James Daniel Wighaus

James is an Associate in the Trusts & Estates, Business, and Health Law departments at O'Connell and Aronowitz. Before joiningour firm in August 2024, James developed proficient skills and knowledge as a Senior Associate Attorney at a firm located in the Capital Region. This experience gave James the opportunity to engage with clients in a variety of legal matters, including, estate and long-term care planning, estate tax reduction strategies, estate and trust administration, real estate, corporate transactions and the formation of various business entities. He is dedicated to developing a plan tailored to fit the client’s specific needs and ensuring that each client receives the highest level of expertise.

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 Franklin Square, New York, James lives in Halfmoon with his family. Outside of his professional endeavors, James continues his passion for football and mentorship by serving as the Defensive Backs Coach for the Mohonasen High School Varsity football team and the Co-Chair of the Capital Region Chamber’s Executive Mentorship Program.