James D. Shields

James D. “Jim” Shields is an attorney, entrepreneur, and investor with more than 40 years of experience advising financial institutions and closely held and founder‑led businesses. He is the founder of Shields Legal Group, where he counsels business owners, financial institutions, and capital intermediaries on corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and private equity transactions. Jim has tried more than 100 cases in state and federal courts and arbitration, earning a reputation for clarity, leadership, and results in high‑stakes business disputes.

In addition to his legal practice, Jim is the founder of The Shields Group, a collection of operating and investment companies, and Lighthouse Value Partners (LVP), an advisory firm dedicated to helping owners innovate their family business and life’s work into lasting, multigenerational impact.

His 2024 bestselling book, Wealth That Lasts: 10 Principles of Legacy Wealth, reflects his long‑standing commitment to helping families build and sustain meaningful legacies.

Jim is the creator of Impact 365, a charitable initiative that encourages families and business owners to integrate generosity and philanthropy into everyday life and strengthen their long‑term philanthropic vision.

Jim earned both his B.A. and J.D. from St. Mary’s University.

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP / ADDITIONAL BOARD SERVICE

Service has long been central to Jim’s work in North Texas, and that commitment is reflected in the Shields Legal Group’s support of CFT as one of its first Center for Business Impact cornerstone sponsors, through their extensive Volunteer Time Off program for employees.

Jim is an active board member and also serves on the Baylor Scott & White Sammons Cancer Center Advisory Board.