James Gwatkin

James specialises in serious and complex offending, with a particular emphasis of defence work.

Called: 2017

CPS Level 3 prosecutor.

Despite still being at an early stage of his career, he has established a loyal network of instructing solicitors, and is briefed on cases of seriousness and sensitivity beyond his call. He undertakes cases involving young and vulnerable Defendants and witnesses which require exceptional client care, but is equally comfortable dealing with large volumes of complex evidence in drugs and fraud cases.

His recent cases include being led in murder trial on behalf of the Crown and defending alone in a multi handed armed robbery trial where all five Defendants were acquitted. He prosecutes and defends in a range of cases including offences of serious violence, dishonesty, aggravated arson and sexual offences.

Prior to joining Foundry Chambers as a pupil, James worked as a criminal defence paralegal at leading firm Hickman and Rose. He assisted partners and associates in a range of cases particularly focussing on allegations of sexual offending (both current and historical) and financial malpractice. He is on the education sub-committee of the Criminal Bar Association, and is the Secretary of the Kalisher Trust, a charity focusing on inspiring and assisting those with exceptional talent but modest means to achieve a career at the Criminal Bar.