James R. Forrest

James is a trusted M&A advisor and corporate counsel to companies, entrepreneurs, C-level executives, faith-based organizations, and non-profits across the country. He routinely works with executives to manage annual legal budgets, develop risk management strategies, and proactively implement legal initiatives.

In addition to his traditional corporate transactional practice, James represents numerous faith-based organizations and regularly assists them with corporate governance matters, bylaws, contracts, mergers and acquisitions, data privacy issues, financings, intellectual property matters, employment matters, abuse allegations, children’s policies, facility use policies, property tax exemptions, waivers, counseling issues, insurance matters, document/record retention policies, real estate matters and security policies.

Prior to joining Michael Best in 2022, James worked for two leading corporate firms before founding Forrest Firm in 2011. Forrest Firm experienced tremendous growth during its 11-year history based on its highly client-centric approach to legal services, focusing on predictable fees, responsiveness, and proactive solutions. Under James’ leadership, Forrest Firm grew to seven offices across North Carolina, 50+ team members, and served thousands of clients. In 2022, Forrest Firm combined with Michael Best in order to meet the needs of the firm's growing client base. James has received numerous awards, including being named North Carolina’s Legal Elite by Business North Carolina Magazine, as well as a Super Lawyer by Super Lawyers Magazine.

Outside of his law practice, James dedicates considerable time to community leadership and support. He has been involved with numerous organizations throughout his career, including First Tee of the Triangle, the Duke DREAM Campaign, the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, Kidznotes, Inc., the Durham Symphony Orchestra, Durham CrimeStoppers, Leadership Triangle, Leadership Durham, Mission Triangle, Corporate Chaplains of America, the Association for Corporate Growth, NC Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts, Durham Rescue Mission, Duke Children’s Hospital, Saving Grace Dog Rescue and the Raleigh Rescue Mission.

Solutions in action

James has represented clients in the following matters:

• Assisted R&D/technology company with capital raises, customer and vendor contracts, regulatory matters, corporate governance matters, and eventual exit/sale.
• Led divestiture/sale strategy for many clients across a myriad of industries: technology, professional services, manufacturing, e-commerce, construction, and utilities.
• Served as outside general counsel for several of the largest churches and Christian ministries in America, and advised on governance, bylaws, compliance, employment issues, insurance, and risk management.
• Guided business and nonprofit clients through mergers and acquisitions, property transactions, and financing arrangements to support growth and mission alignment.
• Counseled religious organizations on sensitive issues including child protection policies, facility use agreements, and crisis response strategies.
• Represented founders in recapitalization transactions for emerging companies.
• Advised on intellectual property protection and licensing for organizations in both ministry and business contexts.
• Managed annual legal budget and overall legal strategy for many clients, including, a large construction company, international education company and residential home builder.