WHEN RESULTS MATTERS
The ZENDEJAS
LAW STORY
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"Your Colorado Counsel for Business Disputes & Commercial Litigation"
M. JAMES "JIM" ZENDEJAS
Founding Partner & Litigation Attorney
For over 30 years, Colorado Springs businesses have trusted Jim Zendejas to protect their interests and resolve complex disputes.
A Colorado native with deep roots in this community, Jim has dedicated his career to helping companies and individuals navigate high-stakes litigation and emerge stronger. Whether you're facing a contract breach, construction dispute, employment challenge, or property conflict, Jim brings the strategic insight and courtroom experience you need.
Jim began his career at one of Colorado Springs' largest insurance defense firms, mastering litigation fundamentals before focusing exclusively on commercial law. For over 32 years, he has helped businesses:
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Recover significant financial losses
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Deal with rogue employees and business partners/former business partners
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Defend against unfounded claims
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Navigate complex regulatory environments
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Protect their assets and reputation
Jim began his legal career clerking for one of Colorado Springs’ largest insurance defense firms, Retherford, Mullen, Johnson & Bruce, LLC, joining as an associate upon graduating law school in 1993. His early practice honed his skills in a substantial amount of civil trial work, insurance disputes, and appeals.
In 1998, he brought his growing expertise in commercial law to Braden, Frindt & Stinar, LLC, where his practice became exclusively focused on commercial litigation, representing clients in construction, employment, real estate, and general business conflicts.
This deep, focused experience led him to co-found a firm dedicated to the same principles of strategic advocacy and client-centered service.
EDUCATION
Jurist Doctor
University of Notre Dame Law School
Dean’s List 5 semesters
B.A., History & Politics
Cornell College
Cum Laude,
Special Distinctions in Politics Student Body President
as a junior and senior
Varsity Soccer
Varsity Tennis
BAR ADMISSION
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State of Colorado
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U.S. District Court, District of Colorado
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U.S. Tax Court
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U.S. Bankruptcy Court
Beyond the courtroom, Jim gives back to the community that raised him. He served as a youth ministry leader at Sacred Heart Church, coaches local soccer teams, and contributes his finances and expertise to community organizations. Jim currently serves on two different boards including the Colorado Housing and Business Association Cares, the non-profit arm of HBA dedicated to assisting local families and members of the community and the Hugh Martin and Fallen Officers Scholarship Fund, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the memory of fallen law enforcement primarily through providing financial assistance to youth who are seeking education towards a career as a first responder. Jim’s deep local engagement means Jim understands not just Colorado law, but Colorado values.
If your company is facing a legal challenge or you need proactive counsel to avoid disputes, Jim offers the experience, dedication, and strategic thinking you deserve.
Contact Jim today for a confidential consultation about your commercial litigation needs. Remember, any consultation is free and can help you see how Jim’s expertise can help you resolve your problems and get your life back.
Jim leverages his comprehensive trial experience and business acumen to resolve disputes efficiently, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, always with an eye toward protecting his clients’ interests and advancing their goals.
Business-First Approach
Jim understands that legal disputes can threaten your operations, reputation, and bottom line. He focuses on practical solutions that align with your business goals, not just legal victories.
Proven Courtroom Experience
Jim has tried nearly 50 jury trials to success without a loss. From local courts to federal venues, Jim has successfully represented clients in trials, appeals, and mediations across Colorado. Jim has handled cases in both federal and state courts and arbitration forums in at least a dozen states, including Illinois, Florida, South Carolina, George, Hawaii, Texas, Wyoming, Idaho, Minnesota, Indiana, Michigan, and Nevada. He knows how to build a compelling case and when to push for settlement.
Industry-Specific Knowledge
With deep experience in construction, real estate, employment, probate and commercial law, Jim speaks not just your language, but he understands the unique pressures of your industry and what actually does and should happen in your industry. Equally important, Jim knows not just where the courthouse is, but also how to navigate through the snares that trap other attorneys.
Local Insight, National Training
Born and raised in Colorado Springs, Jim combines local connections and community understanding with elite legal training from Harrison High School, Cornell College, and Notre Dame Law School.
Jim’s practice is dedicated to commercial litigation, where he guides businesses and individuals through high-stakes conflicts. His extensive experience includes:
Commercial & Business Disputes Trade Secret & Non-Compete Conflicts
Construction Litigation Business Formation & Dissolution
Employment Law Matters Employer Handbooks & Policy Development
Probate litigation Insurance Coverage & Bad Faith Litigation
Real Estate & Property Disputes Appellate Advocacy
He is known for cutting through complexity, providing straightforward counsel, and crafting litigation strategies focused on his clients' practical and financial objectives.
