Leading with Service: William O. “Will” James III begins term as 2025-26 PCBA president
August 25-31, 2025
By Cindy Smith
Plans include strengthening community ties, expanding outreach, and inspiring the next generation of attorneys.
The Pulaski County Bar Association begins a new bar year under the leadership of William O. “Will” James III, who first joined the Board of Directors in 2021 at the invitation of Past President Marjorie Rogers.
“I have always had a drive for service and to support those around me —
both personally and professionally,” James said. “The PCBA has been an integral part of my practice ever since that first invitation.”
Priorities and Vision
James plans to build on the work of past leaders, with a top priority of preserving and strengthening the PCBA’s sense of community and camaraderie. He hopes the association will continue to stand as an example of unity within the legal profession.
“We may come from different walks of life, practice different areas of law, and at times be adversaries, but we can still stand together,” he said.
The PCBA has always strived to improve itself by seeking partnerships with other organizations, new and old, as well as finding ways to better our pre-existing programs and CLE opportunities.
One tradition James hopes to cement is the Annual PCBA Holiday Party, ensuring it becomes a permanent fixture on every member’s calendar.
Engaging Members
To encourage participation — especially among younger attorneys — James plans to expand opportunities for networking with fellow attorneys and judges. “Pulaski County is a small legal community. You never know when you’ll be sharing drinks and ‘war stories’ with your future employer or partner,” he said.
Service and Outreach
James sees the PCBA as a leader in promoting public service, from pro bono work to volunteer initiatives and community engagement. He hopes to expand programs like Law Week and create more partnerships with local schools through career days, classroom readings, and youth outreach events.
Facing Modern Challenges
Acknowledging post-pandemic challenges and work-life balance concerns, James believes the PCBA offers something unique: support through shared experiences. “The sense of community goes deeper than social events — it’s about learning from one another and navigating challenges together.”
Lessons and Legacy
Advice from past PCBA presidents — especially the importance of humility and asking for help — has shaped James’s leadership approach. Some of his most meaningful moments have come from organizing major events, often navigating last-minute changes.
“Something will always go off-script,” he said. “Being able to work with some incredible people in putting these events together and pivoting them when necessary has been both a rush of adrenaline and has more than likely shaved a few years off my life. But it has and always will be worth it.”
At the end of his term, James hopes to leave the association stronger and inspire others to step forward. “Whether as a member or a board member, I want others to see the value in being part of this community and to get involved.”
James is married to Audrey, and they have a daughter.
Cindy Smith is the executive director of the Pulaski County Bar Association.
Photo Caption
1. Will and Audrey James
