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 Arizona 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 Phoenix?

James is licensed in Arizona. Matters governed by Arizona 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 M. Stipe, Business Attorney in Phoenix

Quick answer

James M. Stipe is a shareholder based in Phoenix, AZ. The practice focuses on Business, Entertainment, and Insurance. James has over 34 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Burch Cracchiolo P A. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Based in: Phoenix, AZ
Experience: over 34 years
Known for: Business · Entertainment · Insurance

Handles Business, Entertainment, and Insurance matters from Phoenix, AZ.
Over 34 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by James M. Stipe

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

Business cases in Phoenix, Arizona

James takes business matters in Phoenix, Arizona. 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.

Entertainment cases in Phoenix, Arizona

James takes entertainment matters in Phoenix, Arizona. 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.

Insurance cases in Phoenix, Arizona

James takes insurance matters in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Phoenix, Arizona

James takes litigation matters in Phoenix, Arizona. 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.

Personal Injury cases in Phoenix, Arizona

James takes personal injury matters in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 M. Stipe — Over 34 years of Arizona business experience

James M. Stipe is a shareholder based in Phoenix, AZ. The practice focuses on Business, Entertainment, and Insurance. James has over 34 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Burch Cracchiolo P A. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Joined Burch & Cracchiolo in 1992

James Stipe is an AV rated AV® Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 peer review rated attorney in Martindale-Hubbell who joined Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A. in 1992. Jim practices in the areas of Commercial Litigation, Insurance Defense/Personal Injury Litigation and Indian Gaming Law. He has represented clients in cases involving a wide diversity of claims including breach of contract, fraud, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and insurance bad faith, which gives him a broad base of experience. In the gaming arena, Jim represents regulators in litigation and negotiations relating to Tribal/State Gaming compacts, and has counseled gaming vendors and tribal governments. Jim is the past Chair of the Indian Law Section of the State Bar or Arizona.

Honors & Awards

Ranked AV® Preeminent™ 5.0 out of 5 by Martindale Hubbell

Professional Leadership

Judge Pro Tem, Maricopa County, Superior Court 2003-2008

Past Chair, Indian Gaming Law Section, State Bar of Arizona

Professional Affiliations

State Bar of Arizona ?

Indian Gaming Law Section

American Bar Association

Colorado Bar Association

Community Involvement

Board Member, Arizona Hockey Association

State Council President, Trout Unlimited

Member, Western Conservation Foundation

James's approach to business cases

Joined Burch & Cracchiolo in 1992 James Stipe is an AV rated AV® Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 peer review rated attorney in Martindale-Hubbell who joined Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A. in 1992. Jim practices in the areas of Commercial Litigation, Insurance Defense/Personal Injury Litigation and Indian Gaming Law. He has represented clients in cases involving a wide diversity of claims including breach of…

The kind of cases James takes

James reviews new inquiries case-by-case for business, entertainment, and insurance matters in Phoenix and the surrounding Arizona area.

Credentials

James M. Stipe's legal education and bar admissions

University of Southern California
J.D. · 1992
Northern Arizona University
B.S. · 1988

Jurisdictions

James's state bar admissions

Colorado
1995 · ACTIVE
Arizona United State
1992 · ACTIVE

James studied at J.D. in University of Southern California and B.S. in Northern Arizona University.

Law school and academic background

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

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of James M. Stipe

James has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

James M. Stipe's office in Phoenix

James's primary office is at 1850 N. Central Avenue, Suite 1700, Phoenix, AZ, 85014. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Burch Cracchiolo P A

1850 N. Central Avenue, Suite 1700

Phoenix, AZ 85014

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of James M. Stipe — 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review

Every review below is from a verified client of James. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing business attorneys in Phoenix.

5.0

1 client review

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once James M. Stipe claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire James M. Stipe — 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 Phoenix, Arizona

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 M. Stipe

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 Arizona 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 Phoenix?
James is licensed in Arizona. Matters governed by Arizona 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 Arizona residents in the last few months, answered by business attorneys like James M. Stipe. Each link opens the full answer thread.

What Are My Responsibilities As A Business Owner After An Employee Injury In Arizona?
I run a small construction firm in Phoenix, Arizona, and an employee recently got injured on the job. I’m confused about my responsibilities, including reporting and insurance clai
1 verified answer · Business · Arizona
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My business in Houston just received a notice for a labor law violation regarding employee overtime pay. I’m worried about the potential penalties, including fines or back pay. Wha
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 Steps To Dissolve My Corporation In California?
My partnership decided to dissolve our corporation in California due to lack of business. We filed all taxes but didn't know about the formal steps to dissolve it legally. We still
1 verified answer · Business · California
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

Areas served

Business attorneys serving Phoenix, Tucson and Scottsdale in Arizona

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

James M. Stipe, Business Attorney in Phoenix, Arizona

Quick answer