Renne Public Law Group (RPLG) is pleased to announce that Partner Jim Ross has been appointed to lead the firm’s affirmative litigation practice.
Jim brings more than 32 years of experience providing high-quality legal advice to public entities. His career includes over 26 years in county counsel offices, including having served as interim county counsel for Mendocino County and previously serving as county counsel for Shasta County. This extensive background embedded in representing public agency law provides him with a clear understanding of the full range of legal issues faced by local government agencies.
“I am excited to lead a practice that proactively addresses the structural and fiscal challenges our public agency partners face,” said Jim. “Affirmative litigation is a vital tool for local governments to protect their autonomy and secure the resources necessary to serve their residents. RPLG remains committed to using it strategically to defend the public interest”
Jim’s expertise in affirmative litigation is highlighted by his work on high-stakes funding cases that set important precedents for local budgets. He has a proven track record of successfully litigating complicated matters, including representative work in key cases like City of Fresno v. Scott Turner, and played a key role in a statewide negotiating group that worked to retain local control of funds distributed from California’s Opioid litigation settlements.
In addition to Jim’s work on affirmative litigation, he provides general government agency advice. During his career, he provided advice to all county departments including providing advice in important areas such as elections, public safety, human services and public works. Jim’s experience gives him a comprehensive understanding of county operations and governance. Jim’s contributions to the field were recognized in 2023 when he received a Recognition Award for Outstanding Service from the County Counsel Association of California.
“Jim’s specialized leadership in affirmative litigation and his decades of service as a county counsel make him an exceptional choice to lead this practice” said Founding Partner Jon Holtzman. “His ability to navigate difficult legal proceedings between state and federal authorities ensures that our public agency clients have a powerful advocate for their local autonomy and fiscal health.”
Jim holds a B.S. from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo and a J.D. from the University of California, Davis. He is admitted to practice in California and before the U.S. District Courts for the Central, Eastern and Northern Districts of California. Jim is also admitted to practice before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
RPLG practices throughout California, advising and advocating for public agencies and nonprofits, providing courageous, creative and responsive solutions.