James J. Sexton

James J. Sexton

4.6
Rating: 9.9

Licensed for 24 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at New City, NY
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Child Custody, Child Support, Marriage & Prenuptials

301 North Main Street, New City, NY

About James

Biography

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

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Licenses

Licensed in New York for 24 years

State: New York

Acquired: 2001

Currently Registered

No misconduct found

Licensed in New Jersey for 24 years

State: New Jersey

Acquired: 2001

License Administratively Revoked

No misconduct found

Location

Law Offices Of James J. Sexton, PC

301 North Main Street, New City, NY, 10956

Law Offices Of James J. Sexton, PC

475 Park Ave South, 21st Floor, New York, NY, 10016

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James J. Sexton's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.6 /5.0

63 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 15 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by anonymous | April 08, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

Start with Jim

I cannot recommend Jim Sexton highly enough! Navigating a delicate custody situation with a narcissist is an overwhelming and emotionally taxing experience, but Jim handled it with absolute professionalism, expertise, and unwavering support. From day one, they made me feel comfortable and confident, ...ensuring I was informed and empowered every step of the way. What truly sets Jim apart is their ability to balance strength and strategy while maintaining positive relationships with opposing counsel and judges. Their reputation, integrity, and deep knowledge of family law made all the difference in achieving the best possible outcome. If you're seeking an attorney who will advocate fiercely for you while keeping the process as smooth as possible, look no further. Thank you, Jim, for your dedication and for making an incredibly difficult situation manageable. You are truly one of the best! - KMB

Posted by Crystal | February 11, 2019 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

More than money could buy

I must say, the quantity of attorney's in my area is plentiful but the quality of them are scares. I was in an unbearable battle of a relocation case for over a year. Most know, that a relocation case has a beacon of hope and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed nigh on impossible. H...owever, Jim and his team did just that.... He accomplished the impossible. He is honest, trustworthy, intelligent, great personality, and very straight forward. In unvarnished truth he will tell you exactly where you stand and what direction you should go. He has tenacity coupled with a degree of tenderness but never losing site of the end goal, which is to protect, defend and have the best outcome for his client. He worked with me financially, and made me feel I was the only client he had. He would respond to text/emails within minutes to an hour, never seemed bothered and always willing to listen to what I had to say. Words could not describe how grateful I am to Jim. I may not have been the "most profitable client" due to my financial situation but I will confidently say this.... I am your "most grateful client."

Posted by anonymous | August 21, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Excellent guidance

Divorce, even under amicable -ish terms is painful. Fluctuating emotions and unsolicited advice from family and friends can make even the most rational and clear headed think they are losing their mind. Jim was a no nonsense voice of reason during my divorce process. He acted as a consultant... on a regular basis throughout my mediation proceedings. In retrospect, the only reason mediation worked was because of Jim's continued presence. Jim fielded phone calls and emails. His advice and recommended direction were always spot on. You often hear about divorce lawyers 'going for the jugular'. In my case Jim knew how important it was for me to keep the peace while still getting what was fair and equitable after a long marriage. When I was uncomfortable and out of my realm of knowledge Jim made sure to use his extensive expertise and strongly push for terms on my behalf. Consistently assisting me in making difficult decisions and prioritizing both my and my children's needs both presently and in the future. The light at the end of the proverbial tunnel is glorious and I'm so thankful that Jim was able to help me get there . Have a chat with him and you'll feel like you're in the best of hands.

Posted by Jessica | July 27, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Wise like the Buddha, Swift like the Warrior.

When I retained Jim to facilitate my (rather hostile) divorce and custody case, I was immediately impressed with the calm knowledge of a veteran attorney. Jim's ability to offer sound, candid and unbiased coaching through the stormy divorce process was the singular reason I could be a newly single mo...ther, newly employed after five years out of the workforce, newly responsible for paying all my bills, and able to maintain my sanity. I have often referred to him as a hero with no cape. I have never had to wait more than a half day for a response, he is hyper-efficient in communicating with opposing counsel, he has the answer faster than you can think the questions. He has insight beyond what you pay for in attorney fees. He is polished, bringing with him confidence and calm that is contagious. I cannot recommend him highly enough. He is the Prada suit of matrimonial law.

Posted by anonymous | May 10, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

Billable Hours..

I hired James Sexton for my child custody hearing and gave them a fixed budget (substantial) and they came back to me with a bill double the budget without advance notice. I paid it...based on false pretense from the kids mom I was accused of an infraction that was not true. I gain my custody back bu...t was stuck with child support that was unwarranted and outlined in my divorce as agreed to be not included. Basically I got back what I already had a huge cost and on top of that child support. He is good at what he does but makes no apologies for over billing. When you call to discuss strategies, they won't talk to you with a retainer on file...despite a large sum already paid.

James Sexton

Replied last April 09, 2016

So...in essence this client confirms that the firm was able to get him (a father) sole custody of his children but that he was required (under the law) to pay child support to his former spouse who still has parenting time with the children but earns substantially less income than he does. The custody part you can thank the firm for. The child support part you've got to take up with the New York State Legislature. I appreciate the acknowledgment (after getting him custody) that I am "good at what I do" but I make no apologies for charging for my services. When a businessperson client (like this one) suggests a "budget" for their case I make it clear that the "budget" is beyond my control as the actions of the other side will impact the scope of work to be done (and thus the cost). I'm not the least expensive divorce lawyer. If you're looking for that - look elsewhere. I'm not the most expensive either. I believe most clients (as noted in the overwhelming majority of our reviews here - on the Internet - the "complaint box" of the universe) consider what we charge and what we provide to be equal in value. The only thing more expensive than a good divorce lawyer is a bad one.

See All Client Reviews

James J. Sexton's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James
Rahul Aggarwal headshot
Rahul Aggarwal

Unknown lawyer | Mar 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"An excellent lawyer who treats clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism - an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend for future services. Also, brilliant on Steve Harvey Show, both stellar beings."

Somair Syed Alam headshot
Somair Alam

Divorce and separation lawyer | Feb 13

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Exceptional attorney, dedicated to client success. Highly recommended."

Anita Mignone-Lazaro headshot
Anita Mignone-Lazaro

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 20

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Jim Sexton is one of the most aggressive, well prepared, zealous advocates that I have encountered in the Courtroom. As a fellow attorney, I can also say that Jim will always demonstrate the highest level of ethics and decorum even while fighting tooth and nail to advance his client’s goal. For these reasons, I endorse him without reservation."

Alvin Leon Spitzer headshot
Alvin Spitzer

Divorce and separation lawyer | Dec 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Jim since he was an associate at one of the major firms in Rockland. He is one of the most able and competent lawyers I know. He is very well versed in the areas of law which make up his practice, is very professional and always has his client's interests as his major priority."

Jonathan Bradford Ripps headshot
Jonathan Ripps

Unknown lawyer | Jun 23

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Jim is an extraordinary attorney, who possesses a keen ability to achieve the best interests of his clients. He is very dedicated to his craft and is well respected in the legal community, including the presiding judges. He also happens to be a very nice guy, which is such a valuable trait in the courtroom!"

Robert S. Sunshine headshot
Robert Sunshine

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Sexton and I have worked on a number of legal matters together and I have always found him to be well prepared, articulate and a vociferous advocate on behalf of his clients. Similarly his working knowledge and understanding of the law makes it simple to achieve mutually successful case settlements as much of the gamesmanship that typically takes place between attorneys is generally avoided. I therefore would not hesitate to endorse Mr. Sexton and his firm."

Peter L. Jameson headshot
Peter Jameson

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is a strong, aggressive and zealous advocate for his clients. He is well versed on the law and an experienced litigator who is also a persuasive negotiator when need be."

David M Ascher headshot
David Ascher

Family lawyer | Apr 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jeffrey Mark Adams headshot
Jeffrey Adams

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Jim is a highly regarded, well respected and dynamic attorney. His advocacy skills are second to none. A fine lawyer."

Ellen O'Hara Woods headshot
Ellen Woods

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I am pleased to have the opportunity to endorse Jim Sexton. I have known Jim for many years and know him to be a truly professional, zealous advocate for his clients. Jim is a both seasoned litigator and skilled negotiator, with great attention to detail and the ability to help his clients navigate the emotional turmoil that so often attends divorce cases."

Michael A. Koplen headshot
Michael Koplen

Child custody lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I am pleased to endorse this lawyer. I have had the opportunity to work with James Sexton in the courtroom as adversary counsel in a difficult trial. Jim was an excellent, ethical attorney. He knows his stuff and knows his way around the courtroom and he knows how to fight for his client. If I needed a tough, caring, and skilled lawyer, Jim would be right at the top of my list."

Steven Jay Mandel headshot
Steven Mandel

Divorce and separation lawyer | Aug 28

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Jmaes was opposing counsel in a high net worth, hotly contested, emotionally charged case in which I represented the othet party.. This matter never wound have been resolved as amicably and expeditiously as it had if not for his expert guidance. Thank you, James"

Keith Ian Braunfotel headshot
Keith Braunfotel

Family lawyer | Jun 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Sexton has always treated the clients I have recommended to him competently, fairly, and honestly."

Brian Howard Berkowitz headshot
Brian Berkowitz

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jun 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim Sexton is a zealous advocate for each and every one of his clients. He handles himself in an extremely professional manner and is an excellent attorney both in and out of Court. Most importantly, he enjoys the practice of Law and it shows in everything he does."

Robert William Cohen headshot
Robert Cohen

Education lawyer | Jun 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have dealt with Jim on both personal and professional concerns and have found him to be attentive, courteous and professional. I have also found him to be highly regarded by his colleagues and I would recommend him without hesitation or reservation."

Robert Lewis Fellows headshot
Robert Fellows

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Jimmy Sexton has and is handling several matrimonial matters referred by my law firm. He is a formitable litigator possessing both trial and expert negotiation skills. Jim is recognized by his peers as one of the preeminent family law practitioners in the Hudson Valley. Clients referred to him have expressed their gratitude. Through hard work, preparation and with the ability and experience to try a matter to conclusion, Jim achieves his objectives and the respect of the bench and bar alike. Those in time of distress can look to his guidance and counsel to navigate the difficult waters of divorce and separation."

View All Endorsements
Nicole Genevieve Digiacomo headshot
Nicole Digiacomo

Child custody lawyer

Risa K Kass headshot
Risa Kass

Family lawyer

Eric Matthew Holzer headshot
Eric Holzer

Divorce and separation lawyer

Jared William Derosso headshot
Jared Derosso

Divorce and separation lawyer

Colin J. Dunnigan headshot
Colin Dunnigan

Divorce and separation lawyer

Kim M. Rayner headshot
Kim Rayner

Divorce and separation lawyer

Anita Mignone-Lazaro headshot
Anita Mignone-Lazaro

Immigration lawyer

David Fried headshot
David Fried

General practice lawyer

Alvin Leon Spitzer headshot
Alvin Spitzer

Criminal defense lawyer

Stephen Todd Raff headshot
Stephen Raff

Personal injury lawyer

Jonathan Bradford Ripps headshot
Jonathan Ripps

Criminal defense lawyer

Eric Ole Thorsen headshot
Eric Thorsen

Divorce and separation lawyer

Alexander Stuart Mulgrew headshot
Alexander Mulgrew

Immigration lawyer

Lynne Suzanne Hilowitz headshot
Lynne Hilowitz

Estate planning lawyer

Gary Steven Graifman headshot
Gary Graifman

Commercial real estate lawyer

Steven H. Beldock headshot
Steven Beldock

Personal injury lawyer

Jay M. Konigsberg headshot
Jay Konigsberg

Workers compensation lawyer

Jay Russell Golland headshot
Jay Golland

Criminal defense lawyer

William Alan Hirshfeld headshot
William Hirshfeld

Marriage and prenuptials lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.9 (Superb)

Honors

2016

Notable, Martindale-Hubbell

2015

Top Lawyer, New York Magazine

2009

Top 10 New Jersey Matrimonial and Divorce Lawyer under 45, Ten Leaders

2003

"Forty Under Forty", Rockland Business Association

Work Experience

2001 - Present

Founding Partner, Law Offices of James J. Sexton, PC

Associations

2004 - Present

Association of Family and Conciliation Courts

Member

2001 - Present

Rockland County Bar Association

Member

2001 - Present

New York State Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member

2001 - Present

Law Guardian Panel

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

M.K. v. A.K.

Record setting counsel fee award.

S.C. v. H.B.

Motion for additional disclosure granted.

Belle v. DeMilia

Petitioner/Mother Entitled to Reimbursement

See More Legal Cases

Education

2001

Fordham University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1997

New York University

MA - Masters

Speaking Engagements

2016

Rockland County Bar Association, Continuing Legal Education Committee

You Be The Judge : Domestic Violence in Family Court

2007

Rockland Community College (RCC)

Public Speaking

2006

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Issues & Ethics

2005

St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC)

Constitutional Issues in Family Law

1999

New York University

Various Undergraduate Courses

Publications

2000

ETC: The Journal of General Semantics Metaphor and Mortality : The Semantics of Death and Dying

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

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Avvo Rating Levels
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