James is a partner within our Construction and Projects team specialising in construction, engineering and PPP/PFI projects. James acts for both the public and private sector on a number of high value capital projects, across a range of sectors including Education, Waste, Roads and Healthcare.

James is also part of the renewable energy group at  Burness Paull with a particular focus on biomass, energy from waste, municipal waste management projects and on-shore wind. He specialises in EPC contracting and all construction and specialised contracts such as Balance of Plant and Turbine Supply Agreements.

James is dual qualified in Scots and English law and has an LLM in Construction Law. He is accredited by The Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in Construction Law. James is also a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a Notary Public.

It is the in-depth knowledge of the project that James Forbes as partner brings to our project. He is supported by other lawyers each having significant time spent on the project. For us the depth of knowledge of our business is key.

Chambers UK, 2025

James is very good at dispensing appropriate advice and getting across the required detail and knock-on effects of various scenarios.

Chambers UK, 2026

He is pragmatic, sensible and knows about the sector.

Chambers UK, 2026

Related Insights

Error.

No results.

Scotland S Strategy To Combat The Housing Emergency

The plan is in: Scotland’s strategy to combat the housing emergency

30/09/2025

In September 2025, the Scottish Government published its long-awaited Housing Emergency Action Plan. Here, we outline the key provisions most relevant to the housebuilding sector.

Read more
Appeal Deadlines In Arbitration Court Of Appeal Provides Guidance On When An Award Is Rendered

Appeal deadlines in arbitration – Court of Appeal provides guidance on when an award is “rendered”

15/09/2025

Clear language is essential when drafting an arbitration agreement – ambiguous wording can lead to unforeseen consequences.

Read more
Record Number Of Visa Sponsors

Record numbers of visa sponsor licences revoked for rule breaking

12/09/2025

The UK Immigration policy is moving towards a restrictive system: record numbers of businesses are now banned from employing skilled foreign workers.

Read more

Want to hear more from us?

Subscribe here Subscribe here