About James William
James William Garrett is a principal attorney at Carrell Blanton Ferris & Associates, PLC, located at 7275 Glen Forest Drive, Suite 310, in Richmond, Virginia. Since 1990, he has been practicing law in Virginia, focusing primarily on estate planning, elder law, legacy planning, and estate and trust administration. His experience allows him to navigate complex legal fields, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive and effective legal guidance. Garrett earned his Juris Doctor from the prestigious University of Virginia School of Law in 1989. Prior to that, he completed his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Wheaton College in 1986. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his legal career, which initially included practice areas such as real estate, business law, and consumer protection.
This diverse legal experience informs his current focus on estate planning, where he assists clients with business succession planning, charitable giving, and asset protection strategies. In addition to his legal practice, Garrett is actively involved in several professional organizations that enhance his expertise and network. He is a member of the Virginia State Bar and the Henrico Bar Association. His affiliations extend to WealthCounsel, The Advisors Forum, and the Society of Financial Service Professionals. Additionally, he is a member of Kingdom Advisors, the Christian Legal Society, the Richmond Seniors Network, the Virginia Gift Planning Council, and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. These memberships reflect his commitment to ongoing education and professional development in his field.
Garrett's approach to estate planning is distinctive. He emphasizes not only the efficient transfer of wealth but also the preservation of family relationships. This thoughtful and relational approach has earned him the trust of clients, colleagues, and professional advisors throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. His clients appreciate his ability to address their needs and concerns, ensuring that their legacies are protected and their family dynamics remain intact. Moreover, Garrett is certified by the Virginia Supreme Court to serve as Guardian ad Litem (GAL) for children. This certification enables him to represent minors in various legal matters, including contested custody cases and child protective order proceedings.
Judges frequently select him for these roles, recognizing his dedication and expertise in handling sensitive cases where children have been removed from their homes by Child Protective Services. For legal inquiries, Garrett can be reached at (804) 285-7900 or by fax at (804) 285-8925. His office remains a trusted resource for individuals seeking guidance in estate planning and related legal matters.