James joined Burness Paull in 2021 from specialist Immigration law firm McGill & Co. He is an associate in our Immigration team assisting in all areas of immigration, asylum, EU residence, and nationality law.
He graduated with an LLB from Edinburgh Napier University in 2016 and proceeded to undertake his Diploma in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Edinburgh graduating in late 2017. Whilst at University, James worked on submissions to Government for a research centre for law and co-founded the law school’s first Law Clinic.
James provides industry-focused advice and assistance to clients from an array of business areas, ranging from medical practices and fishing vessels to religious organisations and those in the digital technology sector. He also has a keen interest in assisting in international recruitment for Energy Sector clients.
He regularly assists clients in matters of UK nationality law, with a specific interest on those born abroad seeking citizenship through maternal descent.
In addition, he represents clients at the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration & Asylum Chamber) on complex human rights appeals, and more recently in challenging refusals arising from the post-Brexit EU Settlement Scheme.
James’ interests lie in refugee law, with a particular interest in human rights. He also has a keen interest in maritime immigration law, advising on the recruitment of seamen for the fishing industry of Scotland.
He is a member of the Immigration Law Practitioners Association, Scottish Young Lawyers’ Association and JUSTICE Scotland.
Related Insights
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Immigration Policy: Scotland's Future
02/10/2025 - Burness Paull, 50 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9WJ
Our immigration team invites you to join us for our latest conference where we’ll hear from a panel of guest speakers, giving their views on Scotland’s future in light of the changes proposed.
What next for appendix family reunion (sponsors with protection)?
02/10/2025
Temporary suspension on new applications under the appendix family reunion (sponsors with protection) (“appendix FRP”) route.
Understanding the new skilled worker visa rules: Temporary Shortage List (TSL) and Immigration Salary List (ISL)
18/09/2025
Time-limited sponsorship for essential roles now approved until 31 December 2026.
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