K. James Sullivan

As leader of Calfee's insurance recovery practice, James Sullivan counsels corporate insurance policyholders on insurance coverage issues and litigates insurance coverage disputes. He also litigates and helps resolve clients’ general business disputes.

James’ primary focus is providing insurance coverage services to corporate policyholders. He also represents closely held and publicly traded business clients on a variety of other matters, including:

• Litigating contract, business tort, and equitable claims
• Advising on contract interpretation
• Facilitating alternative dispute resolution efforts

James has litigated in many Ohio appeals and trial courts, as well as numerous federal trial and appeals courts.

James is one of 24 Ohio lawyers certified as an insurance law specialist by the Ohio State Bar Association. Multiple times he has served as an expert witness on insurance coverage issues.

James has been recognized for his work in Insurance by Chambers USA, most recently ranked in 2021 in Band 1. Chambers USA researchers noted, "[James] is held in high esteem for his approach to complex recovery claims, which sees him handle a wide range of coverage disputes." A client interviewed by Chambers USA researchers said, "He is eager to learn about our business and that pays dividends in the quality of his work." Another client mentioned, "He is able to communicate complex issues effectively." A client enthused, "James is the most intelligent, hard-working and consistent coverage attorney I have worked with."

Chambers USA 2020 researchers commented that James "is held in high esteem as one of the best policyholder lawyers in Ohio. He is also praised for his sophisticated and diplomatic approach to complex recovery claims, which sees him handle a wide range of coverage disputes. One source reports, 'He does an excellent job in analyzing situations and getting a good result. He is smart, well respected and capable in the courtroom.'"

He was named Best Lawyers^® 2018 Insurance Law "Lawyer of the Year" in Cleveland. He has been selected to The Best Lawyers in America^© list since 2017. Additionally, James has been recognized by Ohio Super Lawyers as one of the top 100 attorneys in Ohio (2015-2021) and top 50 attorneys in Cleveland (2015-2020).

James joined Calfee in 2001 and was elected Partner in 2010. He serves as chair of Calfee’s Associates Committee, and is a member of its Associate Compensation Committee, Diversity & Inclusion Committee, and Practice Planning and Growth Committee. He also serves as a formal and informal mentor to other Calfee attorneys.