James Cook

Testimony to his persistent nature to render meaningful results on civil rights issues, James is the counsel of record for a class action lawsuit seeking racial justice that has been in the courts since November 2015. A nonprofit organization and seven families, together, sued the State of Minnesota asserting that segregation has led to unfair and substandard educational environments for racial and ethnic minority children in the St. Paul and Minneapolis school districts. This case, Cruz-Guzman v. The State of Minnesota, has taken many turns and twists but remains open and will be heard before the Supreme Court.

Outside the law office and courtroom, the community loves James for his personality as well as all of his contributions. He exemplifies what it means to give back. An avid volunteer, James has helped many organizations deliver legal services to the community. Currently, he volunteers for the San Francisco Bar Association’s Justice and Diversity Pro Bono Housing Clinic. He also volunteers for the Alameda County Bar Association’s Unlawful Detainer Mediation, Bankruptcy, and Family Law Clinics. As if his law practice and volunteerism did not keep him busy enough, James remains forever an active member of the Earl Warren Inn of Court, where members work to increase professionalism in law and to provide mentoring to Alameda future lawyers and legal community.

James’ fighting nature has come naturally. Before he put gloves on to enter the courtroom, he had gloves on to enter the ring. He is a decorated champion in Muay Thai Full-Contact Kickboxing. As a professional kickboxer, he traveled to every corner of the world to compete in televised bouts – from all over the United States to Japan, Thailand, Ireland, the Netherlands, France, Russia, and Turkey. He won Golden Gloves Boxing in two states and competed in Mixed Martial Arts, aka Ultimate Fighting. Though competing in the ring is not his focus today, he continues to learn and compete from time to time in martial arts competitions. He also coaches professional and amateur combat sports competitors.

Being in physical and mental shape is key to James’ success. It keeps him motivated and alert. It also keeps him strong, whether that’s in the courtroom or the ring. In the end, winning is what he likes best.