

As principle attorney and founder of The Curtis Firm, LLC., James Curtis provides skilled representation in a variety of matters, including cash seizure and forfeiture, criminal defense, DUI defense, and personal injury. For more than 14 years, he has been aggressively advocating and winning cases for clients in and around Western Washington. Mr. Curtis has a fundamental understanding of the law, as well as many years of felony trial experience. He works tirelessly to get the results his clients are looking for. No matter what you're facing, James has that experience necessary to defend your rights and shed light on any shortcomings related to investigative techniques in your case.
Prior to establishing his own firm, Mr. Curtis served as a deputy prosecuting attorney trying over 1000 DUI cases. During this time, he was heavily involved in levying charges and investigating police conduct. He regularly defended suppression and dismissal motions and participated in numerous jury trials. Today, he calls upon these experiences when working to have DUI cases dismissed or reduced so clients may avoid jail, stay employed, and continue driving.
James Curtis served in the drug/firearm unit examining police investigations and drug/firearm evidence. He has strong practical knowledge and experience analyzing possession charges and extensive training in police procedures, search warrants and undercover drug-buy operations. When representing individuals who have been charged with drug offenses/VUCSA, Mr. Curtis employs an aggressive and methodical approach to getting cases dismissed, reduced, or prevail at trial.
Serving in the violent crimes and gang unit, Mr. Curtis tried over 100 cases involving murder, assault and robbery. During this time, he amassed extensive experience in these areas of the law and is ready to use that experience to defend your rights.
James Curtis was raised in the Tacoma Hilltop Community and graduated from Stadium High School in 1994. After graduation, he worked a series of low-wage, labor intensive jobs. Unsatisfied with the work and prospects for the future, Mr. Curtis set out to transform himself from laborer to lawyer. He graduated from Tacoma Community College with honors and earned multiple scholarships that would allow him to transfer and earn a degree from the University of Washington. He went on to earn his law degree from the University of Washington School of Law and took his first professional position as an associate at the prestigious K&L Gates firm.
When he's not advocating on behalf of his clients, Mr. Curtis gives back to the community whenever possible. He makes contributions in the areas of education, criminal justice and youth recreation. His work has earned special recognition from the City of Tacoma, Washington State Bar Association and Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association. Mr. Curtis regularly appears as a keynote speaker at events and conferences on law, education and related topics.
Education
University of Washington School of Law, Juris Doctorate 2005
University of Washington, Bachelor's Degree 2002
Bar Admission
Washington State Bar Association
Awards and Recognition
Tacoma City of Destiny Award—Equity and Empowerment (2015)
Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association—Public Service Award (2015)
Distinguished Alumnus Award, Tacoma Community College (2014)
Washington State Bar Association Leadership Institute Fellow (2012)
Bertha M. Snell Award: For Perseverance Through Adversity Tacoma-Pierce County Bar (2011)
Recent Blog Posts
Kent Man Not Guilty In Shooting Death, Acted in Self-Defense
Was your cash seized at the airport by U.S. Customs Agents? All hope is not lost!
"Stay Home, Stay Healthy" Unless You Are Accused of Domestic Violence
DUI Defense: Overview of Arrest and Processing
Tukwila Juvenile Defense: My Child Has Been Arrested. What Should I Do?
Recommendations
- James took my case to trial and challenged the false allegations against me. He promised to go to battle for me and that is exactly what he did. I have my life back. Thank you James!
- I was very impressed with how my case came out after James took over. He was able to get things worked out and I greatly appreciate him. I would recommend him to anyone that needs help.
- Quite possibly the best trial lawyer walking planet earth - this is NOT an exaggeration
- My job was on the line and James took over my case. He got me the reduction I needed to save my job.