About James P.
James P. Alder is an attorney based in Salt Lake City, Utah, with a focus on estate planning, probate, guardianship, adoption, and small business law. His legal career began in 1997, marking over two decades of dedicated service in the Utah legal field. Mr. Alder earned his Bachelor of Arts in German from Utah State University in 1987. This gives a strong foundation in communication and cultural understanding — He furthered his education by obtaining a Juris Doctor from Brigham Young University's J. Reuben Clark School of Law in 1994, where he developed his legal skills and knowledge.
In pursuit of specialized knowledge, Mr. Alder completed a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Environmental and Resource Law at the University of Utah in 2000. This advanced degree gave him a unique perspective on legal matters related to environmental issues, which can intersect with estate planning and property law. His professional journey began as an associate at Clyde Snow Sessions & Swenson in 2001, where he worked in various legal areas. From 1997 to 2001, he also served as legal counsel for the Western States Water Council, further broadening his expertise in resource law. In 2008, Mr. Alder became a partner at Gray Alder & Cawthorne, P.C., where he continued to develop his practice.
The following year, he co-founded Alder & Robb, P.C., which is located at 623 East 2100 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84106. This firm allows him to provide tailored legal services to clients in need of assistance with estate planning and related legal matters. Mr. Alder’s firm can be contacted at (801) 463-2600, making it accessible for clients seeking expert legal advice. Active involvement in professional organizations is a hallmark of Mr. Alder's career. Since 2007, he has been a member of the Estate Planning Section of the Utah Bar Association, contributing to discussions and developments in estate law.
His commitment to community service is evident in his role on the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer’s Association Utah Chapter and his participation in the Major Gifts Committee of the Foundation for Homecare and Hospice. Additionally, he is a member of the Salt Lake Estate Planning Council and WealthCounsel, further enhancing his professional network and resources. Fluent in German, Mr. Alder offers his legal services to clients, ensuring effective communication and understanding. His experience and active participation in the legal community demonstrate his dedication to providing comprehensive legal services in estate planning and related areas. Mr. Alder’s commitment to both his clients and the broader community shows his reputation as a trusted attorney in Salt Lake City.
