Free Consultation
$0 first 60 minutes
James Peter Palestini
About James
Biography
Originally from Toronto, Canada, I relocated to Arizona where I received my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies with a minor in Criminology from Arizona State University. I then attended law school at Phoenix School of Law where I earned a Juris Doctorate degree. While pursuing my doctorate, I interned at a criminal defense firm in Scottsdale, Arizona. I handled a multitude of criminal cases there, including felony, misdemeanor and criminal traffic matters.
Following my internship, I was licensed and immediately hired as an attorney at the Scottsdale firm where I practiced for over a year. I then accepted a position with acclaimed boutique criminal defense firm, Kimerer & Derrick, PLC where I worked alongside world renowned attorneys – most notably known for their work establishing America’s Miranda Rights in U.S. v. Miranda. During my 7 years at the firm, I gained notoriety for expertly handling complex felony and misdemeanor cases while maintaining compassionate and genuine client-attorney relationships.
I've since continued my practice with my own firm, Palestini Law, PLC, located in Central Phoenix, where I provide high level criminal defense services to my clients. I have over 10 years of criminal defense experience and I've conducted over 300 trials. I've been awarded by the legal community for my expertise with the Rising Star Award for the last 6 consecutive years, and the AVVO Client Choice Award for the last 5 consecutive years. Clients recognize me for my personable and caring demeanor as well as the detailed attention I pay to each of my cases.
I'm admitted to practice law in the State of Arizona, the Federal District Court for the District of Arizona, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court. I'm a member of the Arizona Bar Association and American Bar Association.
Being charged with a crime will be one of the most difficult situations you or your loved ones will ever face. For aggressive and experienced representation in DUI, felony and misdemeanor cases, I'm here to help. To speak to me directly, and NOT an assistant, call Palestini Law, PLC, at for a free initial consultation.
Practice Areas
3
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.
Search our directory
Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.
Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.
Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.
Chat withLicenses
Licensed in Arizona for 13 years
State: Arizona
Acquired: 2012
No misconduct found
Location
Palestini Law PLC
1641 E. Osborn Rd., Suite 8, Phoenix, AZ, 85016
Ad
Transform legal challenges into solutions.
Connect now to review your situation.
James Peter Palestini's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 31 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Marena | May 6, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Amazing Attorney
James was an amazing attorney throughout my case . He made sure I was at ease in reassuring me he would do whatever it took to get the best outcome for me . He’s his beyond knowledgeable and knows exactly what he’s doing . I’m so glad I hired him and if I ever need him again in the future I will make...
Posted by Adithya | June 29, 2022 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Fantastic Criminal Attorney
I often send client to Mr. Palestini for his immense amounts of knowledge and professionalism. He strives to always do what is best for his clients and is honest throughout the whole process. To him, you will be more than a simple client, you're a human. Would highly recommend 10 out of 10.
Posted by anonymous | September 8, 2020 | Consulted Attorney
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
The best Prosecutor
James has been fantastic during my court case He made sure I was at ease with my case and he was was very detailed on explaining my options and made sure I got the best result that I wanted. He was a great advisor and was very patient as this was my first offense in a court. Be advise to reach to him...
Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2020 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Truly Best for DUIs
James is a life saver and miracle worker. I was arrested for an extreme DUI (.268). I did one day in jail. I was expecting to do A LOT more, but James is amazing. He and his team walk you through the whole process. You don't have to think or worry about a thing! James has always been available t...
Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2020 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
He’s Awesome
James was the perfect lawyer. Super friendly and never made me feel judged. He was able to get me exactly what I wanted in court and I enjoyed talking with him.
James Peter Palestini's Lawyer Endorsements
"I've been witness to the dedication, care, and knowledge James brings to the table for every one of his clients. He is an outstanding litigator and a true professional. I would feel confident referring a friend or family member to James if they were in trouble. I'm also very impressed with how he gives back to the community. He is an all-around good guy."
"James is a great person and an exceptional attorney. I have seen him in action in the courtroom and know him outside the courtroom as well. He is aggressive and works very hard for his clients while maintaining a calm demeanor. James Palestini would be a great choice for anyone considering criminal defense attorneys."
"James is top notched when it comes to your criminal legalities...should you have those types of "issues" - I fully endorse Mr. Palestini."
"Mr. Palestini is a great criminal defense attorney! Highly recommend for all types of criminal matters - big or small!"
"I endorse this lawyer."
"James Peter Palestini is extremely knowledgeable, skillful, and knows the ins-and-outs of the law. However, this is not what makes him great. His most valuable asset is his strong conviction for what he does. I endorse this lawyer's work."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"James is a dedicated and sharp lawyer who cares about his clients and his cases. Winner."
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney James Palestini is a strong criminal defense and DUI lawyer. His reviews and testimonials from prior clients display his commitment to defense, and solid representation. I would not hesitate to refer an overflow case to him."
"James is an extremely intelligent hard working attorney, and individual, as I have had the pleasure of knowing. I would highly recommend him to anyone."
"James is a great attorney with knowledge of the law and a desire to truly help people as individuals during one of the most difficult times in their lives!"
"James is a winning criminal defense attorney and great resource for all situations related to dui/dwi and criminal law. He is a hard worker who has a reputation for getting the best outcome for his clients. James carries himself confidently in the courtroom and has the experience and knowledge to support that level confidence."
"I have previously worked opposite Mr. Palestini. He is an excellent attorney who will always advocate for his client. I would highly recommend his services to anyone in need of them."
"James works hard for his clients and has extensive knowledge of criminal defense. Any client is lucky to have James as his/her advocate. I endorse this lawyer."
"James is an excellent attorney who goes above and beyond for his clients. He will fight to get the best result possible. I highly recommend James Palestini."
"Jame is a fantastic lawyer. We often collaborate on legal matters and I have the highest regard for his work."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Mr Palestini is an ideal attorney. He will go the distance for his clients to ensure justice is served. Mr. Palestini holds his ethics and integrity to the highest standard. You will not find another attorney like him, he is truly one of a kind. I endorse this lawyer."
Jushin Gill
Criminal defense lawyer
Krystal Ahart
Bankruptcy and debt lawyer
Clark Derrick
Criminal defense lawyer
Amanda Carroll Flores
Estate planning lawyer
Kimberly Garde
Family lawyer
James Novak
Criminal defense lawyer
Brian Petersen
Criminal defense lawyer
Judd Nemiro
Divorce and separation lawyer
Matthew Liszewski
Divorce and separation lawyer
Charity Clark
Litigation lawyer
Ryan Cummings
Criminal defense lawyer
Robert Gruler
Criminal defense lawyer
Rhonda Neff
Criminal defense lawyer
Teri McCall
Family lawyer
Howard Dworman
Criminal defense lawyer
Experience
Honors
2023
Client Choice Award, Avvo
2023
Rising Star Award, Super Lawyers Magazine
2022
Client Choice Award, Avvo
2022
Rising Star Award, Super Lawyers Magazine
2021
Client Choice Award, Avvo
2021
Rising Star Award, Super Lawyers Magazine
2020
Client Choice Award, AVVO
2020
Rising Star Award, Super Lawyers Magazine
2019
Rising Star Award, Super Lawyers Magazine
2019
Client Choice Award, AVVO
2018
Rising Star Award, Super Lawyers Magazine
2018
Client Choice Award, AVVO
2018
Lead Counsel Rating in Criminal Law - State Felony & Misdemeanor, Lead Counsel
2018
America's Best Law Firms, U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers
2017
Client Choice Award, AVVO
2017
Rising Star Award, SuperLawyers
2016
Top 40 Under 40, The National Trial Lawyers Association
2016
Client Choice Award, AVVO
2012
Pro Bono Award, Phoenix School of Law
2008
Summa Cum Laude Graduate, Arizona State University
Work Experience
2020 - Present
Owner/Attorney, Palestini Law PLC
2013 - 2020
Attorney, Kimerer & Derrick, P.C.
2012 - 2013
Attorney, The Law Office of Corso & Rhude
2010 - 2012
Law Clerk, The Law Office of Corso & Rhude
Associations
2016 - Present
The United States Court of AppealsMember
2016 - Present
Supreme Court of the United States of AmericaMember
2016 - Present
Arizona Attorneys for Criminal JusticeMember
2014 - Present
Kimerer & Derrick, P.C.Attorney
2014 - Present
The United States of America District of ArizonaMember
2012 - Present
State Bar of ArizonaMember
2012 - Present
National Society of Collegiate ScholarsLifetime Member
2012 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
2010 - 2012
Phoenix School of Law Health & Wellness ClubFounder & President
2010 - 2011
Phoenix School of Law Christian Legal SocietySecretary
2009 - 2011
Phoenix School of Law Student Bar AssociationDelegate
Sample of Legal Cases
State v. A.T.
Dissmissed ALL COUNTS
Accused: State v. A.P.
All charges Dismissed
Accused: State v. M.B.
DISMISSED ALL COUNTS
Accused: State v. R.W.
DISMISSED ALL COUNTS
Accused: State v. C.B.
DISMISSED ALL COUNTS
Accused: State v. A.G.
DISMISSED ALL COUNTS
Accused: State v. K.H.
DISMISSED ALL COUNTS
Education
2018
AZ Forensic Academy
Certificate
2017
City of Phoenix
AVL and GPS: The Undisclosed Witness
2016
Aggressive Defense of the Accused Impaired Driver
Certificate
2014
State Bar of Arizona Course on Professionalism
Certificate
2012
2012 DUI Update
Certificate
2012
Phoenix School of Law
Juris Doctor
2008
Arizona State University
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2017
Mock Trial
ASU Mock Trial
2017
Ethics, Marijuana & Case Law Year in Review
Medical Marijuana Metabolites and Carboxy
2014
Private Seminar
Passing the Bar
2013
Bar Strategies Guest Speaker
Passing the Bar
Publications
2017
Kimerer.com
Eight steps to know when stopped for a DUI
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
How do I find out if there is a warrant out for my ex.?
21 Jul 2017
Q&A
I got pulled over in Pinal County AZ doing 85 in a 75(re asking with updated info) on Highway I-10.
15 Dec 2016