James T. Leavitt

James T. Leavitt is a senior counsel and founding attorney of Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, one of Hawaii’s leading personal injury law firms. With over 50 years of legal experience, Mr. Leavitt has played a key role in shaping personal injury law in Hawaii. Since starting the firm in 1972, he has focused on helping people who were seriously hurt due to accidents or negligence. His long career has been marked by a commitment to justice, deep legal knowledge, and successful case outcomes for clients across the state.

Mr. Leavitt earned his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School and holds an A.B. in English Literature from Dartmouth College. His strong academic background provided the foundation for a distinguished legal career built on clear communication, analytical skill, and a deep understanding of the law.

After relocating to Hawaii in 1968 as a U.S. Marine Corps captain with the Judge Advocate General’s office at Pearl Harbor, Mr. Leavitt continued his commitment to public service by joining the state’s first Public Defender’s Office. There, he defended the rights of individuals facing criminal charges and helped grow what became Hawaii’s largest criminal defense organization. He later carried this same passion and integrity into private practice, focusing on civil law and guiding clients through complex personal injury cases with skill, compassion, and a strong commitment to justice.

James T. Leavitt held an AV® rating from Martindale-Hubbell® for over 30 years, has been named to Super Lawyers® and Best Lawyers®, and has served as a past president of the Hawaii Association for Justice and a board member of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Today, he continues to offer strategic insight and seasoned guidance in his role as senior counsel.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner
• Member, American Board of Trial Advocates
• Past Board Member, American Board of Trial Advocates
• Past President, Hawaii Association of Justice
• Member, Hawaii State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Hawaii

Education

• University of Michigan Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Dartmouth College
  A.B. in English Literature

Awards & Badges