About
James Cairns is an experienced Pennsylvania family law attorney who has focused his legal career on providing affordable and efficient divorce solutions. With more than 28 years of legal practice, he has helped men and women across the state complete simple, no-fault, and uncontested divorces with less stress and unnecessary expense. His work at Cairns Law Offices is driven by a strong commitment to clear guidance, practical solutions, and streamlined legal processes that allow clients to move forward with confidence.
James earned his J.D. from Cleveland State University, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. He also holds an M.S. in Administration from Mercyhurst College and a B.A. in Criminology from Indiana University of PA, Indiana, Pennsylvania. His academic background reflects a strong foundation in law, administration, and human behavior, which supports his client-focused approach to family law matters.
James has combined legal knowledge with technology throughout his career to improve the delivery of divorce services. After recognizing inefficiencies in traditional divorce proceedings, he developed a technology-driven system that simplifies document preparation, settlement agreements, name changes, and related filings. This approach allows clients to complete uncontested divorces in a cost-effective and timely manner while maintaining accuracy and compliance with Pennsylvania law. In addition to private practice, he has contributed to legal education as a professor at Pennsylvania State University, where he lectured on estate planning for divorced, single, and married individuals.
James Cairns has also advised clients on financial and retirement-planning issues related to divorce, giving him a well-rounded perspective on the legal and economic challenges families face. He has helped several clients resolve divorce matters efficiently, making quality legal services more accessible across Pennsylvania through decades of practice.
Law Office Affiliations
-
Attorney, Cairns Law Offices
- Member, Pennsylvania Bar Association
- Member, Erie County Bar Association
Licensed State
- Pennsylvania
- Ohio
Education
- Cleveland State University, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Indiana University of PA
Bachelor of Arts (BA) - Mercyhurst College
Master of Science (MS)
Awards & Badges


- Adoption
- Alimony
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Divorce & Separation
- Guardianship
- Marriage & Prenuptial Agreements
- Mediation & Collaborative Law
- Military Divorce
- Paternity
- Uncontested Divorce
- LGBTQ Family
- Restraining Orders




