Bernard (James) Slater, Jr. focuses his practice on general liability defense, representing clients in a wide range of civil litigation matters. He brings decades of experience handling personal injury, employment, and constitutional claims, including defending state agencies and employees in complex litigation.

Over the course of his career, James has built a strong trial background, serving as lead counsel in numerous jury and bench trials, as well as hundreds of arbitration hearings. He has extensive experience taking and defending depositions, managing high-volume caseloads, handling all aspects of motion practice, and negotiating the best possible outcomes for his clients. His practice has also included criminal litigation and residential real estate matters, which gives him a well-rounded perspective when advising clients and developing case strategies.

James earned his J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law and his B.B.A. from the University of Iowa. He is admitted to practice in Illinois, as well as the U.S. District Courts for the Northern, Central, and Southern Districts of Illinois.