About James R.

James R — Austin practices business law in Traverse City, Michigan. He has been a lawyer since 2020 and is a partner at Corcoran Austin, PC. The firm specializes in business law but also offers services in employment law, arbitration and mediation, and construction law. Located in the heart of Traverse City, the firm serves clients, ranging from small businesses to larger corporations. He earned his J.D. from the University of Detroit Mercy, where he developed a strong foundation in legal principles.

Prior to that, he obtained a B.A. in Social Science from the University of Western Ontario. His educational background equips him with a unique perspective on the intersection of law and social issues, which is particularly beneficial in his practice areas. Most of his work involves advising clients on business transactions, drafting contracts, and resolving disputes through mediation and arbitration. Cases typically include issues related to employment agreements and construction contracts. His certification as a Domestic Relations Mediator and General Civil Case Mediator enhances his ability to facilitate negotiations and resolve conflicts efficiently.

Before becoming a lawyer, he served as President of a local organization in 2006, gaining valuable leadership experience that informs his current practice. His role as a partner at Corcoran Austin, PC, allows him to guide junior attorneys and support the firm’s growth. He is actively involved in various community organizations, including the Michigan Towing Association, where he serves on the board, and Move Over Michigan, where he holds the position of Vice President. In addition to his professional responsibilities, he is committed to community service. He serves as a trustee and chair for the Ann Arbor Academy and is a trustee-secretary for the State YMCA of Michigan. His involvement in these organizations reflects his dedication to improving the community and supporting youth programs.

He is also a member of the Oakland County Bar Association and the World Professional Squash Association, showcasing his diverse interests beyond the legal field. James R. Austin's multifaceted career in law and community service positions him as a respected figure in Traverse City. His commitment to business law and community engagement continues to shape his practice and the lives of those he serves.

Education

University of Detroit Mercy

J.D. | Law

University of Western Ontario

B.A. | Social Science

Experience

Lawyer

Corcoran Austin, PC
2020

President

Law Offices of James R. Austin, PC
2006

Partner

Law Offices of Jerome & Austin, PC
1991

Accepted Jurisdictions

Michigan
6th Circuit

Court Admissions

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit U.S. Circuit Court

Types of Cases Handled

business law employment law arbitration mediation construction law

Legal Services Scope

Contract drafting Dispute resolution Mediation Arbitration

Certifications & Awards

Domestic Relations Mediator

Mediation Training & Consultation Institute

General Civil Case Mediator

ICLE

Professional Associations

Michigan Towing Association

Board has membership 2017 - Current

Move Over Michigan

Vice President 2015 - Current

Alden District Library

Board has membership/President 2015 - Current

Michigan Towing Association

Legislative Committee has membership 2009 - Current

Oakland County Bar Association

has membership 2006 - 2014

State YMCA of Michigan

Trustee-Secretary 2005 - 2014

YMCA Camp Hayo Went Ha

Boys Camp Program Committee Chair 1996 - 2014

Ann Arbor Academy

Trustee/Chair 2004 - 2008

World Professional Squash Association

has membership 1981 - 1987

Office Locations

Main Office

 800 Cottageview Dr. Suite 1080A Traverse City MI 49684

Office 2

 201 State Street Suite 10 Charlevoix MI 49720