Build a Practice That Pays for Your Life
Thirty years of law, one small firm, and a boat that taught me more about business than any seminar ever did. I'm James Aspell, and most people call me Jim.
The book I wish every client had before they filed a claim.
Connecticut workers' compensation in plain English: what the system asks of you, what it owes you, and the questions most people are afraid to ask out loud.
Get the BookAvailable in hardcover and ebook from your retailer of choice. No cart, no upsell. The link takes you straight there.
Hello there
I'm Jim.
You probably got here from the book, a talk, or someone in the bar association who told you I'd take your call. However you arrived, glad you're here.
I've practised law in Connecticut for three decades, run my own firm for most of them, taught myself how clients actually find a lawyer, and spent every summer weekend I could on the water. This site is the short version of all of it.
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You Might Have Seen Me On
“The legal profession often rewards complexity. I've always believed the greatest expertise is demonstrated by making complicated subjects understandable.” James F. Aspell
Find Me Anywhere
Everything in one place.
One page with the book, the firm, the writing, and every account I actually use. Save my contact straight to your phone, or leave me yours and I'll come back to you myself.
Open My Business Card
“The fastest way to reach me is the same way I reach everybody else: one card, one inbox, no gatekeeper.”
Beyond the Courtroom
The courtroom and the open water ask for the same things.
People often ask what I do when I'm not practicing law. One passion is sailing. I hold a United States Coast Guard 50 Ton Master Captain's License with a Large Sail Endorsement, a credential that represents hundreds of hours on the water, rigorous training, and a commitment to safety and seamanship.
Whether I'm navigating a complex workers' compensation case or sailing through challenging conditions, success comes from experience, discipline, and never losing sight of the destination. Those lessons have influenced how I lead my firm, advise my clients, and approach every challenge.
More About Jim
- Preparation, long before the first move
- Sound judgment when the facts shift
- Calm decision-making under pressure
- A new course when conditions change
Author & Educator
When Work Breaks You
In 2026 I published When Work Breaks You: A Usable Guide for Injured Workers and Connecticut Attorneys. I didn't write the book to impress other lawyers. I wrote it because too many injured workers enter the workers' compensation system confused, overwhelmed, and uncertain about what comes next.
After representing thousands of injured workers over more than three decades, I wanted to create the resource I wish every client had before they filed a claim. It explains Connecticut workers' compensation in plain English, answers the questions people are often afraid to ask, and offers practical guidance for claimants, attorneys, physicians, and anyone who works within the system.
Read the First Chapter
Notes from a small firm
Short pieces on practice, marketing, and keeping a life while you build a business. No newsletter, no funnel. I just publish them here.
The Latest
In Their Words
What lawyers say afterwards
Say hello
Ask me anything. I answer it myself.
Readers, injured workers with a question, Connecticut attorneys, podcasters and event organisers all land in the same inbox, and none of it goes to an assistant.
James F. Aspell
Farmington, Connecticut