James Johnston

James is a Partner and Head of Burnetts' Dispute Resolution team.

“Authoritative and intelligent”,  having “good tactical judgment” and being “thorough, attentive, detailed and a strategic thinker”. Legal 500 2017

"Provides very measured but firm advice." Legal 500 2016

"Has a laser-like focus on clients' commercial objectives." Legal 500 2015

James is a Partner and Head of the firm’s Dispute Resolution team. He specialises in contractual, construction and commercial litigation and has successfully settled multi million disputes involving farm partnerships and company shareholders, as well as bringing public procurement challenges in the construction and IT sectors. 

As a commercial lawyer, James appreciates and understands that a business’ reputation is often the most important thing at stake and in all matters is determined to ensure that any dispute causes the least possible amount of damage to the client’s business. 

James studied Law at Durham University and completed his Legal Practice Certificate at the College of Law in York.  He qualified as a solicitor in July 2010, having completed his legal training with Burnetts. 

James runs the firm’s growing Regulatory team and acts for clients facing investigations and prosecutions by the Health & Safety Executive, Trading Standards and Environment Agency. 

He lives in Carlisle with his wife and their four children and is Chair of Governors at Cummersdale Primary School.