Brothers’ law practice in its 50th year of operation
Sam and Jim Davis readily admit they did not grow up amidst wealth. But their parents, Thelma and Norman, made them rich with knowledge, savvy and guidance from inside their modest home in the village of Republic.
They also taught their sons the importance of kindness and generosity.
When their basketball team needed shoes, “Our mother raised money locally. If a student needed shoes, she bought them,” Sam said.
Jim said that influence is why, “We’ve always wanted to give back.”
More than a half-century later, they continue to assist those in need.
Samuel J. and James T. head Davis & Davis Attorneys at Law, based at 107 E. Main St. in downtown Uniontown. The Davises launched their practice in 1976, and will celebrate 50 years later this year.
Seven attorneys are on staff, including another Davis – Jim’s son Jeremy.
The firm handles a wide range of cases, including divorce, child custody, criminal defense and real estate.
“We have had some serious cases (and) some that are not newsworthy. Coming from Republic, we believe in second chances,” said Jim, 74. “We represent everyday people and try to give them their best chances at getting justice.”
The brothers praised both parents for enlightening them to life during their formative years.
Norman Davis imparted lessons about service, his sons said. During World War II, he flew 35 combat missions in the European Theater as a member of the Army Air Corps. Thelma Davis, who became a teacher later in life, was an example of work ethic.
She also taught her sons, born in the early 1950s, that skin color didn’t determine a person’s worth, they said.
“She said everyone lives and dies, and what you do in between is important,” said Sam, who recently turned 76.
“We were raised to judge people by their character and treat them the way they want to be treated,” Jim said.
As their firm continues into its fifth decade, the brothers said they have no retirement plans.
“We’re still in relatively good health, although we don’t know what tomorrow may bring,” Sam said.
And they continue to enjoy the work.
“When you do what we do,” Jim said, “you have to have passion. … You have to enjoy interactions with people. That’s what makes it work.”
But for the Davises, things come back around to one of the many lessons taught to them as young boys: giving back.
“We’ve done this so long, we want to introduce ourselves to younger professionals. We owe something to the people who work here,” Sam said.