James gravitated from a more general practice towards one in which he specialises almost exclusively in clinical negligence and costs. Therefore, James’ professional life consists of a varied diet of maths, medicine, contract law and statutory interpretation.
James’ costs work spans most areas of legal practice. He is equally at home considering the multitude of issues which can arise from general common law cases such as personal injury, landlord and tenant and contractual disputes through to commercial cases involving multimillion pound international disputes, intellectual property infringement and insurance indemnity disputes. James’ consideration of numerous cases over the years has given him a great insight into the practices of both common law and commercial solicitors.
In the clinical negligence sphere James acts for both Claimants and Defendants albeit with a strong geographical split, acting mainly for Claimants in England and Defendants in Wales. Given his experience over many years James is familiar with most areas of medical specialism. Given the amount of costs that can be in issue in a claim it is perhaps unsurprisingly that instructing solicitors appreciate his costs expertise.
Finally, James has a healthy sideline in representing banks on matters arising out of the Consumer Credit Act and is familiar with the legal issues that arise in such claims.
Examples of cases that James has been instructed in can be found under the relevant practice section.
James’ interest in costs was initially self-serving. It was the height of the “costs wars” and James was mindful to ensure that his own conditional fee agreements were watertight when it came to enforceability. Now well able to understand the fears of others should a costs point be taken by the other side, he became part of Hailsham’s costs team so that he could put his knowledge to good work.
James’ costs work spans almost all areas of legal practice. He is equally at home considering the multitude of issues which can arise from general common law cases such as personal injury, landlord and tenant and contractual disputes through to commercial cases involving multimillion pound international disputes, intellectual property infringement and insurance indemnity disputes. James’ consideration of numerous cases over the years has given him a great insight into the practices of both common law and commercial solicitors.
James has appeared at all levels from the SCCO to the Court of Appeal and everything in between, be it at a detailed assessment, an application (such as relief from sanctions or concerning wasted costs), a preliminary issues hearing or a costs budgeting CMC.
James is happy to provide written advice on specific points as they arise and in advance of an anticipated hearing or settlement negotiations. James hopes that his general costs knowledge is of assistance when instructed generally in other areas of his practice. James is a barrister who understands the importance of costs recovery (or indeed limitation) to those who instruct him.
Examples of the cases that James has been involved in include:
James acts for both Claimants and Defendants in clinical negligence matters albeit with a strong geographical split, acting mainly for Claimants in England and for Defendants in Wales. Over the years James has advised on cases involving almost all areas of medical specialism. Had dressing up in a wig and gown not seemed like more fun than being covered in blood, his career path may have taken a different turn. As it is, James remains fascinated by medicine but never forgets that finding the best resolution for a case is what his clients need the most. Being accused of negligence or subjected to it can be one of the most stressful life events experienced by any professional or patient. James has wide experience dealing with cases on papers, in conference and at Court across the medical disciplines.
Examples of cases that James has been involved with:
James has represented solicitors accused of breaches of the Solicitors Accounts Rules, failure to adhere to Law Society Guidance on Mortgage Fraud and Money Laundering, obtaining secret profits and charges of acting dishonestly, among other matters before the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal. He has a clear understanding of the pressures that legal professionals can find themselves under.
James’ experience before medical regulatory tribunals has provided him with a valuable and detailed insight into the operation of hospital wards, care homes and GP practices. James has represented health care professionals whose fitness to practice was alleged to be impaired on the basis of heath, capability and misconduct. Previous cases have arisen out of the death and physical abuse of patients, alleged dishonest conduct, serious clinical failings and lastly personal drug and alcohol abuse.
"James is personable and very good with clients, some of whom face extremely difficult circumstances. He handles such matters with compassion and openness." Legal 500, 2023
“James is very personable, and his down-to-earth approach is welcomed by clients.” Legal 500, 2022
“Very supportive of clients and provides a down-to-earth approach” Legal 500, 2021
“Very down-to-earth and supportive of clients in a range of cases” Legal 500, 2020
“Forensic with an excellent eye to detail” Legal 500, 2019
“Personable and experienced” Legal 500, 2017
“Responsive in his approach.” Legal 500, 2016
"Very clear and responsive in his advice." Legal 500, 2015
Education: Girton College, Cambridge University.
ICO Data protection registration number: Z9804157.
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