James Pettis’ practice involves various litigation matters, including aviation-related product liability actions, along with commercial and class actions related to title insurance, mortgages and commercial leases.  Mr. Pettis has presented a CLE-accredited lecture on pre-certification motions in class actions.

Before joining the firm, Mr. Pettis worked at a Los Angeles law firm where he focused his practice on product liability cases involving aviation disasters and aerospace-related asbestos claims.  He also worked in the legal department at Union Pacific Railroad Company, where he dealt with railroad grade crossing accidents and environmental claims.  Mr. Pettis served as a plane captain in the U.S. Navy at NAS Whidbey Island and aboard the USS Carl Vinson, where he received the National Defense Medal. 

Select Representations

• Defense of general aviation engine manufacture in product liability claims arising from aircraft incidents and accidents
• Litigation work throughout the U.S. in defense of manufacturer of aircraft components, including nose-wheel steering systems and fuel spray nozzles
• Defense of aircraft component manufacturer against claims arising from Singapore Airlines SQ006 disaster at Chiang Kai Shek Airport in Taiwan
• Defense of aircraft and aircraft component manufacturer against claims arising from asbestos exposure
• Defense of mortgage lender in commercial actions arising from mortgage charges and lien disputes
• Defense of title insurance company in class actions arising from title insurance charges
• Defense of computer equipment manufacturer in class actions related to advertising

Bar and Court Admissions

California, 2002

Education

University of the Pacific, J.D., 2002

Washington State University, B.A., cum laude, 1998

Professional Affiliations

• American Bar Association
• Los Angeles County Bar Association

Civic Involvement and Honors

• United States Navy – National Defense Medal
• Named as a 2010 Southern California "Rising Star" by Law & Politics