James is an expert in venture and growth capital transactions, M&A, and university spin-outs, with a particular focus on life sciences, climate innovation and high-growth technology companies.
He advises entrepreneurs, companies and investors throughout all stages of the corporate lifecycle, often serving as Outside General Counsel to science-based and innovative businesses. James is especially known for his work in European Fintech, and has extensive experience in venture capital and M&A transactions.
He is ranked as a recommended lawyer for Venture Capital in Legal 500 UK and has over two decades of experience advising high-growth companies and investors.
James actively supports the commercialization of university technologies and works closely with many academic institutions such as Cambridge University, St. Andrews University and Imperial College. In addition, he advises the Parkinson’s UK Biotech Business Group and is passionate about changing (and challenging) the delivery of a law service.
James is also a Writer to His Majesty’s Signet.
Education and Career
James holds degrees from both St. Andrews University (BSc Hons) and Edinburgh University (LL.B., DIP.LP) and is qualified as a Scottish lawyer.
James also co-founded the translantic tech law boutique JAG Shaw Baker, which merged with Withers in 2018 to form Withers Tech, a legal offering tailored to the innovation economy.
Qualifications
- Dip.LP
- LL.B.
- B.Sc.
Languages
- English
- French
