James D. Savage is a Senior Equity Partner and a trial lawyer who practices in the areas of professional, product, premises, automobile, employment and common carrier liability. His clients include insurance companies, health care professionals, corporations, and other self-insureds. Mr. Savage also defends dentists in administrative actions and handles cases involving the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Mr. Savage first became a partner with Ford, Walker, Haggerty & Behar in 1997. Associated with the firm since its founding in 1991, he began his career at its predecessor firm, Shield & Smith.
Mr. Savage received his J.D. in 1989 from the University of San Diego. He obtained his B.A. in political science in 1986 from the University of Arizona. He remains active in alumni functions of his undergraduate alma mater.
Mr. Savage has tried numerous cases to verdict and is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates. He has extensive experience in arbitrating and mediating cases. Mr. Savage has volunteered his services as a settlement officer for the Los Angeles County Superior Court Special Civil Settlement Program. Mr. Savage frequently lectures to dentists and dental assistants in the field of dental malpractice.
Mr. Savage joined the State Bar of California in 1989. He is admitted to practice in the United States Court of Appeal, Ninth Circuit (1989) and U.S. District Court, Central District (1989). He is a member of the American Bar Association, the Association of Southern California Defense Counsel, and the Defense Research Institute. He has served as the Chair of the Law Practice Management Committee of the Defense Research Institute, and also serves on its Trial Tactics and Techniques Committee. He has served in the past as a Committee Chair with the Association of Southern California Defense Counsel.
When away from work, Mr. Savage can be found attending sporting events and playing golf. A native of San Luis Obispo and raised in Southern Arizona, Mr. Savage resides in Huntington Beach with his wife Tracy, son Calvin and daughter Tana.
Bar Admissions
- California, 1989; United States Court of Appeal, Ninth Circuit; U.S. District Court, Central District
Education
- Graduate of the University of San Diego School of Law, 1989
- Undergraduate of the University of Arizona, political science, 1986