillary | February 15, 2020 | Lawsuits & Disputes
Sharp Legal Mind
James gave me straightforward and honest advice in plain language, which strongly influenced a decision I made about how to proceed with legal action. He also helped me navigate the legal system to develop a strategy tailored to my unique case. James has a special ability to explain complex issues in...
Posted by Ron | February 12, 2020 | Hired Attorney
Great defense attorney
Mr. Schiff clearly detailed his approach to my case and then executed on it. Each step of the way I knew what to expect and what was needed from me to prevail. Putting myself in his hands as defense attorney was a great decision that my family and I will never regret.
Posted by anonymous | February 12, 2020 | Criminal Defense
Intelligent and sharp
The moment I met James Schiff he greeted me with a warm smile as he made eye contact with me.I felt at ease considering I had a big problem I’d be presenting to him. He conducted our interview with clear precise sensible advice.I left knowing this attorney could handle my case aggressively and move ...
Posted by anonymous | November 03, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Saved my butt, on more than one occasion!
James is an incredible defense attorney!! Even more than a miracle worker, his counseling is straightforward and filled with wisdom. Anyone who hires him will be able to tell how deeply he cares for his clients. I was so impressed with the deal he arranged with the prosecution the first time I...
James A. Schiff's Lawyer Endorsements
"I endorse this lawyer wholeheartedly! James is a very dedicated and committed attorney who I would recommend in a heart beat. He is very knowledgeable and zealous too!"
"James and I worked together on a three week felony trial in Bronx County. I am incredibly impressed with his knowledge, strategic decision making, attention to detail and ability to connect with the jury. Highly recommend James for any criminal matter!"
"I endorse this lawyer. I've known James for four years now and can say without hesitation that he is a thoughtful, bright, and skilled attorney. James has the experience and brains to put his clients in the best position possible. If myself or a loved one were in trouble, I would not hesitate to call James."
"I have known James for years now. We worked side by side in the Manhattan DA's Office and are now colleagues in the defense bar. James is an intelligent and passionate advocate who genuinely cares about doing the right thing by his clients. He's got the perfect mix of intelligence, heart and skill, and always wants to secure the best possible results for his clients. I have conferred with James on many cases and consider him to be a fantastic lawyer. I highly recommend him."
"James is a tough, no nonsense criminal defense attorney who isn't afraid to take on tough cases. He is a former Manhattan prosecutor which gives him the added benefit of really understanding the inner workings of the criminal justice system."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"James Schiff and I worked together as prosecutors in the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and have discussed many issues from the criminal defense perspective since leaving law enforcement. As a prosecutor, Mr. Schiff was in the trial and investigation divisions. He has a tremendous knowledge base, is thorough in his work and certainly has the skills to represent clients in the courts of New York. I would not hesitate to recommend him to clients in conflict matters or to discuss legal issues that arise in the course of criminal defense work. As such, I certainly endorse his work."
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Eric Arnone
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Christopher Davis
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Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2023
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2022
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2021
Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers
Work Experience
2011 - 2011
Assistant District Attorney: Money Laundering & Tax Crimes, New York County (Manhattan) District Attorney's Office - Investigation Division
2001 - 2010
Assistant District Attorney - Trial Bureau 60, New York County (Manhattan) District Attorney's Office - Trial Division
Associations
2011 - Present
New York State Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2011 - Present
New York Criminal Bar AssociationMember
2001 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
Sample of Legal Cases
People v. John Doe (anonymous to protect client)
Case dismissed
Education
2001
Yeshiva University, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1996
Lafayette College
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1992
Horace Mann School
High School Diploma
Speaking Engagements
2015
Federal SDNY
FSIA: Immunity Coextensive with Treaty
Publications
2016
Languages
English