James B. Hovland

JAMES B. HOVLAND

Jim Hovland infuses our firm with a tradition of integrity and high level of professional and public service.  He brings over four decades of legal experience, including broad litigation and business acumen. He has substantial experience in transportation matters, and he is sought out for his expertise in real estate development, public policy, and community outreach. As an advocate, he crafts innovative solutions and helps our Clients succeed. His colleagues and Clients alike appreciate his approachable and collaborative style.

As a four-term Mayor of Edina, Jim currently serves as Chair of the Municipal Legislative Commission, Co-Chair of the Regional Council of Mayors and Chair of the Transportation Advisory board to the Metropolitan Council. Jim has also served as the President of the Edina Community Foundation. He is a member of the Edina Morningside Rotary Club, and the Edina Chamber of Commerce.  He is a recipient of the Rotary Service “Above Self” Distinguished Service Award, and the Edina Chamber of Commerce “Business Person of the Year” Award.  

Jim earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of North Dakota, and his law degree at the University of Colorado. He is a member of the Minnesota and North Dakota State Bar Associations.  He has an AV-Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the pinnacle of professional excellence, which is earned through a strenuous peer-review rating process, monitored by the world’s most trusted legal resource, Martindale-Hubbell.

Jim and his wife live in Edina, Minnesota.

 

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

Admissions
Minnesota Supreme Court; U.S. District Court of Minnesota; North Dakota Supreme Court; Federal District Court for the district of North Dakota; U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth, Eighth and Ninth Circuits.

Elected Official
Edina City Council (1997-2005)
Mayor of Edina (2005-present)
Regional/State Involvement

Current

  • Co-Chair, Regional Council of Mayors
  • Transportation Advisory Board (TAB) to the Met Council (Chair)
  • SW LRT Corridor Management Committee
  • SW LRT Community Works Steering Committee – Vice Chair
  • Municipal Legislative Commission – (Chair – present)
  • MSP Export Initiative – committee member
  • Greater MSP Partner Advisory Council

Non-Profit Involvement

  • Edina Community Foundation (Board Member – current)
  • Edina Morningside Rotary Club

OTHER PARTNERS

DAN RASMUS
DAN BRENDTRO
BOB TRZYNKA