James Cummins

Jim Cummins is a Partner in Harrison’s San Francisco office and a seasoned litigator with a proven track record in high-stakes trust and estate litigation. Known for his skill, advocacy, and strategic approach, Jim represents trustees, executors, personal representatives, and attorneys-in-fact in matters involving allegations of trust mismanagement, breaches of fiduciary duty, financial elder abuse, and will and trust contests.

In addition to his core trust and estate litigation practice, Jim has substantial experience handling business and real estate disputes, particularly those arising in the administration of trusts and in the context of marital dissolution proceedings. His practice combines deep subject-matter knowledge with an empathetic understanding of the emotional dynamics involved, while maintaining a practical, results-oriented approach that delivers cost-effective outcomes for his clients.

Jim has successfully litigated numerous complex probate and trust matters to favorable resolutions, including cases involving multimillion-dollar trusts, contested amendments, claims of financial elder abuse, and disputes over fiduciary conduct. He is recognized for his thorough preparation, persuasive advocacy, and ability to resolve matters through both litigation and negotiated settlement. He is also a frequent speaker on trust, estate, and elder abuse litigation topics for professional and industry groups.

Before joining Harrison, Jim was a Shareholder and Director at Barulich Dugoni Suttmann & Cummins Law Group, Inc., where he helped build the brand and develop the talent of its litigation department, first as its Litigation Practice Area Leader and later as its only litigating Shareholder. The talent, reputation, and client service standards Jim cultivated at BDSC now continue at Harrison.