Bio

James Beal represents individuals, families, and fiduciaries throughout eastern Missouri in the matters that tend to arrive at life's most difficult moments — the loss of a loved one, a dispute over an estate, the care of an incapacitated family member, or a serious civil claim. He has practiced law since 2006, building nearly two decades of courtroom and counseling experience.

His practice concentrates on probate administration and contested probate litigation, including decedents' estates, guardianship and conservatorship, mental health law, fiduciary disputes, and trust and estate matters. He also regularly assists clients with estate planning needs including drafting a will, power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney and living will, trust documents, and assisting clients with organizing and planning for their specific needs. 

James has tried cases before both judges and juries and has represented clients on appeal before the Missouri Court of Appeals. His trial experience spans contested probate cases, fiduciary disputes, personal injury, intentional torts, breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, order of protection hearings, real estate disputes, and insurance matters. When it serves the client's interest, he works to resolve cases efficiently through mediation, arbitration, or negotiated settlement rather than protracted litigation.

He is also a qualified civil and family mediator in Missouri, with experience mediating custody and probate disputes — a perspective that informs how he approaches conflict on behalf of his own clients. Throughout his career, James has maintained a consistent commitment to pro bono service, representing low-income clients in housing, family law, and probate matters.

Education

• J.D., Washington University in St. Louis School of Law, 2006
• B.A., Loyola University Chicago, 2003

Licenses & Organizations

• Licensed in Missouri, 2006
• Licensed in Illinois, 2007
• Qualified Civil and Family Mediator, State of Missouri
• Member, The Missouri Bar

Practice Areas

• Probate Litigation & Administration
• Estate Planning
• Personal Injury & Intentional Torts
• Order of Protection Hearings

Contact James

To discuss a probate, estate, or civil matter, call (314) 227-1014 or send a confidential message.