2025 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: James Allen, Hirschen Singer & Epstein LLP

“James Allen is a rising star not only in the affordable housing community, but in the legal community and the larger New York City community. His commitment to deliver affordable housing goes beyond his “day job.” He has authored multiple articles on the topics of housing and equity and was named to Best Lawyers’ “Ones to Watch” list in 2024. He serves on the board of the New York Housing Conference’s Rising Leaders Network and helps the organization plan tours of affordable housing developments throughout the five boroughs for legal professionals.” - Christine Coletta, Partner, Hirschen Singer & Epstein LLP.

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? Lately, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with several non-profit supportive housing organizations, and those experiences stand out as especially meaningful. These organizations are doing essential work at a time when supportive services are more urgently needed than ever. Being part of a deal team that collaborates with mission-driven developers to bring safe, affordable housing to people who need it — especially housing that includes on-site supportive services — is incredibly humbling. These projects are about dignity, stability, and long-term opportunity for individuals and families.

What is your top advice for someone just starting out in your field? I try to follow a lot of the advice I have heard given—and that has been given to me—by mentors and from leaders across our industry: ask a lot of questions, say “yes,” wake up early, be a sponge, ask more questions, listen, listen, listen. However, I think my top advice would be to make sure to take the time to go and see the sites and the projects that you are working on. If you are able, tour a site with the people you’re working with. Those experiences in those spaces also help inform how you approach future projects. I am particularly grateful when I get to attend some of these viewings.