James A. Harvey

James A. Harvey serves as senior counsel in Alston & Bird’s Technology & Privacy Group, where he provides strategic guidance to corporations on cybersecurity, data privacy, and regulatory compliance.

James has built a distinguished career advising boards of directors and executive teams on mission-critical issues at the intersection of technology, data use, and the law. His practice focuses on helping organizations manage risk, prepare for cyber incidents, and navigate the complex frameworks that govern global data management.

James earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Arkansas in 1983 and his Juris Doctor from the University of North Carolina in 1988. Over the course of his career, he co-chaired Alston & Bird’s Privacy, Cyber & Data Strategy Team, and also founded the firm’s Privacy & Data Security Task Force and Cybersecurity Preparedness & Response Team. These initiatives positioned the firm as an early leader in addressing privacy and security matters for multinational businesses.

James has represented leading companies across industries, including some of the world’s largest payment processors, financial institutions, technology providers, and Fortune 200 corporations.

James’s work includes advising on GDPR, CCPA, NYDFS regulations, and other cross-border statutory regimes. He has guided clients through data breaches impacting millions worldwide, represented them in regulatory investigations, and counseled insurers and corporations on preventing fraud and cyber intrusions.

In addition, James A. Harvey regularly advises clients on the data-driven advertising ecosystem, enterprise collaboration systems, and global data transfer mechanisms, including Privacy Shield, model contracts, and binding corporate rules.

Widely recognized for his leadership, James has been named a “Client Service All-Star” by BTI Consulting and honored repeatedly by Best Lawyers, Chambers USA, and Super Lawyers for his work in information technology, privacy, and data security law.

Law Office Affiliations

• Senior Counsel, Alston & Bird LLP
• Former Chair, State Bar of Georgia, Technology Law Section
• Former Board of Trustees, Atlanta International School

Licensed State

• Georgia

Education

• The University of North Carolina
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Arkansas
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges