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.

Mr. Leavitt continued his service to the public as part of the state’s first Public Defenders Office after moving to Hawaii in 1968 as a U.S. Marine Corps captain assigned to the Judge Adjutant General’s office at Pearl Harbor. There, he worked to protect the rights of individuals accused of crimes, helping build the largest criminal defense organization in Hawaii. In private practice, he brought this same dedication to the civil side of the law, guiding his clients through complex personal injury cases with care and integrity.

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