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 - 5 of 12 reviews | Trustworthiness

Posted by Elizabeth | May 11, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

A+ Professional

I couldn't be happier with the legal services provided to me by Attorney James Ball. I felt that my case was handled in the most diligent and professional manner possible. Jim was always straightforward, realistic, honest and compassionate. I never waited for a response to my questions; he promptl...y answered both email and phone messages. I believe his experience and legal knowledge were evident throughout my case-he knows the law! What really impressed me was the excellent rapport he had with his colleagues, to include the judges, the prosecutors and other attorneys. I faced a serious matter with tough consequences. Because I was lucky enough to find Jim, I had an outcome that was frankly, easy. Don't tell the judge! Thanks Jim, for all your hard work and great representation!

Posted by anonymous | April 19, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Extremely intelligent and master negotiator

I called Jim after being referred. He spoke with me in-depth about my criminal case just based off what he knew from experience, but I could immediately tell that he cared and wasn’t there to sugarcoat the realities of what I was dealing with. I met with him in person and we went over everything ...he and I wanted to talk about. He took his time and was very meticulous. As the days and weeks went on of me wondering what would happen, Jim made sure that I was kept in the loop as fast as possible. He made sure that anything he received in discovery was sent to me electronically as soon as possible. It was nice that he had that option instead of mailing things. Anytime I had questions, Jim was available. In the end, Jim was able to skillfully workout an extremely generous deal for me that included a withheld judgement. Considering what could have happened, I was genuinely grateful and appreciative. Plus, he’s just a great guy and gets along with people well. He joined me in every hearing, even a NCO hearing that wasn’t directly related to my charges. Highly recommended.

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 Debbie | October 27, 2017 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense

Unique Cases Are His Specialty

Not that Jim Ball needs another glowing review, but he earns every one of them. We had dreaded the day when my husband's sleepwalking finally came to a head. Yet, even knowing he had this condition we had no idea what could come of it. We had struggled with getting physicians to believe us, having so...ught treatment more than once. Jim did not even doubt us for a moment. When people say Jim is there for you, we are all understating it. He is fully present in every moment. He must have (literally) a thousand things on his mind at any given time. But when he was addressing us and my husband's case, it was as if we were his only clients. Even when he needed to rush away to help someone else, he always had a moment of genuine reassurance to offer. My shy husband was completely devastated by what had happened. He had never been in the criminal justice system. Jim answered every question and even answered many before they were asked. He was able to make it so my husband barely had to speak in court. In fact, the only time he "made" my husband actually stand up in court was because the judge wanted to commend my husband for all he was doing to get his devastating condition treated and how quickly he had done all that she asked of him. The resources Jim connected us to are still valued today. We have referred others to them for life management counseling. I would recommend Jim to anyone. He helps those people who want to better their lives. And even while wondering about those people who just want to keep doing what they are doing, I would even recommend Jim to them. They will be better people because of him. In the end, what we really loved about Jim is that he wasn't trying to "work the system." He really is keeping the scales of justice balanced.

Posted by Patrick | September 11, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

Great experience in a tough situation

Jim Ball did an outstanding job representing me in my DUI case. He was professional, understanding and not judgmental during a difficult time. He is well versed and respected within the legal system. I heard positive comments about Jim from the fine counter all the way through the legal system to my ...probation officer. I knew i was in good hands!

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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