Biography
I specialise in representing children and adults who have suffered brain and/or spinal cord injuries, amputations or multiple trauma.
I have extensive experience in obtaining substantial interim payments to fund treatment, rehabilitation and other professional support for my clients, as well as securing adapted accommodation and specialist equipment where this is needed.
I lead a team of specialist serious injury lawyers at the Bristol office.
Testimonials
"He has a beautiful client manner and is very intelligent. James knows the law inside out and is an absolute go-to for serious injury cases." "James provides an excellent service." "James is extremely professional, knowledgeable and efficient." - Chambers & Partners 2025 (Ranked: Band 1)
‘James Davies is a first class solicitor, and rightly held in high esteem.' - Legal 500, 2025 (Leading Partner)
'James Davies leads the serious injury team and has in-depth experience acting on behalf of adults and children in spinal cord and brain injury matters' - Legal 500, 2024 (Leading Individuals)
"James Davies is a first-class litigator with decades of experience in catastrophic injury claims. He is well respected in the field and runs cases efficiently and with exceptional client care." - Chambers & Partners 2022 (Leading Individual - Band 1)
"James Davies is a very experienced litigator with great judgement and a sound reputation. He will go the extra mile for his clients. He is also very personable and someone in whom clients naturally have a lot of confidence. I rate him highly in this field of work." - Legal 500 2022 (Leading Individual)
"James Davies is a truly standout solicitor in terms of legal knowledge, client care, tactical nous and knowledge of how to run a case from start to finish.” – Legal 500, 2021 (Leading Individual)
"He 'has a good way with clients.'" – Chambers & Partners, 2021 (Leading Individual – Band 1)
"Wonderfully calm and consummate" - Legal 500, 2020
James is "a calm and decisive presence in cases and brings insight and creativity to claims." – Chambers & Partners, 2020
"He has the combination of having a huge confidence in the way he runs cases while at the same time having a really lovely, patient and softly spoken manner with clients." - Chambers & Partners, 2019
"A very shrewd tactician who is well respected in the profession" - Legal 500, 2018/19
James is described as a "go-to person" who is "seriously brave in litigation." A commentator explains: "He is very thorough indeed and has astonishingly good client skills." - Chambers & Partners 2018
Client Testimonials
"James is without doubt an outstanding solicitor in his field. His diligence and tenacity in ensuring his clients get the absolute best outcome creates both trust and confidence in James. But what makes James really stand out to us is his obvious sincerity that he truly cares about his client i.e. my son and about us as a family. We never felt that my son was ’just a client’ and whilst always remaining professional he displayed an empathy and compassion which was of great comfort to us. That is rare. This combination, for us, made James the best choice we could have made to represent my son and support us all through what was a very difficult and emotional time.” - Client's mother
"You added value to every part of this long, at times stressful, at time impossible case whilst protecting me as Andy’s Litigation Friend... You continually were thinking ahead and taken on challenges that seemed impossible to me, but whilst leading and navigating the team where beneficial and life changing for Andy. I would just like to reiterate mine and my families appreciation of your personnel commitment and Irwin Mitchell for creating a life for Andy when 4 years ago we believed that it was impossible. " -5* Trustpilot review
"Very happy with the outstanding service from the legal team at Irwin Mitchell. James, Georgina and Rhys proved to be a massive help in what for us was an extremely difficult and stressful period in our lives. Their professionalism, advice and personal touch made the situation easier to deal with and concluded with what we believe is an excellent personal injury settlement agreement."-5* Trustpilot review
"We received excellent service and advice from their Bristol office, over a three year period, from the initial consultation at their offices with James Davies and then Georgina Ife...They were always available, held a number of office consultations and phone conferences as appropriate and culminating in an entirely satisfactory award and outcome. Would recommend this company if anyone is in the unfortunate position of needing their specialist help and advice." - 5* Trustpilot review
"We wouldn't have coped without the support of James Davies and Deborah [Rose]. They were both so caring and patient and always went the extra mile. They gave extra time to my son who struggles with processing information since his accident. I would recommend them without a doubt: they brought our very complex case to court and got justice for my boy. Amazing team of people. Forever grateful." – Client
"We received excellent service and advice over a three year period, right from the very first consultation at their offices with James Davies and then Georgina Ife. We obtained their name from the Headway Brain Injury Association panel of specialist legal advisers and solicitors. They were always available, held a number of office consultations and phone conferences and secured an entirely satisfactory award and outcome. Would recommend this company if anyone is in the unfortunate position of needing their specialist help and advice." – Stephen Ogden, client
"It was a complex case and was dealt with brilliantly – thanks to Deborah Rose, Georgie, James and Vince. I would highly recommend them." – Mandy Andrews, client
"We have absolutely no reservations in recommending James, Georgina and their team at Irwin Mitchell, Bristol. Their advice has been first class, their manners extremely pleasant and their admin prompt & accurate. Thank you all” - Clive Sibley, client
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
I was attracted to the law by the issues involved and have always enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life.
What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?
The opportunity to help those who have suffered the most severe injuries has always driven me, and making a real difference is particularly fulfilling. Every client is different, and getting it right for each individual is vital.
What Do You Like About Working At Irwin Mitchell?
The positive energy from being surrounded by highly skilled professionals, all dedicated to doing their very best for our clients.
What Do You Do Away From The Office?
I get outdoors as often as possible, usually with my three young sons, and that keeps me fit. I am a lifelong rugby and cricket fan, and also specialise in losing golf balls on any course provided.
