James provides pragmatic advice. He is approachable and helpful, and alive to the difficulties and intricacies in running personal injury cases.’ He is a robust counsel but friendly and has a good manner with clients. He provides clear and concise advice and is always happy to assist.’ James’ court room deliverance and advocacy skills are impressive.’ “

Chambers UK 2024, Personal Injury

James regularly acts for claimants and defendants and their insurers when allegations of fundamental dishonesty or wider fraud are alleged. He has experience in RTA and EL/PL claims of: staged accidents; phantom passenger claims; LVI, and dishonest or exaggerated injury or loss claims after genuine accidents; and dishonest credit hire claims.

Recent work includes:

  • Securing a finding of fundamental dishonesty for a defendant against all three claimants, who were the driver and passengers respectively, of a vehicle involved in very low speed collision with the defendant’s vehicle. The DCJ for Bristol described all three claims as being tainted by ‘root and branch’ fundamental dishonesty.
  • Acting for occupiers or employers in cases where the claimant is said to have deliberately staged or manufactured an accident at work or on the premises.
  • Acting successfully for two claimants at trial where a phantom passenger defence was raised.

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Directory Quotes

James is extremely personable and communicates well with those instructing and clients alike. He has good technical knowledge and his advocacy and courtroom presence are impressive.”

The Legal 500 2024, Personal Injury

A tenacious advocate, who is very approachable and appreciated by clients and witnesses alike for his easy-going manner and interpersonal skills.”

The Legal 500 2023, Personal Injury

  • Qualifications & awards:

    • LLB (Hons) (Nottingham University) –  Law with European Law (2010)
    • BPTC, College of Law (2011)
    • LLM, Bristol University (2012)
    • Erasmus Scholar
    • Nottingham University Mooting Competition and Law Graduates’ Association Moot Prize Winner
    • Westlaw UK Mooting Competition Winner (judged by Jackson LJ)
    • Lord Justice Jackson’s Award for Best Submissions at Westlaw UK Moot Final
    • National Mock Trial Competition Semi-Finalist
    • Herbert Smith Mooting Competition Winner (Bristol University, judged by Lord Kerr, Supreme Court Justice)

  • Professional memberships:

    • Personal Injury Bar Association
    • Western Circuit

  • James Hughes is regulated by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and holds a current practising certificate. If you are not satisfied with the service provided, please read here.