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James is a fourth generation Montanan and lifelong resident of this beautiful state. He has dedicated his career to representing everyday people against the oppression of the powerful, whether that be the government, big corporations, insurance companies, or others who seek to take advantage of hard working Montanans.
James obtained both his bachelor’s degree in philosophy (2011) and law degree (2016) from the University of Montana. In law school, he: served the Montana Law Review as a staff editor for one year and the intake editor for another year; clerked for Montana District Court Judge Russel Fagg in Billings for a summer; and completed his clinical experience representing indigent criminal defendants in Missoula. After law school, James clerked for United States District Court Judge Sam Haddon in Helena for one year. He then briefly served as a public defender in Helena before accepting his (then) dream job at Meyer, Shaffer & Stepans in Missoula, where for 6 years he represented individuals in Montana and Wyoming in areas such as oil field accidents, civil rights, sexual assaults, employment disputes, and contract disputes.
Now, James is excited to open his own solo practice based in Missoula. He brings a diverse array of experience from both within the courts and in front of them, from multi-million dollar, high profile federal cases to minor misdemeanor criminal cases in city courts. James understands that regardless of how relatively big or small your legal issue is, it is likely one of the most important, confusing, and stressful aspects of your life. He accordingly approaches every case with compassion, honestly, and a dedication to demystifying the legal system for his clients, all while achieving the best results possible. Unlike many lawyers that treat their clients like merely a means to getting paid, here you will be treated with the respect, kindness, and dignity you deserve.
Free Consultation
$0 first 30 minutes
$ 200-250 per hour
Sometimes
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Chat withState: Wyoming
Acquired: 2019
No misconduct found
State: Montana
Acquired: 2016
No misconduct found
415 N. Higgins Ave., Missoula, MT, 59802
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Jillian | December 12, 2025 | Hired Attorney
Highly recommend!!! Mr Murnion made the entire legal process so easy on me. He is easy to understand, fair price, communicates quickly and was also understanding and so accommodating. I couldn't imagine using anyone else for your bankruptcy needs AA++
Posted by Matt | October 7, 2025 | Hired Attorney
I had an outstanding experience working with James Murnion. From the very beginning, he was prompt, responsive, and incredibly professional. Every time I reached out, James got back to me quickly and made sure I understood exactly where things stood. What really stood out was his intelligence and ...
Posted by Victoria | June 12, 2025 | Hired Attorney
James took his time and answered any questions I had, he also responded right away. He made sure I understood things and explained everything as this was my first time and was very overwhelmed. He was kind and friendly! I would highly recommend James!!!!
Posted by Joshua | November 3, 2024 | Hired Attorney
I had an excellent experience working with James Murnion. From the outset, his communication was outstanding; he was always prompt and clear in his responses. I truly appreciated his patience and willingness to accommodate my schedule, which made the process much smoother. What impressed me the mo...
Posted by Kendra | May 6, 2018 | Hired Attorney
James went above and beyond for me from the very beginning. I was nervous getting a public defender, but James did amazing. He cared about my case from the beginning and always made me felt heard. James greatly exceeded my expectations and was a fantastic lawyer. I truly believe he would have given m...
Estate planning lawyer
2015
Excellence for the Future Award, The Center for Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction
2018 - 2024
Associate Attorney, Meyer, Shaffer & Stepans, PLLP
2017 - 2018
Attorney, Office Of The State Public Defender
2016 - 2017
Law Clerk, United States District Court, Montana
2018 - 2024
Montana Trial Lawyers AssociationMember
Dismissed
2016
JD - Juris Doctor
2024
Law Jobs
2015
2014
English
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