James M. Heffner

James Heffner is a member of the firm’s transactional practice group, concentrating on banking and finance, corporate, and real estate law.

Real Estate. Representing lenders, contractors, developers, homeowner/condo associations, landlords, and tenants, James handles matters relating to the purchase, sale, financing, and leasing of properties. He drafts and negotiates contracts with a keen eye toward wise terms, delivery, pricing, practices and safeguards.

Banking and Finance. James routinely advises and supports banks regarding all types of lending activities including asset-based and cash flow loans, commercial mortgage loans for portfolio lenders, and equipment. His legal experience in the financial service industry involves securitization of receivables, re-collateralizing issues, restructuring, workouts, and, if unavoidable, commercial foreclosures.

Corporate. James drafts, negotiates, and closes a variety of transactions including: mergers, asset purchases, stock purchases, and stock redemptions. He supports business owners in entity structuring, shareholder agreements or disputes, and general corporate governance.

Early in his career, James became proficient with the entire litigation process from initial client interview through trial. His background in litigation aids him in effectively advising on the structure and documentation of transactions. Prior to joining the firm, he served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Michael Calvin.

Publications & Speaking Engagements

Co-author: “The Future of Application Service Providers,” American Bar Association and “Cyber Space for Rent,” St. Louis Small Business Monthly.

Speaker (a sampling): "Real Estate Financing," "Bank Workouts and Foreclosures."

Education

• J.D., Saint Louis University School of Law (2005), Academic Excellence Award—Land Use Control, Civil Practice
• B.A., with honors, University of Missouri-Columbia (2002), University of Missouri-Columbia Excellence Award, Dean’s List, Chancellor’s Scholarship, Tom Berenger Award for Academic Excellence, Delta Upsilon
• German Proficiency Certificate, Universität Tuebingen (2002)

Admissions

• Missouri
• Illinois
• U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Missouri

Associations

• The Missouri Bar
• Illinois State Bar Association
• Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, Budget Subcommittee: Representative; Non-Dues Revenue: Subcommittee; Young Lawyers’ Division: Treasurer; Teens Speak Out! Program, chairperson
• Saint Louis University School of Law Alumni Association
• University of Missouri-Columbia Alumni Association

Community Involvement

• Cardinal Glennon Children's Medical Center IMPACT Board Member
• Webster Groves Board of Adjustment
• Graduate of Leadership Clayton (2009)
• Multiple Sclerosis Society, Corporate Achievers Leadership Award
• Career Networking Program, Delta Upsilon, co-founder and regional leader