James S. Oliphant – Porter Wright – Columbus, OH

A Seasoned Litigator in Medical Malpractice

Decades of Defense in High-Stakes Cases

James S. Oliphant is a highly respected attorney at Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP in Columbus, where he has practiced for over 50 years. As a senior member of the litigation team, Jim has dedicated his career to the defense of complex civil matters, with a particular specialization in medical malpractice and personal injury defense. His longevity in the legal field has given him a depth of experience that is rare to find; he has seen the evolution of Ohio’s tort laws firsthand and knows how to navigate the most challenging courtrooms. Representing physicians, hospitals, and insurance carriers, Jim is known for his thorough preparation and his ability to dismantle plaintiff arguments with precision. His practice also extends to arbitration and mediation, where he serves as a neutral party to resolve disputes effectively outside of court.

Areas of Practice

• Medical Malpractice Defense: Jim is a veteran defender of healthcare providers. He understands the nuances of medical standards of care and works tirelessly to protect the professional reputations of doctors and medical institutions against claims of negligence.
• Product Liability and Toxic Torts: Beyond healthcare, Jim handles cases involving defective products and toxic exposure. He defends manufacturers and distributors in litigation that often involves complex scientific evidence and expert testimony.
• Arbitration and Mediation: Leveraging his vast trial experience, Jim acts as an arbitrator and mediator, helping opposing parties find common ground and avoid the expense and uncertainty of a jury trial.

A Pillar of the Legal Community

James S. Oliphant’s reputation for excellence is well-established. He has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America® for Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants, a distinction based on the evaluation of his peers. His calm demeanor and strategic mindset make him a formidable opponent in the courtroom and a trusted advisor to his clients. If you need to find a lawyer with the wisdom and experience to handle a critical defense matter, James S. Oliphant is a standout choice in Central Ohio.

Defending a reputation requires more than just legal knowledge; it requires an unwavering commitment to the truth.

Located in the Heart of Columbus

Jim practices out of the firm’s headquarters in the Huntington Center on South High Street. This location places him directly across from the Ohio Statehouse and within walking distance of the state and federal courthouses. Clients visiting the office are welcomed into a professional environment that reflects the prestige and history of one of Ohio’s oldest law firms.