James Gathright is a native of El Dorado, Arkansas, and attended the University of Arkansas at Monticello, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Music. He went on to earn his Master of Music from the same institution, deepening his dedication to discipline and craft before turning his focus to the law.

James earned his Juris Doctor from the William H. Bowen School of Law in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. His legal education was marked by a breadth of hands-on experience across multiple practice areas. He clerked with the Arkansas Municipal League, where he gained valuable experience in municipal Section 1983 defense work, and with Simmons Bank's legal department, where he honed his skills in institutional legal practice. He also gained substantive experience in trust and estates work, laying the groundwork for his current practice focus.

In addition to his clerkships, James externed for Chief Judge Phyllis M. Jones at the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas, where he developed a foundation in federal court practice. He also participated in the Mediation Clinic in the William H. Bowen Legal Clinic, which serves as the hub for Arkansas' Special Education Mediation Project, further broadening his skill set in alternative dispute resolution.

James is currently pursuing a Tax LL.M. at the University of Florida Levin College of Law, continuing to expand his expertise in an area vital to his clients' needs.

Outside of the office, James is an accomplished musician who performs live music. He also enjoys golfing and spending time with his wife.