Atty. James A. Kearns

Atty. James A. Kearns

James A. Kearns is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Admiralty and Maritime Law.

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Profile Summary

About James A. Kearns at a glance

James A. Kearns is a maritime attorney based in Washington, District of Columbia, practicing at Jones Walker Llp. Educated at University of Notre Dame (J.D., 1974). Recognitions include Best Lawyers in America — Admiralty and Maritime Law (2026). Serands clients in Washington, DC and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Verified attorney profile · Updated June 2026

About

  • James A. Kearns is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Admiralty and Maritime Law
  • James A., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2025
  • This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which James A. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area

Practice Areas Explained

James A. Kearns's Areas of Practice

Each practice area below reflects the types of cases James A. Kearns handles, with a brief overview of what that area of law covers.

Maritime & Admiralty Law

Maritime attorneys for Jones Act claims, longshore injury, cruise ship cases, and offshore matters.

James A. Kearns is one of 11,568 maritime attorneys indexed nationally. Browse maritime attorneys in District of Columbia →

Jurisdictional Context

Why local counsel matters in District of Columbia

Practicing law in District of Columbia. Legal matters in District of Columbia are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Washington are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate District of Columbia state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in District of Columbia brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this andnue, and the substantive law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in District of Columbia courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.

Looking for additional District of Columbia attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Washington or all attorneys in District of Columbia.

Frequently Asked

Common questions about James A. Kearns

Where is James A. Kearns's law office located?
James A. Kearns's law practice is located in Washington, District of Columbia. The firm is Jones Walker Llp. You can contact the office directly through this profile page.
What practice areas does James A. Kearns handle?
James A. Kearns focuses on maritime. Each practice area listed reflects experience handling cases of that type in District of Columbia.
Where did James A. Kearns go to law school?
James A. Kearns earned their education at (J.D., 1974).
How can I contact James A. Kearns for a consultation?
You can contact James A. Kearns directly through this profile page. Click "Ask the Attorney" to submit a question, or "Schedule a Consultation" to book a meeting. Most claimed-profile attorneys respond within one business day.
What awards or recognition has James A. Kearns received?
James A. Kearns's notable recognition includes: Best Lawyers in America — Admiralty and Maritime Law.

Education

J.D.
University of Notre Dame
- 1974

Awards

Best Lawyers in America — Admiralty and Maritime Law
- 2026

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