James A. Patten

James A. Patten is a highly respected attorney practicing with the law firm of Patten, Peterman, Bekkedahl & Green, PLLC, located in Billings, Montana. Specializing in bankruptcy law, debtor/creditor relations, restructuring, and commercial litigation, Mr. Patten has built a distinguished career spanning more than four decades, earning a reputation for delivering effective legal solutions to his clients.

Mr. Patten’s academic achievements reflect his dedication to excellence. He graduated with honors from the University of Montana in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. He then earned his Juris Doctor with high honors from The George Washington University Law School in 1978. That same year, he was admitted to practice law in Montana and the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana. He later gained admission to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in 1979 and the U.S. Supreme Court in 1983.

At Patten, Peterman, Bekkedahl & Green, PLLC, Mr. Patten represents a wide range of clients—including businesses and financial institutions—in complex bankruptcy and commercial litigation matters. His experience includes leading significant Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases for high-profile organizations such as the Yellowstone Club, Moonlight Basin, and Jim Palmer Trucking.

Beyond his casework, Mr. Patten has made significant contributions to the legal profession. He served as chairman of the Bankruptcy Section of the State Bar of Montana and was a Chapter 7 bankruptcy panel trustee. Additionally, he has taught business law at Rocky Mountain College and participated as a lawyer representative to the Ninth Circuit Judicial Conference.

Recognized for his legal acumen, Mr. Patten holds an AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been included in Best Lawyers in America since 2011. With his deep expertise and commitment to client success, James A. Patten and the team at Patten, Peterman, Bekkedahl & Green, PLLC, are a trusted resource for bankruptcy and commercial litigation matters.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Patten, Peterman, Bekkedahl & Green, PLLC
• Board of Trustees, Montana Legal Services Association

Licensed State

• Montana

Education

• George Washington University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Montana
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges