$ 375-425 per hour
PRO
James Durrell Padgitt III
also known as J. Durrell Padgitt
Virtual Consultation Available
About James
Biography
J. Durrell Padgitt is an experienced family law attorney and litigator, handling a variety of family law cases including divorce, child custody, post divorce modifications, prenuptial agreements, child support, adoption, termination, and parentage.
While Jay is comfortable in the courtroom, his empathy for others and concern for long-term family relationships gives him the unique ability to seek creative ways to resolve conflict, pursue creative compromises, and mitigate the destructive nature of litigation as much as possible.
Jay is a one-man office - he answers his own phone, interviews his own clients, prepares his own pleadings, and believes that keeping you well informed during the process makes for better decisions and less traumatic outcomes. Jay's a phone call away - discuss your situation with him and see for yourself.
Put my 30 years of experience as a family law attorney at your disposal. Call for a consultation.
Practice Areas
3
Practice Areas
Family
60%
36 years
Child Custody
20%
36 years
Divorce and Separation
20%
36 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Hourly Rates
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Licenses
Licensed in Texas for 34 years
State: Texas
Acquired: 1991
No misconduct found
Location
Law Offices of James Durrell Padgitt III
12700 Hillcrest Rd., Ste. 249, One Hillcrest Green, Dallas, TX, 75230
jpadgittlaw.com/Gallery
James Durrell Padgitt III's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
77 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (77)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
Showing 1 - 5 of 28 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge
Posted by anonymous | August 06, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
A patient guide through a dark process.
Going through a divorce is never easy, but Mr. Padgitt helped me have peace of mind. He was very patient with me as he guided me through the process. I never felt like I couldn't ask him about anything. I knew he always had my best interest.
Posted by Amelia | August 01, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Would recommend to anyone going through a divorce
I hired J Padgitt to help me through my divorce and am very glad I did. I really was clueless going into it but he answered all my questions, advised me wisely, and made the process much less stressful. He is a good communicator and is quick to get things done.
Posted by Mason | May 16, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Expertise, Brilliance, Wisdom, Comprehensive, and for a purpose other than his own gain
I've used J twice now. Once for a divorce in 2014-2016, and most recently as a consultant to assist me in representing myself post divorce with a modification and motion for enforcement. If all lawyers were like J we would have shrines built in every city for our beloved lawyers that do the good work...
Posted by Agustin | February 08, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody
Beyond Pleased!!!!
We were involved in a very complicated custody battle. To the point where law enforcement had to get involved. It was the most confusing process I have ever been through. I contacted Jay for a consultation and after the consultation decided to hire him. Best decision I have ever made. He is extremely...
Posted by Jayme | September 14, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation
Excellent service
Jay was outstanding in helping me with a very difficult divorce and I could not have asked for anyone better to help me through this very difficult and stressful time.
James Durrell Padgitt III's Lawyer Endorsements
"I've been an opposing counsel against J several times throughout the years. He zealously represents his clients and does so in a professional manner. He has excellent insight on the legal matters and sound judgment. Without reservation, I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Mr. Padgitt since he first began to practice law. For some time he officed with me, where I was able to observe his ethical and professional behavior. I have worked both with him and against him in family law matters. I have always found him to be highly professional and knowledgeable in his chosen fields. He is a tireless worker and a trusted friend to all who meet or work with him. He is highly skilled in the law and courtroom procedure and decorum. Jay is also a gentleman, tough and adversarial, but not hostile or unkind. I highly recommend him for anyone needing a family attorney"
"I have worked across from J. Padgitt on a number of cases. Each time he knows his case thoroughly, knows the law, and presents his side of the case well. He is an opponent I highly respect."
"Great man, awesome attorney. If there's a choice, hire Padgitt."
"J is one of the top attorneys I've ever had across from me on a case. He is a top notch litigator and very ethical. I highly recommend him."
"I have had the pleasure to know and work with/against J. Padgitt for over a decade. He is the consummate professional. Empathetic, yet tough when the situation calls for it. You want J. Padgitt on your side."
"I endorse James. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer."
Keith Becker
Family lawyer
Kathryn Flowers
Family lawyer
Mark Williamson
Family lawyer
Christopher Harding
Family lawyer
Ronald Grant
Family lawyer
Robert McAngus
Family lawyer
Raymond Flume
Family lawyer
John Schorsch
Family lawyer
Mark Wewers
Family lawyer
Experience
Honors
2023
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2018
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2017
Client's Choice 2012-2017, Avvo
2015
Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2008
Barrister, American Inns of Court Foundation
Work Experience
2004 - Present
Attorney, Law Office of J. Durrell Padgitt
2000 - 2004
Partner, Moore Vrana & Padgitt
1991 - 2004
Attorney, Law Office of J. Durrell Padgitt
Associations
2004 - Present
Dallas Bar FoundationFellow
1991 - Present
Dallas Bar Association, Family Law SectionMember
1991 - Present
State Bar of TexasMember
2005 - 2008
American Inn of CourtBarrister
1998 - 2000
Dallas Bar Association, Family Law SectionBoard of Directors
Education
1991
Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1978
University of Texas, Austin
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
1998
Pro Bono Family Law Training
Basic Family Law Pleadings
Publications
1998
Today's Dallas Woman
Step-parent Adoption
1998
Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section
A Review of Basic Family Law Pleadings - Pro Bono Family Law Training
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
I have lived in the United States since Nov of 2017 and now have recently moved to another Country. Can I file in US?
19 Jun 2023
Q&A
Is there an obligation by a party that is taking action claiming a violation of injunction to seek orders from the court?
11 Dec 2021
Q&A
Do I need my husbands cooperation or signature to sell my home that I owned before we were married?
15 Sep 2021