James Bostwick - Long-Time Member of The Inner Circle of Advocates

Highly respected by his fellow attorneys, James Bostwick has earned recognition from many prestigious organizations, one of which is considered the most exclusive trial lawyer organization in the world - The Inner Circle of Advocates - limited to the top 100 plaintiff trial lawyers in the U.S.

Bostwick is more than qualified to be a part of this exclusive organization; he has been named Best Lawyers® “Trial Lawyer of the Year”, received the California Trial Lawyers "Presidential Award of Merit" for a record $21,000,000 jury verdict, has been President of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (limited to the top 500 trial lawyers in the country), and is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates.

He is one of a few medical malpractice lawyers in the nation to be certified as a specialist by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys. Bostwick has set several national, state and local records for jury verdicts and settlements including receiving the largest medical malpractice jury verdict in U.S. history.

History of The Inner Circle of Advocates

“My goal was an organization of highly experienced plaintiff attorneys who were willing to share information about experts, techniques, and whatever it took to be a great trial lawyer. I think this goal has been consistently achieved since the organization was created.” - the late Richard Grand.

In May of 1972, attorney Richard Grand had an idea; there was a need for a group comprised of talented plaintiffs’ attorneys to pool their collective insight and promote excellence in civil trial practice.

Richard then created The Inner Circle of Advocates logo below. The seal containing “7” represents a seven-figure verdict of $1 million or morelogo

He decided at least one seven-figure verdict and successful completion of 50 injury cases to be the threshold for membership, and limited total membership to 50 members.

For the most part, these stringent qualifications still apply today – with the exception of three changes:

  • Members are now required to have at least three trial verdicts exceeding $1 million or one verdict exceeding $10 million – with the most recent being secured within the past 5 years.
  • Members are required to have litigated a significant number of jury trials.
  • Total membership was increased to 100 attorneys.

Membership Criteria

The Inner Circle of Advocates’ membership is by invitation only and based on criteria that include performance and success in the courtroom.

To identify the best 100 trial lawyers in the country, they carefully evaluate an attorney’s experience and standing in the legal community. To receive an invitation, applicants are expected to have at least three verdicts of $1+ million or a recent verdict in excess of $10 million. The organization looks for lawyers in active practice who are willing to learn and educate others about their craft, and who wish to be part of a supportive group of professional colleagues.

“Membership in The Inner Circle of Advocates is not just an accolade, it is a commitment to participate in a unique laboratory of professional advancement.”

To learn more about The Inner Circle of Advocates, click here to visit their website. You can search their lawyers, read about their philanthropy, and learn about what the top 100 plaintiffs’ lawyers in the country are accomplishing.


Bostwick & Peterson is an award-winning personal injury firm with record-setting recoveries in five states. When you work with Bostwick & Peterson, you can expect knowledgeable attorneys who have spent decades developing access to the top expert resources, and who work with diligent preparation and passionate advocacy. We take the time to get to know you and will tirelessly pursue justice on your behalf. Contact us today and we can get your questions answered quickly.