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Attorney in Aurora

James Pettit is a seasoned trial attorney who has built his practice on one simple principle: treat every client like family. James grew up just a block away from Pettit Law Office in Aurora, Missouri, and spent his childhood watching his father (Scott Pettit) and grandfather (Walter S. Pettit, Jr.) fight for their clients with honor and passion. He carries on that tradition today—serving individuals and families in Missouri and Arkansas in personal injury cases arising from automobile accidents, catastrophic injuries, and traumatic brain injuries as well as in Worker’s Compensation cases. 

Over the last 10 years, James has tried several jury trials to verdict on behalf of plaintiffs who have been injured by the recklessness negligence of another. He's known for his calm, unwavering presence in the courtroom and for being able to win over judges, juries, and clients. In one instance, James helped secure a $430,000 jury verdict for a client who was rear-ended on Highway 60 in Southwest Missouri after the insurance company had offered a mere $25,000 prior—a result that testifies to both his diligence and insistence on doing what's right. James is also active in the American Association for Justice (AAJ) and Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys (MATA) where he advocates in the Missouri legislature and United States Congress to help protect the rights of injured victims and their families.  

James earned his juris doctorate from the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law and undergraduate degrees in Spanish and Business Administration from Drury University. He is licensed to practice law in Missouri and Arkansas and represents clients with auto accident, catastrophic injury, and worker’s compensation claims with a personalized strategy for each client blending his family-oriented values and years of experience with technical knowledge of the injury claim process. 

Outside of the office, James is a career runner and has run more than 25 marathons, including qualifying for the Boston and New York City Marathons. James and his wife, Carissa, are parents to two children and enjoy traveling and spending time together as a family exploring the outdoors.

If you need a personal injury lawyer who listens first, works hard, and treats every case like it matters—because it does—James Pettit is ready to be on your side.

EDUCATION

• J. D., University of Missouri – Kansas City Law School, 2013
• B.A., Drury University, 2010

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

• 39th Circuit Bar Association- Past President
• Missouri Bar Association (2013)
• Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys
• U.S. Western District Court
• Southern District Court of Appeals
• American Association of Justice (AAJ), Member
• Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association, Member

EXPERIENCE

• Staff Attorney, Pettit Law Office (2013-Present)
• Public Defender Intern, Jackson County Public Defender’s Office (2011-2013)
• Investigator/Process Server, & Cowherd Law Firm (2008-2010)