Jim Sheehan

Attorney and Founder, Center for Justice
Spokane, Washington

Jim Sheehan graduated from Santa Clara University in 1966. He then served for three years as an officer in the United States Army, attended Gonzaga Law School, and worked for more than twenty years as a public defender in Eastern and Western Washington until he received a windfall inheritance. He decided that, in this next unexpected chapter of his life, he would put his money to work for the greater good.

In 1999, he founded the Center for Justice, a nonprofit law firm dedicated to protecting human rights, alleviating poverty, preserving the earth, and holding the government accountable to the principles of democracy. He also restored the old Saranac Hotel in downtown Spokane, which became the first LEED Platinum certified building in the region. Additionally, he renovated the Community Building, the Main Market Co-op, and the Saranac Commons in order to provide affordable, beautiful homes for area nonprofit offices and small businesses in downtown Spokane.

Despite all these accomplishments, Jim feels most lucky to have a healthy, supportive family, including his daughter Katy, his son Joe, and his partner Mary.