James S. Bostwick, founding partner of Bostwick & Associates, was recently interviewed by Lawdragon for their Lawyer Limelights and Hall of Fame Limelights series, to celebrate the publication's 20th anniversary. The article, “How 'Oh my God' Cases Became a Calling: 50 years in Plaintiffs' Law,” highlights his remarkable 50-year career representing plaintiffs in high-stakes cases. Over the decades, he and his partners have secured more than $1 billion in verdicts and settlements across California, Hawaii, and beyond, focusing on cases that leave a lasting impact.
Bostwick discusses how he identifies “Oh My God” cases — those involving catastrophic loss or egregious injustice — and why selectivity is critical in medical malpractice and other high-stakes litigation. He also shares his philosophy on working with clients personally, the importance of preparation and expert testimony, and lessons learned from landmark cases throughout his career, including birth injury settlements and significant legal victories across California and Hawaii.
Reflecting on what’s the most fulfilling part of his career, Bostwick says,
“The ability to make a difference. Helping people who have had their lives impacted. That’s everything. When I can help, it’s worth spending a lot of time making their life a little better.”
The interview provides a rare glimpse into the approach, values, and thought process of one of the nation’s most respected plaintiff attorneys, highlighting why his work continues to make a meaningful difference in clients’ lives.
Read the full interview with Jim Bostwick on Lawdragon here to learn more about his approach to cases, his philosophy on client relationships, and his reflections on five decades in plaintiffs’ law.