Lawyer Letitia James
Name: Letitia Ann “Tish” James
Current Role: Attorney General of the State of New York
Political Affiliation: Democratic Party
Born: October 18, 1958, Brooklyn, New York
Career Overview
Letitia James serves as the 67th Attorney General of New York, becoming the first woman and the first Black person elected to the position. She took office in January 2019 after winning statewide election on a platform focused on government accountability, consumer protection, and corporate reform.
Before becoming attorney general, James served as New York City Public Advocate from 2013 to 2018. In that role, she gained national attention for challenging large corporations, advocating for affordable housing, and promoting police reform.
Her earlier career included service as a New York City Council member representing Brooklyn’s 35th District, where she became known for her work on tenant rights, education, and environmental justice.
Education and Early Life
Letitia James was born and raised in Brooklyn in a working-class family. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lehman College and a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law.
After graduating, she worked as a public defender for the Legal Aid Society, later joining the New York State Assembly staff as counsel. She also served in the New York State Attorney General’s Office as head of the Brooklyn Regional Office before entering elected politics.
Major Legal Actions
As Attorney General, James has led several high-profile investigations and lawsuits, positioning herself as a leading progressive voice in national legal matters.
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Donald Trump and the Trump Organization: Filed and won a civil fraud case alleging the overvaluation of assets. The case resulted in significant financial penalties and corporate oversight reforms.
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NRA Investigation: Pursued a lawsuit against the National Rifle Association for alleged financial misconduct.
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Opioid Accountability: Negotiated multibillion-dollar settlements with major pharmaceutical companies and distributors to combat the opioid crisis.
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Housing and Consumer Protection: Advocated for rent stabilization, utility regulation, and consumer fraud enforcement to support vulnerable communities.
Her office has also focused on environmental protection, reproductive rights, and the defense of state laws challenged at the federal level.
Public Image and Political Influence
Letitia James has built a reputation as a fearless and outspoken public official who blends legal precision with populist energy. Supporters see her as a defender of fairness and a model of integrity in public office. Critics occasionally accuse her of pursuing politically charged cases, though her office maintains that its priorities are driven by law and evidence.
James briefly entered the 2022 New York gubernatorial race before withdrawing to continue serving as attorney general, citing unfinished work in major investigations.
Personal Life
James is known for her deep connection to Brooklyn and her commitment to public service. She has four siblings and is active in community and civic organizations. Outside of work, she is involved in mentorship programs that support women in law and public policy.
Fast Facts
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Full Name: Letitia Ann James
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Born: October 18, 1958, Brooklyn, New York
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Education: Lehman College, Howard University School of Law
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Political Party: Democratic
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Current Role: Attorney General of New York (since 2019)
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Historic Firsts: First woman and first Black New Yorker elected as state attorney general
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Key Issues: Corporate accountability, housing rights, consumer protection, criminal justice reform
