UK Bar
Commercial Dispute Resolution - Western (Bar)
James Pearce-Smith has a strong commercial practice, covering contractual disputes and breaches of agreement, as well as specialising in professional negligence and construction-related claims. He is also regularly instructed in chancery matters, allegations of fraud and damage claims. He is experienced in appearing for clients before the County Courts and the High Court.
Strengths
"James is a very smooth operator and very intelligent; the way he deals with things is very impressive."
"He is great with clients."
"James is really good. He is really practical, cuts through to the issues really quickly and always gives a really practical and commercial opinion."
Construction - Western (Bar)
James Pearce-Smith is a well-regarded barrister who regularly handles construction disputes as part of his wider practice. He has acted in numerous cases concerning defective works and damages, while also showing expertise in professional negligence claims in the construction sector. He is also skilled in arbitration.
Strengths
"James is an excellent communicator and a very calming presence."
Partnership - Western (Bar)
James Pearce-Smith of St John's Chambers is a strong junior handling partnership dissolutions and disputes, often within the agricultural and healthcare sectors. He also handles cases regarding LLPs.
Strengths
"James is very calm under pressure."
Professional Negligence - Western (Bar)
James Pearce-Smith is well known for representing banks in professional negligence lender claims.He is particularly adept at handling claims against solicitors, valuers, architects and surveyors.
Strengths
"James is really good - he's really practical and cuts through the issues really quickly. He always gives really commercial advice."
"James is always well prepared, calm and has a considered presence in the courtroom."
Company - Western (Bar)
James Pearce-Smith has a broad practice, spanning commercial litigation, company disputes and insolvency cases. He draws on his experience as a commercial litigation solicitor as well as handling traditional chancery work. He is noted for his expertise in professional negligence cases. He is particularly adept at handling shareholder disputes and claims involving share purchase agreements.
Strengths
"James is absolutely superb at trial. He is fantastic on cross-examination and very calm under pressure."
