James F. Cote 

James F. Cote has been practicing law in Santa Barbara since 1979. His career has provided him with a broad background of legal experience.

He began his career as a sole practitioner handling general litigation, personal injury cases, contract disputes, easement suits, family law, and criminal defense. During his first three years of practice he had several jury trials and learned how to own and operate a small business - his own law practice.

In 1982, Mr. Cote went to work as an associate at what was then the largest insurance defense firm in Santa Barbara, Archbald & Spray. He was the litigation attorney in the firm's business and estate planning department, handling business disputes and Will contests, and was also involved with the firm's insurance defense cases.

In 1985, Mr. Cote moved to the oldest law firm in Santa Barbara, Griffith & Thornburgh, and became a partner in 1988. He handled complex civil litigation, representing Southern Pacific, Amtrak, and Metrolink railroads, plaintiff personal injury claims, insurance defense cases, civil appeals, as well as probate and trust litigation. He also expanded his practice to include real estate transactions and establishing business entities. In the mid-1990's, he became involved in estate planning for clients of the firm, along with probate and trust administration, including the Sedgewick Ranch gift to UCSB.

 In 1999, Mr. Cote decided to go back where his career began and opened his own office.

ROSALEEN WYNNE

Rosaleen Wynne earned her undergraduate degree in Global and International Studies from UCSB and her Juris Doctor from Santa Barbara College of Law.

She is a member of the State Bar of California, the Santa Barbara County Bar Association, and Santa Barbara Women Lawyers.

Rosaleen has worked since 2004 in varying capacities in the areas of estate planning, probate proceedings, and trust administrations. She joined the firm in 2003.

Enthusiastic about mentoring children in the Santa Barbara community, she has volunteered for 30 years with Big Brothers - Big Sisters and CASA.

She has also volunteered with the Dependency Court, the Family Law Facilitator, the Legal Aid Foundation’s domestic violence clinic and Board of Directors for the Santa Barbara County Bar Association.

In her spare time, she enjoys running, biking, practicing yoga, and Milo.

CHRISTINE COTE GRESS

Christine Cote Gress is Jim’s sister and was the law office’s part-time manager from 2012-2022. She is a retired California attorney, having earned her Juris Doctor and a Masters of Law in Taxation at the University of San Diego School of Law.  She is also a retired California Certified Public Accountant.  Christine and her husband, David, are now enjoying their well-earned retirement, with their chocolate Labrador three cats.  Christine delights in serving as a docent at Lotus Land.  

Alexus Arce

Alexus Arce joined the firm in 2022 as the office manager and paralegal. She has extensive experience in estate planning, probate and trust administration, family law, event planning, retail management, and customer relations. When not in the office, she is hanging out with her kids.

Snoopervisor milo

Milo joined the firm in 2021 as the official Snoopervisor. You can find him napping on the job, searching desperately for his ball, and greeting guests.