James Leach

Specialisms

James advises in all areas of family law, with particular specialism in children and financial matters arising from relationship breakdown. James is particularly recognised for his expertise in cohabitation disputes where he is especially well-placed to advise given his in-depth knowledge of both family and property law.

Approach

James relishes meeting new clients and strives to build trust and a strong rapport from early on. James is mindful of the importance of resolving matters as cost-effectively and amicably as possible, but recognises that this may not always be possible in which case James ensures that his clients are rigorously supported throughout the litigation process.

Training and experience

After graduating from Newcastle University with a biochemistry degree, James switched his focus to law and undertook his GDL and LLM at Brighton University and LPC at Guildford.

After several years as a paralegal at a Brighton-based firm specialising in property litigation, James undertook internships abroad with the UN International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the Cambodian Center for Human Rights.

James qualified at a regional firm in Hampshire/Dorset in March 2020 and has since specialised in family law. After a spell with regional firm based in Sussex. James joined Stowe’s Guildford office in May 2025.

Accreditations, memberships and awards

James has been individually recognised at his previous firm in both the 2024 and 2025 Legal 500 as a cohabitation expert and in the 2025 edition was commended by a client for his exceptional client care skills:-

‘James Leach put me at my ease, sounding genuinely interested and sympathetic to the trauma my family has suffered. James was friendly, warm and interested. I really feel he has my back which, when you have spent so many years being scared, is a truly remarkable and precious thing.’

Outside of work

James is a keen sportsman and can often be found on the tennis court where he enjoys an up and down existence! James also appreciates the great outdoors and travels frequently to weird and wonderful places.