James Modley

Partner - Dispute Resolution

"I am a trusted advisor to SME's, large corporates, PLC listed companies (nationally and internationally) high-net-worth and high profile individuals (footballers/celebrities). I support businesses with day to day and business critical issues, often acting as an extension of in-house legal teams.”

I am commercially focussed, enjoy building real relationships and pride myself on grasping complex issues quickly, but more importantly translating them into a language that can be easily understood precisely and in a succinct manner.

Prevention is better than cure. Where possible my aim is to minimise the risk of a dispute arising by working with clients to help provide bespoke training and implement policies/procedures. When a dispute does arise, I help clients effectively and efficiently (time and cost) solve issues by providing strategic, timely, pragmatic and actionable advice.

My approach is to help clients analyse risk and their legal options to resolve disputes to ensure minimal impact on the business. Where Court proceedings are the only option and necessary to realise the objective, I will always balance the commercialitys at all junctures.

  • Representing a significant number of individuals (celebrities/sports stars/agents/ TV personalities) in relation to "phone hacking" claims against MGN Limited and NGN Limited
  • Advising a global quick service restaurant business in relation to a contractual dispute
  • Being the sole provider in relation to business disputes for a well known leading independent brewing and pub retailing business
  • Advising a solicitors firm in relation to a partnership dispute
  • Advising a large national packaging manufacturer in relation to an unfair prejudice claim
  • Advising a number of sports stars/celebrities in relation to reputation management issues
  • Advising a leading high street retailer in relation to a cyber attack

More about me

My hero

My parents are my heroes - whatever the situation they always stand by my side and provide solid advice.

Proudest moment

I have 2 proudest moments, marrying my wife and welcoming my little boy into the world.

Favourite place

Bali

Interests

Aston Villa, gym, running and reading when I get a chance!

“Higgs LLP is roundly praised for its ‘experienced, knowledgeable and commercially focussed’ corporate practice, which works closely with the firm’s tax and private client teams on big-ticket transactions for owner-managed businesses and household names alike.”

Legal 500

Meet the team