James E. Torgerson

James E. Torgerson is a partner at Stoel Rives LLP in Anchorage and a longtime commercial litigator. Torgerson has tried more than 40 cases to conclusion, most before federal or state juries, and has handled more than 35 appeals in the Alaska Supreme Court and Ninth Circuit. His practice includes commercial litigation, environmental litigation, energy matters, government investigations, white-collar work, and Indian Law and Alaska Native Law, with substantial experience representing Alaska Native corporations and natural resource clients.

Torgerson earned a J.D. from the University of Washington School of Law and a B.A., with honors, from Bethel College. Earlier in his career, he worked in the Alaska United States Attorney’s Office, serving as chief of the civil division for four years and chief of the criminal division for two years. That federal experience, together with decades in private practice, supports his work in complex trials, appeals, investigations, and disputes involving public agencies or regulated industries.

Torgerson’s representative matters include major property tax litigation involving the Trans Alaska Pipeline System, professional negligence claims against a large accounting firm, real property disputes for oil companies, and contract litigation for an Alaska electric utility. He regularly handles matters involving Alaska Native corporations, energy, fisheries, healthcare, and natural resources. He also has significant leadership experience, including prior service as Stoel Rives’ Firm Managing Partner before returning to full-time Alaska litigation practice in 2020.

James E. Torgerson has received longstanding professional recognition for commercial litigation and Alaska Native, environmental, and natural resources work, as well as public service honors from the Alaska Bar Foundation. Torgerson has served on the Alaska Judicial Council, federal rural justice initiatives, bar committees, and nonprofit boards. His practice combines deep courtroom experience with knowledge of Alaska institutions and industries, helping clients manage high-stakes disputes, investigations, appeals, and governance issues with disciplined preparation and practical judgment.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Stoel Rives LLP
• Member, Alaska Bar Association
• Commissioner, Alaska Rural Justice and Law Enforcement Commission (2004-2013)
• Lawyer Representative to the, Ninth Circuit Judicial Conference (2002-2005)
• Fellow, American Bar Association Foundation
• Member, Alaska Judicial Council (2014-2020)
• Member, Alaska Supreme Court, Access to Justice Committee and Regulatory Reform Sub-Committee (2023-Present)
• Member, Alaska Bar Association, Alaska Rules of Professional Conduct Committee (2020-Present)
• Secretary, Board of Directors, Alaska Public Telecommunications, Inc. (2008-2009)
• Member, Board of Directors, Anchorage Parks Foundation (2021-Present)
• Member, Board of Directors, Anchorage Symphony Orchestra Foundation (2023-Present)
• Member, Board of Directors, Island Conservation (2023-Present)

Licensed State

• Alaska

Education

• University of Washington School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Bethel College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges