James Durbin headshot

James A. Durbin

Experienced Commercial Litigator

Experience

  • Received “Defense Verdict of the Year” from Missouri Lawyers Weekly in 2007 and 2012 related to product liability and conspiracy claims.

  • Obtained a verdict for the plaintiff business in a judge-tried breach-of-contract action under a consulting agreement.

  • Successfully represented a family in a weeklong jury trial in their efforts to invalidate a real estate deed after the death of their father.

  • Obtained a defense verdict in a judge-tried matter for a transportation-related business accused of breach of contract, misrepresentation, and violation of the Kansas Consumer Protection Act.

  • Successfully represented an employer in a weeklong jury trial against two former employees seeking to enforce a non-compete and defend against counterclaims for sexual harassment, discrimination, and defamation.

  • Obtained summary judgment for an employer sued for injunctive relief, breach of contract, tortious interference, and conspiracy.

  • Obtained summary judgment in Missouri federal court and defended the decision on appeal to the 8th Circuit for an employer and a co-employee accused of sexual and racial harassment and retaliation under the Missouri Human Rights Act.

Summary

Jim is a successful commercial litigator with 35 years of experience arguing cases in Missouri and Kansas state and federal courts. With a focus on small and medium-sized businesses involved in litigation, Jim works to find the best solution for his clients, which can include mediation, settlement or litigation.

He has represented clients across a broad array of industries, including firearms, food and beverage distributions, construction, flooring and furniture, restaurants, tobacco, and health-care services. He has defended disputes involving contract issues, product liability, premises liability and employment law, including claims related to discrimination, harassment and the enforcement of noncompete agreements.