In practice for more than 35 years as a litigation attorney, Jim has tried cases at all levels of Alabama’s state and federal courts. In 1999, Jim received certification as a mediator and is also certified as an appellate mediator and a foreclosure mediator. As a result of his reputation, diligence and effectiveness as a facilitator and problem-solver, Jim has mediated more than 3,000 cases of every kind, including but not limited to professional liability, employment, labor, workers compensation, personal injury, products liability, commercial transactions, insurance coverage, business disputes, church disputes, taxation, government, appellate, premises liability, wrongful death, Dram Shop, probate, foreclosure and domestic relations. In addition to being selected to mediate by attorneys, he is frequently appointed by Judges and Appellate Courts to serve as mediator. He mediates approximately 200 legal matters per year.

 

Jim has been awarded an AV-rating by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating for legal skills and ethics recognized by that publication. He was selected by The Best Lawyers in America® as its 2024 Lawyer of the Year for Mediation in Montgomery and also selected by Super Lawyers® as a 2024 Mid-South Super Lawyer. He is a member of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals, the American Arbitration Association (AAA) and the Alabama Academy of Attorney Mediators. Previously, he has served on the Alabama Supreme Court’s Commission for Dispute Resolution.  Jim is also a frequent seminar lecturer and an appellate mediation trainer.   

 

Prior to law school, Jim received a B.S. in Commerce and Business Administration from the University of Alabama.

 

A lifelong resident of Montgomery, Jim and his wife, Tracey, are the parents of three adult children and a daughter-in-law. Active in the community and in his church, he also serves as an Elder and Sunday School teacher at Trinity Presbyterian Church. His hobbies include serving the needs of others in the community, hunting, fishing, and SEC athletics.