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 1 - 3 of 3 reviews | Punctuality

Posted by Clark | February 12, 2018 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

A Very Excellent Attorney

The First Attorney at Law I ever approached and hands down, incredible! 7.0 stars out of 5 Posted by C.L. February 11, 2018 I was looking for an attorney to represent me for a DUI charge and hands down the best website I found was this one. I contacted Jim from the Firm's website in the even...ing and he promptly replied the following day. I live outside the Boise area, so we set up a telephone meeting a day or two later. Jim is easy to reach, professional, personable and clearly knows what he is doing. He truly cares about helping you, works hard and offers the best possible options. He explained a confusing process (civil and criminal), often more than one time, until I understood what the next step would be. He met all court deadlines and called when he stated he would call. He helped me through an embarrassing and stressful period in my life, making it as smooth as possible. I would recommend him to anyone who needs legal representation, no matter what the situation may be.

Posted by Matt | November 05, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Jim is Boise’s highest rated criminal attorney with good reason... He's the best of the best, and well-respected by all.

Jim Ball is an excellent attorney who truly cares about his clients, AND their families. I was facing 13 felony counts across 2 cases, and retained Jim Ball to defend me. He works off a flat fee, and is worth every penny. Jim always returned my calls and emails promptly, and checked in before ever...y court date with a personal reminder of the time, location, etc. Jim communicates clearly, doesn't sugar coat (which I appreciate), and always gives an honest assessment of possible courses of action and outcomes. Jim is a man of high integrity and ethics, and is highly respected his by colleagues and clients alike. In my first case, I didn't know I had a warrant and was arrested in the late afternoon with bail of 100K. My family contacted Jim that evening, and he was in court the next morning to defend me and argue bond. After a brief conversation with my wife and parents, Jim put together an argument which knocked my bail down from 100K to 20k. Jim referred me to a bail bond company who gave me a discount based on Jim's referral, so I paid $1600 (8% instead of 10%), and was released after one day in jail. While we were working on the first case, Jim let me know that a second case had been filed, and I again had 100K bond. Jim coordinated with me to turn myself in so that he could be available to argue my bail. Jim got me released the next day on my own recognizance. From first arrest to sentencing, my two cases took over 1 year and 2 months. Jim reviewed everything in both cases and gave me a realistic and honest recommendation on a best course of action. Based on Jim's hard work, knowledge of the system, and the respect the prosecution has for him, I was offered a very fair plea agreement. I plead guilty to one felony count of grand theft in the second case, and the prosecution dismissed all the other charges and the first case. A total of 12 serious felony charges were dismissed thanks to Jim. Jim kept me well informed on what to expect during the presentence investigation, and during my sentencing. The prosecutor asked for 10 years in prison. Jim's argument at my sentencing was excellent, and I ended up with a suspended sentence, and on probation with 180 days work release and a $1000 fine plus court fees. Jim is the best in the area. Period. Over the course of a year I got see many defense attorneys in court with their clients, and NOT one of them was as competent, well-spoken, well-dressed, or as well-respected as Jim. Jim Ball is an excellent attorney who will truly care for you and your family. He'll tell you the truth, and will fight hard for you, while retaining the respect of everyone in the court system. Jim is worth every single penny, and I highly recommend him.

Posted by -repeat client | April 28, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Maverick

Jim was hired to help with some 'clean & wrap up' legal tasks from prior personal criminal cases. He is easily approachable, timely, very thorough, and will roll the dice for you (even if it may 'color outside of the lines' a bit). I am extremely pleased with his results and would not hesitate to re-...hire or recommend him to anyone. When you are considering an attorney, for whatever reason, consider someone that will tirelessly go to bat for you, regardless of whether you've already been told "that just can't be done!" He will give it his best efforts on your behalf. Concurrently, Mr. Ball will provide you with a concise and realistic overview of what anticipated results may or may not be based upon your individual circumstances.

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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