James specialises in construction and engineering law, advising on both contentious and non-contentious matters across the full lifecycle of construction projects.
He acts for public bodies, developers, contractors, funders, and construction professionals, providing clear, commercially focused advice on issues including payment disputes, project structuring, terms of appointment, delay claims, and defective works.
James is known for combining technical legal expertise with a pragmatic approach, helping clients to manage risk effectively while keeping projects moving.
Non-Contentious work
James regularly advises on the drafting, negotiation, and structuring of construction and engineering contracts, as well as wider project risk.
His recent work includes:
- Advising a developer on the establishment of a contractual framework for a substantial solar farm in Ghana, addressing the interaction between Ghanaian law and standard FIDIC forms, and meeting the requirements of project financiers.
- Preparing bespoke terms and conditions for a UK-based provider of specialist safety and access equipment, including robust protection of valuable intellectual property.
- Advising an investment fund on the acquisition of a multi-disciplinary business with a significant portfolio of construction contracts, identifying key areas of risk to inform purchase negotiations.
- Advising a specialist offshore contractor on the statutory application of the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 in a hybrid construction and maritime context.
- Advising on the assignment of construction rights in the acquisition of a high-value commercial property.
- Advising a sports club on a development arrangement involving a lease with an obligation to build, including associated funding considerations.
- Negotiating contract terms on a high-value luxury residential project involving a contractor, private client, and funder.
James also routinely reviews and negotiates construction documents, presenting risk in a clear, structured format and supporting clients through the negotiation process.
Interests
In his free time, when not managing two young children, James enjoys long-distance cycling and woodworking. He is also an active member of his local Round Table charity.