personal injury attorney joe vazquez of The Barnes Firm
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Get To Know New York City Injury Attorney Joe Vazquez

I grew up in New York City and attended the Bronx High School of Science before heading off to college.  While at Haverford College, which is located just outside of Philadelphia, I became Student Body President and received my bachelor’s degree in Political Science.  Thereafter, I attended law school just across town at Temple University’s Beasley School of Law, where I received various trial advocacy awards and won a national mock trial championship.  However, as much as I enjoyed my time in Philadelphia, there is no place like home.  As such, twelve years ago I made the decision to return to New York City to be closer to my family and friends, and could not be happier about my choice.

As a Senior Trial Attorney with The Barnes Firm, I have extensive experience representing clients who develop mesothelioma or lung cancer as a result of exposure to asbestos.  I also represent individuals in a wide variety of other cases, ranging from personal injury cases to claims where individuals were exposed to toxins as a result of defective products, or injured as a result of a defective medical device or pharmaceutical drug.

Prior to joining the firm, my experience included working as an attorney at one of the largest law firms in Philadelphia.  While there, I represented government and commercial entities in civil cases, including multi-million dollar contractual disputes and wrongful death actions.

Going beyond litigation, I believe strongly that it is every attorney’s duty to assist those less fortunate than themselves.  In addition to personal injury law, I am a member of a community-based organization which advocates for tenant rights and prevents displacement of residents in New York City.  I have also successfully represented a mother in an asylum action, helping her escape persecution and reunite with her children.  Given that I am fluent in Spanish, I have been able to assist Spanish-speaking Ground Zero workers with obtaining benefits for treatments relating to lung disorders and a number of other diseases. I have also worked to protect voter rights in several states during mayoral, senatorial and presidential elections.

Most importantly, I am the son of a very hard-working, single mother who raised four children on her own.  My siblings and I try our best to honor all of the sacrifices she made on our behalf.

My favorite restaurant is the Tryon Public House located in the Fort George section of Manhattan.  This is a relativity new restaurant in the community where I grew up.  I think it represents what can happen when you allow for inclusive community development, which focuses on small business owners and the community’s needs.  It’s a place where individuals from all walks of life can come together to share a couple of beers.  It also has some of the best cheeseburgers in New York City!

Getting my clients the justice they deserve.  It may sound cheesy, but most of my clients do not decide to sue because of money.  They sue because their life, or the life of someone they love, has been irreparably harmed or ended prematurely.  When someone in your family develops cancer, or is otherwise severely injured, money is the last thing on your mind.  My clients want to hold those who wronged them accountable.  They also have to face the financial realities that come with the sudden onset of permanent injuries, such as the loss of a wage-earner and medical bills.  I know I can never take away their pain. However, it is always my goal to make sure that our clients are properly compensated for their pain and loss, no matter how long that may take.

That’s a tough one.  I grew up in a household where music was always playing and folks were always dancing.  I listen to everything from traditional American pop to hip hop, and classic Spanish Baladas.  My favorite song can change by the year, month or season.  If I had to choose right now, I would say it’s a toss up between Frank Sinatra’s “That’s Life” and Marc Anthony’s “Vivir Mi Vida.”  Both are songs that remind me that while life can be difficult, even the worst circumstances can be overcome.  Perhaps more importantly, both songs remind me that the best way to overcome tough times is to stay positive.

A long time ago I promised myself that I would go to church every Sunday which I have, for the most part, been able to keep up with.  I think it is possible to practice your faith while being respectful and accepting of others who may differ from you in what they believe, or how they choose to express themselves.

As a lover of animals, it has always been my dream to go on a Safari.  This is a dream I intend to fulfil in my lifetime.

“If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will.”  It’s something that has stuck with me since I was a child.

The best way is to email me at Joe.Vazquez@TheBarnesFirm.com or call (800) 800-0000.