Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP

Partner

• Alternative Dispute Resolution
• Construction Projects (Front-End Services)
• Construction and Infrastructure Law
• Commercial and Business Litigation
• Domestic and International Arbitration
• Public Policy
• Surety

James Little is a Partner and Co-Chair of the Construction and Infrastructure Practice Group at Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP, as well as Co-Chair of the firm’s Artificial Intelligence Committee. He is also a certified adjudicator for ODACC under Ontario’s Construction Act. Consistently ranked by Chambers Global, Lexology Index, Legal 500, Benchmark Litigation, and Best Lawyers, James is recognized for his “keen mind,” “innovative strategies,” and “impeccable preparation” in high-value construction disputes.

James acts for clients across Canada, the United States, and internationally on complex construction and infrastructure matters. His work spans major transportation, energy and mining, health-care, and commercial development projects. He represents owners, contractors, design professionals, EPC/EPCM entities, and P3 participants in negotiation, litigation, arbitration, adjudication, and multi-jurisdictional dispute resolution. James is also frequently retained as project counsel, advising during procurement, pre-construction, design development, and active construction to mitigate risk and preserve commercial relationships before disputes arise.

James’ approach is grounded in interpersonal intelligence, clear communication and relationship-driven advocacy. Known for balancing firmness with diplomacy, he works seamlessly with opposing counsel and project teams to find collaborative solutions when possible - while never compromising on the advocacy required in any truly adversarial environment. Clients value his practical judgment, steady temperament, and ability to translate complex technical issues into clear strategy. This people-centred approach has made James a trusted advisor to long-term clients navigating both day-to-day project challenges and high-stakes disputes. His integrity and collaborative style have also earned him the confidence of colleagues across the construction bar, who regularly refer matters to him knowing he protects their client relationships and approaches every referral with professionalism and respect.

As the firm’s AI Committee Co-Chair, James is at the forefront of integrating AI into construction law practice. He advises on emerging issues at the intersection of technology, contracts, and project delivery, and is committed to modernizing the provision of legal services through responsible and effective AI adoption. His work includes developing firm-wide AI policies, training practitioners, and exploring how advanced tools can improve claims management, document analysis, real-time project support, and overall client experience.

James serves as Chair of the Society of Construction Law North America (SCL NA), the regional arm of the global Society of Construction Law network dedicated to advancing the study, research, and practical application of construction law across jurisdictions. In this capacity, he leads initiatives to build bridges between North American and international practitioners, foster multidisciplinary collaboration, and elevate professional standards through conferences, publications, and education. Under his leadership, SCL NA has continued to expand its reach and influence - connecting in-house counsel, industry executives, academics, and dispute-resolution professionals from the U.S., Canada, and abroad to tackle emerging issues in project delivery, risk management, and dispute avoidance. This role reflects James’ commitment not just to thought leadership, but to strengthening the community of construction law practitioners and equipping the profession for the increasingly global and technology-driven challenges of today’s-built environment.

Beyond the legal world, James is a frequent traveler with his wife and two young sons - specializing in the logistics of navigating theme parks with military precision.

English

Certified Adjudicator for Ontario Dispute Adjudication for Construction Contracts (ODACC) Chair, Society of Construction Law North America Member, Ontario Bar Association Construction and Infrastructure Section Member, Canadian Bar Association Member, Ontario Bar Association

Called to the Ontario Bar, 2014 Juris Doctor, University of Windsor, 2013 Bachelor of Engineering Science, University of Western Ontario, 2008

Appointed Public Member of the Professional Engineers Ontario's Complaints Committee Chair, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Singleton Urquhart Reynolds Vogel LLP