Overview

James "Jim" Neal's practice focuses primarily in the areas of: 

• Energy Oil & Gas Law
• Administrative Law
• Real Estate Law
• Condemnation & Eminent Domain
• Telecommunications 

A Martindale-Hubbell “AV” Rated Attorney, Jim has for many years been listed in the Best Lawyers in America, for practice in the areas of oil, gas, energy, and natural resources. He was also named Best Lawyers’ 2014 Lansing Natural Resources Law Lawyer of the Year. Jim received his B.A. from Michigan State University in 1971. Following that, he received his law degree from the University of Detroit Law School in 1974.

Jim is a past president of the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum and former board member. In 2000, he received the W. Richard Neller Service Award and is a charter member and past president of the Red Cedar Lions Club.

Honors & Recognitions

Affiliations

Memberships & Affiliations

Legal Affiliations

• State Bar of Michigan
  • Member 
  • Oil and Gas Law Committee 
    • Member
    • Past Chairman

• American Bar Association
  • Member
• Ingham County Bar Association
  • Member

Community Affiliations

• Michigan Oil & Gas Association
  • Member, Legal and Legislative Committee
• Michigan Basin Geological Society
  • Member
• Michigan Association of Petroleum Landmen
  • Member
• R.E. Olds Transportation Museum
  • Past President, Former Board Member
• Red Cedar Lions Club
  • Charter Member, Past President

News & Events

News

• Five Attorneys Named Best Lawyers "Lawyer of the Year" 2025, Best Lawyers in America, August 15, 2024
• Foster Swift Attorneys Named 2025 Best Lawyers in America, Best Lawyers in America, August 15, 2024
• Foster Swift to Welcome Attorneys and Staff from Loomis Law Firm, EIN Newswire, November 7, 2023