Joseph A. D’Avanzo is a trial-tested litigator with a national reputation for managing complex, high-stakes legal matters. As Partner of D'Avanzo LLP, he represents corporate clients in civil and commercial litigation, class action and mass tort matters, and appellate practice. His clients span a wide range of industries including aerospace, construction, biotechnology, product manufacturing, entertainment, fashion, and financial services.
He has served as national coordinating and lead trial counsel in large scale mass tort litigation, representing Fortune 500 corporations in some of their most challenging legal matters. He is also known for his extensive work in the fashion and modeling industries, where he regularly advises on contract disputes, representation agreements, restrictive covenants, branding, and endorsement deals. His work as defense counsel in an antitrust class action against major modeling agencies in New York has made him a go-to attorney for clients in this niche sector.
Earlier in his career, Joseph served as Principal Law Clerk to a New York State Supreme Court Justice in Manhattan, where he gained valuable trial and appellate insight. He is widely respected for his courtroom presence, legal writing, and ability to deliver strategic, cost-effective solutions for complex disputes. He is also a certified mediator and serves the New York State Court System in both ADR training and advisory capacities.
Joseph continues to be recognized for his sharp litigation skills, client-focused strategy, and commitment to advancing the legal profession through thoughtful, ethical advocacy.
Admissions
New York
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit
U.S. District Court: Southern, Eastern, Northern and Western Districts of New York
U.S. District Court, District of Connecticut
Education
J.D., New York Law School, cum laude
Law Review Member
Murray Stockman Award – Evidence
Joseph T. Arenson Award – Wills & Estates
B.S., Le Moyne College, cum laude with honors
Memberships and Affiliations
NYS Bar Association (Trial Lawyers Section)
New York County Lawyers’ Association
Federal Bar Council
Defense Research Institute
Law Secretaries and Law Assistants Collegium, Inc.
Association of Law Secretaries of the Supreme and Surrogate’s Courts
Advisory Committees for ADR and Tort Litigation, NY State Courts


