James R. Hayes

James R. Hayes joined Wampler & Passanise in 2025, bringing nearly two decades of criminal defense experience to the team. Known for his thorough research and analytical approach, James is a vital part of the firm’s mission to provide the best in criminal legal representation to individuals facing the most serious criminal charges. James is licensed in Missouri and before the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri. He has litigated appeals before the Missouri Court of Appeals, the Missouri Supreme Court, and the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals. James has served as a Special Public Defender in high-stakes cases, including complex murder trials, where his work on suppression motions and Constitutional defense has been instrumental in protecting the rights of the accused. Hayes earned his undergraduate degree from Evangel University (2001) and his law degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Law (2008). During law school, he distinguished himself as a leader and advocate, serving as President of the Student Bar Association and contributing to the school’s renowned advocacy programs, including the National Mock Trial Team and the Moot Court Executive Board. After Law School, Hayes received the Terry T. Thomas Trial Practice Achievement Award and was named to the Order of Barristers for excellence in advocacy.

For nearly two decades, he worked to build a reputation as a fierce advocate in criminal defense, fighting tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcomes for clients. From wrongful convictions to life-altering charges, James brings his expertise to cases ranging from homicide, robbery, and kidnapping to drug trafficking, sex crimes, and assault, as well as Federal and state appellate cases. Hayes was selected to serve as a Criminal Justice Act Attorney, a process that identifies attorneys qualified to accept Federal appointments in criminal cases. On that panel, he was chosen to serve as a Mentor Attorney, guiding less experienced and potential panel members. Deeply rooted in the Ozarks, James is an active member of the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association (SMBA) and the Missouri Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (MACDL). He also serves as an adult scout leader in Scouting America Troop 235 and a Cubmaster and Den Leader for Pack 221. James was chosen by the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools (SPS) to serve as an Ambassador in the program’s second class, educating on District programs and services. He has also trained volunteer advocates for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), a national organization of trained volunteers who advocate for abused and neglected children in the court system. James Hayes combines his rigorous academic training and passion for trial work, ensuring a client’s defense is built on excellence and integrity.