James Godbold

Associate


PHONE: (303) 776-9900
FAX: (303) 776-9100
EMAIL: jgodbold@lyonsgaddis.com

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James Godbold

Overview

James Godbold focuses his practice on commercial real estate, complex business transactions, and energy law, providing strategic counsel and practical solutions to clients across various industries. With extensive experience as both outside general counsel and in-house counsel, James has guided clients through large-scale real estate acquisitions, sales, and other high-stakes transactions.

James is adept at handling a wide range of commercial real estate matters, including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, and real estate syndication. He has successfully negotiated and structured multimillion-dollar transactions, managed complex due diligence, and implemented processes that ensure efficient and seamless deal execution. As in-house counsel for a commercial real estate investment firm, James supported legal operations for a portfolio exceeding $750 million, demonstrating his ability to balance legal guidance with business objectives.

In addition to his real estate expertise, James has extensive experience in complex business transactions, including entity formation, mergers and acquisitions, and serving as outside general counsel for diverse clients. His multidisciplinary approach enables him to provide cross-functional legal guidance that addresses operational, regulatory, and strategic considerations.

James also has a strong background in energy law, representing clients in the oil and gas sector on matters such as mineral title reviews, curative work, and the negotiation of complex leases and agreements. His work in this field reflects a commitment to understanding the intricacies of natural resources law and providing tailored solutions to his client’s challenges.

Practices

Commercial Real Estate
Corporate Transactions
Oil & Gas

Education & Experience

Before joining Lyons Gaddis, James served as Counsel at a real estate investment company, where he advised on high-value real estate acquisitions, contract structuring, and commercial leasing. He successfully negotiated and managed commercial leases, purchase agreements, and financing. Previously, he was a Senior Associate at Otis & Bedingfield, LLC, specializing in commercial real estate, corporate transactions, and oil and gas. His experience included complex transactions, title reviews, and corporate advisory services. He also served as Partner and Head of Litigation at Illingworth Renner, LLP, providing legal counsel to energy sector clients and managing high-stakes litigation.

James earned his Juris Doctor cum laude from Indiana University McKinney School of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Wittenberg University.

Community & Professional Involvement

  • Coach, Arsenal Soccer Club

Recognition

  • Colorado Super Lawyers Rising Star – Energy & Natural Resource Law (2020)
  • Indiana Super Lawyers Rising Star – Energy & Natural Resource Law (2015-2019)
  • Indiana Lawyer Up & Coming Lawyer Award (2013)

Personal

Outside of his legal practice, James enjoys spending time with his four children, coaching competitive youth soccer, camping, and cheering on the Colorado Avalanche.