James W. Grable ’96

James Grable has represented multinational corporations in criminal investigations and civil disputes, and impoverished individuals in assigned criminal and civil matters. He has tried numerous cases to verdict in federal and state court, including months-long complex federal trials.

Grable’s trial work on behalf of his clients has earned him induction into the prestigious International Academy of Trial Lawyers, which comprises less than 0.1 percent of the lawyers practicing in the United States.

Growing up, Grable and his younger brother were both inspired to become attorneys by their father, a graduate of UB law school, an immigration lawyer and a role model for his sons. Their mother was a nurse. Both parents worked hard to give them the best education they could.

When he was an undergraduate, Grable’s father introduced him to the legendary trial lawyer and criminal defense lawyer Bob Murphy. Meeting Murphy was pivotal for Grable and helped him solidify his decision to go into law.

Grable said UB law school was a place where he could feel at home. He made close friendships among his classmates. Professor Markus Dubber, his criminal law professor, was a major influence. Grable enjoyed being on the Buffalo Law Review and Trial Team. Participation on the Trial Team played a significant role in shaping his passion for trial work as a potential vocation.

After graduation, Grable clerked with Judge Skretny at the District Court in Buffalo and later joined Connors LLP (formerly Connors & Vilardo). He coached trial teams at the law school alongside mentors like Bob Murphy, Timothy Fronczak and Diane LaVallee. He also taught at the law school and mentored students through Connors LLP’s summer program.

Grable appreciates that his law firm allows him to serve a diverse range of clients, including criminal cases that may not be economically rewarding. He welcomes the opportunity to be a voice for those who might not otherwise have one and considers it the most rewarding aspect of his law degree. He highly values his involvement in federal assigned work, retained criminal cases and pro bono work. He is grateful for opportunities to work with and be inspired by the impressive lawyers now produced by UB School of Law.