James G. "Jim" Martin

James G. Martin: Leading Litigation Attorney for Corporate and Individual Defense

James G. "Jim" Martin is a highly respected litigator specializing in the defense of corporations and individuals facing complex and high-stakes legal challenges. With over 21 years of experience as a federal prosecutor and a proven track record of successfully navigating intricate business lawsuits, white-collar criminal charges, and allegations of corporate governance and compliance violations, Mr. Martin provides unparalleled legal counsel and aggressive representation.

A former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri, Mr. Martin is recognized as a strategic leader and a formidable advocate. He consistently represents clients in significant class action and civil litigation matters, including critical False Claims Act (FCA) litigation involving SEC fraud and healthcare fraud. He also leads internal investigations for corporations regarding alleged violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), demonstrating a deep understanding of international regulations and compliance requirements.

Mr. Martin's legal career is punctuated by notable successes. He famously won the dismissal of a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) lawsuit alleging a stock option backdating scheme in 2010, showcasing his ability to effectively challenge governmental investigations and protect his clients' interests. Furthermore, he skillfully convinced the Department of Justice (DOJ) to terminate a highly publicized criminal investigation involving a former Bush cabinet member without pursuing any charges, highlighting his strategic negotiation skills and his commitment to upholding justice.

Perhaps most impressively, over half of the clients investigated by the government for criminal conduct under Mr. Martin's leadership have never been indicted, a testament to his meticulous preparation, persuasive advocacy, and deep understanding of prosecutorial strategy. His consistent success in securing dismissals of class action and FCA-related lawsuits has saved clients substantial financial burdens, litigation costs, and reputational damage associated with extensive discovery and trial proceedings. This ability to strategically navigate complex litigation is a cornerstone of his practice.

Mr. Martin’s expertise extends beyond traditional litigation. As director of investigative operations for the John C. Danforth Office of Special Counsel, he supervised attorneys and federal agents during the investigation of the 1993 confrontation between law enforcement and the Branch Davidians in Waco, Texas – an experience that further honed his investigative and analytical skills.

Prior to joining Dowd Bennett, Mr. Martin was a partner in a leading St. Louis-based law firm, where he built a successful career prosecuting white-collar crime, public corruption, and tax fraud. This background provides him with a unique perspective and a comprehensive understanding of the legal issues faced by corporations and individuals.

Key Practice Areas:

Commercial Litigation: Mr. Martin specializes in representing clients in complex commercial disputes, including breach of contract, intellectual property litigation, and business tort claims.

Corporate Compliance Law: He provides expert counsel on corporate governance, internal investigations, and regulatory compliance matters, including FCPA and SEC investigations.

Corporate Governance Law: Mr. Martin advises boards of directors and corporate officers on legal strategies to mitigate risk and ensure compliance with corporate regulations.

Criminal Defense: White-Collar: He provides robust defense representation for individuals accused of white-collar crimes, including fraud, embezzlement, and securities violations.

Representative Matters:

• 2013: Obtained dismissal in federal court of a criminal indictment of an Israeli national charged with a multimillion-dollar fraud scheme.
• Won the dismissal of the SEC lawsuit charging a client with participating in a stock option backdating scheme.

Awards & Recognition:

Lawyer of the Year: Corporate Governance Law (St. Louis) – 2022, 2019, 2012

Recognized: Commercial Litigation, Corporate Compliance Law, Corporate Governance Law, Criminal Defense: White-Collar

Special Focus: Corporate Compliance, Corporate Governance, Ethics and Professional Responsibility, Federal, Government Investigations, Internal Investigations, Securities Fraud

Affiliations: Recognized Since: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2008

Contact Information: St. Louis, Missouri, United States

Education: Extensive federal prosecution experience; leadership roles in complex investigations.