About James Francis

James Francis Barna practices employment law in Cazenovia, New York — He has been the owner of his firm since 2017. The firm focuses on employment-related legal issues, including wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, and wage disputes. In addition to employment law, he also handles appeals and appellate matters — This gives comprehensive legal support throughout various stages of litigation. He earned his J.D. from Washington University School of Law in 1996, following a B.A.

in Multidisciplinary Studies from the State University of New York at Stony Brook in 1989. His legal career began shortly after law school, when he joined a firm as an associate in 1996. Over the years, he has held various positions, including senior associate and principal, before establishing his own practice. Most of his cases involve representing employees in disputes against their employers. He navigates complex legal frameworks to advocate for his clients' rights — Cases typically progress from initial consultations to negotiations, and, when necessary, litigation in court.

His experience in appellate law allows him to handle cases that require appeals, ensuring that clients have access to justice at every level of the legal system. Before founding his firm, he served as special counsel and principal at other legal practices, gaining experience in employment law and appeals. His extensive background equips him to address many legal challenges. He is also a certified notary public, which adds to the services he can offer his clients. Barna is an active member of several professional associations, including the American Bar Association and the New York State Bar Association.

He also belongs to the Onondaga County Bar Association and the National Employment Lawyers Association - New York. These memberships keep him informed about the latest developments in employment law and provide networking opportunities with other professionals in the field. James Francis Barna is committed to serving clients in New York and beyond. His practice is rooted in a understanding of employment law, and he aims to provide effective representation for individuals facing workplace challenges. He operates from his office in Cazenovia, with an additional location in Syracuse, ensuring accessibility for clients throughout the region.

Education

Washington University School of Law

J.D. (1996)

1993

State University of New York - Stony Brook

B.A. | Multidisciplinary Studies

1989

Syracuse University

1987

Languages

English (Spoken, Written)

Experience

Owner

The Barna Law Office
2017

Special Counsel

Costello Cooney Fearon PLLC
2014

Principal

The Barna Law Office
2008

Principal

Down East Law & Litigation
2006

Senior Associate

Weintraub Stock & Grisham
1999

Lawyer

Waggoner Law Office
1998

Associate

Ford & Harrison
1996

Accepted Jurisdictions

Mississippi
Tennessee
Maine
New York

Court Admissions

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York U.S. District Court
New York State Supreme Court State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

employment law appeals

Legal Services Scope

Consultations Negotiations Litigation

Certifications & Awards

Notary Public

Onondaga County, New York, Clerks Office

Professional Associations

American Bar Association

has membership 2010 - Current

Onondage County Bar Association

has membership 2008 - Current

National Employment Lawyers Association- New York

has membership 2008 - Current

New York State Bar Association

has membership 2008 - Current