James W. Hortsman – Managing Attorney

Bio

James W. Hortsman is the founding member of Hortsman & Campanelli, a dynamic law firm serving clients across Illinois and Indiana. With over a decade of experience, James offers clients a rare combination of legal acumen, business strategy, and real-world insight. He leads the firm’s efforts in high-stakes, complex family law matters in Indiana and Illinois, delivering personalized and results-driven representation to individuals. 

Before launching his own practice, James served as General Counsel for Milhouse Engineering & Construction, Inc., where he played a critical role in managing contracts, compliance, corporate governance, and mergers and acquisitions. His accomplishments included advising on cross-border transactions, managing outside counsel in international ventures, and guiding major infrastructure investments in the West African energy sector.

James began his legal career as an insurance defense law clerk for CNA Insurance and also served in a similar role for the Lake County Public Defender’s Office, where he supported felony and misdemeanor criminal defense matters through all phases of trial preparation.

Over the years, Mr. Hortsman has represented hundreds of clients and tried cases before both juries and judges. His deep knowledge of family law and reputation for fearless advocacy have earned him respect throughout Illinois and Indiana’s legal community.

James holds an Executive MBA from the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, where his coursework focused on leadership, innovation, and strategic problem-solving. He earned his Juris Doctor from Valparaiso University School of Law, where he was active in the Student Bar Association, Sports Lawyers Association, and the VITA-certified Tax Law Society. James also holds a Master’s in Sports Administration from Valparaiso University and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Illinois Wesleyan University, where he played Titan Football and was involved in the IWU Titan Law Club and Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

James is admitted to practice in Illinois and Indiana and is an active member of the Chicago Bar Association, Lake County Bar Association, Indiana and Illinois State Bar Associations. In addition to his courtroom work, Mr. Hortsman spends his time giving back to his communities by assisting local charities. A former member of the Chicago White Charities Board of Directors Young Professionals Council and now currently serving as a member of the Board of Directors for the Crossroad Chamber of Commerce in Northwest Indiana. James has served in a diverse array of advisory roles for businesses and has hands on business experience to provide insight to business owners, businesses, and entrepreneurs. 



Whether you are facing serious criminal charges, navigating a high-asset divorce, or in need of sophisticated legal guidance, James brings a steady, strategic, and solution-oriented approach to every case.