James Hoover

PRO

James Hoover

also known as Jim Hoover

4.9
116 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 24 years

Divorce and separation Lawyer at San Jose, CA
Practice Areas: Divorce & Separation, Family, Domestic Violence ... +4 more

1520 The Alameda, Suite 200, San Jose, CA

Virtual Consultation Available

About James

Biography

Eleven-Time Avvo Clients' Choice Award Winner for Divorce. Certified Family Law Specialist at Silicon Valley's largest family law firm. Settlement-oriented and litigation ready. With over 250 years of collective family law experience, our team of multi -lingual family law attorneys is on standby.

Eleven -Time Avvo Clients' Choice Award Winner for Divorce. Certified Family Law Specialist at Silicon Valley's largest family law firm. Settlement-oriented and litigation ready. With over 250 years of collective family law experience, our team of multi -lingual family law attorneys is on standby.

Eleven-Time Avvo Clients' Choice Award Winner for Divorce. Certified Family Law Specialist at Silicon Valley's largest family law firm. Settlement-oriented and litigation ready. With over 250 years of collective family law experience, our team of multi -lingual family law attorneys is on standby.

Eleven-Time Avvo Clients' Choice Award Winner for Divorce. Certified Family Law Specialist at Silicon Valley's largest family law firm. Settlement-oriented and litigation ready. Highly experienced with litigating cases involving domestic violence.

Practice Areas

7

Practice Areas

Divorce and Separation 25%

Divorce, legal separation, annulment, child custody and visitation, general property characterization, valuation and division, spousal support, child support, domestic violence, breaches of fiduciary duties, attorney's fees and costs, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements and related matters.

22 years | 1,000 cases

25%
Family 25%

Divorce, legal separation, annulment, child custody and visitation, general property characterization, valuation and division, spousal support, child support, domestic violence, breaches of fiduciary duties, attorney's fees and costs, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements and related matters.

22 years | 1,000 cases

25%
Domestic Violence 15%

Certified Family Law Specialist

15%
Alimony 10%

23 years | 1,000 cases

10%
Child Custody 10%

10%
Child Support 10%

10%
Marriage and Prenuptials 5%

5%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2025 2024 2023
...
+ 8
Gold Client Champion

Licenses

Licensed in California for 24 years

State: California

Acquired: 2001

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Hoover Krepelka, LLP

1520 The Alameda, Suite 200, San Jose, CA, 95126

hooverkrepelka.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find James online.

James Hoover's Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 24 reviews | Responsiveness

Posted by Synthia | April 21, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Patient, Protective & Professional

I truly can’t thank James Hoover enough for the incredible support and expertise he provided during one of the most emotionally challenging times in my life. From our very first meeting, he demonstrated a deep understanding of the law, a compassionate approach, and an unwavering commitment to achiev...ing the best outcome for my situation. He communicated clearly, kept me informed every step of the way, and was always available to answer my questions with patience and professionalism. Navigating a divorce is never easy but dealing with a difficult and uncooperative spouse made the process even more overwhelming. From day one, James brought a calm, confident presence that made me feel heard, protected, and empowered. He was not only strategic and knowledgeable, but also compassionate and patient, especially when things got tense or unpredictable. His ability to stay focused, advocate fiercely on my behalf, and guide me through every step with clarity and care made all the difference. I am beyond grateful and would highly recommend James Hoover to anyone needing a strong, steady advocate in family law.

Posted by Joey | February 05, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

One In A Million Family Law Attorney

I have hired Jim for a challenging child custody/child support matter since 2011, and I couldn’t be more grateful for Jim's exceptional professionalism and expertise in family law. He takes the time to truly listen to my concerns, carefully explains the process, offers strategic plans, and presents a... strong case in court. What makes Jim stand out from other family law attorneys is his ability to approach difficult situations with a calm and balanced perspective. Jim is thorough in building a strong case and his attention to detail is evident. He and his team are always available to address any questions I had. His work ethics still hasn't changed after all these years. The level of care and dedication to my case remains extraordinary. If you’re looking for a family law attorney who is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely cares about their clients, I highly recommend Jim with no hesitation. He makes a stressful process much more manageable. I feel supported all these years and no words could describe my appreciation of his hard work and commitment.

Posted by Tina | January 17, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Family

Legal Strategy Involving Substance Abuse Case

James Hoover and the Associates at Hoover Krepelka, LLP, were extremely knowledgeable and helpful during an incredibly stressful time. I reached out to this law firm when my son and I became displaced from our home due to a family situation involving substance abuse. I wanted to know my rights and wh...at I could legally do to protect us during a chaotic and challenging time. Mr. Hoover took the time to speak to me personally and to strategize all aspects of California law. He had compassion and concern for our safety while providing several solutions in which we might be protected. When you are facing extremely delicate issues, having assurance and taking the stigma out of things created a feeling of support and hope. Once a legal strategy was decided upon, he turned me over to his team to implement the documentation needed. Communication was timely and every item was followed up on in a very thorough manner. I cannot begin to express how helpful this law firm was during one of the most difficult times of my life. I highly recommend James Hoover and his team, they were caring, thoroughly professional, and knowledgeable in all aspects of the legal system.

Posted by anonymous | August 03, 2023 | Family

In my 50+ years, I never got so many answers in one hour, and it was all free!

I am in my fifties, and I have had my share of experiences with attorneys (family law, employment, real estate, etc). Out of the blue, I had a need for some advice on some family law matters. Through a contact, who similarly spoke highly of Jim, I ended up spending a 1hr complimentary consultation wi...th him. Not the first time I do these complimentary consultations, and so I was bracing for disappointment. Most of the time, the signal-to-noise ratio when speaking with attorneys is low, and much more so in initial consultations; where by and large you speak in generalities, superlatives, and, in the worst cases, FUD enters the equation. I ought to have known this was going to be different. After all, Jim's office requested my documents well in advance so he could review. And it was evident that he had reviewed it. To make a long story short, in the 45 minutes we talked, I got *all* my questions answered. We reviewed the documents on Zoom, he pointed to specific parts and what the implications were and, important also, he listened. I have found that many attorneys like to talk, but they do not necessarily listen, and thus many times you have to hear them tell and re-tell things you already know well. Jim was experienced enough, and humble enough to know how to listen, and avoid the soapbox as much as possible. Towards the end of the meeting, and even though it was complimentary, I offered to pay him money. He certainly deserved it. He would not accept it, and negotiated me down to writing a review for him if I had time. I was going to do that anyways, but quite frankly, his candor was refreshing. I wish I don't need an attorney ever again but when, and if I do, I hope they are half as good as Jim. He has essentially set the bar for "initial consultations" for all of them :-) Thank you

Posted by anonymous | February 03, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Divorce with custody battle & DV complaint

I was recommended to Jim Hoover by a friend when my divorce somewhat unexpectedly turned bitter, including attempts by the other side to request full custody of our young daughter. It was a very difficult time, and required fast response from the team at Hoover/Krepelka. They prepared our initial... responses, including interviewing me and getting all of our forms in place within a couple weeks. This including some work on the weekend, in order to meet the initial hearing date. Jim and his team worked with me through the custody portion to resolve it in joint custody and split timeshare, despite delays caused by Covid and court shut-downs, as well as very good timeshare throughout to spend lots of time with my daughter. Jim was very proactive in including deadlines in the initial agreements, including the settlement of our home, which ultimately allowed my daughter and I to move back into the family home, which was very important to us. Also, I must say that the team was very efficient and practical in time spent and billing. Although they have a high hourly billing rate (rightfully so), I found them to be quite efficient in time spent. I know from experience that other law firms tend to send much higher billing hours which more than offset the rate, and that is important to consider. The divorce was very difficult and stressful, but Jim and the team got us ultimately what was important to us, kept mine and my daughter's relationship strong and the end result was the best we could hope for. I highly appreciate their support.

See All Client Reviews

James Hoover's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James
Eva Marie Martelle headshot
Eva Martelle

Family lawyer | Mar 19

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Jim is able to balance his role as advocate for his client while maintaining his professionalism with opposing counsel. This is not true for all attorneys and speaks to Jim's capabilities as a reputable attorney."

Colin Geoffrey McCarthy headshot
Colin McCarthy

Family lawyer | Jun 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Family law is emotionally and legally challenging. James has the right temperment for the clients and the right legal skills for opposing counsel and the judge. It's why I refer family law matters to him."

Gina Nicole Policastri headshot
Gina Policastri

Family lawyer | Sep 01

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse James Hoover for his excellence in family law. I have had the pleasure of knowing Jim professionally for nearly two decades. His reputation in the field is impeccable, characterized by his dedication to clients and sharp litigation skills. Although we are often adversarial, I can always count on Jim to be professional, courteous and settlement minded. As an employer, Jim is known for fostering a professional but fun office atmosphere as well as generous contributions to the community. Overall, I highly recommend Jim for his exceptional skills in family law."

Chelsea Armer Pagan headshot
Chelsea Pagan

Family lawyer | Jun 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"James is a strong advocate for his clients while being easy to work with. I look for forward to working with him again."

Dixon R. Howell headshot
Dixon Howell

Family lawyer | Sep 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"One of the sharpest young lawyers in the Family Law field; compassionate, but aggressive; I recommend him without qualification.."

Heather Murray Allan headshot
Heather Allan

Family lawyer | Mar 14

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I highly endorse Jim. I have had several cases with Jim and his office. He is always communicative and genuinely willing to work in a cooperative manner. I appreciate Jim's approach in cases and believe he is a skilled attorney with years of experience."

Sweta Khandelwal headshot
Sweta Khandelwal

Family lawyer | Mar 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. James Hoover and his Law Firm Hoover & Krapelka are amongst the best in the field. They are trustworthy and solution oriented, which is not something that is found often, specially amongst Family Law & Divorce Attorneys. Highly recommended."

Phong H Nguyen headshot
Phong Nguyen

Family lawyer | Mar 08

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christopher M Cave headshot
Christopher Cave

Family lawyer | Mar 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim and the entire team at Hoover Krepelka LLP are by far the best family law and divorce attorneys that you'll find in California. I would not send my clients anywhere else."

Traci Janeen Pickering headshot
Traci Pickering

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

John Simon Yohanan headshot
John Yohanan

Family lawyer | Jun 08

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Jim is a hard working knowledgeable attorney. He does not waste his client's money on trivial matters that so many family law attorneys seem to do. It was a pleasure having him as an opposing counsel"

James Carr Suits II headshot
James Suits

Unknown lawyer | Jun 03

Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer."

Robert Edward Nuddleman headshot
Robert Nuddleman

Divorce and separation lawyer | Jan 16

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim is a knowledgeable attorney and a zealous advocate for his clients. His experience and dedication to his clients puts him at the top of my referral list."

Rory S. Coetzee headshot
Rory Coetzee

Family lawyer | Oct 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Jim is one of the most trustworthy lawyers I know. I wouldn't hesitate to hire him myself."

Christopher Walter Dull headshot
Christopher Dull

Divorce and separation lawyer | Sep 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jon G. Brooks headshot
Jon Brooks

Family lawyer | Sep 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Jim Hoover for 14 years having attended law school with him and as a fellow attorney in San Jose. Jim is not only one of the sharpest lawyers I've ever known, he is also earnest, highly ethical and compassionate. I have never received feedback from clients we've referred to him that wasn't positive."

Thomas Nicholas Cvietkovich headshot
Thomas Cvietkovich

Family lawyer | Aug 18

Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer."

Matthew Jacob Rudy headshot
Matthew Rudy

Family lawyer | Mar 22

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
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Stephanie Huang

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Gina Policastri

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Emiliza San Diego

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Lana Shearer

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Constance Carpenter

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Joy Diaz

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Christine Pham

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Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2026

Top 10 San Jose Divorce Attorney, Trust Analytica

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2025

Client's Choice, Avvo

2025

Client Champion Gold, Martindale-Hubbell

2025

Northern California Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2024

Avvo Client's Choice Award - Divorce, Avvo

2024

Northern California Super Lawyers, Find Law - Thompson Reuters

2024

Top Rated Lawyer, US Lawyer Database

2024

Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave, 2024 Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave

2024

Top 10 Divorce Attorneys of San Jose, Forbes

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Top 10 Divorce Law Firm in the 10 Biggest Cities in the US, Insider Monkey

2023

Northern California Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2023

Top 3 Divorce Lawyers in San Jose, Three Best Rated

2023

Client Champion Gold, Martindale-Hubbell

2023

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce, Avvo

2023

Northern California Super Lawyers, FindLaw - Thompson Reuters

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Northern California Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers

2022

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce, Avvo

2022

Northern California Super Lawyers, FindLaw - Thompson Reuters

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce, Avvo

2021

Northern California Super Lawyers, Find Law - Thompson Reuters

2021

Northern California Super Lawyers, FindLaw - Thompson Reuters

2021

Client Champion - Silver, Martindale-Hubbell®

2020

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce 2020, Avvo

2019

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce 2019, Avvo

2018

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce 2018, Avvo

2017

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce 2017, Avvo

2017

Lawyer of Distinction, Lawyers of Distinction

2017

Esteemed Lawyers of America, Esteemed Lawyers of America

2017

10 Best Attorneys, American Institution of Family Law Attorneys

2017

Top One Percent, National Association of Distinguished Counsel

2016

Lawyer of Distinction, Lawyers of Distinction

2015

Certified Specialist - Family Law, State Bar of California

2015

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce, Avvo

2012

Avvo Clients' Choice Award - Divorce 2012, Avvo

2001

Top of the Class Awards in Contracts, Santa Clara University, School of Law

2001

Graduated Summa Cum Laude (top 2%), Santa Clara University, School of Law

2001

Dean's List 2001, Santa Clara University, School of Law

2001

Top of the Class Award in Criminal Procedure, Santa Clara University, School of Law

2001

Top of the Class Award in Dispute Resolution, Santa Clara University, School of Law

2001

Top of the Class Award in Wills and Trusts, Santa Clara University, School of Law

2001

Top of the Class Award in Commercial Transactions, Santa Clara University, School of Law

2001

Top of the Class Award in Torts, Santa Clara University, School of Law

2000

Pro Bono Service Award, Santa Clara University, School of Law

2000

Dean's List 2000, Santa Clara University, School of Law

1999

Pro Bono Service Award, Santa Clara University, School of Law

1999

Dean's List 1999, Santa Clara University, School of Law

1998

Graduated Magna Cum Laude in Accounting (top 5%), Santa Clara University

Work Experience

2003 - Present

Partner, Hoover Krepelka, LLP

Associations

2015 - Present

Association of Certified Family Law Specialists

Member

2013 - Present

State Bar of California

Certified Family Law Specialist

2012 - Present

ProVisors

Member

2007 - Present

Silicon Valley Capital Club

Member

2001 - Present

Santa Clara County Bar

Member

2007 - 2014

Network Today

Member since 2007, President 2009 and 2011

Sample of Legal Cases

Confidential

See More Legal Cases

Education

2001

Santa Clara University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1998

Santa Clara University

1998

Santa Clara University

Speaking Engagements

2013

Santa Clara University

Legal Careers in Family Law

Publications

2023

2023

Hoover Krepelka, LLP - Blog Job Loss in a Divorce

2016

LinkedIn; HK Blog Legalization of marijuana: will it affect child custody cases, and how?

2015

Languages

English

Spanish

Mandarin

French

Czech

Russian

Vietnamese

Farsi

Cantonese

Romanian

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution