This episode of The Attorney Post shines a spotlight on Jim Bendell, a veteran attorney with over 30 years of legal experience. Licensed to practice in both Idaho and Washington State, Jim’s career spans personal injury law, criminal defense, and business litigation. His legal journey began with defending insurance companies in cases involving car accidents, workers' compensation, and medical malpractice. After years of representing corporate interests, Jim transitioned to helping plaintiffs injured by negligence, marking a significant shift in his career trajectory.
One of Jim’s most notable areas of work has been representing victims of sexual molestation, particularly minors. These cases require more than just legal expertise; they demand deep emotional understanding. Jim emphasizes the lasting psychological impact that such trauma has on victims and their families, underscoring his dedication to not only winning cases but also providing holistic support for those affected.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about major changes for nearly every industry, and the legal field was no exception. Jim recalls how the pandemic initially shut down his practice for two weeks, though legal services were quickly deemed essential. One of the most significant changes he had to navigate was conducting a three-day trial via Zoom. While the trial itself was manageable, Jim voiced concerns over the process of selecting jurors in a virtual environment. The lack of face-to-face interaction, he explains, made it harder to read non-verbal cues, which are often critical during jury selection.
Technology has become a double-edged sword in modern legal practice. While it has streamlined certain processes, it has also introduced new challenges. Social media, in particular, has had a major influence on how cases are handled. Jim shares a story about a client whose case was harmed by a social media post. The client’s physical activities, posted online, were presented as evidence against their injury claim by an insurance lawyer.
To prevent such issues, Jim takes a proactive stance, providing clients with social media guidelines during litigation. This helps ensure that clients don’t inadvertently jeopardize their cases through their online presence.
Among the many successful cases Jim has handled, one of the most memorable involved a $1.5 million judgment against the state’s social health services. The case centered around children in foster care who were subjected to exploitation and neglect. Jim fought hard for the children’s rights, particularly their right to religious freedom, as the state had refused to place Jehovah’s Witness children with family members who shared their faith.
The case also revealed shocking details about the children’s living conditions on a semi-hobby farm, where they were forced to work for foster parents who showed little care for their well-being. Jim’s persistence paid off with a fair settlement, highlighting his commitment to justice.
While many of Jim’s cases are serious, he also shares lighter moments, such as a case where a client wanted to sue the manufacturer of Barbie dolls over dissatisfaction with the doll’s design. This humorous anecdote illustrates the sometimes unexpected nature of legal requests.
On a more serious note, Jim discusses the financial challenges that come with practicing law. Lawyers often bear the costs of court reporters, medical records, and other legal expenses upfront, with no guarantee of immediate payment. Jim recalls a case where he spent $50,000 in expenses before eventually recovering the costs. This story sheds light on the financial stakes that attorneys face.
For young lawyers entering the field, Jim offers valuable advice. He highlights the difficulty of separating personal and professional life, particularly in emotionally demanding cases. Finding a balance and developing resilience, he explains, is crucial for long-term success in the legal profession.
Jim Bendell’s conversation on The Attorney Post offers a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of a long legal career. From representing vulnerable victims of abuse to navigating the complexities of modern legal practice, Jim’s story is one of dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to justice. His reflections on the emotional toll of legal work, the impact of technology, and the financial realities of the profession provide listeners with a well-rounded understanding of what it takes to succeed in law.
The Bendell Law Firm, PLLC
1810 E Schneidmiller Ave Suite 101 B
Post Falls, ID 83854
208-981-0555
Online at: The Bendell Law Firm, PLLC
