State Years

New York - NY 36 years

Pennsylvania - PA 36 years
Licensed for 36 years

State NY

Acquired 1987

Status
Currently Registered No misconduct found
Licensed for 36 years

State PA

Acquired 1987

Status
Inactive No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

James B. Reed

Personal injury Attorney at Elmira, NY

About
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Reviews
Cost
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life can now begin again

Ziff Law Firm, Jim Reed and Karen Wheadon: The best thing that has happened to us since before 7/31/10. Having been involved in a Fatal MVA is the most harrowing experience myself and my sister in law have ever been in. Jim Reed and his staff were there to pick up the pieces and give us a solid foundation to start rebuilding our lives. We were flown out of the site, broken emotionally and physically and minus the matriarch of the family. Words cannot express the attention and care that Mr. Reed and his paralegal, Karen wheadon, gave us. They could not have been more attentive, compassionate, thorough and knowledgable. If you are in need of the best representation possible I would say this is it!

The very best Attorney anybody could ask for: Jim Reed

Attorney Jim Reed and the staff at the Ziff Law Firm are the greatest people to have on your side. I was in a severe rear-ending collision that eventually put me in the hospital for three separate back surgeries. This was a very emotional event in my life and Jim and the staff became a family that works hard to help you out in time of need. My wife and I went through some hard times and had many questions along the way that they answered quickly and with confidence. Jim was always there to help no matter when I needed him. Jim and the Ziff Law Firm handled everything for us throughout this emotional experience. Because of surgeries and physical therapy, I was terminated from work and could not pay bills. After Jim acquired a sizable settlement they took care of paying our debaters, and made sure, we had a good investment for our future. Jim is a real hard working, concerned, passionate, and dedicated attorney. My wife and family are very grateful to have Jim Reed and the people at the Ziff Law Firm working for us. We cannot thank them enough and highly recommend them to anybody without hesitation.

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Car accident

20%

I handle NY & PA car accident cases and have successfully recovered millions of dollars for my injured clients.

37 years, 300 cases
Personal injury

20%

For more than 27 years, I have aggressively represented PLAINTIFFS ONLY in all types of personal injury cases-- car crashes, truck accidents, construction injuries, defective products, etc.

37 years, 500 cases
Medical malpractice

15%

I have handled medical malpractice cases ranging from multi-million dollar birth trauma (cerebral palsy) cases, to improper surgery cases, to delay in diagnosis of cancer cases, to victims of deficient nursing care, etc. I find these cases the most challenging cases I handle and I love the challenge of mastering the medicine necessary to win these cases.
... Read more
37 years, 50 cases
Brain injury

10%
Motorcycle accident

10%

I handle NY & PA motorcycle accident cases and have successfully recovered millions of dollars for my injured clients.

37 years, 100 cases
Trucking accident

10%

I handle NY & PA truck accident cases and have successfully recovered millions of dollars for my injured clients.

37 years, 100 cases
Wrongful death

10%

For more than 27 years, I have represented families devastated by the wrongful death of a loved one. I know all too well the pain they experience and I view it as my job to make this painful time as tolerable as possible. I have succesfully recovered millions of dollars for family's victimized by the death of a loved one.
... Read more
37 years, 100 cases
Slip and fall accident

5%

HURT AND NEED HELP? CALL ME TO GET ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS. FREE CONSULTATION FOR INJURY CASES. CALL 607-358-7258

I LOVE what I do. For more than 30 years, I have dedicated my practice to representing persons injured by the negligence, carelessness or recklessness of others. I spend my days (sometimes nights and weekends too), fighting with insurance companies and their lawyers to get my clients the benefits and compensation they are due. In 2015, 2017 and 2019 I was selected Best Lawyers "Lawyer of the Year" and for many years I have been selected for Best Lawyers in the US and as a NY SuperLawyer. I am a proud member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

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When I am not working, I can often be found on my bicycle as I am an avid bicycle rider and racer having competed in races all over the country including a 508 mile team race through Death Valley (The Furnace Creek 508) and a 540 mile race through the Cascade Mountains of Oregon (The Race Across Oregon).

Awards

Client's Choice

2014 2012

Photos and videos

Contact James

Ziff Law Firm

(607) 358-7258 Unknown

Ziff Law Firm

303 William Street

Elmira, NY, 14901-2829

zifflaw.com

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Ziff Law Firm

(607) 358-7258 Unknown

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Corning, NY, 14830

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Ziff Law Firm

(607) 358-7258 Unknown

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Ithaca, NY, 14850

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Ziff Law Firm

(607) 358-7258 Unknown

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Binghamton, NY, 13901

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Ziff Law Firm

(607) 358-7258 Unknown

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Bath, NY, 14810

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Ziff Law Firm

(607) 358-7258 Unknown

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Waverly, NY, 14892

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

19 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

Posted by Terri | March 16, 2012

life can now begin again

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Posted by John | May 28, 2011

The very best Attorney anybody could ask for: Jim Reed

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Posted by Kathi Ellis | April 15, 2017

Very Helpful

He wasn't able to help me because my situation needs to be venued in NYC. He offered to help me find a lawyer in Manhattan. He could've just said I can't help you or never responded at all but he didn't.

Response from James Reed April 17, 2017

Kathi: Thanks for the kind review. When I can't personally help someone, I often try to help them find the right lawyer as I know how tough it can be for folks to find the right lawyer for their case. Jim

Posted by Kathy/Joe | December 17, 2014

HE'S THE BEST!!!!!!!

Jim is fantastic!!! I would not hesitate to get him again if God forbid, I ever need him again. He was always way on top of everything, got whatever needed to be done completed, answered my phone calls very promptly in emails if not by phone or in person. He has gone way above the call of duty. He claims he is not a miracle worker, but my son and I definitely disagree. He got us way more than we anticipated he would for my sons case. He came to see my son in the hospital when he was not able to go to Jim. Jim and the whole firm were very respectful at all times. If someone didn't know the answers we were looking for, we got the answers in a respectable amount of time. Jim and his team wants nothing but the best for their clients and their families, and does their best to put the client and the families at ease, even when they are freaking out. They understand the families and clients are facing the worst times of t heir lives, and they try to help the clients and families stay clam and focused and prepare for what lies ahead.

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Posted by anonymous | December 11, 2014

Terrific job!!!

In 2013 I was involved in a severe bicycle accident caused by a motor vehicle. In cases such as this, no matter the evidence, the cards tend to be stacked heavily against the bicyclist. As an avid cyclist himself, Jim was intimately aware of the prejudice that bicyclists must face in the legal world, and took every step to overcome this and make sure that the (very high) costs of my medical treatment were covered by the appropriate parties. He also fought to obtain a sizeable settlement to cover the many additional costs associated with the accident, and won. I cannot recommend Jim highly enough!

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Posted by Roseann | December 11, 2014

Review of excellence for attorney Jim Reed

I was very happy with effort and dedication Jim and his staff put forward in handling my case to date. He and his staff worked with me , kept me informed throughout the process and continues to do so on an ongoing bases.

Posted by anonymous | December 4, 2014

Always Top Notch

Mr. Reed handled a personal injury case for me and although I resided out of state, every aspect of the case was handled professionally and highly competently. Great communications, personal contract when necessary, excellent advise, and a positive end result.

Posted by anonymous | December 4, 2014

This Lawyer Really Cares

When Jim represents you, you are his priority. Legal matters take time. You may not hear for weeks or months about what is happening behind the scenes. Butvi can assure you, Jim is on top of your situation and is only a phone call away.

Posted by Brenda | November 3, 2014

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just wanted to take the time to personally thank Jim and his team (Karen you are the BEST) for giving my daughter the best possible representation you could ask for. More than 6 years ago, my husband and I went to Jim with a personal injury case that left my daughter with a significant scar on her face. Jim and his team worked for 6 long years and were able to get my daughter an extremely fair settlement without having to go to trial. Jim and Karern's communication with my husband and me was outstanding. He always kept us updated with the next course of action. I would highly recommend Jim Reed for any personal injury case.

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Posted by Linda | March 28, 2011

The Best Personal Injury Lawyer in New York State

I was represented by Attorney Jim Reed at the Ziff Law Firm in Elmira, NY. I had a personal injury accident caused by an involving car. From my first visit with Mr.Reed until and including the settlement at the end, he was there for me the whole step of the way and then some. He answered all of my questions, he answered all of my phone calls and messages. He always left me feeling confident and that he really cared.From broken bones, two surgeries, doctor's and specialist, trips upon trips, bills and it seemed that it was never going to end. AND, the emotional path is unreal, but, Mr. Reed was with me the whole way. Believe it! I was very happy with the results he received for me. This is why I would recommend Attorney Jim Reed as the best and most effective personal injury lawyer around, for sure.I would recommend the Ziff Law Firn to everyone and anyone, they treat you like family and that is very gratifying and rewarding.

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Posted by sherry | September 7, 2010

I'm a believer....

If you know me, then you would know I pretty much say it like it is. I had been involved in a car accident and chose James Reed to represent me In this case. He and Karen Wheadon worked very well together to answer my questions and always got back in touch with me whenever they said they would. What I like the most is that they both made me feel like I was their only client and they were always there for me. I found this to be a very positive experience that was made possible by having a professional lawyer on your side, and yesw I would have them again. Thanks again.

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Posted by anonymous | January 22, 2010

Fantastic Service

Jim was Exceptional during my insurance case! He was right on top of the whole situation with no worries. If something came in the mail and I didn't know what to do, Jim & Karen were already getting the stuff together and told me not to worry, they had it handled. I couldn't have asked for better people to help me during my time of need. Not having to worry about anything was nice. Everybit of the way, JIm kept me in the loop as to what was going on and where we were headed. If I needed him, I could call or email. Email was the best for me due to my work schedule, but we communicated both ways. Karen was fantastic as well! They really made my horrific Accident a pleasure to deal with them. You feel like you don't know where to turn or who to trust and they took all that doubt away!

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Posted by Michelle | September 4, 2009

Peace of Mind

Jim has been very instumental in providing legal information to all on his website & blog and local tv. I went to Jim when I had a legal matter and didn't know where else to turn. Although it was not a matter within Jim's area of expertise, he kindly took the time to put me in touch with an excellent attorney who could advise me...and still acted as a liaison along the way. From the time I contacted Jim for help, it was honestly only a matter of minutes before he responded. We all want & need peace of mind when faced with any legal situation and Jim Reed provides that. Quick to respond, there when you need him & he gets the job done right!

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Posted by anonymous | February 20, 2009

Jim Reed....If you want it done right!

Jim came within 24 hours of our phone call for help. My husband was in the hospital with severe injuries after being in a car accident. We didn't know which end was up and he was thorough in his assessment of our situation. He and his staff were always available to answer any questions and also handled the medical reimbursement claims for us. He explained what he thought would happen and our chances at winning a settlement. He told us step by step what he was doing and why. At a time when I was overwhelmed with taking care of my husband and our home, the case was a very important issue that was taken care of for us. Both my husband and I are so grateful to him. No one could have done a better job for us. He got the maximum amount for us and it has given us a nest egg to continue to build upon as well as paid off two large loans. In our estimation, you couldn't do better than Jim Reed. He is honest, compassionate, hard-working, and cares about his clients. Chas. & Vonne Brewster

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Posted by anonymous | February 20, 2009

I highly recommend Mr. James Reed

Mr. Reed was extremely helpful and friendly in my time of need. He actually cared about what happened to me and did everything in his power to make sure I got what I deserved. He was very explanatory wth me instead of just talking in terms I did not understand he made sure that he spoke and explained to me in a way I understood. I HIGHLY recommend James Reed to anyone.

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Posted by anonymous | February 19, 2009

Highest recommendation for James B. Reed

Jim spoke to me about my case, and educated me about its legal ramifications. I learned a lot talking with him. He spoke in a down to earth manner, so that I could easily understand what my options were. He often used metaphors, so that I could have yet another avenue of understanding, and perspective. He is bright, warm, a quick thinker on his feet. His follow through was trustworthy and consistent. I felt a sincerity in his earnestness to help me. I would recommended him to anyone that wants an attorney who is highly ethical and very skilled. He is a true advocate. I felt respected and cared about.

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Posted by anonymous | May 30, 2008

Client Review

Jim is an excellent communicator. He represented my husband and I after I had a traumatic car accident. He fought hard with the insurance company and we received more of a settlement than we expected. Every step of the way he notified us what was happening. He and his staff are superb. We highly recommend Jim and would use him to represent us again

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Posted by Kelly | May 11, 2008

Client Review

Jim handled a very complex medical malpractice case for my family. Jim became fully invested in our case. I always felt like he understood the pain we were going through as a family and he felt/shared our anger for the unnecessary loss of our loved one. Our case took the better part of 5 years to litigate. Every time I spoke to Jim in those 5 years, I felt like we were his number one priority. He always responded to questions promptly and when we spoke, in person or on the phone, it was as if he had all the time in the world for us. In all the years that Jim worked on our case, I never saw his desire to work for a favorable outcome wane. He worked as hard for us on day one as he did in the final days of the case. Jim is knowledgeable, thorough, and always sensitive to the needs of our family. Quite simply, Jim knows his stuff. I'd put him up against any "big city" lawyer anywhere, anytime. He is a tough as nails litigator with a great big heart.

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Posted by Andy Patros | April 10, 2008

Andy P

Jim Reed provided assistance for my family and I at a difficult time for us. His concern for our well-being was always top of mind for Jim, and he never ceased in his advocacy for us. I highly recommend Jim as legal counsel.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Personal Injury and Malpractice Attorney
Ziff Law Firm
1986 - Present

Education

Pennsylvania State University, Dickinson School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1986

Hamilton College
BA
1983

Legal Cases

Confidential Settlement
$4,000,000

Allen vs NJ Transit
$2,500,000

Deutsch vs. Sutherland
$500,000 Settlement in Ankle Fracture Case

View all legal cases

Associations

NY Academy of Trial Lawyers
Board of Directors
2009 - Present

American Association for Justice
1986 - Present

New York Trial Lawyers Association
1986 - Present

New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers
2005 - 2008

Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association
1987 - 2008

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2018

Best Lawyers in America
Best Lawyers in America
2017

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2017

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2016

Multi-Million Dollar Advocate
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
2015

Selected NY SuperLawyer
US News & World Report
2015

Selected "Lawyer of the Year"
Best Lawyers in America
2015

Selected Best Lawyer in the US
US News & World Report
2014

Selected NY SuperLawyer
Law & Politics Media
2014

Selected Best Lawyers in the US
US News & World Report
2013

Selected NY SuperLawyer
Law & Politics Media
2013

Selected NY SuperLawyer
Law & Politics Magazine
2012

Best Lawyers in America
US News and World Report
2012

Selected for Best Lawyers in America
US News & World Report based on peer reviews
2011

Multi-Million Dollar Advocate
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
2011

Ny SuperLawyers-- Injury Lawyers
NY SuperLawyers by Law & Politics Magazine
2011

Multi-Million Dollar Advocate
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
2010

NY SuperLawyers-- Injury Lawyer
NY SuperLawyers by Law & Politics Magazine
2010

Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
2009

Selected as "NY SuperLawyer" for Injury Attorneys
NY SuperLawyers by Law & Politics
2009

Selected as "Upstate NY Super Lawyer"/Plaintiffs Personal Injury
Law and Politics and Hudson Valley Magazine
2008

Selected as "NY Super Lawyer "
NY SuperLawyers by Law & Politics, Seattle, WA
2008

Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
2007

Million Dollar Advocates Forum
Million Dollar Advocates Forum
2002

View all awards

Publications

NYS Bar Association
Litigating the Personal Injury Action in NY-- Update
2015

Plaintiff's Person Injury Litigation in NYS
Litigating the Personal Injury Action in NY-- Update
2012

NY State Bar Association Book-- The Plaintiff's Personal Injury Action in NY
The Personal Injury Action Before the Southern Tier Courts
2008

Don't Leave Your Family Unprotected!
Learn the Five Secrets to Buying Auto Insurance
2007

What You Need to Know BEFORE Talking to the Insurance Company
Learn the Five Deadly Mistakes That Can Kill Your Accident Case!
2007

New York State Bar Journal
Sex, Lies and Videotape
1996

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Speaking Engagements

Twin Tiers Entrepreneurs
Marketing a Multi-Practice Law Firm
2011

Weekly Legal Commentary on Current Legal Events
Current Legal Events
2011

WETM-TV
Weekly Legal Commentary on Current Legal Events
2010

WETM-TV
Weekly Legal Commentary
2009

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (12)

Given (15)

Endorse James

David Kalabanka

Medical malpractice Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Jim is a smart, professional medical malpractice that works his cases hard and gets extraordinary results. He is personable and easy to talk to and truly listens to his clients. If you have a case in the Elmira area, Jim and the Ziff team are the go to guys..they should be your first call and the only call you will need..."

Howard Spiva

Unknown Attorney | Oct 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim works hard to give wrongfully injured men and women the results they deserve. He is a leader in his field. He answers listeners’ legal questions on WETM-TV, teaches upcoming lawyers at Solo Practice University, and still makes time to travel with his family. He’s a credit to our profession. I endorse this lawyer."

Patrick Higgins

Personal injury Attorney | Jun 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known and worked with Jim Reed for over ten years. He is an excellent, client centered lawyer who understands what his clients are going through and never loses sight of the human aspect of an injury or loss. He also knows how to try and win cases in his area, and is well respected by the bench and bar. I would send a family member to him without hesitation."

Jami Ferrell

Personal injury Attorney | Nov 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I very highly recommend that you contact Jim Reed if you want a smart, motivated, informed and all-around good guy as your attorney. Jim has been extremely helpful to me as an attorney, and has always been willing to share his knowledge and experience with others. Jim is the attorney that other attorney's go to when they need help - that's the kind of lawyer you want if you've been hurt."

Michael Bersani

Personal injury Attorney | Jul 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I strongly endorse this lawyer's work. Jim kinows how to successfully handle personal injury and medical malpractice cases both in New York and Pennsylvania. His blogs are informative and useful, not only to clients, but to fellow lawyers like me. Great lawyer, and greet guy!"

Michelle Callan

Medical malpractice Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Over the past 10 years I have worked on several personal injury cases with attorney, Jim Reed. He is meticulous in the investigation, preparation and litigation of his cases and has a thorough knowledge and understanding of both the medical and legal issues involved. In addition and (in my mind) most importantly, he sincerely cares about each one of his clients and works diligently to represent them in an honorable and ethical manner. He has earned my highest respect and admiration."

Robert Kraft

Personal injury Attorney | May 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have benefited greatly over the past several years from the advice and knowledge passed on by Jim Reed. Jim has handled many large personal injury claims, with great success. Yet he is always glad to help those with smaller problems as well. I highly recommend Jim Reed for any type of injury claim, and I would not hesitate to hire him to represent my friends or family."

Eugene Lee

Personal injury Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know Jim through a lawyers discussion group. His contributions are always insightful and valuable and he clearly knows his way around personal injury law. I am pleased to endorse this lawyer's work."

Jonathan Stein

Personal injury Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have had the good fortune of getting to know Jim through several legal email lists as well as working on a matter for a client with him. Jim is a hard working attorney who is very knowledgeable. When I have talked to Jim's client, she only has the best things to say about him. I highly recommend Jim."

Frederick Cerio

Personal injury Attorney | Jan 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Attorney Reed is known in our legal community as one of the top personal injury attorneys. I have referred him several clients of mine to him who have been injured in an accident. Jim has always been sucessful in obtaining fantastic results. It is with great pleasure that I highly recommend Attorney Reed as a personal injury attorney."

Richard Rich

Personal injury Attorney | Jan 22
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Jim Reed is the most knowledgable and effective personal injury lawyer I have ever encountered. When local lawyers encounter difficulties on thier personal injury matters, Jim Reed is generally the person they call. The fact that the majority of his clients come from referrals from other lawyers speaks volumes about the quality of Jim's practice."

James Carroll

Personal injury Attorney | Dec 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Jim is one of this area's premiere trial lawyers and defender of the "little guy." He and his firm are one of the best. I often refer cases to him because I know that the people that I'm referring will be in good hands. Also, I look up to Jim and try to emulate him and his actions. The old saying is true: You are the average of the five people you most associate with. Well, if Jim is one of your five, then he's raised the bar significantly."

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Howard Spiva

Car accident

Patrick Higgins

Personal injury

Jami Ferrell

Personal injury