James S. Ballentine

James S. Ballentine is a seasoned personal injury attorney at Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben, bringing a unique background in ministry and trial advocacy to his legal practice. His diverse experiences enable him to understand clients deeply and counsel them effectively in the face of complex injuries, loss, and personal crises. Since joining the firm in 1990, Jim has devoted his career to helping injured people achieve justice.

Jim earned his Juris Doctor from William Mitchell College of Law in 1990, following earlier academic achievements at Central Baptist Theological Seminary and Pillsbury College. While in law school, he won the regional Association of Trial Lawyers of America Trial Competition and placed sixth nationally. His success in the trial advocacy program confirmed his passion for oral advocacy and representing clients in the courtroom.

Before practicing law, Jim served as a pastor in Connecticut and Massachusetts, gaining valuable experience helping individuals navigate personal challenges. During law school, he also worked full-time, honing his writing skills as an editor at a legal publishing house and contributing as a staff writer for the William Mitchell Law Review. He clerked at leading plaintiffs’ personal injury firms, including Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben.

James S. Ballentine is admitted to practice in Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as the U.S. Federal District Court for the District of Minnesota. He is an active member of the Minnesota Association for Justice, the American Association for Justice, and multiple state and county bar associations. Jim also shares his expertise as an instructor at William Mitchell College of Law and the University of St. Thomas Law School.

Through careful counseling, creative legal strategy, and courtroom excellence, Jim continues to honor his lifelong commitment to helping people through some of their most difficult times.

Law Office Affiliations

• Of Counsel, Schwebel, Goetz & Sieben, P.A.
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, Minnesota Association for Justice
• Member, Minnesota State Bar Association
• Member, Hennepin County Bar Association
• Instructor, William Mitchell College of Law
• Member, Christian Legal Society

Licensed State

• Minnesota
• Wisconsin

Education

• William Mitchell College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Central Baptist Theological Seminary
• Pillsbury College

Awards & Badges