Boasting in-depth expertise across a range of construction and engineering disputes and arbitrations, Keating Chambers is considered a ‘second to none’ for transport infrastructure, oil and gas, high-rise developments and energy related disputes with an ’exceptional bench’. Simon Hughes KC disputes arising out of energy construction projects in the region, while Marc Rowlands KC has extensive experience in rail related disputes. Timothy Elliott KC and Krista Lee KC are both experienced construction arbitrators and have an active Middle East practice. Jennie Wild and James Thompson handle energy, infrastructure and airport related disputes and James Frampton acts in projects in Qatar and the UAE.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Profile
Position
James Frampton specialises in construction, engineering, energy and procurement disputes. He is ranked for Construction, Professional Negligence and Procurement by Chambers and Partners and by Legal 500 as a ‘Rising Star’ for both Construction and Procurement: “Very bright, focuses on the key issues, always prepares comprehensively, very good advocate, great manner. He is a star junior.”
James’ recent instructions have included a particular focus on:
Building Safety Act 2022 and fire safety/cladding matters.
- James acted as Junior Counsel for Mulalley in the first fire-safety cladding case to be tried in the TCC since the Grenfell Tower (Martlet Homes Limited v Mulalley & Co Limited [2022] EWHC 1813 (TCC).
- James is currently instructed as Junior Counsel on TCC claims involving applications for Building Liability Orders and liability under section 149 of the Building Safety Act 2022 for cladding products.
- James has also been instructed in relation to a claim for a Remediation Order in the First Tier Tribunal.
Professional negligence claims against architects and other professionals.
- James’ current professional negligence cases also involve the added complexity of issues under the Civil Liability (Contribution) Act 1979 and insolvency of the parties.
Adjudication enforcement.
- James regularly appears in the TCC bringing and resisting adjudication enforcement claims and related matters.
- James appeared unled in the Court of Appeal in 2023 in A&V Building Solutions v J & B Hopkins [2023] EWCA Civ 54 which is now the leading case on how Part 8 claims can be used in response to adjudicator’s decisions.
James’ expertise in construction and procurement matters has seen him appointed to the Attorney General’s C Panel. James is currently instructed as Junior Counsel for the Cabinet Office on Module 5 (Procurement) of the Covid Inquiry.
International work
James is also regularly instructed as Junior Counsel on substantial international disputes, including projects in South Africa, Australia, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ukraine and Qatar. James’ international arbitration practice has seen him recommended for construction by Who’s Who Legal and ranked as a Rising Star by the Legal 500 in the Middle East.
Career
Pupil, Keating Chambers 2016; Tenant, Keating Chambers 2017
Languages
French (working knowledge)
Education
BA in History, Durham University (First, 2011-2014); GDL, University of Law (Distinction; Contract, Tort, Criminal and Public Law prizes, 2014-2015); BPTC, University of Law (Outstanding; Written Advocacy Prize, 2015-2016).
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Keating Chambers' specialist ADR Clerk Ollie Goldsmith is helpful, charming and completely on the ball.'
- 'Sam Kennett and James Luxmoore stand out - approachable, knowledgeable, organised and hard working. Exceptional service received from them and a pleasure to work with.'
- 'Also very positive. Stand out individuals are Sam Kennett and James Luxmoore. They are very approachable, they understand the issues and logistics of the case and are alive to the client's position and concerns.'
- 'The Clerks room is stellar. James Luxmoore and Will Shrubsall are terrific leaders. They are quick to reply and always offer helpful and timely guidance.'
- 'Keating Chambers are up there with the best specialist construction chambers.'
- 'Keating is second to none in terms of construction sets. They have an exceptional bench and the clerking team has an excellent knowledge of each barrister's strengths; they are always able to recommend the right person for the job.'
- 'Keating Chambers are very helpful and proactive. James Luxmore is very good to deal with.'
- 'Keating Chambers is one of our go-to sets where we are instructed on a large construction project or infrastructure dispute. There are a number of strong barristers whether for counsel instructions or for appointment as arbitrators.'