Attorney
Jim Spivey
Attorney / Partner
Jim Spivey is passionate about landowner rights and represents developers, business, farm and ranch owners in eminent domain and condemnation matters. Jim has represented landowners in condemnation jury trials and nearly 100 Special Commissioners’ hearings in road expansion, high voltage transmission line, school district, pipeline, drainage easement and railroad condemnation cases throughout Texas. Jim is also a strong advocate in oil and gas litigation matters.
A recognized trial lawyer licensed to practice law in the State of Texas since 1995, Jim also represents clients in select civil litigation matters and has tried cases in state and federal court and before arbitration tribunals. Jim holds the pre-eminent rating of "A.V." from Martindale-Hubbell.
Jim has represented property owners in the following Texas Counties:
Andrews, Atascosa, Austin, Bandera, Bastrop, Bee, Bell, Bexar, Blanco, Bosque, Brazos, Brown, Burnet, Caldwell, Callahan, Cameron, Coleman, Collins, Colorado, Comal, Dallas, Denton, Dimmit, Duval, Eastland, El Paso, Erath, Fall, Fayette, Fisher, Frio, Galveston, Gillespie, Goliad, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hamilton, Harris, Hardin, Hays, Hidalgo, Hill, Jackson, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Karnes, Kendall, Kenedy, Kerr, Kimble, Kinney, Lampasas, La Salle, Lee, Liberty, Live Oak, Madison, Maverick, McLennan, McMullen, Medina, Mills, Montgomery, Navarro, Nueces, Presidio, Reeves, Refugio, San Patricio, San Saba, Smith, Starr, Tom Green, Travis, Tyler, Uvalde, Val Verde, Victoria, Waller, Washington, Webb, Wharton, Williamson, Wilson, Zapata and Zavala
Education
- The University of Texas School of Law, J.D., 1995
- Texas A&M University, B.S., magna cum laude, 1992
Admitted to Practice
- Texas, 1995
- United States Court of Appeals Fifth Circuit
- United States District Courts for the Northern, Southern, Western and Eastern Districts of Texas
Work Experience
- Co-Owner, Spivey Valenciano, PLLC, May 2012 to present
- Shareholder, Cox Smith Matthews Incorporated, 2001-May 2012
- Associate, Cox & Smith Incorporated, 1995-2001
Professional Recognition
- Selection for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America – Commercial Litigation, a publication by Woodward/White, Inc. (honored consecutively since 2010)
- Selection for inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers – 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 – Eminent Domain, a Thompson Reuters Service
- Selection for inclusion in Texas Super Lawyers, 2003-2004; 2014-2018 Commercial Litigation, a Thompson Reuters Service
- Martindale-Hubbell® AV® Preeminent TM Peer Review Rating
- S.A. Lawyers: Best of 2014 (Eminent Domain, Business Litigation, Real Estate Litigation) a publication of the San Antonio Scene Magazine
- S.A. Lawyers: Best of 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 (Eminent Domain) a publication of the San Antonio Scene Magazine
- Chambers USA, Leader in their Field, 2006-2007 and 2009-2012
Publications/Speaking Experience
- "Eminent Domain and Compensation," Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Ag Law in the Field Podcast, hosted by Tiffany Dowell Lashmet
- "Texas Tour: Preparing for Condemnation and Protecting Your Property Rights" (with Soledad Valenciano, Refugio, San Antonio, Brackettville, Cotulla and Alice, Texas, November 2019)
- "Eminent Domain for Texas Land Owners" (Texas Farm Credit Lunch and Learn Seminar, Gonzales, Texas, August 2019)
- "Eminent Domain for Texas Land Owners" (Texas Farm Credit Lunch and Learn Seminar, Pleasanton, Texas, August 2019)
- "Because It's Your Land" (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service seminar series “Owning Your Piece of Texas: Top Laws Texas Landowners Need to Know," Palo Alto College, San Antonio, Texas, June 2019)
- "Texas Tour: How to Protect Your Rights When Facing Eminent Domain," (with Soledad Valenciano New Braunfels, McAllen, Round Rock, 2018)
- "Protecting Your Land from TxDOT" (with Soledad Valenciano, Schertz, Texas, December 2017)
- "TxDOT and SH 46" (with Soledad Valenciano, Bulverde, Texas, February 2017)
- "Because It's Your Land," (with Soledad Valenciano, Goliad, Texas, June 2016)
- "AEP Texas: PUC Routing and Eminent Domain" (with Soledad Valenciano, Goliad, Texas, July 2015)
- “Cross Examination Of Experts In Eminent Domain Cases” (CLE International, 2013 Annual Eminent Domain/Condemnation Seminar, Austin, Texas, March 2013)
- “Towers, Trenches and TxDot: Strategies from the Landowner’s Perspective” (with Soledad Valenciano to San Antonio Real Estate Discussion Group, January 2012)
- “Recent Developments in Eminent Domain Proceedings” (with Soledad Valenciano at 10th Annual Gas and Power Institute, Houston, Texas, September 2011)
- “Coming Soon to a Town Near You: Eminent Domain, the CREZ Project, the Shale Oil and Gas Boom and Other Takings” (with Soledad Valenciano to San Antonio Bar Association Natural Resources Section, September 2011)
Professional Activities
- San Antonio Bar Association, 1995 – Present
- San Antonio Bar Foundation
- Texas Land & Mineral Owners Association, 2012 – Present
- William S. Sessions American Inn of Court, Member, 2002-2010
- Texas Association of Defense Counsel, Director, 2008-2011
- State Bar of Texas, Antitrust and Business Litigation Section, Chair, 2002-2003
- State Bar of Texas, Council of Chairs, Vice Chair, 2002-2003
- San Antonio Young Lawyers Association, Director, 2000-2002
- Defense Counsel of San Antonio, Director, 1999-2003
Interests
Jim Spivey is an avid hunter and fisherman and loves kayaking. He spends his free time with his family on their Texas Hill Country ranch or with his buddies fulfilling their hunting/fishing bucket lists.
"I won’t lose a case because my opponent outworked me."
— Jim Spivey
Meet Jim Spivey: A Trusted Advocate for Property Owners
At SPIVEY VALENCIANO PLLC we are proud to have Jim Spivey as a partner. Jim brings not only deep legal knowledge and years of experience but also a personal touch that sets him apart from other attorneys. His clients appreciate his exceptional trial skills, attention to detail, and commitment to providing responsive, personalized service. Whether he’s in the courtroom or working behind the scenes on a case, Jim’s dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his clients is evident at every step.
Exceptional Trial Skills and Courtroom Experience
One of Jim's standout qualities is his impressive trial experience. When negotiations fall short, he is fully prepared to take his cases to trial, and he does so with confidence and skill. Jim is known for his ability to present a compelling case in the courtroom, using his deep understanding of eminent domain law to challenge unfair offers and protect his clients’ rights. His thorough preparation and clear, persuasive arguments have led to numerous successful verdicts, earning him a reputation as a tough and effective eminent domain litigator. As a testament to his excellent reputation as a trial lawyer, Jim is often contacted by lawyers across the state looking to partner with Jim to take an eminent case to trial. Jim’s clients and colleagues know that, if needed, Jim will go the distance to ensure his clients get the compensation they deserve.
Attention to Detail and Knowledge of the Law
Jim's attention to detail is another reason clients trust him with their eminent domain cases. He takes the time to thoroughly review every aspect of a case, from understanding the government’s offer to investigating potential legal avenues that may increase compensation. His thoroughness means no detail is overlooked, and clients know that every angle is being considered to secure the best possible outcome for them.
In addition to his attention to detail, Jim has an in-depth knowledge of eminent domain law. His expertise enables him to craft tailored strategies that address the unique challenges of each case. Whether negotiating a settlement or preparing for trial, Jim draws on his extensive legal knowledge to guide clients through the process with confidence.
Likable, Trustworthy, and Always Responsive
Jim’s clients consistently highlight his likable and approachable nature. He is easy to talk to, and his clients appreciate how accessible and responsive he is throughout the course of their case. Whether it’s returning a phone call or answering an email, Jim is dedicated to being there when his clients need him most. His commitment to keeping clients informed and involved in the process ensures that they never feel out of the loop.
Why Clients Choose Jim Spivey
Clients choose Jim because they know they’ll receive exceptional legal representation from someone who is not only highly skilled but also genuinely cares about their case. Whether you're facing a complex eminent domain dispute or simply need someone who will listen and fight for you, Jim Spivey is the kind of attorney you want on your side. His blend of trial expertise, attention to detail, legal knowledge, and personable, trustworthy demeanor makes him the perfect choice for anyone facing eminent domain proceedings in Texas.
Let Jim Spivey Fight for Your Property Rights
If you’re dealing with eminent domain, you need an attorney who is experienced, responsive, and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you. Jim has built a reputation as one of Texas’s most trusted eminent domain attorneys. His passion for protecting property owners' rights, combined with his personable approach and legal expertise, has made him a sought-after advocate for clients across the state.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discover how Jim Spivey can help you navigate the complexities of eminent domain law. Let his experience and expertise work for you.
