Biography
James comes from a family of many lawyers. His father, brother, and uncle work at Hartsell & Williams as well. James also has several other family members outside of the firm who are practicing attorneys. Because of his admiration for his family in the legal field, he had always considered following in their path. He is fact-driven and a logical thinker, so he felt that as an attorney, he would be joining a profession that naturally suited him. But ultimately, he wanted to do a job where he could help people and improve their lives. James feels that in being a lawyer, he has the opportunity to profoundly help someone every day.
James believes that when a person calls a law firm, regardless of the area of the law it concerns, they’re often calling regarding one of the most important issues they’ve ever encountered in their lives. They are frequently at a loss for what to do. As a lawyer, James feels grateful to be given the chance to provide his clients the guidance, comfort, and relief that they need.

Education
James attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for his undergraduate studies because he felt it was a school with very strong academics and great athletics. He has been a lifelong fan of the Tar Heels and still cheers them on, in good years and bad. He received his Bachelor of Arts from UNC Chapel Hill in 2013 and then went on to law school at Campbell University. He received his Juris Doctor from Campbell in 2016.

Work Experience Prior to Hartsell & Williams
After law school, James worked in the District Attorney’s Office as an Assistant District Attorney in the 2nd Prosecutorial District of North Carolina, which is in the eastern part of the state. He was there for 2 years and tried hundreds of cases, both with and without a jury. After receiving invaluable trial experience, he decided to return home so that he could practice with his father and uncle, give back to the community he grew up in, and be closer to family.

Connected to His Community
James grew up in Concord and has always called this town home. He is currently a member of the corporation of the Cabarrus County Boys & Girls Club. Although he never played sports for the Boys & Girls Club growing up, he went to the Pancake Day every year. Pancake Day was such a memorable part of his childhood and he saw the positive impact the Boys & Girls Club had on so many children in Cabarrus County. So, he knew that being a part of that organization would be a great way to assist the youth of this county.