This is one post I wish I didn't have to write. I recently learned that long-time colleague, friend, and kindred spirit Jim Mee passed away in September.
Jim was one of the good guys, a true giant in the Hawaii land use and eminent domain Bar. His accolades are many, his list of professional accomplishments long. I considered him a mentor and a guiding force in the local scene -- a colleague who never didn't have the time to chat with you about difficult issues, even if he was not involved in the case. He's the lawyer I'd call to trumpet my victories, or to commiserate with if a case didn't go my way. I knew he'd understand: we were, most often, on the same wavelength.
When we were not, I counted on him to be that objective, outside "you sure you want to argue that?" voice. A lawyer who understood the law, and the bigger picture.
I respected him enormously -- particularly on eminent domain and valuation questions -- and he was my go-to referral for any potential client I or my firm couldn't help. I knew with Jim they'd be in good hands. I'm sorry I won't be able to do that any longer, but I also know that Jim is in good hands himself now.
Fair winds, friend.
