Thomas A. Kenniff is a nationally recognized criminal defense attorney and founding partner of Raiser & Kenniff, PC, a premier law firm specializing in criminal defense, personal injury, and complex litigation. With extensive experience in federal, state, and military courts, he has built a distinguished career representing individuals in some of the most high-profile legal battles in the country.
Thomas gained national prominence for securing a historic acquittal for Marine veteran Daniel Penny, a Long Island native charged with homicide after defending fellow New Yorkers from a violent subway rider. The verdict, heralded as “a watershed moment for common sense” by the New York Post, was widely regarded as a turning point in the debate on self-defense laws. He again captured headlines with his successful defense of an Alabama man charged with murder for protecting his home and family from an intruder.
A seasoned litigator, Thomas appears frequently on major media outlets, including FOX News, CNN, and 770AM WABC’s Sid & Friends in the Morning, offering expert legal analysis on high-profile cases. He has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Newsday. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Best Lawyers in America, he has earned a reputation for his tenacious advocacy and trial expertise.
In 2021, Thomas was the Republican nominee for Manhattan District Attorney, running a spirited campaign against Alvin Bragg and warning New Yorkers of the risks posed by progressive criminal justice policies.
Before co-founding Raiser & Kenniff, Thomas served as an Assistant District Attorney under the esteemed Jeanine Pirro, successfully prosecuting hundreds of criminal cases. His legal career began at one of the world’s largest multinational law firms, where he represented major corporations in complex litigation.
In addition to his civilian legal practice, Thomas is a retired Major in the U.S. Army National Guard’s Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps and a veteran of the Iraq War. As a military Senior Defense Counsel, he supervised the defense of all accused soldiers in the New York Army National Guard. For his distinguished service in a combat zone, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.
Thomas holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Rochester and a Juris Doctorate from Hofstra University School of Law. He is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys and serves on the board of Operation Heal Our Heroes, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans struggling with the psychological effects of combat. A recipient of the New York State Bar Association’s Award for Excellence in Public Service, he continues to be an advocate for justice both in and out of the courtroom.
Outside of his legal career, Thomas is an avid writer and ice hockey competitor.
