Jim Blair
Jim Blair's connection to the East Bay business community started as a student at Diablo Valley College, where a Business Law course changed everything. That class sparked his passion for helping entrepreneurs navigate the legal side of business. It led him to Lewis & Clark Law School and the California Bar in 1999.
But Jim didn't stop at studying business law. He lived it. As owner of Creek Monkey Tap House in Martinez, he experienced firsthand the challenges that keep business owners up at night: contracts, payroll, tax decisions, growth strategy, and compliance. Most attorneys have never signed the front of a paycheck. Jim has. That real-world experience shapes how he practices law today.
Now Jim has come full circle. He's back at DVC as Director of College Advancement and a Business Law professor (his students call him "one of the most real, down-to-earth, funny professors at DVC"). He serves on the boards of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce, the DVC Foundation, and Diamante Scholars. He's a founding member of the Diablo Valley Tech Initiative and sits on Marathon Petroleum's Community Advisory Panel.
Through Everwise Legal, Jim brings 25+ years of combined business and legal experience to entrepreneurs and small business owners. With his JD, Certified Specialist in Planned Giving (CSPG), and Real Estate Broker credentials, he offers comprehensive guidance in business law, taxation, and estate planning. No hourly fees, no surprise invoices. Just accessible, strategic counsel when you need it.
Jim understands your challenges because he's lived them. And he's here to help you stay ahead of them.
Education & Credentials
Juris Doctor (JD)
Lewis & Clark Law School, Portland, Oregon (1994-1998)
Specialized in environmental and natural resource law with a primary focus on water law. This foundation in strategic, long-term thinking shapes Jim's approach to business planning today.
Bachelor's Degree
Environmental Resources (1991-1994)
Emphasis on environmental politics, policy, and water management. Developed analytical and systems-thinking skills essential for complex business challenges.
Professional Licenses & Certifications
- California State Bar #202247 - Active status since July 1999
- Certified Specialist in Planned Giving (CSPG) - American Institute for Philanthropic Studies, 2023
- Real Estate Broker - California Department of Real Estate License #01339310, 2004
- CCNA Certifications - Cisco networking credentials (showing commitment to staying current with technology)
Practice Areas
Business Law, Taxation, Estate Planning, Constitutional Law, Environmental Law & Natural Resources
Professional Journey
Creek Monkey Tap House - Owner/Operator
Martinez, California
Jim didn't just practice business law; he lived it. As owner of Creek Monkey Tap House, a beloved gastropub in downtown Martinez, Jim experienced every challenge entrepreneurs face. From negotiating vendor contracts and managing payroll to navigating local regulations and making growth decisions, he walked in his clients' shoes. This experience taught him that the best legal advice is proactive, practical, and aligned with real business goals.
Diablo Valley College - Director of College Advancement
Pleasant Hill, California (Current)
Jim leads DVC's fundraising and development efforts, fostering collaborations between the Contra Costa County business community and DVC students and faculty. This role keeps him deeply connected to local businesses and allows him to give back to the institution that sparked his legal career.
Diablo Valley College - Business Law Professor
Pleasant Hill, California (Current)
Teaching the very Business Law course that inspired him to attend law school, Jim has come full circle. His students describe him as "one of the most real, down-to-earth, funny professors at DVC." He brings real-world examples and practical insights to every class, preparing the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Everwise Legal - Founder & Attorney
Pleasant Hill, California (Current)
After years of business ownership, teaching, and community involvement, Jim founded Everwise Legal to serve entrepreneurs and small business owners the way he wished he'd been served: with proactive guidance, accessible expertise, and predictable costs. No hourly billing. No surprise invoices. Just strategic counsel when you need it.
Community Leadership
Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce
Board Member (2020-Present)
Supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth in Contra Costa County through advocacy, networking, and community engagement.
Diablo Valley College Foundation
Executive Director (Current)
Leading fundraising efforts to support DVC students through scholarships, emergency assistance, and educational programs. Strengthening partnerships between the college and the business community.
Diamante Scholars
Board Member (2020-Present)
Empowering first-generation college students through mentorship, scholarships, and support services. Helping students achieve their educational and career goals.
Diablo Valley Tech Initiative
Founding Member (2018-Present)
Bridging the gap between technology and education in the East Bay. Promoting digital literacy and tech career pathways for local students.
Marathon Petroleum Corporation
Community Advisory Panel (2020-Present)
Serving as a liaison between the corporation and the local community, ensuring corporate decisions consider community impact and fostering transparent communication.
Philosophy & Approach
Why Subscription-Based Legal Services?
After owning a business and experiencing the stress of hourly legal bills, Jim knew there had to be a better way. When you're watching the clock every time you call your attorney, you don't ask the questions you should. You don't get proactive advice. You wait until problems become crises.
With subscription-based pricing, you can pick up the phone or send an email without worrying about the cost. You get the guidance you need, when you need it, without surprise invoices. It's how legal services should work in the modern business world.
Proactive vs. Reactive
Most businesses engage an attorney only when something goes wrong. By then, options are limited and costs are high. Jim's approach is different: anticipate challenges, plan ahead, and build strong foundations that prevent problems before they arise.
Whether it's reviewing contracts before you sign, planning tax strategy before year-end, or structuring your business properly from day one, proactive guidance saves time, money, and stress.
Your Partner, Not Just Your Lawyer
Jim sees himself as a partner in your business success, not just a service provider. That means understanding your goals, challenges, and vision. It means celebrating your wins and problem-solving through tough times. It means being accessible, responsive, and invested in your long-term success.