ABOUT US

Building in Arlington

Jim's commitment to Arlington includes investing in its future. Mercury Chophouse – Arlington opened in 2017; Hearsay Arlington followed in historic Choctaw Stadium in 2023. As an entrepreneur, he understands the practical realities of hiring employees, negotiating contracts, managing risk, serving customers, and growing an organization.

Before the Restaurants

Jim served honorably in the United States Marine Corps from 1979 through 1983 before joining the Arlington Police Department. During his thirteen-year law enforcement career he served on Arlington's first full-time SWAT Team, instructed recruits at the Police Academy, and spent more than six years assigned to the DEA Task Force investigating narcotics trafficking.

After earning his Juris Doctor and passing the Texas Bar Examination, Jim built a successful litigation career and founded the Jim Ross Law Group in 2009.

Leading the City

As the 31st Mayor of Arlington, Jim helps lead one of America's fastest-growing cities. Working with fellow elected officials, city management, business leaders, educators, healthcare providers, and residents, he helps guide decisions affecting economic development, public safety, transportation, infrastructure, housing, and quality of life. His service extends throughout Texas and the nation through appointments to regional and national organizations dedicated to transportation, municipal government, workforce development, veterans' issues, and infrastructure.

Serving the Community

Throughout his career Jim has devoted countless hours to civic and charitable organizations. Before becoming Mayor he served on the boards of the Arlington Police Foundation, the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, the Margarita Society, Special Olympics Texas, and the American Heart Association, and he is a member of the American Legion. As Mayor he continues that work on boards including the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation, the Gene and Jerry Jones Family Arlington Youth Foundation, the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation, and Downtown Arlington Management Corporation.

Family and Values

Despite his professional accomplishments, Jim considers family his greatest priority. He is the proud father of four children and grandfather of six grandchildren. The values that guided him as a Marine — honor, accountability, discipline, compassion, and service — remain the same values that guide his work as an attorney, a businessman, and Mayor.

One Theme

Looking across Jim Ross's career, one theme connects every chapter: service. Whether serving his country, protecting his community, representing clients, building businesses, or leading a major American city, his focus has remained constant — helping people and leaving every organization stronger than he found it.