
James A. Stranahan IV was born on October 5, 1950 in New Castle, Pennsylvania. He attended Mercer Schools graduating in 1968. He achieved honors in high school scholastically. In sports, he played baseball, basketball and ran cross country. His education continued at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania where he graduated in 1972. After college he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Corporal. Following his service to the country, he attended Thomas M Cooley Law School, graduating in 1979. He immediately passed the bar examination and joined his father in the practice of law in Mercer.
- Allegheny College — 1972
- Thomas M Cooley Law School — 1979
His law practice began with real estate, criminal defense and family law. He developed a civil trial practice and currently specializes in wills and estates.
- President of Mercer Rotary Club
- President of Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce
- Board of Directions Grove City Country Club
- Deacon and Elder Trinity Presbyterian Church Mercer
- President of Mercer Citizens Cemetery

As a young child I decided to be an attorney to help people find solutions to problems they faced in legal matters . I have always tried to represent my clients to solve their problems well but to not charge a fee which also might harm them financially.