James Wilkes Senior Consultant Solicitor

James joined Setfords as Head of Litigation from a leading London and South East based practice in 2016. After 7 years in this role, he transitioned to be a Senior Consultant with the firm. James has a robust, commercial and results orientated approach to cases.

James acts in commercial litigation and employment matters across a broad spectrum of industries for private individuals, regional businesses, or multi-nationals as part of a larger project or legal team as appropriate.

Commercial Litigation:

Regarding contentious work, James is principally instructed in commercial contract disputes arising from contracts for supply, insurance, commercial leases and professional negligence cases, focusing on legal and property related professionals.

Commercial Advisory:

• James often advises on an ad-hoc basis for his commercial clients on a variety of issues, often initially as a sounding board for the routine concerns which arise in the course of business where timely contextual legal advice is of substantial benefit.
• James’ advice in this area principally consists of the following:
• Contract advisory, review and drafting (focusing on the provision of goods and services)
• Distribution agreements and commercial arrangements
• Dispute assessment of potential litigation / avoidance of the same
• Breach of commercial leases / court ordered possession / contentious renewal

Employment:

• James is also regularly instructed by Claimants and Employers in employment matters in the High Court and Employment Tribunal – focusing particularly on breach of contract and discrimination cases.
• James routinely advises upon and negotiates executive or C-Suite termination packages (Settlement Agreements). There is a primary focus on those cases arising from alleged misconduct, discrimination, harassment and occupational stress.
• James also advises in relation to worker / consultancy contractor status for IR35 and the provision of consultancy contracts / policies and procedures relating to this.

Private Client / Individuals:

James' private client practice is a generalist civil litigation and employment advisory practice which has a significant overlap with his core commercial practice areas. Typical client instructions include employment matters and residential property disputes focusing on ownership / equitable interest cases.

Specialist Area - Equine Law:

In addition to his commercial civil litigation practice, James has a particular interest in Equine Law on account of an extensive personal background and interest in horse racing, eventing and show jumping. James acts for owners and professionals at the highest international levels of their respective disciplines, where cases frequently involve multi-national or cross-border elements.

James will advise on disputes arising from purchases, ownership / syndicate disputes, agent sales, regulatory issues, and professional negligence cases.

Contacting James

James is always pleased to hear from new clients with prospective cases to discuss their matter on a no-obligation basis. Contact James by email or phone now.