James O’Donnell

James studied Law in his home city of Manchester before completing the final stage of his education at the Chester College of Law.

James completed his training contract with a well-known regional firm and qualified as a Solicitor in 2005. Since then, he has built a solid reputation amongst individuals and businesses alike both in the local area and throughout the North West region. James has also built long standing relationships with a strong network of professionals with whom he works, in conjunction with his clients, allowing him to provide a holistic approach when advising clients.

Upon qualification, he was head hunted by his former firm to join its Commercial and Property team. James was made a Partner within his first year there, making him one of the youngest partners to be appointed, at the age of 26. James remained a Partner and latterly, (following incorporation) a Director of that firm for 10 years before leaving to set up O’Donnell Solicitors in 2015 together with his wife Rebecca O’Donnell also a Director of the firm.

James practices in Commercial and Corporate Law focusing on Commercial Property matters. James also advises clients upon Employment Law, Commercial and Corporate work involving Business Asset Sales and Purchases, Merger and Acquisition work. James also advised on Dispute Resolution, having a bias in disputes with a business or commercial angle.

James has been described as a ‘strong adversary in the broad spectrum of commercial law’. He adopts a fair, pragmatic, approach to disputes but will also fight hard for his client(s) when required. James is renowned for his commercial awareness and his strong strategical ability. James frequently accepts instructions from new clients referred to him by existing clients and often by clients who have been on the other side of a transaction or legal matter. He is known as a tenacious lawyer in his fields.

James lives locally with his wife and three young children and enjoys a busy social life. In his spare time, (although sparse these days) James enjoys running, skiing (in the winter months), Golf (in the summer months), walks and short breaks in the Lake District, exotic holidays with his family and dining out. James is also a self-taught Guitar player, being a proud owner of the limited edition and rare Epiphone Supernova as collaborated by Mr Noel Gallagher himself, which was a gift on his 18th Birthday.

James is based at the firms Head Office at Appleby’s Business Centre, Grasscroft, OL4 4HH and can be contacted by e-mail on james@odonnellsolicitors.co.uk or 01457 761320