For James “Jimmy” Walsh, meaningful achievements at RumbergerKirk have come from cases that blend legal challenge with personal transformation. Over his 20 years at the firm, he has seen firsthand how advocacy and perseverance can change the course of a life.

One of Jimmy’s most memorable cases involved a client facing serious criminal charges and significant mental health challenges at a time when no mental health court was available. When Jimmy first met the client in jail, the client was experiencing a severe manic episode and attempted to fire him. The court later found the client not guilty by reason of mental defect. With proper treatment, medication and guidance, the client made steady progress at a forensic medical facility and a recovery house. The client now works for the Alabama Department of Mental Health, and is well respected. After witnessing years of treatment, the opposing prosecutor acknowledged the client’s progress and supported Jimmy’s Motion for Unconditional Release.

Over the years, Jimmy has experienced defining moments in the courtroom, but one of his most memorable came from a challenging construction fraud case where he faced a seasoned opposing attorney. When the trial centered on the authentication of key emails, Jimmy used strategic timing and a hands-on demonstration by a witness to clearly establish their authenticity before the jury. The moment was so effective that his client later described it as a “Perry Mason moment.”

Outside of his legal practice, Jimmy remains committed to nonprofit organizations that support individuals living with mental health challenges. In his personal time, he enjoys camping, hiking and backpacking.

When offering advice to attorneys early in their careers, Jimmy emphasizes honesty, integrity and staying true to one’s principles. He encourages young lawyers to respect their clients and to understand the difference between principle and principal. While they are pronounced the same, they are spelled differently and mean very different things, and he emphasizes the importance of living by the right one.

Reflecting on his career, Jimmy says this milestone represents a life shaped by challenge, service and growth. For him, success means helping people every day, embracing adventure, finding joy in the work and remaining true to his values.