James Scott "Jake" Gilbreath

PRO

James Scott "Jake" Gilbreath

also known as Jake Gilbreath

4.6
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 16 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at Austin, TX
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Child Custody

316 West 12th, Suite 110, Austin, TX

Virtual Consultation Available

About James

Biography

Texas Board Certified Family Lawyer with outstanding results and reviews

Handling custody matters throughout Texas inside and outside the courthouse

Handling divorces throughout Texas inside and outside the courthouse

Handling family law matters throughout Texas inside and outside the courthouse

Practice Areas

3

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 50%

17 years

50%
Child Custody 25%

17 years

25%
Family 25%

17 years

25%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Hourly Rates

$ 850-850 per hour


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2018 2017 2016
...
+ 2
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2014
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating

Licenses

Licensed in Texas for 16 years

State: Texas

Acquired: 2009

Eligible to Practice in Texas

No misconduct found

Location

Walters Gilbreath, PLLC

316 West 12th, Suite 110, Austin, TX, 78701

waltersgilbreath.com/meet-our-team/attorneys/jake-gilbreath

Walters Gilbreath, PLLC

3811 Turtle Creek Boulevard, Suite 1000, Dallas, TX, 75219

waltersgilbreath.com/meet-our-team/attorneys/jake-gilbreath

Walters Gilbreath, PLLC

10001 Reunion Place, Suite 170, San Antonio, TX, 78216

waltersgilbreath.com/meet-our-team/attorneys/jake-gilbreath

Online Presence

Other places you can find James online.

James Scott "Jake" Gilbreath's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.7 /5.0

93 Client Reviews

Showing 16 - 20 of 25 reviews | Communication Style

Posted by Joe | May 16, 2014 | Divorce & Separation

Why you need to hire James Scott Gilbreath

When my wife of 10 years and partner of 20 filed for divorce I was devastated. We had spent the past 10 years of our lives planning for a family. My father and I had built us an incredible arts and crafts home in the Texas hillcountry, we had a nice sized savings and we were ready to s...tart a family. After trying to have children of our own, along with numerous failed IVFs, we eventually adopted a beautiful baby boy. My wife became so consumed with our new son, she thought it best to take him and leave. Her lack of concern for total destruction was incredible. She made it very clear that the house was going to sell, she'd get half of the proceeds, she would get full custody of our son and leave me destitute. On top of that, she had a job that paid considerably more than mine. She hired a very high priced attorney. I, in turn, hired a local attorney. Two weeks into the divorce, I was sent the most insulting proposal. It basically stated that she was taking our son and that I needed to leave the house immediately. My attorney called and told me that I needed to figure out how to buy the house back within the week. That was the lowest point of my life. Depressed, I called numerous friends. I eventually was led to Brian Walters. He called me and talked me through details and eased my anxieties. Although he could not take my case, he recommended Jake, his new partner. After a conference call with Brian and Jake, I fired my old attorney and moved ahead with Jake. THE BEST DECISION I HAVE EVER MADE!!! I lived with my wife through this ordeal only to be with my son. It was awful and painful to be around her. She was so confident to the very end she was going to bleed me dry. On the day of mediation, Jake proved to be everything you'd ever dream of in an attorney. Strong, confident, brilliant, and swift. In the end, I ended up with more than I ever expected. I got as much time as the law would allow with my son, my house (I just took over the payments,) my retirement,and half our stock portfolio. My wife left with her retirement, 3/4 of the divorce debt and the loss of what could have been a wonderful life. I've got a new life to figure out now, but I have my son in it, and I'm not pauper. I can provide for him and move on with this new life with my son. I can't thank Jake enough. Jake's tough as nails. He fights the fight with the high priced lawyers and comes out on top. I can't recommend him enough. Thanks Jake, I owe you my new life.

Posted by Teri | February 10, 2014 | Child Custody

Family Law - Same Sex/ Child Custody-Standing Rights

Words cannot express my gratitude for James "Jake" Gilbreath and his team. When Jake took on my case, I realized quickly that he was in it to make a difference. His compassion for every human, his passion for equality, his knowledge of the law and his tenacity surpassed what I ever could have expect...ed. Jake and his team kept me updated and informed each step of the way leading to our trial. I never worried about what was going on because of the constant communication either by phone, email or office visits. They made it easy to put my trust in them and relinquish my stress. When a relationship ends things can become complex and due to the current Texas Laws same-sex child custody disputes can be especially complicated and challenging when only one parent is biologically related to the child. According to Texas Law this applies to Same-Sex Couples, Non-Biological Parents and Grandparents. After much of my own research I learned that the outcome in these types of cases can be daunting and far reaching, but Jake has made a difference in my life, the life of my daughter and for the future lives of many who face the same challenges. Today, it's because of Jake and his team that I won this fight and have rights to my daughter, it's because of Jake and his team that I was given Standing rights. So, if you're looking for an attorney that exemplifies true and honest character, if you're looking for an attorney who will put you first during an already stressful time in your life and if you're looking for an attorney who will give it his best fight, I strongly recommend Mr. Gilbreath.

Posted by Suman | February 09, 2014

Highly recommended.

It gives me immense pleasure to write a recommendation for Jake. Our first interaction happened to be on phone and even without meeting him in person initially I felt assured enough to hire him as my attorney. He is confident, learned, articulate and responsive. I was well informed at every step of t...he way by him. There was never a time when I felt doubtful about hiring Jake. He paid attention to my expectation from case and I didn't feel that my case was ever neglected. I wholeheartedly recommend him.

Posted by anonymous | February 03, 2014 | Divorce & Separation

Just the "Pit-Bull" I needed

Jake really was the perfect attorney for my divorce. Every legal situation is unique, but mine had a special spin on it. My first attorney was being personally harassed by my ex-husband, so Jake took over my case mid-way through. Jake wasn't intimated by the history of threats; he and his firm qu...ickly got up to speed, wasting no time. I was impressed by his tough, yet supportive nature. Jake did an excellent job of standing up for the issues I felt were important, and keeping me aware of all the possible outcomes. I have a young daughter and her custody was the primary issue for the settlement. Jake recognized that, and he kept her safety and health as his concern throughout all negotiations. He made himself available to me at all hours and responded quickly to even the silliest of questions. The most impressive thing about Mr. Gilbreath (even more than his "pit-bull" attitude towards my ex-husband), was his ability to help me set priorities. He has an eye for the big picture and didn't let little, petty requests from the other party get in the way of our goals. I needed an attorney who wouldn't back down from threats and harassment. I needed an attorney who would make sure that my daughter was safe and healthy. I needed an attorney who would guide me through the most embarrassing, most painful, most stressful period of my life with dignity and respect. I needed an attorney who would recognize my priorities and make them his. Jake Gilbreath did all that.

Posted by Shannon | January 06, 2014 | Family

Fair, Honest, and Straight Forward Attorney

My husband and I have spent a fortune with multiple attorneys in the last year or so dealing with our ex's, from my ex's filing an appeal over unreimbursed medical to his ex taking us to court every chance she can. I have to say "Jake" Gilbreath was the best. He is fair, honest, straight forward a...nd always kept me informed. He did everything he said he was going to do and I feel like he did a step more. I never felt ignored or that my case wasn't a priority like did with other attorneys I'd worked with. I'd use him again in a heartbeat and mostly likely will need to. I'd recommend him to anyone of my friends and family. You really can not do wrong with hiring him to represent you.

See All Client Reviews

James Scott "Jake" Gilbreath's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James
Lisa Ann Londergan headshot
Lisa Londergan

Family lawyer | Nov 26

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Jake is one of the hardest working attorneys in the Austin family law arena. He is exceptionally bright and his trial skills are second to none. His charisma, wit, and caring approach are key traits in helping his clients navigate through a difficult period in their lives. I endorse Jake wholeheartedly!"

Kathleen Debra Coble headshot
Kathleen Coble

Family lawyer | Jun 17

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Jake is an outstanding lawyer. He is smart, aggressive and has good instincts for family law. He cares about his clients and their children and gives 100% to his cases. He is a great advocate."

David Michael Holmes headshot
David Holmes

Family lawyer | Apr 05

Relationship: Friend

"I have known Jake for many years and know him to be a smart and hard working attorney who is also connected to much that goes on in the community."

Marshall Alan Thompson headshot
Marshall Thompson

Family lawyer | Jan 05

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Jake is smart, experienced and aggressive. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him."

Aaron Michael Culp headshot
Aaron Culp

Family lawyer | Aug 11

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have had several cases against Jake in recent years and he is definitely one of the best attorneys I've worked with. He is an extremely effective and entertaining in the courtroom and an all around excellent litigator. Jake is also courteous with opposing counsel and doesn't like to waste time and money on unnecessary conflict. People looking for great representation in family law will find it with Jake."

Richard Edwin Gray IV headshot
Richard Gray

Family lawyer | Jan 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jake is a wonderful attorney who advocates zealously for his clients. I have worked with Jake on numerous cases and would highly recommend his services."

Christina Ann Leipprandt headshot
Christina Leipprandt

Family lawyer | Jan 17

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Daniel Hennan headshot
John Hennan

Family lawyer | Sep 18

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Jake is at home in the courtroom. His confidence and effectiveness as a litigator are outmeasured only by his knowledge of the law and procedure."

Elizabeth Ford Musgrave Beyer headshot
Elizabeth Beyer

Family lawyer | Feb 12

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Melissa Morgan Williams headshot
Melissa Williams

Family lawyer | May 18

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jake is an excellent advocate for his clients, and an excellent attorney."

Daryl Gail Weinman headshot
Daryl Weinman

Family lawyer | Apr 03

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Very knowledge, experienced and professional."

Patricia Jessica Dixon headshot
Patricia Dixon

Family lawyer | Oct 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Hilton K. Moore headshot
Hilton Moore

Family lawyer | Jul 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kacy L. Dudley headshot
Kacy Dudley

Family lawyer | Jun 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael S. Waddington headshot
Michael Waddington

Family lawyer | May 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse James. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Christopher C. Merritt headshot
Christopher Merritt

Divorce and separation lawyer | May 06

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Jake is an excellent attorney who I have had the pleasure of having on the other side of cases. He is always prepared and advocates for his client. I endorse this lawyer."

Mack J. Travers headshot
Mack Travers

Family lawyer | Apr 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James Gilbreath is one of the best family law attorneys in Austin. I endorse him without reservation. He is an asset to the State Bar of Texas."

Garrett Clarkson Higley headshot
Garrett Higley

Family lawyer | Feb 10

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known Jake for several years now as an attorney in the community and had the pleasure of working with Jake on a case this past year. Jake is intelligent, persuasive, talented, and is a fine litigator with a mastery of the rules of evidence. Additionally, Jake exhibits excellence in the arenas of discovery and dispute resolution, while advocating for his clients with tremendous heart. You cannot go wrong in choosing Jake Gilbreath as your attorney."

Heidi Lee Heinrich headshot
Heidi Heinrich

Family lawyer | Feb 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jake is an extremely knowledgeable and experienced attorney in family law and is well respected within the legal community. I have personally observed him handling a case and can attest that he does a great job."

James W. Evans headshot
James Evans

Family lawyer | Feb 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jake is a tough opposing counsel. Works hard, sharp on the details. Good attorney and advocate for his clients."

View All Endorsements
Kannon Ray Moore headshot
Kannon Moore

Family lawyer

Jeffrey Scott Connelly headshot
Jeffrey Connelly

Criminal defense lawyer

Matthew Allen Skillern headshot
Matthew Skillern

Divorce and separation lawyer

Rick Cofer headshot
Rick Cofer

Criminal defense lawyer

Margaret Victoria Cheu headshot
Margaret Cheu

Family lawyer

Srinivas Behara headshot
Srinivas Behara

Litigation lawyer

Aaron Michael Culp headshot
Aaron Culp

Divorce and separation lawyer

Ryan Shayne Dougay headshot
Ryan Dougay

Divorce and separation lawyer

Jennifer Suzanne Frank Caras headshot
Jennifer Caras

Family lawyer

Keiko Kamille Huey Griffin headshot
Keiko Griffin

Family lawyer

Patricia Jessica Dixon headshot
Patricia Dixon

Family lawyer

Richard Edwin Gray III headshot
Richard Gray

Family lawyer

Richard Edwin Gray IV headshot
Richard Gray

Family lawyer

Elizabeth J. Ayala headshot
Elizabeth Ayala

Family lawyer

Joshua Ray Coffman headshot
Joshua Coffman

Family lawyer

Jason Willis Snell headshot
Jason Snell

Litigation lawyer

John Daniel Hennan headshot
John Hennan

Family lawyer

Robert R. Swafford headshot
Robert Swafford

Litigation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Up and Coming Top 100, SuperLawyers

2021

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2020

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2020

Up and Coming Top 100, SuperLawyers

2019

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2018

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2017

Rising Star, SuperLawyers

2015

Board Certified in Family Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization

2013

Completion Family Law Advocacy Institute trial training, National Institute for Trial Advocacy

2013

Pro Bono College, State Bar of Texas

2012

Pro Bono College, State Bar of Texas

2011

Pro Bono College, State Bar of Texas

2011

Judge Suzanne Covington Pro Bono Service Award, Austin Bar Association

Work Experience

2017 - Present

Partner, Walters Gilbreath, PLLC

2017 - 2017

Partner, PiperBurnett

2016 - 2016

Partner, McCullar Gilbreath, P.C.

2014 - 2015

Partner, Walters Gilbreath, PLLC

2009 - 2014

Associate, Piper & Turner, PLLC

Associations

2016 - Present

Houston Bar Association

Member

2016 - Present

Houston Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member

2016 - Present

Houston Bar Association, Litigation Section

Member

2016 - Present

Harris County Young Lawyers Association

Member

2014 - Present

Young Lawyers for Karin Crump (250th Judicial District Court Race)

Co-chair

2009 - Present

Travis County Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member

2009 - Present

Austin Young Lawyers Association

Member

2009 - Present

Austin Bar Association

Member

2009 - Present

Williamson County Bar Association

Member

2009 - Present

Texas Counsel on Family Violence

Member

2009 - Present

State Bar of Texas Pro Bono College

Member

2009 - Present

State Bar of Texas

Member

2009 - Present

State Bar Family Law Section

Member

2009 - Present

Austin Bar Association, Family Law Section

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

ITIO [Redacted}

After cross examination by Mr. Gilbreath, jury discounted guardian ad litem and sided with mother

IMMO [Redacted]

Obtained sole managing conservatorship for client, high spousal maintenance and significantly disproportionate property division

ITIO [Redacted]

Non-biological mother granted standing to sue for custody

See More Legal Cases

Education

2009

University Of Texas

JD - Juris Doctor

2005

The George Washington University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2019

Houston Bar Association Monthly CLE

Arbitration and Special Judging

2017

The Jury Trial: What You Need to Know to be Successful

Arguing the Charge/Closing Statement

2017

Lawyers Forward

The Paperless Trial

2017

AustinTAAP - Lunch and Learn

Clinicians Navigating the Court Process

2016

Monthly Meeting

Picking an Attorney Who is Right for You

2015

Family Law Section CLE Luncheon

Private Judge - When and How to Use One

2014

How to do a Pro Bono Divorce

Child Issues

2014

Family Law Section Full Day CLE Wiretapping/Spoliation

2014

APIS Conference & Retreat

Pro Bono/Public Interest Workshop

2012

Family Law Essentials

Comprehensive Evidence

2011

National Pro Bono Week at UT Law

Speaker: Screening of "Crime After Crime,"

Publications

2008

National Center on Domestic and Sexual violence Barred Justice

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

James earned significant contribution points in 2014.

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