James W. Smyton
About James W. Smyton
James W. Smyton is a lawyer based in Buffalo, NY and has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® since 2007. James W. Smyton is recognized in the following practice area:
- Buffalo, New York
- Corporate Law
Current Firm: Phillips Lytle LLP
Education: Chicago-Kent College of Law at IIT, J.D., graduated 1972
Location: Buffalo, NY
Nearby Lawyers
Michael Stuermer represents individuals who have suffered personal injuries. He has a reputation for being a strong advocate for his clients and working diligently to recover damages that will assist in compensating for the injuries they have endured. Mr. Stuermer focuses his practice on all areas of personal injury law, including: Automobile Accidents Construction Accidents Motorcycle Accidents Premises Liability Workplace Accidents He is a senior partner in Lipsitz Green Scime Cambria&rsquo...
Mathew J. Morton is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs and Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs. Mathew J., who practices law in Buffalo, New York, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Mathew J. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Lynn Bochenek is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Medical Malpractice Law - Plaintiffs and Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs. Lynn, who practices law in Olean, New York, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Lynn is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
John F. Leone has practiced almost 30 years in the areas of wills, estate planning, estate and trust administration, qualified retirement plans and residential and commercial real estate. He received both his J.D. and B.S. degrees from the State University of New York at Buffalo.In connection with his wills and estates practice, John has successfully defended proponents of wills subject to will contests, contested wills on behalf of beneficiaries, and has filed claims relating to breaches of ...
Jeff joined this firm in 1993 and became a partner in 1994. He is a lifelong resident of the Olean area and an Olean High School Graduate. Mr. Black obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree from St. Bonaventure University in 1990 and graduated cum laude from The Dickinson School of Law (Penn State) in 1993. While in law school he was a member of the Dickinson Law Review and his case note was published. He was also a member of the Woolsack Honor Society. Upon graduation from law school, Mr. Bla...
I have been a partner at our law firm for 20 years and we limit our practice to personal injury litigation. I handle an extensive case load of personal injury litigation matters in both New York and Pennsylvania from case intake through trial and appeal. In addition to my legal work, I help manage the operation of our three attorney and nine employee law firm.
John Lipsitz is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs. John, who practices law in Buffalo, New York, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which John is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Lisa M. Baehre is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs. Lisa M., who practices law in Buffalo, New York, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Lisa M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Thomas C. Burnham is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Workers' Compensation Law - Claimants. Thomas C., who practices law in Buffalo, New York, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Thomas C. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Laraine Kelley concentrates her practice in the areas of personal injury law, including medical malpractice, construction accidents, automobile injuries, and products liability. Numerous local attorneys refer their complex litigation matters to Ms. Kelley as her experience and dedication are valuable factors in difficult cases. Speaking Engagements Frequent lecturer in the area of civil litigation, particularly medical malpractice, products liability law, and civil trial procedure Practice Ar...
Explore and Learn
2026 Best Lawyers Awards: Recognizing Legal Talent Across the United States
by Jamilla Tabbara
The 2026 editions highlight the top 5% of U.S. attorneys, showcase emerging practice areas and reveal trends shaping the nation’s legal profession.
Gun Rights for Convicted Felons? The DOJ Says It's Time.
by Bryan Driscoll
It's more than an administrative reopening of a long-dormant issue; it's a test of how the law reconciles the right to bear arms with protecting the public.
2026 Best Lawyers Awards in Canada: Marking 20 Years of Excellence
by Jamilla Tabbara
Honoring Canada’s most respected lawyers and spotlighting the next generation shaping the future of law.
How to Sue for Defamation: Costs, Process and What to Expect
by Bryan Driscoll
Learn the legal standards, costs and steps involved when you sue for defamation, including the difference between libel and slander.
Best Lawyers 2026: Discover the Honorees in Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, South Africa and Spain
by Jamilla Tabbara
A growing international network of recognized legal professionals.
The Family Law Loophole That Lets Sex Offenders Parent Kids
by Bryan Driscoll
Is the state's surrogacy framework putting children at risk?
Holiday Pay Explained: Federal Rules and Employer Policies
by Bryan Driscoll
Understand how paid holidays work, when employers must follow their policies and when legal guidance may be necessary.
How to Choose a Good Lawyer: Tips, Traits and Questions to Ask
by Laurie Villanueva
A Practical Guide for Your First-Time Hiring a Lawyer
Unenforceable HOA Rules: What Homeowners Can Do About Illegal HOA Actions
by Bryan Driscoll
Not every HOA rule is legal. Learn how to recognize and fight unenforceable HOA rules that overstep the law.