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James Gary Sullivan
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About James
Biography
Our #1 Priority is to get your case dismissed. Many of our cases get dismissed because we win most of our trials. As winning trial lawyers, we have the most leverage, so many of our cases get dismissed even without a trial setting. We each have over 30 years of experience and have helped thousands of people. We mostly handle criminal cases involving assault of a family member (domestic violence), drugs, robbery, theft, burglary; as well as juvenile defense and record expungement. We care for people and take all the time necessary to discover the full story. We help people fight criminal charges so they can have a better life. We charge fair fees for our experience and expertise. Office consultations are by appointment only. We work in Harris and Fort Bend County.
We have successfully represented people on almost the full spectrum of criminal and juvenile law cases. We have won many serious felony and misdemeanor jury trials. We have a high win rate for cases taken to trial, including the large majority that are dismissed at trial. We have persuaded the prosecutors and/or grand jury to dismiss thousands of felony and misdemeanor criminal and juvenile cases. Certainly, each case is different. Similar results may not be obtained in your case and past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Sullivan graduated from Baylor University in 1990 with a degree in Journalism, the ideal degree for investigating, discovering and telling winning stories in court. In 1993, he graduated from South Texas College of Law, which is nationally recognized as the top law school for trial advocacy. He has been married to his wife Araceli for over 30 years. They have 2 adult children and worship in a Catholic church. Sullivan is also an Eagle Scout.
Sullivan also graduated from Trial Lawyers College (TLC), the most selective and prestigious trial advocacy program in America. The TLC was founded by legendary lawyer Gerry Spence and teaches advanced trial techniques to defense attorneys. The 2,000+ TLC graduates form an extremely unique community of the most accomplished trial lawyers across the United States.
If you need a defense attorney to represent you, your child or a loved one, call us. We can help.
Proven Results since 1994. Trial Lawyers. We care for our clients. We fight for our clients like they are family. We charge fair fees for our experience and expertise. Give us a call.
Criminal Trial Lawyers with Proven Results. We care for our clients and we fight for them like they are family. Our #1 goal is to get your case dismissed. We mostly focus on domestic violence, violent crime, drug defense and juvenile cases. Give us a call.
Board Certified Juvenile Lawyer. I care for my juvenile clients. I fight for them as if they are my own children. My goal is to get the best result possible so it will not impact their future. I have won felony jury trials in all 3 Harris County Juvenile District Courts. Give us a call.
Domestic Violence Lawyers with Proven Results. We care for our clients and we fight for them like they are family. Our #1 goal is to get your domestic violence case dismissed. Over 50% of our practice involves domestic violence cases. Give us a call.
Criminal Lawyers with Proven Results. We care for our clients and we fight for them like they are family. Our #1 goal is to get your violent crime case dismissed, won at trial, or reduced. We each have over 30 years of experience. Give us a call.
Criminal Trial Lawyer that also works to get criminal cases expunged from clients' record. Cases not expunged can lower a person's altitude in life. Even though your case was dismissed, it still shows up on your record and can cost you jobs and income. Give us a call.
Practice Areas
5
Practice Areas
Domestic Violence
50%
32 years
Criminal Defense
20%
32 years
Juvenile Law
15%
32 years
Violent Crime
10%
32 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Retainer
Always
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
Licenses
Licensed in Texas for 31 years
State: Texas
Acquired: 1994
No misconduct found
Location
James G. Sullivan and Associates
12345 Jones Road, Suite 288, Houston, TX, 77070
houstoncriminaltriallawyer.net/Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find James online.
James Gary Sullivan's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 167 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Jesse | January 24, 2019 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Family Violence
In November of 2018 I was arrested for the first time in my life. I spent time in jail for family violence and it was a moment of failure for me. I feared that my future and everything I had worked for over the course of my life would be in jeopardy. I’m not rich but I wasn’t going to risk my future ...
James Sullivan
Replied last March 23, 2024Thank you Jesse for your kind review. I am pleased that the DA agreed to dismiss the case with some community service. I hope the rest of your life is smooth sailing.
Posted by Robin | December 1, 2022 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Incredible Lawyer
I was arrested, unfortunately, for the 3rd time in almost 18 years for theft. Each arrest being almost 6 years apart to the day. After meeting James he treated me with humility and grace despite my wrong doings. He truly tapped into why did I do what I did, what led me down this road, and was able t...
James Sullivan
Replied last December 2, 2022Thank you Robin for your beautiful review and for trusting me. You are very kind. It was not me, I only played a small part. You were the brave one. When we first spoke, I looked your cases up and noticed a 6 year pattern between them. I felt something bad was hidden in your past. I asked, what horrible thing happened to you in your childhood that causes you to act out in this way? You took a leap of faith and told me about your very traumatic childhood. Your incredible inner strength and spirit sustained you these many years until you were ready to face your fears and start down the painful path to healing. I applaud you for your courage.
Posted by anonymous | September 6, 2019 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Compassionate and Understanding
I highly recommend James Sullivan as a juvenile defense attorney. My son was wrongfully arrested for retaliation of a peace officer and assault of a family member. Both of these charges are very serious felony charges. The juvenile system treated him as if he were already a convicted criminal, wit...
James Sullivan
Replied last October 18, 2019Thank you for your kind review. Your son was charged with aggravated assault of a family member and retaliation for mouthing off at the officer. After years of physical abuse, your son fought back when his drunken father attacked him for the final time, only this time his father wound up in the hospital. As we both know, his father should have been arrested for injury to a child for prior abuse and for this incident. Instead, your son was arrested when he was merely defending himself. I pray all goes well with your son going forward in life.
Posted by Julissa Villarreal | August 22, 2024 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Exceptional attorney!! Changed my life!
Attorney Sullivan represented me in a juvenile defense case in 2002. I now have a Master’s Degree in Education and am a successful business owner. Not only did he reduce my criminal charges then, but he gave me life advice that I still cherish today. He is worth every penny. Not only does his work sp...
James Sullivan
Replied last February 18, 2025Thank you, Ms. Villarreal. I remember you fondly and the advice I shared with you 23 years ago when I was a young attorney with 7 years of practice. I am thrilled to learn that you worked hard and accomplished the goals we talked about for your future. Feel free to reach out to me. I'd love to hear more. I always try to share with my juvenile and young adult clients the lessons I learned along the way so as to inspire them to have a bright and successful future. Sadly, I've lost many young people to the scourge of drug addiction and gangs. It is better to have no friends than bad friends that will lead you down the wrong path in life.
Posted by anonymous | July 28, 2024 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
An excellent attorney...
Sharing with all the awesome & amazing results we got by choosing & hiring Mr. James G. Sullivan Attorney to represent a relative of mine. I personally have known Jim & his wonderful family for many years. Jim recently represented a relative of mine and effectively & successfully, negotiated a o...
James Sullivan
Replied last February 17, 2025Thank you for your kind review. I am pleased that the DA's office did the right thing and dismissed the case.
James Gary Sullivan's Lawyer Endorsements
"James ia a wonderful criminal and juvenile criminal defense attorney. He works tiredlessly for his clients and is always on top of the law. The DAs, Judges, and fellow attorneys all respect him. A client would be lucky to have James fighting for them."
"Jim is an excellent lawyer who deeply cares for his clients. He has even taken time out of his busy schedule to help other lawyers prepare their cases. He is the rare attorney who is well-versed in adult AND juvenile criminal law. He is honest, hardworking, and is relentless in fighting for his clients."
"Jim and I worked opposite one another when I was a prosecutor for Harris County. I watched him compassionately represent a client with a mental illness. I can't say anything about Jim that hasn't already been said. He's an outstanding criminal defense lawyer. He's smart, hard-working and professional. He is well regarded by his peers. I endorse him without hesitation."
"I would recommend Jim Sullivan to any criminal defendant. He is truly concerned about each and every client. His knowledge of the law, experience, and fighting spirit will give you the edge in the troubles you face. Get Jim in your corner."
"I endorse this lawyer. Jim is a quiet, thoughtful criminal defense lawyer who digs in for his clients. He is well-respected and he goes the distance for his clients."
"I endorse Mr. Sullivan. He is a board certified juvenile law specialist. Reviews tell the story. read them. If you are in or anywhere near Houston get a consultation and than hire him. KUDOS"
"I endorse this lawyer. Jim os the real deal. He fights hard for the rights of his clients and obtains some pretty outstanding results. By running for office he has shown his willingness to give back to the community. He is also a fellow distance runner and an all around good guy."
"I endorse James. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer. I am very grateful to have met Jim Sullivan through the Trial Lawyers College. Jim is a very caring and compassionate lawyer who is very client centered. He is the kind of lawyer I would want fighting for me or my family. Jim is a credit to our profession."
"I endorse Jim Sullivan. Jim sees his clients as human beings and treats them that way. He listens well and communicates very effectively. I worked with Jim at the Trial Lawyers College founded by Gerry Spence and know that Jim is brave and honest. He is afraid of no one and fights hard for his clients!"
"I endorse this lawyer. He has passion for every client he represents and juries see that passion and he touches their hearts. He is incredible in front of a jury because he works with them as HIS jury and they become part of the defense team, you cannot ask more than that of a criminal defense attorney. Further, he is caring, prepared, and effective. I highly recommend for any criminal matter."
"Having worked with Jim at Trial Lawyers College I fully endorse him. Jim has the guts to challenge the power structure and the experience to get results for his clients. He really cares about his clients as people."
"I endorse this lawyer. You will find no more dedicated or brilliant criminal defense attorney, and he has a heart of warrior in his juvenile defense cases. I have worked with Jim Sullivan on his cases at Gerry Spence's Trial Lawyers' College, and I have seen how much he gives to each client and each case. You will be served by the very best if you hire Jim Sullivan as your defender. Semper Fi, Patrick McLain"
"Jim Sullivan is about as intelligent as they come. He is honest, hard working and cares about his clients. I endorse Jim's work without hesitation."
"Jim Sullivan has all the traits that a good criminal defense attorney should have. He is knowledgeable, compassionate and has an excellent rapport with the prosecutors and the judges. I endorse him."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have gotten to know Jim within the past year and am better for it. His passion for his family and clients is unique in this profession."
"I have always known Mr. Sullivan to be an absolute professional. He makes it his business to know everything he can about his cases. He most certainly fights for his clients and achieves great results for them."
"James, "Jim" and I met when we were students in an advanced Political Science course on Asian politics with the late Dr. Gerald Fielder, at Baylor University.I later met Jim here in Houston where he was a lawyer practicing juvenile law. Jim is a passionate advocate for the clients he represents. Jim is first a man of God, a devoted husband and father, and a fine lawyer, always seeking opportunities to become better. For these reasons, I endorse this lawyer."
"Jim is an excellent attorney and has a vast knowledge of the juvenile justice system in Texas. Whevever I have a complicated issue, Jim is the fisrt person I turn to for advice."
"Jim Sullivan is an outstanding criminal law and juvenile law defense attorney. He fights hard for his clients, yet never strays from a professional demeanor in court. Virtually every judge, prosecutor and colleague in Harris County and the surrounding area has tremendous respect for Jim. It is a privilege to endorse this talented lawyer."
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Jim Medley
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Experience
Honors
2016
Client's Choice Award as Top Defense Attorney, AVVO
2016
Top Criminal Lawyer, Houstonia Magazine
2015
Client's Choice Award as Top Defense Attorney, AVVO
2015
Top Criminal Lawyer, Houstonia Magazine
2014
Client's Choice Award as Top Defense Attorney, AVVO
2014
Top Criminal Lawyer, Houstonia Magazine
2013
Top Criminal Lawer, Houstonia Magazine
2013
Client's Choice Award as Top Defense Attorney, AVVO
2013
Top Contributor, AVVO
1994
Board Certified - Juvenile Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Work Experience
1994 - Present
Owner, James G. Sullivan and Associates
Associations
2016 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersAttorney Member
2015 - Present
Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers CollegeAlumni
1995 - Present
Harris County Criminal Lawyers AssociationAttorney Member
1995 - Present
Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationAttorney Member
1994 - Present
State Bar of TexasAttorney Member
2014 - 2015
Houston Trial Lawyers AssociationAttorney Member
2005 - 2006
Harris County Criminal Lawyers AssociationBoard of Directors
1982 - 1982
Boy Scouts of AmericaEagle Member
Sample of Legal Cases
State v. Juvenile - Deadly Conduct
Not guilty by jury
State v. Shepherd - Injury to a Child
Dismissed on third trial setting
State v. Hall - Aggravated Assault
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Hinson - Evading Police by Motor Vehicle
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Ortega - Sexual Assault of a Child
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Ortega - Burglary of a Habitation
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Boydston - Assault Family Violence
Dismissed on trial setting
State v. Dottenwhy - Aggravated Assault
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Ayala - Aggravated Assault
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Hacker - Aggravated Assault Against Public Servant
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Perkins - Aggravated Assault
Not Guilty at Jury Trial
State v. Wright - Assault Family Violence by Choking
Dismissed on trial setting
State v. Lastrappe - Aggravated Assault
Dismissed on trial setting
State v. Williams - Aggravated Assault
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Adams - Assault Family Member by Impeding Breathing
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Bernard - Sexual Assault of a Child
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Willie - Aggravated Assault
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Burnap - Aggravated Assault
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Gaskin - Sexual Assault of a Child
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Johnson - Sexual Assault of a Child
Dismissed on trial setting
State v. Moreno - Forgery of a Governmental Financial Instrument
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. (Expunged) - Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child (2 cases)
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Eddings - Indecency with a Child
Dismissed on trial setting
State v. Lopez - Sexual Assault of a Child
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. (Expunged) - Aggravated Assault
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Poland - Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child (2 cases)
Dismissed on second trial setting
State v. Juvenile - Manslaughter (4 cases)
Dismissed
State v. Moya - Burglary of a Habitation with Intent to Commit an Assault
No Billed (dismissed) by Grand Jury
State v. Juvenile - Assault
Not Guilty at Jury Trial
State v. Gutierrez - Aggravated Robbery
Not Guilty at Jury Trial
State v. Hernandez - Aggravated Robbery
Dismissed
State v. Buckner - Criminally Negligent Homicide
Not Guilty at Jury Trial
Education
2015
Trial Lawyers College
1993
South Texas College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1990
Baylor University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2010
Rotary Club
Proposal for More Personal Recognizance Bonds on Indigent Cases
2010
Indigent Defense Panel
In Support of Public Defenders Office
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
I recently was caught at jc penney shoplifting, got ticket, letter from Micheal Ira Ansen P.C. is this legitimate? what do i do?
05 Oct 2012
Q&A
In harris county, What are the possible outcomes of 2 pos cont substance charges...POSS CS PG 1 4G - 200G and POSS CS PG 1 <1G
26 Sep 2012
Q&A
What could be the maximum sentence for assaulting an officer and resisting arrest? No weapons involved
01 Oct 2012
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
Corporal Punishment: Is it Legal to Spank Your Child in Texas?
24 Dec 2016
Legal Guide
Criminal Mischief Punishment in Texas
29 Sep 2015
Legal Guide
Juvenile Record Sealing in Texas
24 Jul 2014