How much does it cost to hire James for a business case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. James walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does James offer a free consultation?

James charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain James's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check James's current terms during booking.

How long do business cases in California typically take?

Simple business matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. James gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can James take my case if I'm outside San Jose?

James is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — James will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with James?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. James will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is James accepting new business clients right now?

James's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

James "Jim" McManis, Business Attorney in San Jose

Quick answer

James "Jim" McManis is an attorney based in San Jose, CALIFORNIA. The practice focuses on Business, Civil Rights, and IP. Currently practicing at McManis Faulkner.

Based in: San Jose, CALIFORNIA
Experience: attorney
Known for: Business · Civil Rights · IP

Handles Business, Civil Rights, and IP matters from San Jose, CALIFORNIA.
Recognized with Lawyer of the Year — Criminal Defense: White-Collar (San Jose) (2020).

Areas of practice

James's practice areas in San Jose

James concentrates on business, civil rights, ip, litigation, and white collar. Each area below outlines the kind of case James handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Business cases in San Jose, California

James takes business matters in San Jose, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

Civil Rights cases in San Jose, California

James takes civil rights matters in San Jose, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

IP cases in San Jose, California

James takes ip matters in San Jose, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

Litigation cases in San Jose, California

James takes litigation matters in San Jose, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

White Collar cases in San Jose, California

James takes white collar matters in San Jose, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

Biography

James "Jim" McManis, business attorney serving San Jose

James "Jim" McManis is an attorney based in San Jose, CALIFORNIA. The practice focuses on Business, Civil Rights, and IP. Currently practicing at McManis Faulkner. James works from San Jose, California and takes on business matters across the region.

A member of the trial bar for over 50 years, Jim has unparalleled experience and skill in preparing and presenting cases for adjudication – whether by jury, judge, arbitrator, mediator or the parties themselves. He represents Silicon Valley companies with commercial, trade secret and intellectual property issues. Jim also represents individuals in a wide variety of matters, including civil rights actions, employment disputes, family law and criminal defense.

Working with James on a business matter

A member of the trial bar for over 50 years, Jim has unparalleled experience and skill in preparing and presenting cases for adjudication – whether by jury, judge, arbitrator, mediator or the parties themselves. He represents Silicon Valley companies with commercial, trade secret and intellectual property issues. Jim also represents individuals in a wide variety of matters, including civil rights…

Who James represents

James reviews new inquiries case-by-case for business, civil rights, and ip matters in San Jose and the surrounding California area.

Credentials

Credentials — where James studied and practices

University of California Berkeley
J.D. · 1967
Stanford University
BA · 1964

Jurisdictions

James's state bar admissions

California, State Ba
ACTIVE

James studied at J.D. in University of California Berkeley and BA in Stanford University.

Law school and academic background

James completed J.D. in University of California Berkeley and BA in Stanford University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice James runs in California is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

James's legal honors and published work

James has received 44 formal recognitions from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

Lawyer of the Year — Criminal Defense: White-Collar (San Jose)
2020
Lawyer of the Year — Litigation - Intellectual Property (San Jose)
2014
Best Lawyers in America — Bet-the-Company Litigation
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Commercial Litigation
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Criminal Defense: White-Collar
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Litigation - Intellectual Property
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Litigation - Municipal
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Civil Rights Law
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Awards:
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Trailblazers West, The American Lawyer, 2021
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Berkeley Law 2019 Citation Award
2026
Best Lawyers in America — The Best Lawyers in America Lawyer of the Year, Criminal Defense, White Collar, 2020
2026
Best Lawyers in America — California Trailblazer Award,
2026
Best Lawyers in America — The Recorder
2026
Best Lawyers in America — , 2020
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Equality Trailblazer Award,
2026
Best Lawyers in America — The National Law Journal
2026
Best Lawyers in America — , 2019
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Elite Boutique Trailblazer,
2026
Best Lawyers in America — , 2018 and 2020
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Litigation Trailblazer Award,
2026
Best Lawyers in America — , 2018
2026
Best Lawyers in America — James Madison Freedom of Information Award, Northern California Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ NorCal), 2018
2026
Best Lawyers in America — California Lawyer
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Attorney of the Year (CLAY) Award (Civil Rights), 2017
2026
Best Lawyers in America — The Daily Journal
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Top 100 Lawyers in California, 2016, 2017, 2018
2026
Best Lawyers in America — The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers, 2015
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Member of the award winning team "The Best in Family Law",
2026
Best Lawyers in America — (2010-2019)
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Asian Pacific Bar Association of Silicon Valley's Beacon Award for Diversity, 2015
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Northern California Super Lawyers (2004-2023)
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Named one of Top 100 in Northern California Super Lawyers (2009-2018)
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honored with the Pro Bono Project Silicon Valley's Philanthropist of the Year Award, 2016
2026
Best Lawyers in America — National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) Pro Bono Award, 2015
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honored with the Philip J. Berelson Award for Generous Philanthropy
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honors- Honorary Bencher of the Honorable Society of King's Inns, the oldest institution of legal education in Ireland
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honors- Fellow, International Academy of Trial Lawyers (membership limited to top 500 trial lawyers in U.S.)
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honors- Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honors- Senior Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honors - Fellow, American Bar Foundation
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honors- Fellow, Academy of Court-Appointed Neutrals
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honors- Academy of American Poets
2026
Best Lawyers in America — Honors- Lifetime Charter Member of Best Attorneys of America
2026

Legal awards and honors

Lawyer of the Year — Criminal Defense: White-Collar (San Jose) (2020). Lawyer of the Year — Litigation - Intellectual Property (San Jose) (2014). Best Lawyers in America — Bet-the-Company Litigation (2026). Best Lawyers in America — Commercial Litigation (2026). Best Lawyers in America — Criminal Defense: White-Collar (2026). Best Lawyers in America — Litigation - Intellectual Property (2026).

Locations

James "Jim" McManis's office in San Jose

James's primary office is at 50 West San Fernando Street, 10th Floor, San Jose, California, 95113. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

McManis Faulkner

50 West San Fernando Street, 10th Floor

San Jose, California 95113

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of James "Jim" McManis

James has not yet collected verified client reviews on LawyersListed. Reviews here are all from confirmed clients; anonymous ratings are moderated out.

No reviews yet

Only verified clients who have consulted with James "Jim" McManis can leave a review.

Schedule your consultation

Hiring guide

How to hire James "Jim" McManis — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new business attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with James usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

James charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain James's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; James will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a business attorney in San Jose, California

A short list to run through before you commit: How many business matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for James

James discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in business practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every business matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. James confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

James's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many business practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about James "Jim" McManis

How much does it cost to hire James for a business case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. James walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does James offer a free consultation?
James charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain James's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check James's current terms during booking.
How long do business cases in California typically take?
Simple business matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. James gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can James take my case if I'm outside San Jose?
James is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — James will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with James?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. James will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is James accepting new business clients right now?
James's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by California residents in the last few months, answered by business attorneys like James "Jim" McManis. Each link opens the full answer thread.

What Are The Steps To Dissolve My Corporation In California?
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1 verified answer · Business · California
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1 verified answer · Business · Texas
What Are The Consequences Of Not Complying With Business Licenses In South Carolina?
I launched a catering business in Greenville, South Carolina, without realizing I needed specific licenses. I could face fines or even business closure if I'm not compliant. What a
1 verified answer · Business · South Carolina
What Are The Filing Requirements For A DBA In Nevada?
I want to operate my online business under a different name in Las Vegas, Nevada, but I’m not sure what the filing requirements are for a DBA (Doing Business As). What do I need to
1 verified answer · Business · Nevada
Can I Franchise My Business Without Legal Help In Minnesota?
I’ve been running a successful coffee shop in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and I want to franchise it. I’m not sure if I can handle the legal side of franchising on my own. Is it advisa
1 verified answer · Business · Minnesota
Can My Business Be Impacted By A Personal Lawsuit Against Me In Pennsylvania?
I’m facing a personal lawsuit in Philadelphia, and I’m concerned about the potential impact on my small business. My business and personal finances are intertwined. Can my business
1 verified answer · Business · Pennsylvania

Areas served

Business attorneys serving San Jose, Los Angeles and San Francisco in California

James handles business matters throughout California. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified business attorneys in that community.

James "Jim" McManis, Business Attorney in San Jose, California

Quick answer

James's practice areas in San Jose

Business cases in San Jose, California

Civil Rights cases in San Jose, California

IP cases in San Jose, California

Litigation cases in San Jose, California

White Collar cases in San Jose, California

James "Jim" McManis, business attorney serving San Jose

Working with James on a business matter

Who James represents

Credentials — where James studied and practices

James's state bar admissions

Law school and academic background

James's legal honors and published work

Legal awards and honors

James "Jim" McManis's office in San Jose

Client reviews of James "Jim" McManis

How to hire James "Jim" McManis — what to expect in your first consultation

Consultation formats and pricing

What to bring to your first meeting

Questions to ask a business attorney in San Jose, California

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for James

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Payment methods and payment plans

Frequently asked questions about James "Jim" McManis

Business attorneys serving San Jose, Los Angeles and San Francisco in California

Attorney directory

Top practice areas

Lawyers by state

Lawyers by city

James "Jim" McManis, Business Attorney in San Jose, California

Quick answer

Business cases in San Jose, California

Civil Rights cases in San Jose, California

IP cases in San Jose, California

Litigation cases in San Jose, California

White Collar cases in San Jose, California

Working with James on a business matter

Who James represents

Law school and academic background

Legal awards and honors

Consultation formats and pricing

What to bring to your first meeting

Questions to ask a business attorney in San Jose, California

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Payment methods and payment plans

What Are The Steps To Dissolve My Corporation In California?

What Are The Penalties For Non-Compliance With Labor Laws In Texas?

What Are The Consequences Of Not Complying With Business Licenses In South Carolina?

What Are The Filing Requirements For A DBA In Nevada?

Can I Franchise My Business Without Legal Help In Minnesota?

Can My Business Be Impacted By A Personal Lawsuit Against Me In Pennsylvania?

Attorney directory

Top practice areas

Lawyers by state

Lawyers by city