James M. Kersey

James M. Kersey is the founder and principal of his Cleveland, Ohio law firm, where his practice is devoted exclusively to criminal defense. For more than 50 years, Kersey has represented clients facing serious state and federal criminal charges, including white collar allegations, RICO cases, aggravated murder, and death penalty matters. He has tried more than 300 jury trials and has represented public figures, professionals, athletes, and other individuals in high-profile criminal proceedings.

Kersey earned his J.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Law and his B.A. from The Citadel in 1965. His legal education provided the foundation for a career centered on criminal trial advocacy, evidence, constitutional issues, and courtroom strategy. His decades of practice have also included extensive study of firearms and ballistics, an area in which he has served as an expert and written educational materials for lawyers.

Kersey’s trial record includes more than 65 aggravated murder cases and approximately 30 death penalty cases. His firm profile reports more than 82 jury verdict wins, including acquittals in aggravated murder and capital cases. His white collar practice has included state and federal RICO trials and representation of lawyers, physicians, police officers, and others accused of financial or professional crimes. He also writes and speaks on criminal trial practice and firearms evidence.

James M. Kersey is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Ohio State Bar Association, and Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and is a past president of the Cuyahoga Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He received the John P. Butler Lifetime Achievement Award for excellence in criminal trial work and was selected to Ohio Super Lawyers from 2010 through 2023. His career reflects extensive experience in serious felony, white collar, and complex criminal defense litigation.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder & Principal, James Monroe Kersey, Attorney at Law
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• President, Cuyahoga Criminal Defense Lawyers Association (2002 to 2002)
• Member, Ohio State Bar Association
• Member, Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Licensed State

• Ohio

Education

• Case Western Reserve University Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• The Citadel
  Bachelor of Arts

Awards & Badges