Gary James

Gary James is the managing partner of Gary J. James & Associates, P.C. in Oklahoma City, where he provides exceptional legal defense in criminal, civil rights, and high-profile litigation matters. With over three decades of courtroom experience, he has built a statewide reputation for defending complex criminal cases, including murder, white collar crimes, drug offenses, and federal charges.

Mr. James earned his Juris Doctor from Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1988 after completing his Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from Central State University, now the University of Central Oklahoma. He graduated with honors and was inducted into Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society.

Throughout his career, Mr. James has secured numerous acquittals and is frequently retained by law enforcement associations to defend officers in use-of-force investigations, civil rights claims, and internal disciplinary actions. He is also a legislative advocate for law enforcement policy and frequently lectures on legal defense topics for state agencies and attorney associations.

In 1996, Mr. James received the Presidential Award for Outstanding Criminal Advocacy and was later selected to defend Timothy McVeigh against 161 state murder charges. His accolades include AV Preeminent ratings from Martindale-Hubbell for over 30 years and inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America, Oklahoma Super Lawyers, and Top Attorneys in the 405.

Gary James also teaches trial techniques and jury selection at legal seminars statewide, including the prestigious Patrick Williams Criminal Defense Institute. He is a member of the Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the American Association for Justice.

With a client-first approach and relentless advocacy, Mr. James continues to lead one of Oklahoma’s premier criminal defense practices.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Gary J. James & Associates
• Member, Oklahoma Bar Association
• Member, Oklahoma Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

Licensed State

• Oklahoma

Education

• Oklahoma City University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Central State University Oklahoma
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges