Profile
James was called to the Bar in July 2017 and began working within the legal profession as a County Court advocate. He then completed a common law pupillage – reduced to 10 months on account of his previous experience – at a small set in Newcastle.
He completed a third-six pupillage at Fountain Chambers, focussing exclusively on family law, before becoming a tenant in September 2020.
James has a practical and client-friendly approach, combined with a determination to ensure a positive outcome for all his clients. He works collaboratively with instructing solicitors and understands the importance of the early identification of any potential issues, and the subsequent speedy reporting back of outcomes.
He has been repeatedly praised for his client care in difficult cases, as well as the quality of his written work.
Public Law
James acts for Local Authorities, parents, family members and children in all aspects of public law from urgent applications to final hearings. He has been involved in cases involving emotional & physical abuse, substance misuse, non-accidental injury, sexual abuse and neglect. He has been instructed by Local Authorities in cases involving an international element, including the assessment of overseas carers.
Private Law
James acts for parents and children within private law disputes for child arrangement orders, specific issue orders and prohibited steps orders. He is regularly instructed in fact-finding hearings in cases of alleged domestic abuse and has been involved in cases dealing with domestic and international relocation.