James Hardwick

James Hardwick is an Adjunct Professor of Law and Veterans Law Staff Attorney for the Veterans Law Practicum. Before joining Cornell Law School, Professor Hardwick was a solo practitioner for many years representing clients in medical malpractice, criminal defense, employment, and family law cases throughout California. After closing his private practice, Professor Hardwick joined the staff of Bay Area Legal Aid in Oakland, CA. As a senior staff attorney, he represented indigent and unhoused/unsheltered clients living with psychiatric disabilities in claims for state and federal disability benefits. Professor Hardwick most recently served as a staff attorney at Legal Assistance of Western New York (LawNY) in Ithaca, NY, where he continued to represent Social Security claimants. While at LawNY, Professor Hardwick developed partnerships with local county mental health agencies and the county jail to assist indigent, justice-involved residents living with psychiatric disabilities.

Professor Hardwick is a member of the California bar and a dedicated advocate for those living with disabilities and experiencing deep poverty.