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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
Avvo Review Score
167 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (167)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense (149)
Juvenile (47)
Violent Crime (30)
Expungement (24)
Sex Crime (16)
Domestic Violence (10)
Lawsuits & Disputes (7)
Drug Crime (5)
Immigration (4)
Child Abuse (2)
Family (2)
Litigation (2)
Speeding & Traffic Ticket (2)
Credit Card Fraud (1)
DUI & DWI (1)
Divorce & Separation (1)
Education (1)
Federal Crime (1)
Gun Law (1)
What Clients Mention
Case Results (147)
Advocacy (125)
Professionalism (83)
Recommendation (79)
Practice Area Knowledge (66)
Communication Style (60)
Compassion (58)
Character & Conduct (56)
Responsiveness (54)
Trustworthiness (46)
General Knowledge (44)
Cost of Services (39)
Punctuality (8)
Payment Plans (5)
Staff & Support (4)
Free Consultations (3)
Showing 1 - 5 of 66 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge
Posted by Julissa Villarreal | August 22, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Juvenile
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 Nelsn | August 14, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Juvenile Law Expert
My son was charged with sexual misconduct. My wife and I consulted with Mr. Sullivan about this accusation. Not only was Mr. Sullivan knowledgeable but has a very caring demeanor and style about him. When you have a young child that is charged with such a terrible thing this situation is extreme ...
James Sullivan
Replied last August 14, 2023Thank you for your kind review. As a general rule, I do not advise clients to speak with law enforcement. However, on a few occasions over the past 29 years, after I have thoroughly discussed the allegations in extreme detail with a client, I have suggested it as the end result could be that the investigator closes the investigation and does not seek charges to be filed. I only suggest this approach when the allegations are either completely false or the alleged misbehavior is actually consensual and there is defense evidence to support it. I am pleased that I could help your son get cleared of the false accusation against him. I hope the rest of his life is smooth sailing.
Posted by David C. | August 08, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Family assault (repeat off.)
I'll be honest I'm no stranger to the legal system, and I don't mean that like I studied it or something. Yea I went to jail a lot when I was younger. Anyways I found myself facing a felony back in 2018. I'm no stranger to lawyers and I was of the opinion that all lawyers were frauds. I went to ja...
James Sullivan
Replied last August 09, 2023Thank you David for your kind review. I am pleased the DA dismissed your case on the eve of my setting it for trial. I cannot speak to your prior lawyers' representation, but I will say defense attorneys should investigate the facts of the allegation first and that can take a lot of time. Attorneys also should not take on more cases than they can handle, which is why we limit the number of cases we take on. I hope the rest of your life is smooth sailing.
Posted by anonymous | May 25, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Will Almost Certainly Be My Forever Lawyer
If I could give 10/5 Stars I would. Mr. Sullivan is a smart, compassionate, and amazing at his job. I was charged with family assault, something I never thought I would be charged with. My Ex at the time and I had a lot to drink one night and things went south. There was an altercation between who'd ...
James Sullivan
Replied last August 09, 2023Thank you for your kind review. I am pleased that I could be of service to help get your assault of a family charge dismissed. I hope the rest of your life is smooth sailing.
Posted by Leo | December 08, 2022 | Hired Attorney
Exceptional Attorney and Experience
We have worked with James for 2 different cases over the course of 7 years. In a time of uncertainty, he provided clear direction, guidance and incredibly fast responses even with how busy he is. We were extremely lucky to find James and he fought for a great outcome for our family. He cares about th...
James Sullivan
Replied last April 20, 2023Thank you Leo for your kind review. I am pleased I could help you and get you a good result, and I hope you never need my legal services again. I truly hope that none of my clients ever need my services again because I want everyone to be successful in life. We all can become better people and good role models for the next generation.
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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Joanne Musick-Long
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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