James N. Duca

James N. Duca serves as Of Counsel to Lyons, Brandt, Cook & Hiramatsu and leads the firm’s bankruptcy and insolvency practice. With decades of experience, his practice encompasses commercial bankruptcy, creditors’ rights, real estate disputes, and appellate advocacy. He has represented major stakeholders in high-profile bankruptcy matters, including Hawaiian Telcom, Aloha Airlines, St. Francis Hospital, and the Hyatt Regency Waikiki. His work reflects a depth of knowledge that consistently delivers strategic and effective solutions.

James earned his A.B. degree from Fordham University, where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, before attending Harvard Law School and receiving his J.D. in 1969. Early in his career, he represented the developer of one of Hawaii’s largest condominium projects, a case documented in the very first volume of West’s Bankruptcy Reporter. This milestone underscores his longstanding influence in the development of bankruptcy law.

Over the years, James has combined his practice with significant contributions to legal scholarship. His writings on bankruptcy law have been published in respected journals such as the University of Hawaii Law Review, The Business Lawyer, and The California Bankruptcy Journal.

James has also authored numerous pieces for the Hawaii Bar Journal, addressing topics including foreclosure, installment land sales contracts, and cross-border judgment enforcement. In recognition of his expertise, he has been consistently listed in Best Lawyers in America and Best Lawyers in Hawaii for more than twenty years.

In addition to his practice and publications, James N. Duca has served as a panelist at American Bankruptcy Institute programs. He is a founding member and past president of the Hawaii Bankruptcy Law Section. He also shares his knowledge as a lecturer on Secured Transactions at the William S. Richardson School of Law, continuing his dedication to advancing the practice of bankruptcy law.

Law Office Affiliations

• Of Counsel, Lyons, Brandt, Cook & Hiramatsu, AAL, ALC
• Founding Member, Hawaii Bankruptcy Law Section
• Former President, Hawaii Bankruptcy Law Section
• Member, Hawaii State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Hawaii

Education

• Harvard Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Fordham University
  Bachelor of Arts

Awards & Badges