2024 Max Goodwin Young Lawyer of the Year - James Barth
James Barth is an attorney at the Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak law firm located in South Bend, Indiana. His practice extends to clients across the South Bend Metro, LaPorte County and Northern Indiana. Focusing on personal injury law, his practice areas include motor vehicle accidents, trucking accidents, premises liability and animal bites.
A Magna cum laude graduate of Valparaiso University School of Law in 2016, Mr. Barth brings his legal prowess to the forefront as an advocate for individuals who have suffered injury or loss. His unique background includes serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he assisted junior Marines with various challenges, enabling him to connect with his clients on a personal level. With experience clerking for both Federal and State trial courts, Mr. Barth has acquired valuable insights and courtroom skills. His dedication to his clients is reflected in his "Superb" Avvo rating. Recognized for his outstanding contributions, Mr. Barth has received accolades such as the Top 40 Under 40 Civil Plaintiff award from The National Trial Lawyers in 2020. He has also earned the prestigious 10 Best Client Satisfaction Award from the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys, highlighting his commitment to client advocacy. |
Actively engaged in the legal community, Mr. Barth is a member of the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association and the Indiana Bar Association. Additionally, he serves as the treasurer for the Porter County Inn of Court, emphasizing his commitment to professional development within the legal field. Through his multifaceted experiences and memberships, Mr. Barth enriches the legal team at Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak, contributing a unique perspective to his practice in personal injury law.
"For distinguished service to the citizens of Indiana and the United States as an outstanding young lawyer dedicated to protecting the rights of the injured under the laws of the State of Indiana and the United States of America"
James was nominated for the Max Goodwin Young Lawyer Award
by Bill Keller.
The text of his nomination is below.
I enthusiastically nominate James Barth for the prestigious Max Goodwin Young Lawyer Award. Mr. Barth is an exceptional attorney who embodies the qualities and dedication deserving of this recognition.
Mr. Barth was admitted to practice law in Indiana in 2016 and has an impressive track record. He has served as first or second chair in 25 trials, presenting cases in both state and federal courts. Recently, he obtained a verdict of 1.7 million in a bench trial. He has also been involved in 21 appeals, with three reaching the Indiana Supreme Court. His expertise extends beyond Indiana, as he is admitted to practice before the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals and in Michigan.
In addition to his legal achievements, Mr. Barth is deeply committed to his clients and community. He ensures that clients understand their unique situations and the relevant laws, effectively communicating complex legal concepts. He volunteers for ITLA's Lawyer of the Day and pro bono efforts, provides guidance during the Indiana Bar Association's Talk to a Lawyer Day, and serves as an elder/board member for the Presbyterian Church of LaPorte.
Within the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA), Mr. Barth has been an invaluable asset. As a member of the Board of Directors, he actively shapes the future of the association. He has also contributed significantly to the advancement of Indiana law through his amicus brief in Wings Etc. et al. v. Estate of Nathan Blount. His argument before the Indiana Supreme Court preserved the ability to pursue dramshop liability claims under traditional common law negligence theories, reinforcing the duty of care owed by alcohol providers.
Mr. Barth meets and exceeds the criteria for the Max Goodwin Young Lawyer Award. His courtroom successes and legislative involvement have advanced Indiana law. His dedication to community service and pro bono work demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact. He embodies the professionalism and civility expected of young lawyers and is clearly a rising star in our organization.
In conclusion, James Barth is an exceptional young lawyer deserving of the Max Goodwin Young Lawyer Award. His legal achievements, commitment to clients and community, and active involvement in ITLA make him an outstanding candidate. I wholeheartedly recommend James Barth as the most deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
Mr. Barth was admitted to practice law in Indiana in 2016 and has an impressive track record. He has served as first or second chair in 25 trials, presenting cases in both state and federal courts. Recently, he obtained a verdict of 1.7 million in a bench trial. He has also been involved in 21 appeals, with three reaching the Indiana Supreme Court. His expertise extends beyond Indiana, as he is admitted to practice before the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals and in Michigan.
In addition to his legal achievements, Mr. Barth is deeply committed to his clients and community. He ensures that clients understand their unique situations and the relevant laws, effectively communicating complex legal concepts. He volunteers for ITLA's Lawyer of the Day and pro bono efforts, provides guidance during the Indiana Bar Association's Talk to a Lawyer Day, and serves as an elder/board member for the Presbyterian Church of LaPorte.
Within the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA), Mr. Barth has been an invaluable asset. As a member of the Board of Directors, he actively shapes the future of the association. He has also contributed significantly to the advancement of Indiana law through his amicus brief in Wings Etc. et al. v. Estate of Nathan Blount. His argument before the Indiana Supreme Court preserved the ability to pursue dramshop liability claims under traditional common law negligence theories, reinforcing the duty of care owed by alcohol providers.
Mr. Barth meets and exceeds the criteria for the Max Goodwin Young Lawyer Award. His courtroom successes and legislative involvement have advanced Indiana law. His dedication to community service and pro bono work demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact. He embodies the professionalism and civility expected of young lawyers and is clearly a rising star in our organization.
In conclusion, James Barth is an exceptional young lawyer deserving of the Max Goodwin Young Lawyer Award. His legal achievements, commitment to clients and community, and active involvement in ITLA make him an outstanding candidate. I wholeheartedly recommend James Barth as the most deserving recipient of this prestigious award.