James Carter
Founding Partner — Corporate Law
Harvard Law graduate with 25 years of experience navigating complex corporate litigation and M&A deals.
Our Firm
About Carter & Associates
Our Story
Built on Integrity.
Built on Integrity.
Driven by Justice.
Carter & Associates was founded in 1998 by James Carter with a single conviction: every client deserves the same relentless advocacy regardless of the complexity of their case.
What began as a two-attorney boutique firm has grown into a 18-strong team of purpose-driven legal professionals who combine deep expertise with genuine care. Our philosophy is simple — results matter, but so does the journey.
Today, Carter & Associates is one of New York's most trusted names in Corporate, Family, Criminal Defense, and Real Estate law. We measure success not just in verdicts won, but in lives changed.
Best Law Firm NYC
Legal 500 — 2023, 2024
Super Lawyers
James Carter — 8 Consecutive Years
AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell — Highest Rating
Our Core Values
Integrity
Honesty and transparency in every interaction — from billing to case strategy. You'll never be left wondering where you stand.
Excellence
We pursue mastery in every practice area, staying current with evolving law to give clients the sharpest possible edge.
Compassion
Legal matters are deeply personal. We treat every client as an individual with unique needs — never just a case number.
Confidentiality
Your privacy is non-negotiable. Every detail of your case is protected with the strictest attorney-client privilege.
Meet Our Attorneys
A diverse team of seasoned professionals united by a shared commitment to excellence and client-first representation.
Elena Ruiz
Senior Partner — Family Law
Nationally recognized family law advocate with a compassionate approach to custody, divorce, and estate planning.
Marcus Webb
Partner — Criminal Defense
Former federal prosecutor turned fierce defense attorney. 18 years of courtroom trials across state and federal courts.
Priya Sharma
Associate — Real Estate Law
NYU Law alumna specializing in high-value commercial real estate transactions and property dispute resolution.
25 Years of Milestones
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1998
The Beginning
James Carter founds Carter & Associates with 2 attorneys and a mission: equal justice for every client.
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2004
Expansion & Growth
Open second office in Manhattan. Family Law division launched under Elena Ruiz, winning landmark custody case.
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2011
Criminal Defense Division
Marcus Webb joins as partner, pioneering the Criminal Defense division that would earn national recognition.
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2018
Legal 500 Recognition
Named one of New York's Top 20 Law Firms by Legal 500. Real Estate division handles $500M in transactions.
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2026
Today & Beyond
18 attorneys, 4 practice areas, 2,400+ cases resolved. Still driven by the same founding conviction: justice for all.