James Philippone began law school at St. John’s in New York City. At the end of his first year, his mother became ill and asked him to return home to Buffalo. UB had accepted him, and while he was initially hesitant, he transferred to UB, where he was warmly welcomed. At that time, UB Law was in a small building on Eagle Street, and it felt more like a private club to the students. After class, the school lounge was a popular convening spot. He met with all the faculty, and although there was a difference in courses from St. John’s, he adjusted well. The school gave him a part-time job, and he was impressed by his peers and professors. His criminal law professor had a substantial influence on his academic career. His experience at Buffalo was great. The school’s proximity to the courts made it exciting for him.

He graduated in 1954, during the Korean War, and volunteered for military service. After applying for the Appellate Division, he went into the Army as a lawyer. During his two-year stint, he offered his services to a judge advocate reviewing courts martial. He tried his first criminal case in the Army and discovered his path to success in criminal law.

After Philippone was discharged, he opened a law office focusing on criminal defense. In the early years, he was highly successful and accepted highly publicized cases, defending accused members of organized crime. His mother was afraid for him and did not want her son to be a lawyer for the mob. At her request, Philippone soon stopped taking organized crime cases.

Philippone’s practice grew, but he didn’t work with law firms. His law firm consists of an association of lawyers. He has two sons who practice with him and two other lawyers. “The most important part of the day is getting up and going to work.” For Philippone, the profession of law is a lifestyle. There is nothing he would rather do. The older he gets, the more he prays he can continue to work. He thinks soon he might stop taking cases, but until then, he is going to be dedicated to work.

His advice to law students:

• You must go to seminars, classes, etc. to keep up, because laws change quickly. It is important to adapt.
• Juries want to hear from someone they understand. Therefore, shallow details don’t go as far as knowledge and personality. Learn how to communicate for yourself, not emulate someone else.
• It is important to stay with the facts and be civil.