James McManis

James McManis is a partner and trial lawyer at McManis Faulkner with more than 50 years of experience handling litigation, family law, criminal defense, civil rights law, employment disputes, and commercial matters. He represents Silicon Valley companies in trade secret and intellectual property disputes and individuals in significant personal cases. He has presented matters before juries, judges, arbitrators, mediators, and opposing parties, bringing extensive courtroom experience to complex disputes across California and federal courts.

James earned his J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. He earned his B.A. in History, with Distinction, from Stanford University, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He is admitted to the State Bar of California, all four US District Courts in California, several federal appellate courts, and the US Supreme Court. His admissions support a broad trial and appellate litigation practice across jurisdictions nationwide.

James has secured notable results in civil rights, employment, criminal, commercial, and public records matters. He obtained an $86 million judgment for a Fortune 500 technology company and helped secure a landmark California Supreme Court ruling concerning disclosure of public records. He also achieved acquittals in criminal cases and successfully challenged a terrorist watchlist designation, demonstrating extensive experience in high-stakes trials, appeals, and constitutional litigation across multiple federal forums nationwide.

James McManis has received extensive professional recognition, including Northern California Super Lawyers honors from 2004 through 2026 and Best Lawyers recognition for 30 consecutive years. He is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and International Academy of Trial Lawyers. He has also taught advocacy and legal education programs at major law schools. His career reflects sustained trial leadership, public service, and commitment to complex litigation matters nationwide.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, McManis Faulkner
• Member, California State Bar
• Member, International Academy of Trial Lawyers, Executive Committee

Licensed State

• California

Education

• University of California, Berkeley School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Stanford University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges