James R. Kelley

Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law

5.0 (1 reviews)

Nashville, Tennessee

36+ years experience

Updated: Jan 03, 2026

Contact Information

803-454-6504

https://www.womblebonddickinson.com/us/people/james-kelley

1222 Demonbreun Street, Suite 1201 Nashville TN US

Create an account to contact this attorney

Claim this profile

Are you this attorney? Claim or manage this listing by signing in or creating an attorney account.

Attorney Login Claim Profile

Bio

James R. Kelley is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Litigation - Bankruptcy and Tax Law. James R., who practices law in Nashville, Tennessee, has been recognized since 1989. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which James R. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Local Legal Snapshot

Jurisdiction

Tennessee

State Capital

Nashville

Highest Court

Tennessee Supreme Court

Bar Association

Tennessee Bar Association

Typical Consultation

$150-$300

Typical Hourly Range

$250-$450/hr

Fee Model Notes

Hourly or flat-fee billing is common.

Estimates vary by market, complexity, urgency, and attorney experience.

Practice Areas

Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law

Awards & Recognition

Lawyer of the Year: Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Nashville (2013)
Recognized: Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Recognized: Litigation - Bankruptcy
Recognized: Tax Law
Practice Area: Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law
Special Focus: Acquisition Finance
Special Focus: Chapter 12
Special Focus: Commercial
Special Focus: Creditors' Rights
Special Focus: Mergers & Acquisitions
Special Focus: Tax
Special Focus: Workouts and Restructurings

Recognized in Best Lawyers since 1989

Education

Emory University, LLM in Taxation, graduated 1977
Emory University, JD, graduated 1975
Vanderbilt University, BA, graduated 1970
Vanderbilt University, graduated 1970

Get Directions on Google Maps

Reviews

Sharon Bailey

3 months ago

A Lifeline for Our Business During Financial Crisis

When our family-owned manufacturing company faced overwhelming debt and potential insolvency, James Kelley was our guiding light. His 36 years of experience, particularly his deep knowledge from his Emory LLM in Taxation, proved invaluable. He didn't just navigate the complex Chapter 11 reorganization; he crafted a strategic plan that considered tax implications and litigation risks holistically. It's clear why he's been recognized as Lawyer of the Year. His calm, methodical approach and absolute professionalism gave us confidence during an incredibly stressful time. The successful restructuring saved our business and jobs. We cannot recommend him highly enough.