Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP

Dispute Resolution: Arbitration and International Litigation

Managing Associate

James is a leading arbitration and litigation expert, guiding clients through high-value commercial disputes across the UAE and beyond.

Based in Dubai since 2012, James focuses his practice on high-value commercial disputes arising from business transactions and relationships. His experience covers a wide range of matters including contractual disputes, debt recovery, sale of goods and services disputes, tortious claims, logistics disputes, and real estate disputes, among others.

James has acted for a diverse client base, including investment banks, professional investors, high-net-worth individuals, family offices, construction companies, developers, and corporates across sectors such as financial services, real estate, construction, logistics, hospitality, and clean energy.

He has acted in over fifty arbitrations, including proceedings under the ICC, DIAC and former DIFC LCIA and former ADCCAC rules.

James also has substantial experience before the DIFC Courts and frequently works alongside leading barristers and experts to deliver outstanding results for his clients.

James regularly advises on the merits and risks of litigation under UAE, DIFC and ADGM laws, as well as arbitral and court practices, and the enforcement of arbitral awards and court judgments (both domestic and foreign) within the UAE and abroad. His pragmatic, commercially focused approach is highly valued by clients navigating complex disputes in the region.

James is qualified as a solicitor in England & Wales, a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (MCIArb) and a DIFC Courts registered practitioner.