James M. Graziano

Jim is Co-Chair of Archer’s Condemnation and Eminent Domain Practice. He represents both property owners and parties seeking to acquire land, bringing experience on each side of condemnation disputes to questions of valuation, acquisition requirements and litigation strategy. For property owners, he has handled complex valuation issues and obtained significant increases in compensation over original offers. He has also represented multiple municipalities acquiring property through eminent domain for public projects and multiple pipeline companies in condemnation proceedings under the Natural Gas Act.

Jim’s condemnation work includes representing governmental authorities in proceedings involving numerous properties for a large-scale urban redevelopment project under the New Jersey Urban Redevelopment Act and the Abandoned Properties Rehabilitation Act. Across these matters, he addresses the rules governing land acquisition while remaining attentive to the interests of the property owners affected by it.

Beyond eminent domain, Jim handles complex litigation involving natural gas utilities, redevelopment, environmental law, class actions, mass torts, regulatory investigations, contracts, commercial disputes and employment law. Representing clients throughout the country, he conducts trials, argues motions, manages discovery and depositions, performs investigations and participates in alternative dispute resolution. His approach begins with understanding a client’s goals, then assessing claims or defenses, risks and costs to determine whether to pursue an early resolution or develop a litigation strategy. He emphasizes clear, prompt communication and keeps clients involved as their matters progress.

• Represented pipeline company regarding acquisition of over 600 properties for project, including litigating and advising on strategy for a constitutional matter of first impression that was decided in the company’s favor by the United States Supreme Court.
• Represented a redevelopment agency in condemnation proceedings successfully defeating a motion to increase the amount paid for the property in the trial court and on appeal.
• Represented utility company with regard to condemnation matter to secure existing facility whose lease had expired.

• Representing transportation authority in condemnation proceedings for large improvement project.
• Represented petroleum company in condemnation proceedings to obtain easements and permanent rights of way.
• Represented private landholder in inverse condemnation action due to a change in regulations.
• Represented a large former manufacturer through trial in a mass toxic tort action alleging toxic exposure to lead due to a former smelter Represented several entities in a class action involving exposure to a variety of toxic chemicals in drinking water.
• Represented a large telecommunications company in investigating and litigating claims that several companies were trafficking in counterfeit products bearing the company’s trademarks.
• Represented national company in action involving legality of registration fees in regard to vacant and abandoned properties.
• Argued Juvenile Notification Law case before the New Jersey Supreme Court.

• Rutgers University School of Law, JD
• Duke University, BA

• Colorado
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit

• Recognized by Best Lawyers®: Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law (2026,2027 Editions)
• Named to New Jersey “Super Lawyers Rising Stars” list for Environmental Litigation (2013, 2014)

• Executive Board Member, Marlton Recreation Council (Marlton, NJ)
• Advisory Committee Member, New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control 
• General Manager, Lenape Ball Hockey Team