James Hammonds is a graduate of DePaul University College of Law. He has interned for the Legal Aid Society of Chicago, a program designed to assist African Americans illegally arrested based on race. James has operated a general law practice, created a juvenile justice program, and developed various community organizations aimed at assisting individuals with job placement and reengagement in society after incarceration. 

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He participated in the school reform movement and is now engaged in writing mystery stories that have both social and historical value. His first book, When Shepherds Kill, uses the murder of a Chicago Alderman to look at some of the social ills affecting our world.