Alabama lawyer James Haley inducted into Alabama Lawyers Hall of Fame

The Supreme Court of Alabama convened on May 6, 2025, to honor the legacy of James O. Haley by inducting him into the Alabama Lawyers Hall of Fame. The meeting highlighted Haley's extensive contributions to the legal profession in Alabama, spanning over six decades.

James Haley, born in 1912 in Copiah County, Mississippi, moved to Jefferson County, Alabama, as a child. He began his legal career at Lang Simpson law firm, where he worked his way up from receptionist to partner. Despite the challenges of the Great Depression, Haley's determination led him to enroll in the Birmingham School of Law, where he graduated in 1938 and passed the Alabama State Bar exam shortly thereafter.

Haley served as a lieutenant in the Navy during World War II before returning to practice law. He gained recognition as one of Alabama's finest civil defense lawyers and held several prestigious positions, including president of the Birmingham Bar Association and chairman of the Alabama State Bar's practice and procedure section. His courtroom presence was marked by his distinctive style, often seen with a cigar, which he used to connect with jurors.

In 1968, Governor Albert Brewer appointed Haley to the Jefferson County Circuit Court, where he served for 12 years. He was known for his fairness and deep understanding of the law, earning the Alabama Bar Association's first award of merit for his contributions to justice in the state.

After retiring from the bench, Haley joined the faculty at Cumberland School of Law, where he significantly enhanced the trial practice program. Under his guidance, the program achieved national championships in 1981, 1984, and 1987. He was also recognized as a leading authority on workers' compensation law, authoring a handbook on the subject.

Haley's grandson, Toby Dykes, accepted the Hall of Fame plaque on his behalf, sharing personal anecdotes that illustrated Haley's impact on his family and the legal community. Dykes emphasized his grandfather's commitment to preparation, reputation, and lifelong learning, values that he instilled in those around him.

The meeting concluded with a heartfelt tribute to James O. Haley, acknowledging his dedication to the law and the profound influence he had on generations of lawyers in Alabama. The induction into the Alabama Lawyers Hall of Fame serves as a testament to his enduring legacy in the legal field.