James Smith

Jim is a Principal at Solutus and has over a decade of experience working with candidates and clients. Jim’s search practice includes the representation of law firm partners, associates and in house counsel at all levels seeking a strategic career change. He also represents the world’s finest law firms and corporations in finding talented attorneys to help their businesses prosper.

Jim brings 20 years of experience in the practice of law, including over 13 years as a partner in regional and international law firms. In his legal practice, Jim focused on litigation and counseling, with a special expertise handling intellectual property matters. During his legal career, Jim served both as the hiring partner for the Silicon Valley office of an international AmLaw 100 firm of over 800 attorneys and on the management committee of a highly respected Silicon Valley firm. Jim’s knowledge of the legal profession and business and the legal marketplace and his absolute commitment to integrity allow him to provide excellent service to candidates and clients alike.

Jim received his A.B. with High Distinction and his J.D. from the University of California, Berkeley. Jim is a member of Phi Beta Kappa.

Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Jim has been an avid Giants’ fan since the days of Mays, Marichal and McCovey, and fondly remembers being taken to Kezar Stadium by his father to watch John Brodie lead the 49ers. Jim’s passions include time spent with family and friends, history, politics, opera, and learning.