J. Scott James

J. Scott James owns and manages Southern Hills Law, PLLC in Custer, South Dakota. He represents clients in criminal defense matters, civil litigation, appeals, DUI cases, and other serious legal disputes. His trial practice includes charges involving homicide, theft, rape, domestic violence, property crimes, and drug offenses. James serves clients in Custer, Hot Springs, Rapid City, and surrounding communities, helping them understand their options and prepare practical strategies for difficult cases.

James earned his J.D. from the University of Kansas School of Law in 2003, graduating in the top third of his class. He also received an M.A. in philosophy from the University of Tennessee in 2000. His academic training strengthened his legal analysis, written advocacy, and ability to evaluate complex factual issues. That foundation supports his work in trial courts and appellate matters where careful reasoning and clear arguments are essential.

James has taken more than 30 jury trials to verdict and has handled significant criminal and civil matters. His appellate experience includes cases involving homicide, violent felonies, the Indian Child Welfare Act, open records disputes, expert testimony, and complex evidentiary questions. He has also obtained civil settlements in property insurance, medical malpractice, and sexual harassment matters. Before entering private practice, he served as a state prosecutor and later as Attorney General of the Oglala Sioux Tribe.

J. Scott James has received the Guardian of Justice Award from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Wichita and a Criminal Defense Top 10 Under 40 Award. He also served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney in connection with a federal gang RICO prosecution. James draws on his prosecutorial, tribal government, trial, and appellate experience to guide clients through high-stakes matters with practical judgment, careful preparation, and focused advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Southern Hills Law PLLC
• Member, American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys

Licensed State

• South Dakota
• Kansas

Education

• University of Kansas School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University Of Tennessee
  Master of Arts (MA)