Worthington & Sterling LLP
Trial Attorney & Litigation Partner
30+ Years of Legal Excellence
"Aggressive representation. Uncompromising integrity."
For more than three decades, James P. Worthington III has stood as a formidable force in the courtroom and a trusted counselor in the boardroom. As a Partner at Worthington & Sterling LLP, he has built a legacy defined by unwavering advocacy, meticulous preparation, and a steadfast commitment to justice.
Admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, multiple federal circuits, and state courts nationwide, Mr. Worthington has tried over 200 cases to verdict and negotiated countless favorable settlements totaling in excess of $500 million. His practice spans high-stakes criminal defense, catastrophic personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, and complex white collar litigation.
A graduate of Harvard Law School, he served as a federal law clerk to the Honorable Samuel A. Alito Jr. on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit before launching his career at one of New York's premier litigation boutiques. He founded his own firm in 2005 and merged with Sterling & Associates in 2012 to form Worthington & Sterling LLP.
Bar Admissions: New York, District of Columbia, U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 9th & 11th Circuits
Education: Harvard Law School (J.D., cum laude, 1991), Princeton University (A.B., Politics, magna cum laude, 1988)
Languages: English, Spanish
Professional Memberships: American Bar Association, New York State Bar Association, American Association for Justice, International Society of Barristers
Board Certifications: Civil Trial Advocacy — National Board of Trial Advocacy
Aggressive representation in state and federal criminal matters, from investigation through trial and appeal. Over 50 jury trials in serious felony cases.
Securing maximum compensation for victims of negligence, including motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, and catastrophic injury claims.
Holding healthcare providers accountable for substandard care. Expertise in surgical errors, misdiagnosis, birth injuries, and pharmaceutical negligence.
Litigating against manufacturers of defective products, including automotive defects, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and industrial equipment.
Defending corporations, executives, and professionals in DOJ and SEC investigations, including fraud, insider trading, money laundering, and embezzlement.
Multidistrict litigation, class actions, and high-stakes commercial disputes requiring strategic insight and sophisticated courtroom advocacy.
Juris Doctor, cum laude — Harvard Law Review, Ames Moot Court Finalist
A.B. in Politics, magna cum laude — Phi Beta Kappa, Departmental Honors
Valedictorian — Concord, New Hampshire
Secured a $28.7 million verdict for the family of a patient who suffered catastrophic brain damage due to delayed diagnosis of a stroke in the emergency department. The case established new standards for emergency room triage protocols.
Successfully defended a Fortune 500 CFO charged with 14 counts of securities fraud and insider trading. Following a six-week trial, the jury returned a complete acquittal on all counts. The case was widely covered in financial media.
Represented 23 plaintiffs in a product liability action against a major automotive manufacturer following a defective fuel system design. The landmark settlement included a nationwide recall and industry-wide safety reforms.
Co-lead counsel in multidistrict litigation involving over 4,000 claims against a pharmaceutical company. Negotiated an $185 million global settlement trust for victims of a defective diabetes medication.
Lawyer of the Year — Criminal Defense
2023
Top 10 in New York Metro Area
2015–2024
Diplomate Status
2018
Top 100 Trial Lawyers
2012–2024
AV Preeminent® Peer Rated
2008–2024
Mr. Worthington handled my case with extraordinary professionalism and care. His command of the courtroom is unparalleled. He secured a life-changing settlement that exceeded every expectation. I am forever grateful.
When I faced federal charges that could have destroyed my career, James was the only lawyer I trusted. His strategic thinking and tireless advocacy led to a complete dismissal. He is simply the best litigator in New York.
I have referred numerous clients to Jim over the years and every single one has thanked me. He combines sharp legal intellect with genuine compassion. A rare combination in our profession.