James read law at the University of Nottingham before completing his Bar Corse at the Inns of Court College of Advocacy where he was taught in Inner Temple and Middle Temple. James’ cross-examination in his Bar Exam was described by the examiner as “an excellent overall performance.” James was called to the Bar at Inner Temple in 2025.

As an undergraduate James competed in 20 moots, including the Jessup International law moot where he considered the legal issues surrounding the transboundary movement of hazardous waste. James was the Inns of Court Liaison officer at his University’s Bar Society for two years where he organised career events and law competitions.

In the Summer of 2025 James worked as a County Court advocate in mortgage possession, infant settlement and rent arrears hearings, appearing in courts on the Midlands, Western and Welsh circuits.

Away from the Law, James is a keen horseracing enthusiast. He has commentated on pony races across Britain since 2018, auctioned a racehorse and interviewed some of Britain’s best jockey’s. Before starting pupillage James also worked as a customer service assistant for Tote and Britbet racecourse betting services.