James' practice focuses primarily on family law litigation although he has represented parties in a wide variety of commercial litigation matters throughout his legal career. He is an experienced litigator, having tried cases in both state and federal court. James assists clients with complex marital dissolutions, including those of high net worth individuals, often involving business valuations and estate issues. James favors a team approach, which is client-centered and cost-effective. James is an experienced family law mediator and assists parties through mediation and arbitration to resolve their disputes. James is also trained and experienced in Collaborative Law, and is an experienced judicial officer, having served as a Commissioner Pro Tempore in family law matters.
Publications & Presentations
Co-Author, 2022 Washington State Bar Association Family Law Deskbook: Maintenance
Speaker, "Dealing With A Rambo Litigator in Divorce," National Business Institute, April 2013
Speaker, "Taxes: Marriage Equality vs. Federal DOMA," QLaw, April 2013
Speaker, "Modern Family: Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)," Family Law CLE, March 2013
Speaker, “Financial Divorce Settlements from Start to Finish,” National Business Institute, December 6, 2011
Speaker, “Settling the Score: Money Matters in Divorce,” National Business Institute, February 2008
Speaker, “Ethics and Professionalism in Family Law Discovery Practice,” King County Bar Association, December 2008
Honors, Awards & Special Recognition
Repeatedly recognized as a “Super Lawyer” by Thomson Reuters' Washington Super Lawyers
Professional & Civic Involvement
Commissioner Pro Tempore, King County Superior Court, 2016-2021
Seattle University School of Law/King County Bar Association - Domestic Violence Clinic, Volunteer Attorney
King County Volunteer Family Law Settlement Conference Program - Master Attorney/Volunteer Mediator
King County Bar Association Family Law Mentor Program - Attorney Mentor
QLaw: The LGBT Bar Association of Washington – Founding Board Member
QLaw Foundation - President and Board Member
Highline Community College - Adjunct Instructor, Paralegal Program
California State University, Los Angeles - Adjunct Professor, Business Law
Personal
James returned to Seattle a number of years ago and enjoys being in one of the greatest cities in the world. He tries to spend as much time as possible with his large extended family in the area. In his spare time, James enjoys traveling, house remodels, working out and paddle sports.
