James McGuire

James McGuire is a Partner at Buckley LLP and leads its San Francisco office. He has more than 20 years of financial services litigation experience, and represents banks and other financial services companies in bet-the-company complex civil litigation, with a focus on consumer class-action defense. Mr. McGuire also represents banks and financial services companies in federal preemption cases, arbitration matters, and claims involving unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts or practices (UDAAP). 

He has deep experience in the full range of consumer financial products, including credit cards, debit cards, and deposit accounts — most recently demonstrated in overdraft cases involving “authorize positive, settle negative” transactions. He has also represented plaintiffs seeking declaratory or injunctive relief in lawsuits against state attorneys general and other government officials. 

Mr. McGuire is an experienced appellate lawyer and has argued numerous appeals before numerous federal appellate courts, the California Courts of Appeal, and state supreme courts.

Chambers USA recognized Mr. McGuire in consumer finance litigation for his “A+ legal mind” and his “very grounded and strategic advice.” Mr. McGuire is also recognized by Legal 500 for financial services litigation.

Mr. McGuire maintains a robust and diversified pro bono practice and has handled matters involving same-sex spousal benefits, sensible gun legislation, and advocacy for the homeless.

Prior to joining Buckley, Mr. McGuire was a Partner at Morrison & Foerster. He received his J.D. from the McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific, and his B.A. from California State University, Sacramento. Following law school, he served as a law clerk to the Hon. Eugene A. Wright of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.