Prior to joining Coffey Modica, James was an Associate Attorney at Creedon & Gill, where he handled a wide range of cases, including estate planning, estate litigation, contract disputes, personal injury, liability defense, criminal defense, traffic violations, and more.

James was the Publication Editor at the Buffalo Law Review, where he oversaw article preparation and completed the review of associate cite packs and other documents. He was also a Judicial Intern to the Honorable Suzanne J. Adams. He attended virtual judicial sessions and court proceedings with Judge Adams, conducted legal research on legal issues raised in court, and attended educational sessions presented by local judges and attorneys.