JL

James L. Kresta, Business Attorney in Ann Arbor, Michigan

focused on Business, Estate Litigation, and Litigation

Butzel Long

Ann Arbor, MI

Trusted business attorney serving Ann Arbor.

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Quick answer

James L. Kresta is an attorney based in Ann Arbor, MICHIGAN. The practice focuses on Business, Estate Litigation, and Litigation. Currently practicing at Butzel Long.

Based in
Ann Arbor, MICHIGAN
Experience
attorney
Known for
Business · Estate Litigation · Litigation
  • Handles Business, Estate Litigation, and Litigation matters from Ann Arbor, MICHIGAN.
  • Recognized with Best Lawyers in America — Commercial Litigation (2026).

About James L. Kresta: James L. Kresta is an attorney based in Ann Arbor, MICHIGAN. The practice focuses on Business, Estate Litigation, and Litigation. Currently practicing at Butzel Long.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by James L. Kresta

James concentrates on business, estate litigation, litigation, and real estate. Each area below outlines the kind of case James handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Business cases in Ann Arbor, Michigan

James takes business matters in Ann Arbor, Michigan. 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.

Estate Litigation cases in Ann Arbor, Michigan

James takes estate litigation matters in Ann Arbor, Michigan. 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 Ann Arbor, Michigan

James takes litigation matters in Ann Arbor, Michigan. 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.

Real Estate cases in Ann Arbor, Michigan

James takes real estate matters in Ann Arbor, Michigan. 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

About James L. Kresta — Attorney of Michigan business experience

James L. Kresta is an attorney based in Ann Arbor, MICHIGAN. The practice focuses on Business, Estate Litigation, and Litigation. Currently practicing at Butzel Long.

James L. Kresta is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Commercial Litigation and Litigation - Real Estate.

James L., who practices law in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which James L. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

How James handles business matters

James L. Kresta is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Commercial Litigation and Litigation - Real Estate. James L., who practices law in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which James L. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal…

Who James represents

James reviews new inquiries case-by-case for business, estate litigation, and litigation matters in Ann Arbor and the surrounding Michigan area.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of James L. Kresta

James has received 2 formal recognitions from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

  • Best Lawyers in America — Commercial Litigation

    2026

  • Best Lawyers in America — Litigation - Real Estate

    2026

Legal awards and honors

Best Lawyers in America — Commercial Litigation (2026). Best Lawyers in America — Litigation - Real Estate (2026).

Locations

James L. Kresta's office in Ann Arbor

James's primary office is at 101 North Main Street, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48104. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Butzel Long

101 North Main Street, Suite 200

Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104

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Client feedback

Client reviews of James L. Kresta

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 L. Kresta can leave a review.

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Hiring guide

How to hire James L. Kresta — 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 Ann Arbor, Michigan

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 L. Kresta

  • 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 Michigan 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 Ann Arbor?

    James is licensed in Michigan. Matters governed by Michigan 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.

Areas served

Business attorneys serving Ann Arbor, Detroit and Grand Rapids in Michigan

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

More counsel

If James's intake is full or the fit isn't right, these business attorneys in Ann Arbor handle similar matters. Every profile below is verified and open to consultations.