Overview
James counsels and represents clients in business disputes concerning countless issues, such as breach of contract, real property, shareholder oppression, construction, automotive suppliers, and even the First Amendment. James’s diverse litigation practice includes every aspect of dispute resolution, including contract review, negotiations, pleadings, discovery, substantive motions, trials, and appeals.
Prior to joining Butzel, James was in-house at an international tech company. Prior to that he was a partner at an AmLaw 100 firm with offices located throughout the US.
James Kresta is a Shareholder located in Butzel’s Ann Arbor office. He earned his juris doctor, cum laude, from Wayne State University Law School. James received a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies, cum laude, from Franciscan University of Steubenville. He is admitted to practice in Michigan, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, and has been admitted Pro Hac Vice to various state and federal courts throughout the country.
Outside of the office, James enjoys spending time with his family, camping, playing music, and coaching baseball.
Primary Practice Areas
All Related Practice Areas
- Access, Freedom of Information Act & Open Meetings Act
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
- Automotive Industry Team
- Business
- Business & Commercial Litigation
- Construction Litigation
- Construction Specialty Team
- Litigation and Dispute Resolution
- Media Law
- Media Litigation
- Non-Compete & Trade Secret
- Outside General Counsel Services
- Real Estate
Credentials
Education
Wayne State University Law School, J.D., cum laude
Franciscan University of Steubenville, B.A., cum laude
Admissions
- Michigan
Memberships
- State Bar of Michigan
- United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
- Various United States state and federal courts, Pro Hac Vice admission
Awards & Recognitions
Awards & Recognitions
Michigan Lawyers Weekly - Up & Coming Lawyers, 2024
The Best Lawyers in America® - Ones to Watch, Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Real Estate, 2024-2026
Michigan Super Lawyers - Rising Stars, Business Litigation, 2020-2025
Detroit Bar Association - Pro Bono Award, 2024
Wayne State University Law School - Top Oral Advocate, Moot Court
Community & Professional
Patriot Week Foundation, Advisory Board
Ave Maria Communications, Board of Directors
Father Gabriel Richard High School, Board of Trustees
Franciscan University of Steubenville, Thomas More Law Society, Founder and past President