James D. Wighaus - Latham, NY

James is an Associate in our Trusts & Estates, Business, and Health Law departments. He has extensive experience advising individuals, families, and businesses on a wide range of legal matters, including estate and long-term care planning, estate tax reduction strategies, estate and trust administration, residential and commercial real estate transactions, corporate transactions, and the formation and structuring of business entities. James takes a thoughtful, client-focused approach to each matter, working closely with clients to understand their goals and develop practical legal strategies tailored to their specific needs.

Before joining our firm in August 2024, James served as a Senior Associate Attorney at a law firm located in the Capital Region, where he gained broad experience across multiple areas of law and developed strong relationships with clients, attorneys, and other professionals. He brings that experience to his practice with a focus on providing responsive, practical, and thorough legal counsel.

James graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta, where he majored in Political Science and was a member of the football team. He spent three seasons as a player and one season on the coaching staff as the Assistant Defensive Backs Coach. James earned his J.D. from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University, where he served as an Executive Research Editor for the Family Court Review Journal.

Originally from Long Island, James lives in Halfmoon with his family. After spending two seasons coaching defensive backs for the Mohonasen High School Varsity football team, James now devotes more of his time away from the office to his family and the rewarding role of being a father. He remains an avid New York Rangers fan and can often be found at Madison Square Garden cheering on the Blueshirts. James enjoys the same things he has always valued – family, sports, and being part of the team.