Jim has practiced law since 1984, and currently enjoys a wide range of experience in both civil and administrative law. His practice is focused on the defense of catastrophic personal injuries, industrial explosions, commercial and residential construction defects, complex insurance matters, real estate and insurance agent errors and omissions, administrative licensure, Certificate of Need, Medicare/Medicaid certification, Occupational Health and Safety Regulations and federally protected discrimination allegations. He has represented over 40 insurance carriers as well as numerous hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, physician group practices, and independent businesses.

Jim is licensed to practice law in all North Carolina state courts, the United States District Courts for the Eastern, Middle and Western Districts of North Carolina, and the Fourth Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals. Jim has also received the highest possible rating for professional and ethical standards by his fellow attorneys, AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America since 2013 and has been listed in North Carolina Legal Elite.

Jim began his career as an Associate Attorney General for the State of North Carolina, representing the North Carolina Departments of Insurance and Health and Human Services. He has practiced law extensively in the eastern and central portions of North Carolina, including having been a partner in firms in Wilmington, Kinston and the Triangle area. Jim also has substantial experience in political matters having served as State Treasurer and State Secretary of the North Carolina Democratic Party as well as Treasurer to numerous judicial campaigns. He has represented office holders and candidates from both major political parties on a number of issues. Additionally, Jim worked as a lobbyist in the North Carolina General Assembly as well as a congressional aide.

A North Carolina native born in Burlington, Jim has served on several boards including the local council of the Boy Scouts of America, as well as a therapeutic riding foundation located in Wake County. He is married to Theresa B. Stephenson who is currently the Chair of the North Carolina Board of Review having been nominated by Governor Cooper and unanimously confirmed by the General Assembly. He is also a proud father of two daughters, one of which is now practicing family law in Cary.