Victor A. Afanador

Victor A. Afanador is a trial attorney and litigator with extensive experience in employment defense, public entity liability, civil rights, criminal matters, and complex commercial disputes. He has represented both public and private clients, frequently serving high-ranking officials. He has appeared before the New Jersey Supreme Court, Appellate Division, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.

Victor earned his J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law and his B.A. from Drew University. Following law school, he clerked for Judges Mathias E. Rodriguez and Frederick P. DeVesa in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Criminal Division. His strong academic background and early clerkship experience helped shape his litigation skills and appellate advocacy.

Throughout his career, Victor has tried a wide range of civil rights, employment, redevelopment, and criminal cases to verdict. He has also successfully negotiated federal non-prosecution agreements, represented habeas petitioners, and guided clients through federal sentencing proceedings. His contributions in Heffernan v. City of Paterson before the U.S. Supreme Court underscore his appellate strength.

Beyond trial work, Victor is deeply engaged in professional service, including leadership roles in the Association of the Federal Bar of New Jersey and bar associations across the state. His involvement in mentoring and volunteer legal programs demonstrates a commitment to advancing the profession and supporting re-entry efforts for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Victor A. Afanador also contributes to his community through nonprofit board service and educational initiatives. His experience as Deputy Director of Law for the City of Perth Amboy, along with his ongoing mentorship of law students, reflects his dedication to public service. Known for his negotiation skills, courtroom advocacy, and commitment to fairness, he remains a trusted advocate in both state and federal courts.

Law Office Affiliations

• Member, Lite DePalma Greenberg & Afanador
• Member, New Jersey State Bar Association
• Member, Essex County Bar Association
• Member, Passaic County Bar Association
• Member, Hispanic Bar Association of New Jersey
• Treasurer and executive Board Member, Association of the Federal Bar of New Jersey

Licensed State

• New Jersey
• New York

Education

• Seton Hall University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Drew University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges