
1990
All Saints Comprehensive School, Sheffield.
University of Wolverhampton, LL.B (Hons).
Inns of Court School of Law, Bar Finals.
Called to the Bar 1990, Middle Temple
Pupillage at 10/11 Gray’s Inn Square, London 1989-1990 supervised by Miss Jean McCreath.
Tenant at 10/11 Gray’s Inn Square before moving to Leeds 1991.
Member of the North Eastern Circuit
Grade 3 Crown Prosecutor
Member of the Family Law Bar Association
Although the majority of James’ current practise is as a specialist in the family courts in relation to abused and neglected children, he also accepts instructions to advise, draft pleadings, and represent parties in relation to ‘non-family’ personal injury cases.
James’ current position as a specialist practitioner has been reached through a diverse practise including time spent gaining experience in other areas. That background, including crime (both prosecution and defence), civil, and tribunal work also, brings a depth of experience, and a perspective which is valuable to the specialist. James is a modern, very approachable, and highly ‘IT literate’ lawyer.
James has been involved in many cases concerning children who have been seriously physically or sexually abused, including numerous cases of shaken babies, and proceedings following child and infant deaths. James’ particular interest is in those cases involving complex expert medical evidence, and his experience and attention to detail have led to him being regarded as a highly skilled specialist in the area.
James’ recent cases have included proceedings concerning;
- babies who have suffered multiple injuries on a number of separate occasions and with several possible perpetrators,
- cases in which suspected non-accidental injuries have been shown to have a natural or organic cause
- cases involving examination of possible inherited genetic factors in the aetiology of death of and serious illness in children.
Other practise areas/interests;
- Criminal Injuries Compensation work,
- Coroners’ Court inquests,
- Court of Protection work.
Languages: Basic French
For further details contact Francine Kirk on 0113 202 8605
