James Curran Associate Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
James Curran is an Associate Solicitor in Swinburne Maddison’s Dispute Resolution team, specialising in complex commercial litigation. He qualified as a solicitor in March 2021, having completed his training at a Newcastle law firm, before joining Swinburne Maddison in the same year. Recognised for his strategic and innovative approach to dispute resolution, James was promoted to Associate Solicitor in May 2024.
James’ work focuses on advising businesses, shareholders and directors in navigating substantial internal and external disputes. His expertise spans unfair prejudice petitions, shareholder disputes, unlawful conspiracy claims, breaches of fiduciary duty, contract disputes, and indemnity claims. Clients appreciate his ability to think beyond conventional litigation strategies, offering tailored solutions that maximise outcomes. In the 2025 edition of the Legal 500, James was listed as a name to note for shareholder disputes and defamation claims.
With a background in International Politics and legal qualifications from Northumbria University, James brings a broad perspective to legal challenges, ensuring clients receive comprehensive and pragmatic advice. His commitment to delivering high-quality, results-driven representation makes him a trusted advisor to clients across sectors including retail and leisure, professional services, construction, manufacturing, commercial travel and agriculture.
- Unfair Prejudice
- Shareholder Disputes
- Conspiracy Claims
- Claims against Directors,
- Contract Disputes
- Indemnity and Warranty Claims
James has extensive experience in commercial litigation, routinely handling high-value and complex disputes. His day-to-day responsibilities include investigating claims, advising clients on litigation strategies, drafting key legal documents, and issuing and managing proceedings and negotiations.
Some of James’ key career highlights include:
- Securing a favourable settlement worth over £600,000 for a Midlands-based client in an unfair prejudice petition against a business partner in the High Court of Justice.
- Successfully setting aside a statutory demand of over £450,000 issued against a former director by a company’s liquidator, with costs awarded in the client’s favour on an indemnity basis.
James prides himself on his ability to analyse disputes from unique angles, crafting litigation strategies that align with his client’s commercial objectives. His ability to navigate complex legal and factual matters with precision ensures that clients receive robust and effective representation.
James was named as a Key Lawyer in the 2026 edition of the Legal 500, demonstrating his expertise with Commercial Litigation.
James was shortlisted for Insider’s North East Young Professionals Awards 2025 in the category of Young Lawyer of the Year. His nomination recognises his work as a commercial litigation lawyer, advising businesses, shareholders and directors through complex disputes and delivering creative, robust strategies with exceptional results.
"From the very beginning to the conclusion of this legal journey, we have been thoroughly impressed with James Curran's professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our case. His exemplary skills as a solicitor have left a lasting impression on us, and we wanted to take a moment to extend our gratitude."
"James has dealt with the problems we were having in a very sympathetic way. He has been totally approachable. I trust that he has our best interests at heart. Thank you for everything!"
"James Curran is exceptional in commercial litigation and is not afraid to adopt robust litigation tactics to secure favourable outcomes for clients."
News & Insights
Insight
The Renters’ Rights Act – A Turning Point for Residential Lettings
From 1st May, the Renters’ Rights Act will come into force, delivering the most significant change to private residential lettings in decades. While public discussion has largely focused on the abolition of so‑called “no‑fault” evictions, the reality is that the legislation goes much further. The Act fundamentally alters the balance of power between landlords and […]
Read moreInsight
A Day in the Life of a Trainee Solicitor with Charlotte Cassell
Ever wondered what it’s really like to be a trainee solicitor? From juggling client calls and drafting documents to learning from experienced partners and even squeezing in yoga after work, no two days are ever quite the same. For Charlotte Cassell, a trainee solicitor currently sitting in our Commercial Property team, each day brings a […]
Read moreInsight
What are Child Focused Courts and what do the upcoming changes mean for families?
The government has announced a significant change to the way family court cases involving children are handled, with the national rollout of Child Focused Courts across England and Wales. The new approach is intended to reduce delays, improve outcomes for children and limit the distress families often experience during lengthy court proceedings. Child Focused Courts […]
Read more
Careers at Swinburne Maddison
Bright futures built together.
Ok, so you’ve come this far where could the next step take you?
We’re always on the lookout for great people to join our team but we also want to make sure we are the right fit for each other.
Here, your career is more than a job—it’s a journey. From day one, you’ll feel supported to grow, develop your skills, and thrive alongside a team that values collaboration and care. Whether you’re a legal eagle or a support extraordinaire, we focus on helping you succeed in an environment where you truly belong. Let’s achieve great things together.