James Keith Ball

PRO

James Keith Ball

also known as Jim Ball

5.0
Rating: 9.9

Licensed for 28 years

Criminal defense Lawyer at Boise, ID
Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, DUI & DWI, Federal Crime ... +2 more

355 W. Myrtle, Boise, ID

Free Consultation

About James

Biography

Boise’s highest-rated criminal attorney. Former Deputy Prosecutor with award-winning results! Call (208) 314-0359

Boise’s highest-rated criminal attorney. Former Deputy Prosecutor with award-winning results! Call (208) 314-0359

Boise’s highest-rated criminal attorney. Former Deputy Prosecutor with award-winning results! Call (208) 314-0359

Boise’s highest-rated criminal attorney. Former Deputy Prosecutor with award-winning results! Call (208) 314-0359

Boise’s highest-rated criminal attorney. Former Deputy Prosecutor with award-winning results! Call (208) 314-0359

Boise’s highest-rated criminal attorney. Former Deputy Prosecutor with award-winning results! Call (208) 314-0359

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 80%

All federal and State crimes

29 years | 5,000 cases

80%
Appeals 5%

Argue cases in the Idaho Court of Appeals, Idaho Supreme Court and 9th Circuit of Appeals.

29 years | 25 cases

5%
DUI and DWI 5%

Specialize in all Breath and Blood defense

29 years | 1,000 cases

5%
Federal Crime 5%

Handle complex Drug Conspiracies, Tax Fraud, Sex Crimes and Fraud.

29 years | 100 cases

5%
Juvenile Law 5%

All State and Federal Juvenile crimes.

29 years | 500 cases

5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Hourly Rates

$ 200-400 per hour


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Licenses

Licensed in Idaho for 28 years

State: Idaho

Acquired: 1997

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Breen, Ball & Marelius

355 W. Myrtle, Boise, ID, 83702

boise-idaho-criminal-attorney.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find James online.

James Keith Ball's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

72 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (72) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 46 - 50 of 72 reviews

Posted by carl | March 14, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

JAMES BALL

Mr. Ball handled my very difficult case which could have resulted in my incarceration with cool professionalism while providing support during a very difficult time. His fees were very reasonsable for this high demand type of skill set. I highly recommend for criminal defense cases.

Posted by Steve | January 29, 2016 | Hired Attorney

Best attorney in the valley

Jim was recommended to me by someone when I wasn't sure who to help me with my case. Jim was always professional and explained every detail in language that I could understand. His professionalism and personal qualities towards me made me feel comfortable and at ease with everything going on. He w...as very good at keeping me from becoming overwhelmed. I knew that I was in good hands with Jim and appreciate all his honesty and hard work that he did for me.

Posted by Christine | January 28, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

An expert in criminal defense

Jim was recommended to us to represent our son who was charged with one felony and two drug-related charges in a neighboring county. Initially, the prosecutor was not willing to offer a plea agreement; however, due to Jim's expertise in the law and close review of the evidence, the felony was droppe...d and my son ended up convicted of only one misdemeanor. Jim's communication is excellent and he makes you feel as comfortable as possible in situations like that. He thoroughly explains the options, possibilities, his recommendations, etc. I also appreciated the words of advice he gave my son - it's always better coming from someone else!

Posted by Chris | January 27, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Great Attorney

Jim performed exceptionally well defending our unique case. Jim communicated exceptionally well, patiently listening to our concerns and answering all of our questions. Jim developed a great defense, provided excellent advice and ultimately negotiated a Misdemeanor charge down to a parking ticket, ...saving us from a trial. We could not have hoped for better results.

Posted by Tyler | October 26, 2015 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

A true "Top Gun" Defense Lawyer. Jim Ball is among the "elite few" who are heavy hitters in Idaho's legal system.

Let me explain why. I am a former client who faced a certain prison sentence. In fact, I was being offered 4 years fixed in the penitentiary by Ada County Prosecutor for DUI or face habitual violater charges for having prior felony DUI twelve years prior with no plea bargain on the table. Jim had his... work cut out for him and my life was on the table. The only defense I had was to show the court the positives in my life despite a severe addiction problem. Mr. Ball directed me toward a reputable treatment program while he investigated legal loopholes or technicalities that may of occurred during my arrest. Unfortunately I never get that lucky, but nevertheless Mr. Ball reviewed everything carefully and continued the legal process while I finished treatment. At sentencing the prosecutions offer never changed, they wanted to hang me. Another guy I met said don't worry Jim Ball is a bad ass when it's game time in front of the Judge. That statement proved to be correct because when my time came on sentencing, Mr. Ball layed everything out for me in front of a packed courtroom. I wish I was that good at public speaking, it's a natural talent for Mr. Ball. Long story short, I received 120 days and probation. If you want results, be prepared to do the work, seek treatment, and make a change to better your life. If you are in hot water like I was, you need a pit bull, not a puppy. Mr. Ball will get you through the gauntlet, the rest is up to you..... Tyler Thanks Jim!

See All Client Reviews

James Keith Ball's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James
Elisa G. Massoth headshot
Elisa Massoth

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known Jim Ball for 20 years. He is top notch and one of the best lawyers I know."

John Richard Hammond Jr. headshot
John Hammond

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 17

Relationship: Friend

"Jim is a fantastic attorney who represents his client's zealously in trying situations. Very calm and collected, has superior legal ability and tons of experience. Most importantly, everyone I know who Jim has represented have given him glowing praise for his work. I would not hesitate to refer folks to Jim and do so whenever I can. In my mind he is one of the top criminal defense attorneys in Idaho."

Ashley Rachelle Marelius headshot
Ashley Marelius

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 13

Relationship: Co-worker

"Jim is an attorney many young (and older) attorneys look up to and aspire to be. Jim is never too busy to spend time with someone who needs guidance or advice and has been a wonderful mentor to myself and other young attorneys in the firm. Our desperate questions are always met with a kind smile. Jim is also a rockstar in the courtroom. If I was even in a bind, Jim would be the one I would ask to represent me. Jim is incredibly talented and does not hesitate to go the extra mile to ensure he is ready to be the best advocate a client could have. Not to mention he is one of the best dressed attorneys in the state!"

Ty A. Ketlinski headshot
Ty Ketlinski

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 14

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Ball is an outstanding lawyer, and I readily endorse him. I have referred clients to Mr. Ball and will continue to do so."

Katherine Cecilia Ball headshot
Katherine Ball

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 11

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have worked with Jim on criminal cases and he always identifies the salient issues and has a plan to resolve them. Because of Jim's skill and experience I have him help instruct law students in my advanced criminal law writing course. He has an excellent reputation in the legal community and I highly endorse him."

Gerald Raymond Bublitz headshot
Gerald Bublitz

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim is a dedicated attorney and provides top quality representation on behalf of his clients. I recommend him to anyone needing criminal representation."

Ryan Patrick Henson headshot
Ryan Henson

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 20

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Ball's dedication to his clients and their success surpasses other attorneys in his field. I would not hesitate in recommending him to anyone needing assistance with a legal matter."

William J. O'Connor headshot
William O'Connor

Criminal defense lawyer | Apr 17

Relationship: Co-worker

"Jim is an outstanding criminal defense lawyer! My office has been a few feet down the hall from Jim's office for almost four years. During that time, I have observed Jim's work ethic and his dedication to his clients. Not only is Jim's knowledge of criminal law excellent, but he is very skilled at how to practice law. If you're in trouble with the law, call Jim Ball."

View All Endorsements
Ashley Rachelle Marelius headshot
Ashley Marelius

Family lawyer

D. Aaron Hooper headshot
D. Hooper

Criminal defense lawyer

Ty A. Ketlinski headshot
Ty Ketlinski

Estate planning lawyer

John Richard Hammond Jr. headshot
John Hammond

Business lawyer

William J. O'Connor headshot
William O'Connor

Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer

Gerald Raymond Bublitz headshot
Gerald Bublitz

Criminal defense lawyer

Ryan Patrick Henson headshot
Ryan Henson

Litigation lawyer

Elisa G. Massoth headshot
Elisa Massoth

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.9 (Superb)

Honors

2020

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2020

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2019

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2019

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2018

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell®

2018

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2017

Best Law firm 2017, U.S. News and World Report

2017

Idaho Top Ten Attorney Award, NACDA

2017

Client Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

2017

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2016

2016 Preeminent AV award, Martindale-Hubbell

2016

Best Law Firm In Idaho, US News and World Report

2016

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2015

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2015

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

Executive and Professionals Distinction, World Wide Registry

2014

Best Law Firms in Idaho, U.S News and World Report

2013

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2013

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2012

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2012

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2011

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2010

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2010

AV Peer Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

Work Experience

2001 - Present

Partner, Manweiler, Breen, Ball & Davis

1998 - 2000

Lobbyist, Idaho Prosecuting Attorney's Association

1995 - 2000

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Ada County Prosecutors Office

Associations

2017 - Present

Make-A-Wish Idaho

Board of Directors

2010 - Present

Federal Bar Association

Barrister

2006 - Present

United States Supreme Court

Barrister

2006 - Present

Idaho State Bar, IOLTA Fund Committee

Member

2003 - Present

United States Court of Appeals For the Ninth Circuit

Barrister

2001 - Present

Idaho Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2001 - Present

Idaho Trial Lawyers Association

Member

1997 - Present

Idaho State Bar

Barrister

1997 - Present

Fourth District Bar Association

Member

1997 - Present

Idaho Volunteer Lawyers

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

U.S. v. Loveland, 825 F.3d 555 (9th Cir 2016)

Mr. Loveland's conspiracy conviction was overturned and life sentenced was vacated.

State v. Robinson, 143 Idaho 306, 142 P.3d 729 (2006)

Clarified Idaho's Post Conviction Dismissal Statute.

U.S. v. Kilby, 443 F.3d 1135 (9th Cir. 2006

Reduction in Sentence

U.S. v. Molesworth, No. 05-30630, 2006 W. 2404576 (9th Cir. 2006)

Case remanded for new sentencing.

State v. Lamay, 140 Idaho 835, 103 P.3d 448 (2004)

Evidence Suppressed

Reyes v. Craven, 111 Fed.Appx. 462 (9th Cir. 2004) unpublished

Reduction in Sentence

See More Legal Cases

Education

1996

University of Idaho College of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1993

Boise State University

BS - Bachelor of Science

Speaking Engagements

2018

2018 Idaho Law Review Symposium: Dean Erwin Chemerinsky Keynote Speaker Terry V. Ohio-Stop and Frisk in Idaho

2015

Brown Bag Seminar

Ethics

2014

The Practice of Law

Private Practice in Idaho

2013

The Practice of Law

Private Practice in Boise

2012

The Practice of Law

Private Practice in Boise

2002

Handling your next DUI case

DUI in Idaho

Languages

English

Avvo Rating

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Avvo Rating Levels
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