Jim Irmen has tried cases in state and federal courts on a variety of subjects. His current practice focuses on the resolution of commercial and construction disputes.
In his commercial practice Jim represents clients in a broad spectrum of business sectors, including manufacturing, technology, transportation, insurance, health care, real estate, professional services and sales/marketing. His most recent work has been in the trial or settlement of controversies stemming from breach of contract, theft of trade secrets, business breakups, and insurance coverage disputes. He has come to understand that some cases require “drop everything” attention, and in every case clients appreciate that Jim treats every case like it is his most important. His commitment to focus on client objectives, early case evaluation and aggressive advocacy leads to prompt and favorable client outcomes. He is particularly sensitive to the needs of in-house counsel for cost-effective management of litigation in a way that addresses the concerns of all of the business’s stakeholders.
In his construction practice Jim has represented owners, developers, general contractors, construction managers, architects, engineers and subcontractors in virtually every kind of claim that arises when work on a project stops or goes wrong. His most recent work has in the resolution of complex delay damage claims, disputes over the quality/adequacy of project specifications, claims for extra compensation, and construction and design defects. His work in the area of federal contract work has increased over the last 10 years. He is often called on in claims involving the interpretation and application of the Federal Acquisition Regulations in federal construction contracts.
He served as president of the Toledo Bar Association and also as the chair of the TBA’s Federal Court, Common Pleas Court and Court of Appeals committees. His experience in the courtroom began during law school while he clerked for a state court judge. His practice is predominantly in Northwest Ohio and South East Michigan but he has tried cases as far away as Cheyenne, Wyoming. His public service includes 8 years as a township trustee.
He also has an interest in religious freedom issues and has represented churches, a rescue mission, a Christian radio station, and other religious organizations for many years in matters ranging from local church vs. denominational hierarchy disputes, to church construction disputes, to real estate tax exemptions, to the religious freedom concerns when churches contract or partner with secular organizations. In this work he collaborates with and utilizes the resources and expertise of the Alliance Defending Freedom and the Christian Legal Society.
*Admitted Pro Hac Vice in Indiana, Wyoming and California