James Merson

James Merson is a northern Colorado criminal defense attorney who represents clients facing charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies and homicide. His practice includes assault and menacing, property crimes, child abuse, domestic violence, drug crimes, DUI defense, juvenile defense, kidnapping and custody crimes, and sex offenses. He previously spent 14 years with the Colorado Public Defender, gaining extensive courtroom experience while representing people facing criminal prosecution.

James earned a J.D. from Gonzaga University School of Law in 2005 and a B.A. in Communication Studies from Colorado State University in 2002. While attending law school in 2004, he became the first certified intern to argue a case before the Washington Supreme Court. His legal education and early appellate experience provided a strong foundation for criminal litigation, motion practice, trial preparation, and appellate advocacy.

James has handled thousands of criminal cases, litigated hundreds of suppression and motions hearings, and taken more than 100 cases to jury trial. His experience includes appeals before Weld District Court, the Colorado Court of Appeals, and the Colorado Supreme Court. He also served as a county court supervisor and office head for the Greeley Regional Office of the Colorado Public Defender, where his responsibilities included managing and training new trial attorneys.

James Merson combines extensive trial experience with continued involvement in criminal defense education and professional service. He received the Colorado Public Defender’s Attorney of the Year award in 2010 for outstanding service. He has taught trial advocacy at the University of Colorado School of Law, presented on criminal defense topics, and participated in criminal justice work groups. His professional affiliations include the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, Boulder County Bar Association, and Colorado Bar Association.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Merson Law Office, LLC
• Member, Colorado Bar Association
• Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
• Member, Boulder County Bar Association
• Member, Weld County Criminal Justice Advisory Committee (2008-2018)
• Member, Longmont Chamber of Commerce

Licensed State

• Colorado

Education

• Gonzaga University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Colorado State University
  B.A. – 2002 (Major: Communication Studies)

Awards & Badges