Profile photo of James Alexander

James Alexander

Arbitrator Mediator Special Master
Detroit, MI, United States

About

James Alexander served as an Oakland County Circuit Court judge for nearly two decades, where he presided over the Business Court from its inception in 2013 until 2020. His judicial tenure involved overseeing more than 3,000 business-related cases. Before his time on the bench, he practiced law for 28 years, focusing on various civil litigation matters. He has extensive experience resolving complex disputes through mediation and arbitration, particularly in commercial and employment sectors.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Employment & Labor Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Judge
2021
Oakland County Circuit Court
2001–2020
Presiding Judge
Oakland County Business Court
Attorney
2013–2020
Private Practice
1973–2001
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney
Oakland County
1973–1975

Publications Leadership

  • Former Chairperson, State Bar of Michigan Judicial Conference
  • Contributor, Michigan Business Law Journal
  • Frequent speaker on Business Court procedures and ADR strategies at Michigan ICLE seminars
  • Past President, American College of Business Court Judges

Positioning Takeaways

A former Business Court pioneer with twenty years of judicial experience, he offers specialized expertise in Michigan commercial law and complex multi-party dispute resolution.

License & Certifications

  • State Bar of Michigan
  • U.S. District Court
  • Eastern District of Michigan

Education

J.D.
Wayne State University Law School
1973
B.A.
Miami University
1970

Distinction

He was the founding judge of the Oakland County Business Court and served as the President of the American College of Business Court Judges.

Reputation

He is recognized by legal professionals for his deep understanding of complex commercial statutes and his ability to facilitate settlements in high-stakes corporate litigation. Peers often note his practical approach to discovery disputes and his efficiency in managing heavy dockets.