Biography
Akane C. Fujiwara is a dedicated trial attorney with a wealth of experience in criminal defense, civil litigation, and family law. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Akane has handled some of the most serious criminal cases in New York, including homicide, sexual assault, and complex conspiracy cases. Her deep understanding of the legal system comes from years of experience as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney, giving her a unique perspective in the courtroom.
Akane began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office, where she prosecuted felony and misdemeanor cases, conducted dozens of trials, and presented hundreds of cases to the Grand Jury. She later transitioned into private practice, founding the Law Office of Akane C. Fujiwara in 2013. Since then, she has represented clients in both state and federal matters, including defending individuals accused of violent crimes and handling complex civil litigation, family law disputes, and real estate transactions.
As a member of the Assigned Counsel Plan’s Felony Panel (18B), Akane is committed to ensuring that every client—regardless of their background—receives a strong and strategic defense. Her federal work includes representing clients facing charges related to arms exports and financial crimes, demonstrating her ability to navigate high-stakes legal battles.
Beyond criminal defense, Akane has successfully represented plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases, including those involving sexual assault on school grounds. She has also served as in-house counsel for a private elementary school, handled family court matters such as divorce and custody disputes, and specialized in real estate closings for HDFC (Housing Development Fund Corporation) properties in New York City.
Akane’s passion for the law is matched by her dedication to advocacy, diversity, and inclusion in the legal profession. She is an active member of the New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and the Asian American Bar Association of New York, and she serves on the Board of Directors for the Bronx County Bar Association.
Fluent in Japanese and conversational in Spanish, Akane is able to serve a diverse range of clients with cultural awareness and sensitivity.
When she’s not in court, Akane enjoys the discipline and competition of boxing. She has competed in the New York Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament, making it to the semi-finals in both the Bantamweight and Featherweight divisions.
Education
Bar Admissions
Akane’s career is built on a foundation of experience, skill, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Whether defending a client in a high-profile criminal trial or negotiating a settlement in a civil case, she brings the same level of tenacity and precision to every matter she handles.
