The Quintessential New York Attorney: From Brooklyn to the Bar: Joseph Sofur’s Journey Through Justice, Grit, and Growth

by Andy Ortiz | Mar 18, 2025

In this eye-opening episode of the Freedom to Start Fresh podcast, we sit down with veteran attorney Joseph Sofur to discuss his nearly 40-year career in law, his New York upbringing, personal divorce journey, and his insights into both family law and personal injury. Joseph’s path is anything but ordinary — it’s a story of grit, passion, and a relentless pursuit of doing what’s right.

Brooklyn Roots and a Fighting Spirit

Raised in Brooklyn, Joseph Sofur was the youngest in his class, admitted to kindergarten a year early after scoring off the charts on early cognitive tests. He recalls childhood experiences — like catching his mom spelling out “egg” for his chocolate malted and correcting the order himself — as early signs of sharp perception and independence.

Growing up as the smaller kid, Joseph learned to fight — not with fists, but with determination. “I got bullied a lot, but I took it. I think that shaped a lot of who I am,” he says.

Legal Passion Sparked by Loyalty and Legacy

Joseph’s legal journey began with admiration for a childhood friend who dreamed of becoming a lawyer. That inspiration, combined with the influence of his father — an Egyptian immigrant who built a successful jeans company and advocated for Jewish political causes — instilled in Joseph a drive to make an impact.

While attending NYU, he worked at a trademark and patent firm on a landmark trademark litigation case between Nationwide Insurance and a nationwide bank. At just 19, Joseph flew across the country to gather evidence and ultimately testified in federal court — a moment he calls “the most influential experience” of his career.

Prosecutor to Private Practice: A Dynamic Legal Evolution

After law school at Tulane, Joseph joined the New York District Attorney’s Office, where he honed his courtroom skills trying traffic, misdemeanor, and felony cases. That experience, rich in trial work and mentorship, made the transition to civil litigation smooth when he later joined a private Manhattan firm.

A chance connection with a personal injury firm — formed during a manslaughter prosecution involving a not-guilty-by-insanity defense — opened the door to matrimonial and real estate law. He soon became the firm’s go-to litigator for family law, bringing his criminal court courtroom presence to the civil domain.

Family Law Through a Personal Lens

Joseph’s own divorce gives him a rare level of empathy with clients. “It was hell,” he admits. “But I got through it. Now I help others do the same.” His perspective — as both an attorney and former litigant — allows him to counsel clients with authenticity: You will survive this, and you might even be stronger for it.

He encourages clients to work collaboratively when possible, helping reduce costs and emotional toll. “Give a little, settle sooner, and save thousands,” he advises.

Personal Injury Expertise with Heart

Joseph also practices personal injury law, and demystifies key concepts like:

No-Fault Insurance: Your own insurer pays for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault.
Contingency Fees: Clients pay nothing upfront; attorneys are only paid a percentage of the final settlement.
Case Value Factors: Injuries, treatment types, time off work, and documented pain and suffering all shape settlement outcomes.

He reminds clients: “I only get paid if you do — so it’s in my best interest to maximize your recovery.”

Rapid-Fire Legal FAQs

Joseph fields common questions from clients, offering practical, transparent guidance:

How does the divorce process work? File, mediate, compromise if possible, litigate if necessary.
What am I entitled to? 50/50 time sharing is the norm; alimony and child support are formula-based.
How much will this cost? It depends on cooperation. More compromise = less cost.
How much is my personal injury case worth? Depends on injury severity, treatment, and missed work.
Can I work during a personal injury case? Yes, but time off can raise your pain and suffering value.

Wisdom for Clients: Trust Your Gut

Joseph concludes with heartfelt advice: “Be careful who you hire.” Meet your attorney, ask questions, and trust your instincts. If something feels off — it probably is.