James W Childs Jr

Practice Areas

Private Equity

Venture Capital

Mergers & Acquisitions

Emerging Businesses

Securities Regulation & Corporate Finance

Fund Formation & Investment Management

Fintech

Career

James serves as Chair of Maynard Nexsen’s Venture Capital practice and Co-Chair of the Firm's Private Markets practice.

While James has worked with a broad range of clients operating in numerous industries, he focuses his practice in three primary areas - M&A, equity investments, and emerging growth companies. Specifically, he represents a high volume of private equity, venture capital, and other investment funds, strategic acquirers, and high-growth companies across the country. Focusing his practice in these areas allows him to gain in-depth knowledge and insight into his clients' businesses and the industries in which they operate. This approach provides James with up-to-date knowledge of current M&A and investment deal terms and trends, as well as the ability to make connections and bring strategic value to his clients.

In 2024, James was named to the Legal 500 Private Practice PowerList as one of the top M&A lawyers in the country. He is consistently recognized for his legal acumen by Chambers USA and The Best Lawyers in America©. Best Lawyers® recognized James as "Lawyer of the Year" in the region in multiple years for his work in Venture Capital Law, Private Equity Law, and Business Organizations.

Outside of his work with the Firm, James operated an accelerator that he founded for over ten years that equipped CEOs to lead their operating companies to the next level. James also leads or serves on the boards of directors of several organizations, including those focused on cultivating innovation economies and entrepreneurial ecosystems. He served twice as the President of the Birmingham Venture Club, Co-Founder and Chairman of TechBirmingham, and Chairman of Innovation Depot. He currently serves on the boards of the foregoing institutions. James has also led key innovation and investment initiatives for numerous organizations.

Professional Memberships

Alabama Capital Network, Board of Advisors

Biotechnology Association of Alabama, Executive Committee and Board of Directors

Birmingham Venture Club, current President and Board of Directors

Innovation Depot, Past Chairman; current Executive Committee and Board of Directors

Rotary Club of Birmingham, member

TechBirmingham, Founder and Past Chairman; current Board of Directors and Executive Committee member

Education