James is a Senior Associate and the Claimant lead in our Employment and HR Services team. He has a broad employment law practice and predominantly advises and represents individuals, from workers and employees to senior executives, across a wide range of sectors.
James supports clients at every stage of a workplace issue. He advises on employment contracts and internal procedures, including grievances, disciplinary matters, performance and capability procedures, ill health absence, whistleblowing, discrimination, redundancy and transfers of undertakings under TUPE.
He also represents clients in Employment Tribunal proceedings, including claims involving unfair and constructive dismissal, discrimination, breach of contract, unlawful deductions from wages and unlawful detriment. James is experienced in handling complex cases involving several overlapping claims and helps clients understand their options, the potential outcomes and the most appropriate way forward.
James regularly advises on settlement agreements and negotiated exits, helping clients protect their position and secure appropriate terms. His experience ranges from individual settlement agreements and senior executive departures to coordinating large-scale settlement agreement exercises involving multiple employees. He also has experience of group claims, including large and complex class actions.
James takes a friendly, pragmatic and professional approach to client care. He focuses on explaining complex issues clearly, providing realistic advice and guiding clients through what can be a difficult and uncertain period in their working lives.
He regularly contributes to discussions in the local and national media on employment law issues. James also delivers training and presentations alongside other members of the Employment and HR Services team.
James has been recognised by The Legal 500 in each of the last five years, including as a Rising Star and, most recently, as a Leading Associate.
Work history
James qualified as a solicitor in 2012 and joined Hugh James as a Senior Associate in 2026.
Memberships
James is a member of the Employment Lawyers Association.