James A. Cales III

James A. Cales III is a highly regarded civil litigation attorney with over two decades of experience representing insurance companies and governmental entities. He focuses on insurance defense, personal injury, municipal law, premises liability, and products liability, providing strategic legal representation in complex civil disputes. Jim’s dedication to the legal profession has earned him recognition in The Best Lawyers in America and Virginia Super Lawyers, highlighting his expertise and commitment to excellence.

Jim earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law and his B.A., cum laude, from James Madison University. Following law school, he served as a Pro Se Law Clerk for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division. This early experience provided him with valuable insights into federal litigation, which he later applied in private practice. He joined Furniss, Davis, Rashkind & Saunders, P.C., where he has spent more than 20 years successfully defending clients in high-stakes civil litigation.

Jim has a strong track record of helping clients navigate complex legal challenges, particularly in defending insurance companies and municipalities against liability claims. His work ensures fair legal proceedings and the protection of his clients’ interests in disputes involving personal injury, property damage, and governmental liability. His legal scholarship also contributes to the profession, as he has co-authored articles in The Journal of Civil Litigation on topics such as John Doe pleadings and qualified immunity.

In addition to his litigation practice, James A. Cales III plays a leadership role in the legal community. He currently serves as President of the Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys and is an appointed member of the Virginia State Bar’s Lawyer Insurance Committee. His dedication to professional development extends to memberships in multiple legal associations, reinforcing his commitment to upholding legal standards.

Jim’s professionalism and ethics have earned him an AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest recognition for legal ability and integrity. His expertise and leadership continue to make a lasting impact in Virginia’s legal landscape.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Furniss, Davis, Rashkind and Saunders, P.C.
• Member, Virginia State Bar
• Member, Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys
• Member, Norfolk-Portsmouth Bar Association

Licensed State

• Virginia

Education

• University of Virginia School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• James Madison University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges