James is a strong junior handling partnership dissolutions and disputes, often within the agricultural and healthcare sectors. ‘He was able to grasp all the issues very quickly and built up a rapport with the clients. He ran rings around counsel on the other side.’ ‘He is very good, very softly spoken, but very thorough and comes across well to the client. He is also a very effective advocate.’ “

Chambers UK 2024, Partnership

James has over 20 years’ experience as a commercial litigator, including 8 years as a commercial litigation solicitor before his transfer to the Bar in 2002. Throughout that time James has regularly advised and represented parties in partnership disputes, especially in connection with professional partnerships. James has advised in connection with partnerships of solicitors, accountants, doctors, dentists and vets, as well as farming partnerships and commercial partnerships.

James is currently representing parties in a dissolution action in the High Court concerning a substantial farming partnership in Somerset. He is also acting for partners in a South Wales GP practice in another dissolution action. Recently, James has represented a partner expelled from a solicitors’ practice in a complex dispute involving allegations of dishonesty.

Directory Quotes

James Pearce-Smith has a strong commercial practice. ‘He has a very attractive advocacy style and combines excellent legal and factual analysis forcefully.’ James is always good at providing clear, commercial advice and analysis in complex cases.’ ‘He provides excellent service and is very user-friendly.’ “

Chambers UK 2024, Commercial Dispute Resolution

James is very user-friendly, knowledgeable, calm, flexible and overall a pleasure to work with.”

The Legal 500 2024, Commercial Litigation

James is known for his attention to detail.”

The Legal 500 2024, Company and Insolvency

James is a really good lawyer who specialises in commercial law.”

Chambers UK 2024, Company

James is a strong junior and former solicitor handling partnership dissolutions and disputes, often within the agricultural and healthcare sectors. He also handles cases regarding LLPs.”

Chambers UK 2023, Partnership

James always considers the wider commercial implications of an action for the client. His advice is always balanced and measured, and he has a keen eye for detail.”

Legal 500 2023, Company & Insolvency

He explains things in ways that clients can relate to and understand, and he is very responsive. In court, his advocacy is really great – he is tenacious and has a very good command of his brief.”

Chambers UK 2021, Partnership

  • Qualifications & awards:

    • MA (Cantab)
    • Admitted as a Solicitor 1994

  • Professional memberships:

    • Chancery Bar Association

  • James Pearce-Smith 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.