James T. Reilly

James T. Reilly is a veteran criminal defense attorney with more than 50 years of legal experience in California state courts and federal courts. He has represented clients across 29 California counties and five federal court districts, using careful preparation and a strong courtroom approach to protect people facing serious charges.

James graduated from the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY. He later earned his Juris Doctor from Pepperdine University School of Law. CA. His legal education helped prepare him for trial work, appellate writing, and complex criminal litigation.

James focuses on criminal defense matters involving murder, gang allegations, sexual assault, complex drug cases, federal criminal defense, embezzlement defense, DUI defense, and domestic violence defense. He reviews each case with a strategic mindset, deciding when negotiation may help and when a trial is needed to protect a client.

James began his legal career as a Deputy District Attorney in Orange County, California, from 1976 to 1985. He served in trial and supervisory positions, including the Career Criminal Prosecution Unit and Special Prosecutions Unit. He also trained prosecutors and law enforcement officers while handling jury trials and legal briefs.

James later moved into private practice in Marin County, where he focused mainly on criminal defense. He also handled personal injury, civil litigation, and corporate law matters. His appellate work included serving on the First District Appellate Project indigent criminal appeal panel and preparing about 40 appellate briefs.

James earned several honors at Pepperdine University School of Law, including graduating cum laude, placing 3rd in class, making the Dean’s Honor Roll every semester, and earning five American Jurisprudence awards. He also served as President of the Student Bar Association and received the Vincent J. Dalsimer Award.

James T. Reilly has helped people by defending them in high-stakes criminal cases, including cases that ended in acquittals, dismissed charges, or reduced outcomes. With about 175 jury trials completed as a defense lawyer and more than 100 jury trials as a prosecutor, he brings deep courtroom judgment to client advocacy.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney At Law, Summit Defense Criminal Lawyers
• Member, State Bar of California

Licensed State

• California

Education

• Pepperdine University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• United States Military Academy
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges