James is an Associate in our litigation team. James’s practice, while extending across a range of intellectual property rights, is centred predominantly on the obtaining and enforcement of patent rights. Frequently working across teams and in multi-jurisdictional disputes, James has worked on matters for a variety of clients, including international companies in the life sciences, medical devices, and food industries, and local New Zealand businesses of all sizes.

With many years’ experience as a Judges’ Clerk at the Hamilton District Court, James has a keen eye for research and the preparation of written material. In addition to his legal research skills, James is experienced across the varied stages of IPONZ and Court proceedings, including drafting cease & desist letters, and preparing pleadings, evidence and submissions. He has also been involved in numerous successful dispute resolutions outside of court.

James is a lead contributor to New Zealand’s leading text on intellectual property law published by Thomson Reuters and Westlaw, James & Wells Intellectual Property Law in New Zealand. He also regularly produces case summaries of important Australian and New Zealand IP cases. James was named a Rising Star by NZ Lawyer in 2023 and 2024.

Outside of work, James is a published short story author. He enjoys travelling, photography and is a keen armchair sports critic (particularly in cricket and Formula 1).