James “Jake” L. Banks IV

James “Jake” L. Banks IV

Partner

Jackson

601-974-8713

601-960-8613


Education

  • University of Mississippi School of Law, J.D., magna cum laude
  • The College of Charleston, B.A. Political Science, magna cum laude

Bar Admissions

  • Mississippi, 2006
  • Florida, 2022
  • U.S. District Courts for Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit

Jake is a seasoned litigator with nearly 20 years of experience serving as a trusted advocate for clients across a wide range of complex matters. From initial case assessment through appeal, he delivers strategic counsel and results-driven representation in high-stakes litigation involving significant financial exposure and reputational risk.

Throughout his career, Jake has engineered favorable outcomes for his clients in cases implicating multiple practice areas. His comprehensive litigation experience includes medical malpractice defense, toxic torts, product liability, premises liability, personal injury defense, insurance coverage and bad faith defense. He represents clients ranging from single-location practices to the state’s largest health systems, as well as national retailers and commercial entities facing regulatory and consumer protection claims.

Jake’s approach is characterized by efficiency and practicality, targeting the most cost-conscious solutions for achieving his clients’ short and long-term litigation goals. His deep understanding of technical subject matter, whether medical terminology and clinical documentation or complex product specifications, allows him to effectively evaluate claims, work with experts, and develop persuasive defense strategies.

Jake’s dedication to client service is evident in his commitment to clear, consistent communication throughout every phase of litigation. He understands that clients face not only legal exposure but also reputational and operational concerns, and he works to manage all aspects with equal attention and strategic insight.

Professional Recognition

Important Litigation Involvement

  • Litigated hundreds of personal injury lawsuits, ranging from motor vehicle accidents to toxic torts. Earned summary judgment for clients in many of these cases, which were affirmed on appeal. And when suits could not be settled or resolved via dispositive motion practice, Jake tried such suits, both as lead and second-chair counsel, earning three defense verdicts.
  • Regional representation of national retailer in Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) litigation.

News & Knowledge

Professional Recognition

  • Martindale-Hubbell® Preeminent AV® Peer Review Rating
  • Selected to The Best Lawyers in America®  (2023-2026): Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants and Product Liability Litigation – Defendants
  • Selected to Mid-South Rising Stars (2015-2019)


Best Lawyers Award Badge

Organization/Committee Memberships

  • The Mississippi Bar, Young Lawyers Division, Member of Community Service and Pro Bono Committees
  • Phoenix Club of Jackson

Law School Honors & Awards

  • Outstanding Student Award for Torts
  • Member of Honor Council

Previous Experience

  • Previously a partner with a regional law firm, gaining ten years of experience handling defense litigation, including medical malpractice, products liability, automobile liability, premises liability, insurer bad faith, appellate practice, constitutional law, and transactional law