James’ practice focuses on litigation, with an emphasis on class actions, construction law, employment law, civil rights, and professional liability. Beginning with his federal courtship, James has substantial experience with federal court cases, at the trial court and appellate levels. James is often called upon within the office and by referring counsel to prepare and argue appellate briefs. James served as a law clerk to the Honorable William O. Bertelsman, United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky. James has been involved in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation since 2004, and he and his son Sam have completed the 105-mile Death Valley Ride for the Cure over 15 times. James is also Program Chair for Chamber Music Cincinnati and enjoys the behind-the-scenes work of bringing the world’s premier ensembles to play in Cincinnati.

EXPERIENCE

• Representation of engineers and architects in design and construction defect litigation.
• Representation of major insurance carriers in the preparation of insurance coverage opinions and the litigation of declaratory judgment actions.
• Handling of appeals in state and federal courts.
• Representation of governmental entities in civil rights and employment discrimination cases.
• Handling of admiralty law claims and coverage matters.

HONORS/DISTINCTIONS

• Received AV peer rating by Martindale-Hubbell- a reflection of having achieved the highest level of professional skill and integrity a lawyer can earn

ADMISSIONS

• Commonwealth of Kentucky
• State of Ohio
• Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals
• Southern District of Ohio
• Northern District of Ohio
• Eastern District of Kentucky
• Western District of Kentucky

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

• Cincinnati Bar Association
• Ohio State Bar Association
• Kentucky Bar Association
• Northern Kentucky Bar Association

COMMUNITY INVOVLEMENT

• Junior Diabetes Research Foundation, Ride for the Cure Committee (2005-present)
• Board of Chamber Music Cincinnati (present)
• Cincinnati Chamber Music Society, Board Member (1999 – 2006)
• Volunteer Lawyers for the Poor (1993 – present)
• Seven Hills Upper School Mock Trial Team, Legal Advisor and Coach (2009 – present)
• Clifton Senior Multi-Service Center, Board Member (1995 – 2006)

PRESENTATIONS

• “A Survey of Statutes of Repose and their Application,” Construction Law Seminar, Defense Research Institute, San Diego, California (March 1996)

EDUCATION

• University of Cincinnati College of Law (J.D., 1990)
• Boston College (B.A., 1975)

Practice Areas

Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati, OH

600 Vine Street, Suite 2650
Cincinnati, OH 45202

Directions
Cincinnati, OH
Louisville, KY

Louisville, KY

101 Bullitt Lane, Suite 200
Louisville, KY 40222

Directions
Louisville, KY
Boulder, CO

Boulder, CO

1434 Spruce Street, Suite 100
Boulder, CO 80302

Directions
Boulder, CO