James L. Pattillo

James L. Pattillo

Commercial Litigation

3.0 (1 reviews)
Birmingham, Alabama
23+ years experience
Christian & Small LLP
Updated:

Contact Information

Financial Center, Suite 1800, 505 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203
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Bio

With over 15 years of litigation experience in both state and federal courts in Alabama and more than 70 trials to verdict, it goes without saying that Jim Pattillo is comfortable in the courtroom. He focuses his practice on matters involving insurance coverage and bad faith liability, business and commercial litigation, professional and product liability, class action, toxic torts, and transportation. He is a frequent speaker and writer in the areas of trial practice and technique, litigation management, and social media policy and practice, has been a monthly legal columnist for CLM Magazine, and was the 2012 Chair of the Defense Research Institute’s (DRI) national Young Lawyers Section.Jim believes that bad faith exposure presents unique challenges that are separate and distinct from contractual liability, and that an initial approach to these matters should involve several core tactics: an immediate review of the claims file and policy, an interview with the primary adjuster, an analysis of applicable law and jury charges, and a preliminary assessment of extra-contractual damages. He understands that having a clear and organized strategy, establishing and maintaining firm discovery deadlines, and extensive preparation are key to gaining an advantage as litigation proceeds to trial. With over 15 years of litigation experience in both state and federal courts in Alabama and more than 70 trials to verdict, it goes without saying that Jim Pattillo is comfortable in the courtroom. He focuses his practice on matters involving insurance coverage and bad faith liability, business and commercial litigation, professional and product liability, class action, toxic torts, and transportation. He is a frequent speaker and writer in the areas of trial practice and technique, litigation management, and social media policy and practice, has been a monthly legal columnist for CLM Magazine, and was the 2012 Chair of the Defense Research Institute’s (DRI) national Young Lawyers Section.Jim believes that bad faith exposure presents unique challenges that are separate and distinct from contractual liability, and that an initial approach to these matters should involve several core tactics: an immediate review of the claims file and policy, an interview with the primary adjuster, an analysis of applicable law and jury charges, and a preliminary assessment of extra-contractual damages. He understands that having a clear and organized strategy, establishing and maintaining firm discovery deadlines, and extensive preparation are key to gaining an advantage as litigation proceeds to trial. With over 15 years of litigation experience in both state and federal courts in Alabama and more than 70 trials to verdict, it goes without saying that Jim Pattillo is comfortable in the courtroom. He understands that having a clear and organized strategy, establishing and maintaining firm discovery deadlines, and extensive preparation are key to gaining an advantage as litigation proceeds to trial.

Practice Areas

Commercial Litigation

Awards & Recognition

  • Recognized: Commercial Litigation
  • Recognized: Insurance Law
  • Recognized: Litigation - Insurance
  • Recognized: Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants
  • Recognized: Transportation Law
  • Mid-South Region Super Lawyers® – in the field of personal injury defense, general (2017-2018)
  • Alabama Super Lawyers® – "Rising Star" in the field of personal injury defense, general (2011-2014)
  • Birmingham Magazine – 2012-2013 “Top Attorneys”

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2020

Education

  • Samford University, J.D., graduated 2002
  • University of Florida, M.A.M.C, graduated 1999
  • Furman University, Business Administration, graduated 1997

Reviews

C

Christopher Davis

2 weeks ago

Adequate representation in a complex business dispute

I hired Mr. Pattillo to represent my small manufacturing company in a breach of contract and insurance coverage dispute with a supplier. His extensive background in commercial litigation and insurance law, including his recognition in those fields, was the primary reason for my choice. His comfort in the courtroom, built on over 70 trials, was evident during depositions and pre-trial hearings. He understood the nuances of Alabama state court procedure and provided a solid, competent defense. However, the experience fell short of exceptional. Communication was sometimes a challenge; responses to emails could take several days, and updates often felt reactive rather than proactive. While his legal strategy was sound, the process felt more transactional than collaborative. My expectations for a partner who would guide me through every step were not fully met. We achieved a favorable settlement, which I appreciate, but the journey there highlighted areas where client management could be improved. For straightforward, high-stakes litigation where deep expertise is paramount, he is capable, but be prepared to manage the client-attorney relationship actively.

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