James Ray "Jim" Cottrell
About James Ray Cottrell
James Ray Cottrell is a lawyer based in Alexandria, VA and has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® since 1989. James Ray Cottrell is recognized in the following practice area:
- Alexandria, Virginia
- Family Law
Current Firm: Cottrell Fletcher & Cottrell PC
Education: University of Richmond, J.D., graduated 1976 and Virginia Military Institute, B.A. English, graduated 1974
Location: Alexandria, VA
Nearby Lawyers
Gregory Giammittorio represents private and publicly held companies in all stages of growth on a range of issues involving mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, venture capital, and public and private securities offerings. Mr. Giammittorio has recently worked on mergers and acquisitions for government services, telecommunications, energy, software, semiconductor, information technology, medical device, media, and life science companies. He has developed numerous acqui...
Larry Bard is a highly regarded business attorney whose clients depend on his guidance in corporate finance and securities law matters, including public and private offerings, venture capital transactions and other financing transactions. He advises companies on issues of corporate governance, business planning, securities law compliance, executive compensation, commercial contracts and complex joint ventures. Larry has completed several initial public offerings for companies in the mid-Atlan...
Eric B. Sensenbrenner is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Tax Law. Eric B., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2020. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Eric B. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Megan Mocho is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Criminal Defense: White-Collar. Megan, who practices law in Tysons, Virginia, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Megan is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Michael J. Gardner is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Admiralty and Maritime Law. Michael J., who practices law in McLean, Virginia, has been recognized since 2003. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Michael J. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Derek Adams is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Criminal Defense: White-Collar and Qui Tam Law. Derek, who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2023. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Derek is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Michael T. Borgia is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Media Law. Michael T., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Michael T. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Maury Baskin focuses his Washington, DC-based practice on national labor policy, challenging excessive government regulation on behalf of small and large businesses, while advising employers in compliance issues. He has extensive experience in dealing with labor relations and union pressure tactics, employment discrimination and wage and hour law. He has represented a variety of industry sectors, advising clients involved in construction, government contracting, higher education, telecommunic...
Elizabeth’s practice has focused exclusively on family law since 2016. She handles matters including divorce, custody, child support, spousal support, equitable distribution, business valuation, step-parent adoption, premarital agreements, protective orders, and enforcement issues. Her cases have included complex issues such as mental health concerns, domestic abuse, alcohol and drug addiction, parental alienation, financial tracing, and unilateral dissipation of assets. Elizabeth belie...
Howard L. Nelson is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Energy Law and Oil and Gas Law. Howard L., who practices law in Washington, District of Columbia, has been recognized since 2018. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Howard L. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Explore and Learn
2026 Best Lawyers Awards: Recognizing Legal Talent Across the United States
by Jamilla Tabbara
The 2026 editions highlight the top 5% of U.S. attorneys, showcase emerging practice areas and reveal trends shaping the nation’s legal profession.
Gun Rights for Convicted Felons? The DOJ Says It's Time.
by Bryan Driscoll
It's more than an administrative reopening of a long-dormant issue; it's a test of how the law reconciles the right to bear arms with protecting the public.
2026 Best Lawyers Awards in Canada: Marking 20 Years of Excellence
by Jamilla Tabbara
Honoring Canada’s most respected lawyers and spotlighting the next generation shaping the future of law.
How to Sue for Defamation: Costs, Process and What to Expect
by Bryan Driscoll
Learn the legal standards, costs and steps involved when you sue for defamation, including the difference between libel and slander.
Best Lawyers 2026: Discover the Honorees in Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, South Africa and Spain
by Jamilla Tabbara
A growing international network of recognized legal professionals.
The Family Law Loophole That Lets Sex Offenders Parent Kids
by Bryan Driscoll
Is the state's surrogacy framework putting children at risk?
Holiday Pay Explained: Federal Rules and Employer Policies
by Bryan Driscoll
Understand how paid holidays work, when employers must follow their policies and when legal guidance may be necessary.
Unenforceable HOA Rules: What Homeowners Can Do About Illegal HOA Actions
by Bryan Driscoll
Not every HOA rule is legal. Learn how to recognize and fight unenforceable HOA rules that overstep the law.
How to Choose a Good Lawyer: Tips, Traits and Questions to Ask
by Laurie Villanueva
A Practical Guide for Your First-Time Hiring a Lawyer