Hon. James R. Caruso was fundamental to the establishment of the Columbian Lawyers Association of Westchester County.
Caruso was born in New York City in 1906 and would later settle in Westchester County in 1925. Deeply dedicated to his community and heritage, he was active in numerous local civic and professional organizations.
Judge Caruso organized the Westchester Chapter of the American Committee on Italian Migration. He was also involved with the Young Republicans of White Plains and played a role in the campaigns of Dwight Eisenhower and Nelson Rockefeller. Judge Caruso also served as North Castle Town Attorney & Supervisor. He went on to serve as a Member of the County Board of Supervisors. He was later appointed County Court Judge (1973-1977) and Acting Supreme Court Justice (1975-1977). Upon retirement, Judge Caruso also resumed the practice of law.
In the fall of 1982, Judge Caruso, along with along with a group of Italian-American attorneys, met to form the Columbian Lawyers Association of Westchester County. Under his guidance and leadership, the constitution & by-laws were adopted, and Officers & Directors were elected. Soon after, CLAW established a scholarship at (then) Pace University Law School, honoring Judge Caruso, which is still awarded to a second year Italian-American Law Student to date.
Throughout his life, Judge Caruso was known for his integrity, composure, and willingness to help others.