Lyons Gaddis Welcomes James Duke to the Estate Planning & Probate team

LONGMONT, Colo. — Lyons Gaddis is pleased to welcome James Duke to its Estate Planning & Probate practice group.

James joins the firm after earning both his Juris Doctor and Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Taxation from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. His legal experience includes work in estate planning, tax controversy, litigation, and federal administrative law, providing him with a well-rounded foundation for serving individuals and businesses.

During law school, James represented taxpayers through the University of Denver’s Low-Income Tax Clinic, helping clients navigate IRS audits and collection matters. He also participated in the University’s Wills Lab, assisting clients with estate planning, volunteered with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, worked as a law clerk with Cantafio & Song, and interned with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of the Principal Legal Advisor.

Before beginning his legal career, James managed his family’s automotive repair business for several years, overseeing daily operations, customer relations and personnel management. That experience gives him a practical understanding of the challenges facing business owners and the importance of responsive, solution-oriented legal counsel.

“James combines strong legal analysis with real-world business experience, giving him an exceptional perspective on the issues our clients face,” said Jennifer Spitz, Shareholder and Practice Group Leader. “We’re excited to have him join Lyons Gaddis and know he’ll be a tremendous asset to our clients and our team.”

Outside the office, James lives in Boulder with his wife and their three sphynx cats. In his free time, he enjoys following basketball, football, and Formula 1 racing.

“We’re delighted to welcome James to the firm and look forward to supporting him as he builds his practice at Lyons Gaddis.”