Overview
James Kerwin is a member of the firm’s litigation department, where he represents clients in all aspects of litigation in federal and state courts. His primary areas of practice include commercial fraud litigation and investigations, securities fraud, employment law, housing and civil rights litigation. Mr. Kerwin is deeply committed to pro bono work and public service, and has received awards of recognition from the New York City Bar Justice Center, the Feerick Center for Social Justice and other organizations working to improve access to justice for underserved populations.
Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Kerwin served as a law clerk both to the Hon. Sidney Stein, United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and to the Hon. Dorothy Nelson, United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.
Representative Matters
Commercial Litigation
Represented a major Business-to-Business publishing company defending against a competitor’s claims of fraud, violations of RICO, antitrust violations and other causes of action arising from allegations of corporate espionage.
Represented a major public company in the investigation and defense of allegations of securities fraud and whistleblower retaliation involving administrative and judicial authorities in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Represented group self-insurance trusts challenging regulatory and legislative actions relating to the New York State Workers' Compensation Law on due process and takings grounds.
Pro Bono
Represented plaintiffs in a class action lawsuit against proprietors of certain “three-quarter houses,” engaged in deceptive practices and widespread evasion of landlord-tenant law. Successfully argued motions for a temporary restraining order, class certification and a preliminary injunction in New York state court.
Represented a family threatened with eviction from public housing on the basis of an accidental fire ignited by a seven year old child. Successfully took the matter to trial before an administrative tribunal, resulting in an order preventing the eviction and allowing the family to remain in its home.
Represented low-income homeowners facing foreclosure on a predatory loan. Successfully negotiated permanent loan modification workout pursuant to the federal HAMP program.
Chaired the firm’s participation in a program providing representation to clients re-entering society following periods of incarceration in conjunction with a New York-based social justice organization.
Served on a multi-state steering committee exploring legislative and litigation-based responses to widespread predatory loan modification schemes in connection with a national civil rights organization.