Our History

Our firm was formed in 1968 when James R. Butcher decided to practice law independently and he purchased the property located at 201 North Buckeye Street. Jim practices all aspects of general law. Today, his practice consists primarily of estate planning, elder law, estates and probate and personal injuries. As the practice has grown, Jim has invited additional attorneys to join the firm. In 1971, David R. Ball entered the firm and served this community faithfully for 26 years. David passed away in 1997 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

In 1979, Jeffrey A. Lowry joined the firm upon his graduation from the Dayton University School of Law. Jeff has been practicing general law since that time. In addition to his general practice, Jeff also serves as a Juvenile Deputy Prosecutor for Howard County. In 2000, the firm welcomed Justin M. Alter. Justin also serves as a Deputy Prosecutor for Howard County. His practice covers all aspects of general law including bankruptcy law and Medicaid planning.

Butcher, Ball, Lowry and Alter's long-standing reputation in this community is comprised of over 73 years of combined legal experience. In addition to our attorneys, our support staff of legal assistants and secretaries have over 91 years of combined service to this firm.