James Schiff, criminal defense attorney

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James Schiff is one of the most highly respected criminal defense attorneys in New York City. He is a former prosecutor who knows both sides of the law, and this unique perspective has earned him a reputation as a formidable opponent in court. James is passionate about defending his clients' rights and ensuring that they receive a fair trial. He is known for his tireless work ethic and his unyielding dedication to his clients' cases. When James takes on a case, he commits himself fully to achieving the best possible outcome for his client.

James Schiff - Principal

Imbued with a fierce commitment to justice, James Schiff stands as an exemplar of excellence within the field of criminal law. Operating as a skilled NYC criminal defense attorney, Schiff is renowned for his formidable prowess in the courtroom, fortified by over two decades of rigorous trial experience in both state and federal courts of New York. An accomplished litigator, James Schiff's repertoire of legal proficiency extends across an expansive range of criminal cases that run the gamut from financial frauds to public corruption, including but not limited to weapons possession, narcotics trafficking, money laundering, and insurance fraud.

Having obtained his law degree from the distinguished Cardozo School of Law, James Schiff embarked on his illustrious career in the New York County District Attorney's Office under the respected stewardship of Robert Morgenthau. This marked the beginning of a commendable 10-year tenure, during which Schiff's criminal law capabilities were continually honed and expanded. He first handled an encompassing range of criminal prosecutions and investigations in the Trial Division, familiarizing himself with the complex intricacies of the judicial process.

Schiff's path within the Manhattan District Attorney's Office saw him ascend the ranks to the Cybercrime and Identity Theft Unit, further enriching his legal expertise by investigating and prosecuting crimes of a high-tech nature. These included, among others, bank fraud, cyber impersonation, and cyber credit card fraud. In the crucible of the unit, Schiff was entrusted with high-stake cases that required meticulous examination and sophisticated understanding of technology's intersection with law.

James Schiff's tenacious pursuit of justice did not wane, instead leading him to the Money Laundering and Tax Crimes Unit within the Investigation Division of the Office. Here, he investigated and prosecuted complex white-collar criminal cases that demanded an acute understanding of legal and financial systems. Schiff navigated through convoluted cases of money laundering, tax evasion, scheme to defraud, corporate identity theft, falsifying business records, insurance fraud, and conspiracy with relentless dedication and proficiency.

With a decade of rich experience as a prosecutor, Schiff transitioned to the realm of criminal defense under the aegis of the late Jack G. Goldberg. Goldberg, a seasoned criminal defense attorney with an extensive knowledge of federal and state criminal matters, played an instrumental role in shaping Schiff into a passionate and formidable criminal defense attorney. This pivotal transition enabled Schiff to utilize his extensive knowledge to assert the rights of those accused, illuminating his profound dedication to the principles of justice.

As a seasoned NYC criminal defense attorney, James Schiff holds admissions to the State Bar of New York, the Southern District of New York, and the Eastern District of New York. His esteemed reputation within the criminal law community is further validated by his membership in the New York City Criminal Bar Association and the New York State Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys.

Born and bred in New York City, James Schiff's commitment to his city is unwavering. Currently residing in the idyllic Greenwich Village with his wife and son, Schiff brings to his practice not only an exceptional mastery of criminal law but also a deep understanding of the unique complexities and nuances of the city he calls home.