Norman Gregory Young
James was my Loyola Law School classmate until graduation in June1973. During law school James, Carl Joseph, our wives and I were very close friends. But it is also true that everyone I knew in our large law school class of 325 liked James because of his confidence, friendliness, and captivating laughter.
I have not seen or spoken with James Milton Sisson for over three decades, yet I still remember our hard study, Christmas gatherings and relaxing touch football and picnics with our very young families. And I especially his unrestrained excitement and joy the morning he won his first civil trial on behalf of an L.A. man who had suffered severe back injuries while dining at McDonald's restaurant on LaBrea Avenue.
Initially the case had not seemed particularly difficult. However, the client's unusual behavior, and wider circumstances, made trial preparation more difficult than it should have been. Still, James's trial preparation was exhaustive.
I visited James's law office intermittently as he prepared for trial. And I was in the courtroom on the day he won. His manner created courtroom admirers even though this was Jame's first trial. And eventually even McDonald's lawyers were impressed -- which is why they offered hundreds of thousands more to settle the case midway in trial than James's had previously sought. James's courtroom manner had unnerved them.
James Milton Sisson was gifted and inspiring. And he was my friend for life, even though we last spoke over three decades ago. I regret that as much as do knowing of his life closeby in San Diego, and of recent passing this week.
My deepest condolences to the Sisson Family.
Greg Young
(Norman Gregory Young)
07/06/2022
