James S. Macdonald

James S. Macdonald is the founder of Macdonald Law Offices in Sandpoint, Idaho. He represents clients in bankruptcy, real estate, family law, commercial law, civil litigation, collections, probate, and mediation matters. His practice includes litigating Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 proceedings, handling property disputes, drafting real estate transactions, and helping clients evaluate practical solutions to difficult financial and legal problems.

Macdonald earned his undergraduate degree from Northern Arizona University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Idaho. Before establishing his own firm, he spent 15 years as a partner with Elsaesser, Jarzabek, Anderson, Elliott & Macdonald, Chtd. That experience strengthened his foundation in bankruptcy, litigation, commercial matters, and client service while preparing him to manage complex cases requiring careful legal analysis, sound judgment, and attention to the practical consequences of each decision.

His experience includes representing bankruptcy trustees in Idaho and Montana, a Chapter 12 trustee in the Eastern District of Washington, Chapter 11 liquidating trustees in Idaho, and state receivers in Washington and Idaho. Macdonald is licensed to practice in all Idaho state and federal courts and has argued numerous matters before the Idaho Supreme Court. He also contributed to the Norton Bankruptcy Advisor Ninth Circuit Bankruptcy Review for 2005 and 2006.

James S. Macdonald brings substantial courtroom, bankruptcy, and transactional experience to his Sandpoint practice. His approach emphasizes straightforward case assessments, focused representation, and careful attention to detail. By combining knowledge of bankruptcy law with experience in real estate, commercial disputes, probate, family law, and mediation, he helps clients understand their options, manage legal and financial risks, and pursue practical resolutions suited to their circumstances and goals.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Macdonald Law
• Member, Idaho State Bar

Licensed State

• Idaho

Education

• University of Idaho
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Northern Arizona University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges