James B. "Jimmy" Jalenak

James B. "Jimmy" Jalenak

Memphis, TN recognized lawyers icon Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2001
Harris Shelton PLLC

32 Best Lawyers awards

Harris Shelton PLLC logo

Awarded Practice Areas

Real Estate Law

Biography

James B. (Jimmy) Jalenak is an attorney in Memphis, Tennessee with Harris Shelton PLLC. For more than 50 years, he has represented individuals, businesses, and developers in matters involving Real Estate Lawand business transactions. His practice focuses on guiding clients through the acquisition, development, financing, and leasing of commercial real estate projects throughout the Memphis area and beyond. He has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America for his work in the legal profession.

Jimmy regularly assists clients with the purchase and sale of businesses, as well as business reorganizations and ownership transitions. His work often involves coordinating complex transactions, advising on financing arrangements, and helping clients address legal issues that arise during real estate development and commercial operations. He has also served as general counsel to distribution and retail companies, providing ongoing legal guidance on operational and transactional matters.

At Harris Shelton PLLC, Jimmy works closely with colleagues across the firm and is a valued mentor to younger attorneys. His longstanding presence in the Memphis legal community reflects decades of involvement with local businesses, developers, and property owners seeking practical legal guidance in Real Estate Law and related business matters.

Harris Shelton PLLC

32 Best Lawyers awards

Harris Shelton PLLC logo

Overview

  • Yale University, B.A., graduated 1961
  • Yale University, J.D., graduated 1966

  • New York, New York State Bar Association, 1965
  • Tennessee, Tennessee Bar Association, 1966

  • Tennessee Bar Foundation - Fellow
  • Tennessee Bar Association - Member
  • Memphis Bar Association - Member-Director, 1994-1995
  • American Bar Association - Member

  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Tennessee
  • U.S. Supreme Court
  • U.S. Tax Court
  • New York, New York State Bar Association, 1965
  • Tennessee, Tennessee Bar Association, 1966
  • Tennessee Bar Foundation - Fellow
  • Tennessee Bar Association - Member
  • Memphis Bar Association - Member-Director, 1994-1995
  • American Bar Association - Member
  • Yale University, B.A., graduated 1961
  • Yale University, J.D., graduated 1966
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Tennessee
  • U.S. Supreme Court
  • U.S. Tax Court

Client Testimonials

Awards & Focus

Lawyer of the Year Badge - 2014 - Real Estate Law
Named "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers® for:
  • Real Estate Law, Memphis (2014)
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 for work in:
  • Real Estate Law
Special Focus:
  • Commercial
  • Development
  • Finance
  • Tax Certiorari
Awards:
  • Memphis Urban League, J.A. McDaniel Community Service Award, 1997

  • Morehouse College Alumni Association, Candle on the Bluff Award, 2008

  • NCCJ Humanitarian of the Year
  • Volunteer Center of Memphis, Golden Rule Award, 1994

  • Pillar of Excellence, awarded by University of Memphis Law School, 2018

Additional Information

  • Civic and Community Involvement
  • City of Memphis Health, Education and Housing Facility Board, Board Member, 2017 – present
  • Temple Israel, Memphis, President
  • Union of American Hebrew Congregations, Regional Vice President
  • Southern College of Optometry, Board Member, 2005-2013
  • Memphis Zoological Society, Board Chairman, 2002-2005
  • Lemoyne-Owen College, Board of Trustees Member, 2000-2010
  • Memphis Rotary Club, President, 1998
  • Memphis Depot Redevelopment Corporation, Board Member, 1996-2011
  • Memphis Urban League, Board Member and Counsel
  • Memphis PREP Program, Board Member and Counsel
  • Memphis Public Education Fund, President

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