James Stanton Abrenio

PRO

James Stanton Abrenio

5.0
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 17 years

Car accident Lawyer at Fairfax, VA
Practice Areas: Car Accidents, Domestic Violence, DUI & DWI

3925 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 202, Fairfax, VA

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About James

Biography

Your Northern Virginia Personal Injury & Criminal Defense Lawyer.

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Car Accident 60%

18 years

60%
DUI and DWI 20%

18 years

20%
Domestic Violence 20%

18 years

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2022 2021 2020
...
+ 7
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2014 2012

Licenses

Licensed in Virginia for 17 years

State: Virginia

Acquired: 2008

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Abrenio Law

3925 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 202, Fairfax, VA, 22030

abreniolaw.com/

Online Presence

Other places you can find James online.

James Stanton Abrenio's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

124 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 1 of 1 review | Gun Law

Posted by Kevin | July 11, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Gun Law

Domestic Assault

After getting into a heated argument with my live-in girlfriend, I was arrested and charged with domestic assault. I did some internet research soon after being charged and learned that the bar for domestic abuse in Virginia is incredibly low. I did two things correctly at the onset--I didn't mak...e a statement to the responding police officers (I later learned the Commonwealth Attorney uses your statements in court against you) and I hired James Abrenio to represent me. James worked diligently and patiently with me prior to the trial date to craft my testimony. He didn't tell me what to say, but how best to say it. For me, it was all about presenting the details in a coherent, easy to follow reconstruction of the evening of the alleged offense. I am not a natural storyteller, I am monotone and I am not overly emotional and thus not necessarily very convincing. After a second meeting with James, he told me, upon questioning, that I wasn't the worst or best client he's had at testifying. I knew this wasn't my strong suit, and his honesty created trust. Therefore, he took the time to schedule a third mock trial for me to hone my testimony. Upon arriving at the court for my scheduled hearing, the Commonwealth Attorney (District Attorney) offered me a plea deal, which consisted of a deferred finding. Essentially I would have to state in court that there was enough evidence of my guilt to convict. Due to James' prior advisement, I knew exactly what this meant: For two years, the court would withhold finding me guilty and I would be placed on probation, be required to attend domestic violence classes, and be prohibited from committing additional violations of law. I knew once all of these conditions were met, I would not have a conviction on my record. However, I also knew that I would be prohibited from possessing or owning firearms for two years but I would receive my 2nd Amendment rights back at the conclusion of the two years. I also knew that if I went to trial and I was found guilty, I would lose my 2nd Amendment rights forever and have a criminal charge on my record, which would affect my life in a number of ways, to include future employment opportunities. The laws are written, obviously, to discourage defending yourself in court. As a result, I was facing a major dilemma-accept the plea even though I wasn't guilty because it posed less risk or push all of my chips into the middle of the table and risk everything in order to defend myself. This was a major dilemma for me, especially since I didn't have much faith in the American judicial system. I weighed my options carefully due to the risks. Here are the real and perceived facts as I saw them when I did the cost-benefit analysis of my situation: 1. I was innocent 2. If I lost in court, the impact would far outweigh the consequences of accepting the deferred judgement 3. My nature doesn't make me the most compelling witness 4. The Commonwealth's witness was a natural storyteller and would likely be convincing 5. The judge was a woman and I viewed this as potentially being disadvantageous in this type of case 6. James would be more prepared than the Commonwealth Attorney 7. Because of James' dedication, I would be more prepared than the Commonwealth's witness. Naturally, I was distraught. The balance of my life hinged on the decision I had to make and I bounced back and forth between my two options-even being very abrupt with James, telling him loudly that I might as well take the deferred judgement even though I was innocent. Despite being at least a decade my junior, James sternly told me that he could win this. The trust he created by being honest with me during our second meeting gave me the confidence to roll the dice. Don't get me wrong, I still knew an acquittal wasn't guaranteed. His exuberating confidence was enough. Long story short: James' ability resulted in an acquittal. I highly recommend him.

See All Client Reviews

James Stanton Abrenio's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James
James Paul Monast headshot
James Monast

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known and admired James for several years. He is a man of high integrity, consummate trial skills and has a zeal for representing his clients effectively and with passion. I recommend him without reservation."

Jonathan L Katz headshot
Jonathan Katz

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James goes beyond serving his clients one-by-one, to advocating for systemic and legislative changes that will help criminal defendants, as exemplified by his role with Justice Forward Virginia. I endorse James."

Stephen Cordell Teague headshot
Stephen Teague

Criminal defense lawyer | Feb 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is a very knowledgeable and diligent attorney, who doesn't hesitate to share his expertise. After reading one of his articles I reached out to him for advice on a matter that came across my desk, . He gave me--an attorney he had never met--very detailed information, and referrals for lawyers in my community that could provide more insight into local practice. I would recommend him to anyone."

Christopher G. Findlater headshot
Christopher Findlater

Unknown lawyer | Jan 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known James for several years. He is a hardworking attorney. His reputation, as a great criminal defense attorney, is well deserved, as he knows his stuff. He works with a very reputable and outstanding plaintiff's attorney in the area of personal injury and contributes significantly to the firm in their attempt to achieve good results for their clients. There is one thing you should not overlook. If you are in a lawsuit, the last thing you want to worry about is whether you can talk to your attorney or whether you want to do so. James is fun to be around. He is easy to talk to because he listens and responds to your concerns. However, he is the type of person to still be truthful in his assessment, even if it is news you do not want to hear. It is a characteristic you want in an attorney (sincere clarity). Importantly, he gives his cases 100% effort."

Corey T. Lee headshot
Corey Lee

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have known James since our first year in law school. He was always hardworking, detail oriented, and thoughtful. He was also a great writer. I see that he has continued his extremely positive qualities into private practice. I will recommend James to anyone in the VA/DC area."

David Milton Dastrup headshot
David Dastrup

Criminal defense lawyer | May 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jean Kathryn Humbrecht headshot
Jean Humbrecht

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Abrenio is always prepared, professional, and diligently advocates for his clients. His experience in court has given him the confidence and skill to take on any case. I endorse him without hesitation."

Robert V. Bryan Jr. headshot
Robert Bryan

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is an experienced, respected, and zealous advocate. Without reservation I endorse this attorney."

Linda Choe headshot
Linda Choe

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is one of the hardest-working attorneys I know. He is professional, well-respected, and has extensive litigation experience. Not only is he a seasoned attorney, but he makes it a priority to give back to the community by volunteering and coaching youth sports. I wholeheartedly endorse James."

A. Michelle West headshot
A. Michelle West

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 13

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"If you have been charged with a crime in the Commonwealth, you want James Abrenio by your side. It goes without saying that he navigates the courtroom and adversarial process with ease, but where James really shines is his dedication to his clients. James is a fighter who takes great pride in being the gatekeeper between a government with nearly limitless resources and the average citizen. Whether it is a low-level misdemeanor or a serious felony, James fights for and alongside his clients to protect their rights, ensuring the government has not overstepped its bounds and working tirelessly toward the right outcome. James is one of those rare attorneys who actually loves being an attorney and fighting against injustice. That is probably what makes him so inspiring at his profession. I endorse this attorney without reservation. He is an asset to the legal community and a boon to his clients."

Jad Najate Sarsour headshot
Jad Sarsour

Personal injury lawyer | Jun 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is a very talented and smart lawyer. He is thoughtful and considerate."

Amy Lynn Bradley headshot
Amy Bradley

Criminal defense lawyer | Jun 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is one of the hardest working attorneys I have ever had the pleasure to know. I have observed him as a co-worker and a fellow lawyer in the community. He treats every client as his most important, and each case as a new challenge. While fighting for his clients, he maintains the respect of both fellow defense attorneys and prosecutors. I highly endorse James."

Kelly Leigh King headshot
Kelly King

Unknown lawyer | Apr 27

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I worked with Mr. Abrenio in the Public Defender's Office and find him to be an extremely capable, meticulous, and well-prepared attorney. He cares a great deal about his clients and the outcome of their cases. I would highly recommend his services."

Steven W. Gardner headshot
Steven Gardner

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James has been an outstanding advocate for his criminal and dui clients. He is qualified to get the job done and professionally I recommend him."

Joshua Michael Wilson headshot
Joshua Wilson

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 30

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is an extremely knowledgeable attorney who is always fighting for his clients. He is very approachable and a zealous advocate."

Linh Huynh Ly headshot
Linh Ly

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is one of the most motivated and diligent attorneys with an intellectual curiosity that sets him apart from the average competent attorney. He is not only knowledgeable and skilled in criminal defense and personal injury, but also has a personal drive to attain the best result for his clients. James works late nights and weekends to ensure he gets things done the right way. His dedication is truly a gift. I highly recommend him!"

Kaamil Mushtaq Khan headshot
Kaamil Khan

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is an incredibly passionate advocate for his clients. He is a diligent and hardworking attorney who has also served as a mentor for some of my own cases. I highly recommend him."

William Francis O'Mara Jr. headshot
William O'Mara

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse James as a skilled personal injury, criminal defense and DUI/traffic attorney. He is professional and respected by other lawyers. I give him my highest endorsement."

Travis Ryan Van Hook headshot
Travis Van Hook

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Raj Dua headshot
Raj Dua

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"When it comes to attention to detail, preparation and effort, there are not many lawyers who rival James. He is knowledgeable and well-respected in the legal community. I highly recommend James."

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Seth Robert Lindberg headshot
Seth Lindberg

Personal injury lawyer

James Paul Monast headshot
James Monast

Workers compensation lawyer

Jonathan L Katz headshot
Jonathan Katz

DUI and DWI lawyer

Tawnya M. Yetter headshot
Tawnya Yetter

Criminal defense lawyer

Elias Michael Kerby III headshot
Elias Kerby

Car accident lawyer

Christopher G. Findlater headshot
Christopher Findlater

Personal injury lawyer

Corey T. Lee headshot
Corey Lee

Immigration lawyer

Linda Choe headshot
Linda Choe

Family lawyer

A. Michelle West headshot
A. Michelle West

Personal injury lawyer

Amy Lynn Bradley headshot
Amy Bradley

Criminal defense lawyer

Kelly Leigh King headshot
Kelly King

Criminal defense lawyer

Ashley C Dean headshot
Ashley Dean

Litigation lawyer

Alexis Downing headshot
Alexis Downing

Criminal defense lawyer

Joshua Michael Wilson headshot
Joshua Wilson

Criminal defense lawyer

Linh Huynh Ly headshot
Linh Ly

Family lawyer

William Francis O'Mara Jr. headshot
William O'Mara

Personal injury lawyer

Jonathan P Sheldon headshot
Jonathan Sheldon

Appeals lawyer

Raj Dua headshot
Raj Dua

Speeding and traffic ticket lawyer

Travis Ryan Van Hook headshot
Travis Van Hook

Divorce and separation lawyer

Alexander Joseph Conn headshot
Alexander Conn

Personal injury lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Virginia Super Lawyers

2023

Top Lawyer, Arlington Magazine

2023

Best Lawyer, Best Lawyers

2022

Top Lawyers, Northern Virginia Magazine

2022

Top Lawyer, Virginia Business Elite

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2018

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2017

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2016

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

Work Experience

2019 - Present

Owner & Trial Attorney, Abrenio Law

2012 - 2019

Partner, Ben Glass Law

2011 - 2012

Assistant Public Defender, Leesburg Office of the Public Defender

2008 - 2011

Associate Attorney, Greenspun, Shapiro, Davis & Leary, P.C.

Associations

2017 - Present

American Association for Justice

General Member

2012 - Present

Virginia Trial Lawyers Association

Associate Member

2012 - Present

Asian Pacific American Bar Association

Member

2016 - 2019

National Alliance on Mental Illness of NOVA

Board Member

2013 - 2016

National College of DUI Defense

Associate Member

Education

2008

Syracuse University College of Law

Juris Doctor

2005

University of Virginia

Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2023

VA CLE Legal Education

Foundations of Virginia Evidence

2023

49th Annual Developments in Law, 2023

Criminal Law: News from Courts and General Assembly

2022

VTLA Annual Convention

Why Traffic & Criminal Court Matters in Virginia Personal Injury Cases

Publications

2012

Virginia State Bar, Young Lawyers Division Defending Victimless Prosecutions in Virginia Courts

2011

Docket Call (VSB YLC Newsletter) Virginia Expungement Law

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

James earned significant contribution points in 2014.

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution