10.12.17 – Honorable James Redford

James Robert Redford was appointed interim director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency by Gov. Rick Snyder on Feb. 19, 2016 and director on April 27, 2016.

In September 1984, Redford was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General (JAG) student program by his brother, who was then a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force. Following law school, Redford served five years on active duty and an additional 23 years in the Navy Reserves. His assignments included several Staff Judge Advocate tours and three commanding officer assignments.

In 2007, Redford was selected to serve as a judge of the Navy and Marine Corps trial judiciary, serving as Commanding Officer of the Navy Reserve Trial Judiciary. His last assignment was in 2009 as Legal and Legislative Affairs Counsel to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations in the Pentagon.

In July 2012, Redford transferred to retired status at the rank of Captain (O-6). His awards include the Legion of Merit Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (twice), Navy Marine Corps Commendation Medal (six times), Navy Achievement Medal (six times) and National Defense Medal (twice).

Prior to his MVAA appointment, he served as the governor’s chief legal counsel, Kent County Circuit Court judge and assistant U.S. attorney in the Western District of Michigan.

Redford earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from John Carroll University (Ohio) and his juris doctorate from the University of Detroit Law School.

He is married to Dianne Redford and has three children.