Heyl Royster

James Kearns

Senior Counsel
Champaign, IL

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, Jim Kearns. Jim's presence in our Champaign office and our firm was truly remarkable. His impact was immeasurable, and his absence will be deeply felt by all. Just shy of his 80th birthday, Jim continued actively practicing law and sharing his invaluable wisdom with us. His mentorship, guidance, and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on our firm's history. We will always cherish his memory and the profound influence he had on all of us. Jim will be dearly missed.

Read Full Bio

James Kearns

Attorney in Champaign, IL

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, Jim Kearns. Jim's presence in our Champaign office and our firm was truly remarkable. His impact was immeasurable, and his absence will be deeply felt by all. Just shy of his 80th birthday, Jim continued actively practicing law and sharing his invaluable wisdom with us. His mentorship, guidance, and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on our firm's history. We will always cherish his memory and the profound influence he had on all of us. Jim will be dearly missed.

Credentials

Education

J.D., University of Illinois

B.A., University of Notre Dame, History and Engineering

Licensure(s) and Admission(s)

State Courts of Illinois

United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit

United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois

United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

United States District Court for the Southern District of Illinois

United States Supreme Court

Professional Affiliations

American Bar Association (Fellow)

American Judicature Society

Champaign County Bar Association

International Association of Defense Counsel

Community Involvement

Carle Foundation Citizen’s Advisory Board

University of Illinois College of LAS Alumni Association

Board of Directors (1982 – 1987)

University of Illinois Foundation President’s Council

Awards/Recognition

  • Leading Lawyer by Law Bulletin Media℠, 2005 - 2011
  • Rated AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating by Martindale-Hubbell®
  • Super Lawyer by Super Lawyers®

Public Profile

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, Jim Kearns. Jim's presence in our Champaign office and our firm was truly remarkable. His impact was immeasurable, and his absence will be deeply felt by all. Just shy of his 80th birthday, Jim continued actively practicing law and sharing his invaluable wisdom with us. His mentorship, guidance, and unwavering support have left an indelible mark on our firm's history. We will always cherish his memory and the profound influence he had on all of us. Jim will be dearly missed.

© 2024 Heyl Royster. All Rights Reserved.