James J. Ison
1375 Exposition Blvd.
Suite 250
Sacramento, CA 95815
Phone: 916.565.0300
Fax: 916.565.1636
Admissions
- Federal District Court for the State of California, Northern, Southern, and Eastern District
- United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
Education
- Hastings College of the Law, University of California, J.D., 2000 (Top 15%)
- Stanford University, B.A., with distinction, 1995
James J. Ison
Senior Associate
Jim Ison’s practice focuses on civil litigation, with an emphasis in complex construction disputes involving both public and private sectors. Mr. Ison has represented general contractors, architects, construction managers, and subcontractors. His practice also includes the defense of law firms, restaurants, homeowners associations, casinos in professional liability, premises liability, breach of contract and other lawsuits arising from commercial disputes and alleged torts. He has successfully tried many cases, but, whenever possible, seeks to resolve disputes through mediation and direct negotiation to obtain the best possible result for the client and minimize litigation costs.
Highlights
Recovered $7.5 million for prime contractor for extra work and delay, work disruption and acceleration damages arising from Engineer-Procure-Construct contract to build 84-mile long, 500 kV transmission line for the U.S. Department of Energy.
Obtained summary judgment on $6 million legal malpractice and elder abuse claims alleged against San Francisco-based law firm.
Recovered $8.3 million in equitable adjustment and change orders for nationally prominent, publicly traded transmission line construction company arising from construction of duct bank for underground transmission line.
Acquired prescriptive easement for Lake Tahoe casino to conduct lucrative wedding photography business.
Obtained judgment against telecommunications company on breach of contract claim, recovering $1.2 million for client in the principal amount and attorneys’ fees.
Selected Publications
"When In California, Choose Your Arbitration Terms Carefully and Avoid the Two-Front War,” Building Solutions, Winter 2005-2006
"Proration of Liquidated Damages – A Fair Alternative,” Building Solutions, Summer 2006
"Election Doctrine Does Not Preclude Filing of ‘Protective’ Suit in Federal Claims Court,” Construction Claims Advisor, Vol. 4, Issue 19, May 8, 2006
Military Service
Mr. Ison served as an anti-tank assault gunman with the United Stated Marine Corps from 1988 to 1991. He was awarded a Combat Action Ribbon, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Southwest Asia Medal, Navy Unit Commendation and National Defense Service Medal for his services during the Persian Gulf War.