Doug James is a writer, retired attorney, and advocate for smart public policy. He often writes about politics, law, democracy, and the future of Montana.
Doug grew up in Great Falls, Montana, studied African history at Southern Methodist University, and law at the University of Montana. He practiced bankruptcy law, commercial litigation, and real estate development in Montana for more than 40 years.
Doug’s lifelong interest in law, government, and justice comes from his family background. His father, Ted James, served as the County Attorney for Cascade County, was a member of the Parole Board, Lt. Governor, and Chair of the Board of Regents of Higher Education. His grandfather, Sam C. Ford, served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Montana Attorney General, Supreme Court Justice, and Governor. His great-great-grandfather, Preston H. Leslie, served as U. S. Attorney for Montana, as well as Governor of Kentucky and Montana.
Doug often writes about our flawed criminal justice system and advocates investing in people, not cages.