James A. Rice

James Arthur Rice (born November 15, 1957) is an American lawyer who has served as an associate justice of the Montana Supreme Court. Rice was initially appointed by Governor Judy Martz in 2001. His current term extends to 2030.

Early life and education Rice was born to parents in the United States military who were stationed at Ramore Air Station near Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Canada. He obtained his pilot's license at age 17 and worked in aviation-related jobs while attending Montana State University. serving as the House Majority whip in the 1993 session. Rice's campaigns for Supreme Court referenced his time as a legislator. In the 2013 elections he stated: "I have sensitivity to the separation of powers and deference to the appropriate branches of government. I want to ensure that the court doesn't legislate from the bench and stays within our appropriate role."

After time in the legislature, he was appointed to chair the Board of Personnel Appeals by Governor Marc Racicot. Rice filled the seat vacated by Karla M. Gray when she was elected Chief Justice of the Montana Supreme Court. Then in 2022, he defeated Bill D'Alton to continue his tenure.