Jim was admitted to the Ontario Bar in 1977. He received his education at the University of Western Ontario (B.A. 72); (LL.B. 75). He joined Siskinds in 1979 and became a partner in 1981.

From 1981 – 1992, Jim was an adjunct professor for Trial Advocacy at the University of Western Ontario Law School. He was also an instructor for the Bar Admission Course, Civil Procedure and Trial Advocacy and a workshop and seminar instructor for Avocate's Society in Trial Advocacy techniques.