James Shields - Lawyer in Torrance, CA

James Charles Shields

Estate planning Attorney at Torrance, CA

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Outstanding Attorney

Heartbroken Strength

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Estate planning

35%

27 years
Probate

30%

27 years
Elder law

15%

27 years
Trusts

10%

27 years
Wills and living wills

10%

27 years

Attorney James C. Shields provides high caliber, effective legal representation to clients all throughout Southern California. He focuses on select areas of law including bankruptcy, estate planning and probate and he has a proven track record under his belt. With decades of legal experience, Attorney Shields is admitted to practice law in California, Oregon and Arizona. He obtained his Juris Degree from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles back in 1984 and since then, he has opened up five separate law offices so that he can better serve Southern California residents. Attorney Shields assists clients with filing for bankruptcy, foreclosure defense, wills, trusts, estate planning, probate, conservatorship, guardianships and much more. So let his experience work for you! He puts focused attention and energy into every case so that you can obtain the most favorable outcome. Contact the firm today to request a free consultation and learn how Mr. Shields can help you build a brighter future.

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Client's Choice

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Photos and videos

Licensed for 27 years

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 1996

Updated 09/14/2022

State AZ

Status Inactive

Acquired 1996

Updated 09/18/2022

State OR

Status Inactive

Acquired 1995

Updated 10/09/2022

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact James

James Charles Shields

(310) 878-4496 Office

21707 Hawthorne Blvd Ste 204

Torrance, CA, 90503

http://www.shieldslaw.net

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Reviews

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4.8 / 5.0

22 customer reviews

3 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

James received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2014

Posted by Guillermo Scott | June 27, 2014

Outstanding Attorney

Mr. Shields has made my case flow so easy and has taking great care of my case. He has provide great service and would recommend him to anyone. Five stars *****

Response from James Shields July 9, 2014

Thank you for the review. We strive to provide outstanding service to every client at every step.

Posted by Rose | August 18, 2014

Heartbroken Strength

I had a very sensitive case dealing with a probate issue, and James was very supportive giving insightful information. His knowledge and expertise proved to be extremely helpful during a difficult time in my life losing a loved one. James and his team were diligent and professional in their efforts to settle the matters of my case as expeditiously and peacefully as possible. His care and concern were greatly appreciated.

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Response from James Shields August 19, 2014

Rose; Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. Your case was challenging at times. Required much hard work and patience. I enjoyed working with you on this matter. While every matter is unique, we strive to provide outstanding service to every client at every step. No exceptions. Thank you for the review. Your kind words are greatly appreciated.

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Posted by anonymous | October 28, 2021

The very best!

James is an excellent attorney, and I cannot recommend him more highly. He's as old as the hills, so he knows the law better than anybody, being one of the founding fathers of modern jurisprudence. He took care of all my needs with patience, competence, and assurance, and secured me a fantastic settlement. Here's to another 100 years of fine legal practice!

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Posted by Laurie | January 13, 2021

Thank you

Thank you for your quick honest help. Thank you for going above and beyond and giving me a link to the information I needed, the forms to fill out my self in this tough time.

Posted by Beatriz | June 11, 2020

Responsive and Knowledgeable Professional

I enthusiastically endorse Mr. Shields for your legal needs and questions. I find Mr. Shields very responsive, knowledgeable, and attentive. I needed a legal question answered the same day and he took my call and was very careful to make sure I understood the best option for my particular case. If you are in need of any Probate, Trust, or Estate Planning, legal advise please reach out to his office.

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Posted by anonymous | May 24, 2019

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy 2012

The Law Offices of James Charles Shields are highly professional. At a young age, due to medical bills, and other unexpected life events, I accrued massive debt. I was harassed by bill collectors, and, yes, served for small claims and limited civil cases. I felt lost. But, through online research, and setting up an appointment with The Law Offices of James C Shields, I regained hope. I hired their legal services. I felt relief. They treated me not only as a client, but as if I was, i guess, you can say, family. They followed up on my case. Asked how i was. THEY TRULY CARED ABOUT ME. And during my Bankruptcy Court Trial, thanks to Shield's legal team, I was successfully discharged by the United States Bankruptcy Court. I am forever grateful to have hired the Law Offices of James C Shields. I recommend him and his legal team to whoever is considering filing Bankruptcy.

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Posted by anonymous | July 29, 2017

Thank you

We spoke and he was helpful and answered my questions

Posted by John Pesch | May 4, 2017

Great advice.

Mr. Shields answered the questions I needed answered in a professional manner. Unfortunately, I am in need of an attorney who will take a contingency case. If contingency wasn't my issue, he would be along side of me in court. Great consultation Mr. Shields. Thank you again. Highly recommended!

Posted by anonymous | January 6, 2017

Awesome experience

Going into this process it's scary and slightly embarrassing. Staff has made the process for me really smooth. They have answered all my questions and concerns. Robert is great and very knowledgeable and Evangelina has been very nice and helpful.

Posted by anonymous | July 15, 2016

Mrs. Hernandez BK case

Very professional and experienced, really made our experience flow very relaxed.

Posted by Ram | April 13, 2016

Great advice on LLC laws

I needed some guidance about my LLC taxes. Mr. Shields gave me a clear explanation of my situation, the laws involved and the cases that might happen. It was really helpful and now I can clearly understand the different options that I have.

Posted by lili | November 6, 2015

excellent

i found mr shields to be professional. he answered my question. he followed up in a caring sensitive manner after i contacted him and i believe his advice to me is solid. i when i contact him with documents and details i have no doubts his advice will b most valuable. thank u mr shields.

Response from James Shields November 6, 2015

Thank you for your kind words and favorable review. I will continue to provide highest level of service possible.

Posted by anonymous | October 23, 2015

Kind & Uplifting

Mr. Shields was available and helpful at all times. He made us feel informed rather than ignorant about laws regarding Trusts. With much appreciation we would give him 5 stars!

Response from James Shields October 27, 2015

Thank you for kindness and review. Pleased to assist. We try to provide exemplary service to everyone who contacts us.

Posted by normaha | June 25, 2015

Quick, good work, FREE.

the necessary explanation, my junior lien was wiped out by the foreclosure sale and not enough funds to pay all the liens. The joke is no $ changed hands. She likely had been getting by by fleecing people ever since she got to this land of opportunity. She had gotten my husband a pittance job here and there, making her input seem helpful and honest. But she really got me after he died.... So thanks for the good help - the web site and this attorney. Norma [email protected] [my name is Norma ]

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Response from James Shields June 28, 2015

Thank you for the kind words and review. Happy to be of service. My goal is to provide outstanding service to every client at every step of an engagement.

Posted by Victor | December 9, 2014

Review of Mr. Shields

Overall the service was excellent from the very start. The initial meeting was very informative regarding the explanation and process involved in doing a bankruptcy. And for the first time both my wife and me felt confident to move ahead with the the bankruptcy due to the through information and explanation we had received.

Response from James Shields December 10, 2014

Thank you for the kind words and endorsement. Much appreciated. Expect world class service from my law firm every step of the way forward.

Posted by Kelly | September 6, 2014

Outstanding Attorney

I was very pleased with the service I received from Mr. Shields. His Paralegals walked me through each step of my bankruptcy process and he met with me personally before I actually filed my case. On the day of my hearing the attorney he sent with me made me feel confident and comfortable. I have since sent my sister and my boyfriend to him so that they can both file their bankruptcy claims with him.

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Response from James Shields September 9, 2014

Thank you for your kind words. Thank you for trusting us to take care of your sister and boyfriend. We will provide outstanding service to them.

Posted by Jenny Q. | August 5, 2014

The most competent Bankruptcy Attorney around!

Mr. Shields is very knowledgeable and thorough throughout the whole bankruptcy process. He saved my Home and my life! Let this review be the one that sends you to his office. Investing in and trusting him was the best choice I could have made. FIVE STARS!!!!!!

Response from James Shields August 6, 2014

Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. I enjoyed working with you on this matter. While every matter is unique, we strive to provide outstanding service to every client at every step. No exceptions. Thank you for the review. Much appreciated.

Posted by Gloria H. | July 17, 2014

I thank God for sending him to us!

The initial phone interview was very thorough. I had a number of questions regarding our circumstances and Mr. Shields took a great deal of time to give me relevant information. He walked us through the process with warmth and consideration. In addition to being knowledgeable he always kept me informed! If I had a question or just wanted to check on the progress of my probate matter, I always received a prompt response. I could not believe the amount of paperwork that is involved! Could not have gotten through this without them. If you ever want a professional, reliable, trustworthy, and honest lawyer, make sure to give Mr. Shields a call!!!!

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Response from James Shields August 6, 2014

Posted by Andrea S. | June 30, 2014

You did not disappoint!

You have made a difficult situation somewhat simple. I never held lawyers in high regard, but you have brought me around. You truly are great at what you do and we appreciate all the hard work.

Response from James Shields July 25, 2014

Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. Thank you for the review. Much appreciated. We strive to provide outstanding service to every client at every step.

Posted by Jay | January 7, 2021

Competent and Efficient.

My case is ongoing but to date everything has been handled professionally and in a timely manner. Calls have been answered, messages responded to and all questions answered satisfactorily. I have been kept up to date with all aspects of my case and have had nothing but positive experiences with the staff. I deal directly with Robert and during the initial filing of my case Mr. Shields came in to go over everything with me and to sign off on the particulars. Based on my experience I would recommend The law offices of Mr. Shields.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Attorney
Law Offices Of James C. Shields
1998 - Present

Attorney
Law Offices of Robert G. Winterbotham
1996 - 1998

Education

Loyola Law School, Loyola Marymount University
JD - Juris Doctor
1985

University of California - Los Angeles
MBA - Master of Business Administration
1975

Calif St Univ Dominguez Hills
BS - Bachelor of Science
1973

Legal Cases

In re Josephine Blom
Plus $700,000 decision in favor of my client. Objection to appointment of private probate conservator of person and estate affirmed after multiple week trial on James C. Shields pleadings and argument.

In re James L. Meyer Revocable Trust
Plus $1,000,000 decision in favor of my client. Petition to invalidate amendments granted after one week trial. Previous trust distribution to family of my client re-instated. Success based on oral argument and pleading by James C. Shields.

Multiple Chapter 13 Petitions Confirmed Over Objections By Creditors And Trustees
Multiple petitions and proposed plans confirmed

Associations

ARAG
Network Attorney
2014 - Present

Los Angeles Superior Court Probate Mediation Panel
Settlement Officer
2013 - Present

San Fernando Valley Bar Association
Settlement Officer
2013 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association, Trusts and Estates Section, Probate and Trust Committee
Settlement Officer
2010 - Present

American Society of Tax Problem Solvers
Attorney Member
2006 - Present

Westmont North Homeowners Association
Vice President
2001 - Present

United States Tax Court
Attorney Member
1997 - Present

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
Attorney Member
1996 - Present

South Bay Bar Association
Attorney Member
1996 - Present

Federal Trial Bar
Attorney Member
1996 - Present

United States District Court for the Central District of California
Admitted
1996 - Present

State Bar of California
Attorney
1996 - Present

Oregon State Bar
Attorney Member
1996 - Present

State Bar of Arizona
Attorney
1996 - Present

Salvation Army Advisory Board
Treasurer
1995 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association
Attorney Member
1995 - Present

UCLA Alumni Association
Member
1990 - Present

Trinity Lutheran Church
President
2010 - 2011

Accountant-Lawyer Alliance (ALA)
Atorney Member
2010 - 2012

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Languages Spoken

English

Awards

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2021

Best Answers
AVVO
2015

Client's Choice Bankruptcy
AVVO
2014

Top Contributor Award
AVVO
2014

Certificate of Appreciation
South Bay Bar Association
2014

Volunteers "The Heart of the Program"
Los Angeles Superior Court
2011

Admited to Pracice
United States District Court
1996

Admitted to Pratice
Supreme Court of California
1996

Dean's List
Univesity of California Dominguez Hills
1973

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Publications

Individual Guide to Consumer Bankruptcy
The Bankruptcy Process Simplified
2014

Legal Blog
Law Firm Blog
2012

Speaking Engagements

Law Day
Probate Law
2015

Ask a Lawyer
Probate Law
2014

Ask a Lawyer
Bankruptcy
2013

Law Day
Bankruptcy
2012

Law Day
Bankruptcy
2011

Law Day
Estate Planning
2010

South Bay Bar Association
Crossover Issues in Family Law, Probate and Bankruptcy
2006

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Attorney endorsements

Received (228)

Given (541)

Melissa Cefalu

Divorce and separation Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"It is clear from James' education, experience and responses on AVVO that he is a knowledgeable and capable advocate who cares about his clients. I endorse this lawyer."

Lauren Moritz

Estate planning Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer based upon his contributions on Avvo. Mr. Shields provides competent resources for those requesting information on Avvo that should enable them to answer simple inquiries quickly, but has also demonstrated his significant expertise in the field of estate planning for clients who require legal representation in this area."

Steven Miller

Estate planning Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer as a respected member of the legal community. His answers provide the Asker with the pertinent information they need."

Susan Murphy

Probate Attorney | Jun 02
Relationship: Other

"James gives detailed responses explaining probate issues and presents as a knowledgeable probate attorney."

Steven Perrigo

Wills and living wills Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer, because if the level of knowledge and professionalism he displays on this forum."

Lubna Jahangiri

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Apr 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

David Carrier

Estate planning Attorney | Apr 14
Relationship: Other

"With 30 years experience as an estate planning and elder law attorney, I have some idea how to evaluate other lawyers. I have been following Attorney Shields on AVVO for years and have found his advice to be the very best. It is a pleasure to be in a profession with someone as astute, perspicacious and insightful. Scoundrels with law degrees are easy to find, but attorneys and counselors like James Charles Shields are rare and to be treasured."

Kevin O'Leary

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brian Russ

Unknown Attorney | Sep 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Attorney Shields because of his knowledge and experience in the field. His answers here on the AVVO forum are extremely helpful and I appreciate his depth and breadth of knowledge."

Omid Afati

Probate Attorney | Jul 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have read many of Mr. Shield's answers to probate questions on Avvo. I have found his advice to be sound and practical. I endorse this lawyer."

Gerald Dorfman

Unknown Attorney | May 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I often find myself agreeing with his responses given to questions posted in the Avvo forum. Those who post there can expect nothing more than direct, thoughtful, accurate responses, and Mr. Shields delivers. Potential clients would do well to give him serious consideration."

Frank Chen

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Apr 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James Shields demonstrates extensive knowledge of California law. His responses on Avvo are remarkably thoughtful, articulate and accurate. I have tremendous respect for his sound legal knowledge and ability to communicate that knowledge. He is a true asset to our legal community. It is my pleasure to endorse him."

Raymond Areshenko

Estate planning Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Stuart Steingraber

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have read many of Mr. Shields' responses to posts on Avvo. His answers are accurate, concise and free of excessive legalese. His client reviews show his clients think highly of him. I endorse this lawyer."

Thomas Kelly

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | May 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Shields is highly experienced and knowledgeable in his field, and is a regular contributor to Avvo and dedicates a significant amount of his limited time to helping people answer questions in this area."

Walter Hnot,

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Mar 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"James is an excellent attorney committed to providing the highest quality representation to clients. I endorse this attorney without reservation."

Kris Crawford

Estate planning Attorney | Mar 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Valet provides great advice to those in need. He takes time out of his day to answer questions on AVVO and point people in the right direction."

Channika Desilva

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this attorney. His professionalism, remarkable knowledge and vast experience place Mr. Shields among the top notch lawyers in his areas of practice. With utmost dedication and quick critical thinking, he has successfully resolved an impressive number of cases over the course of his career. I highly recommend this lawyer to anyone who needs quality legal representation."

Peter Depew

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Shields provides a much needed service on Avvo. He donates his time to individuals who are in need of immediate legal answers."

Gregory Cade

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Mr. James is a well-regarded and driven attorney who has provided exceptional legal representation to numerous clients throughout the U.S. With his extensive knowledge, broad experience and impressive professional skills, he is bound to invest his time and energy into achieving the best outcome for each case, regardless of its level of complexity."

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