James Cutress KC > Fountain Court Chambers > London, England > Barrister Profile
Fountain Court Chambers Offices
FOUNTAIN COURT, TEMPLE
LONDON
EC4Y 9DH
England
- Set Profile
- Go to...
James Cutress KC
Position
Specialises in commercial litigation and arbitration, with particular expertise in banking and finance, insurance and reinsurance, aviation, fraud/asset recovery, jurisdiction and conflict of laws, professional negligence and international and domestic arbitration.
Career
Called 2000. Silk 2018.
Education
Bedford School; Oxford University (1997 BA Law, 1998 BCL); Harvard University (1999 LLM).
Leisure
Hockey, travelling.
Lawyer Rankings
London Bar > Aviation
(Leading Silks)Ranked: Tier 2James Cutress KC – Fountain Court Chambers ‘James is a highly responsive and engaged KC. His knowledge and interest in the aviation sector pervades all that he does. An immense intellect able to get on top of mountains of detail and digest it down to cogent and persuasive submissions which impress both clients and judges.’
Described as ‘top of the premier league of aviation barristers,’ Fountain Court Chambers‘ members represent major airlines, lessors and manufacturers in disputes concerning leasing, purchase and redeliveries. Hull damage and loss claims, in addition to fatal incidents also fall within the set’s remit, with barristers representing various parties in accidents involving both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. Akhil Shah KC was instructed by Qatar Airways in its dispute with Airbus over A350 surface degradation, with Rosalind Phelps KC representing the manufacturer; Qatar Airways alleged that paint peeling from these aircraft, exposing the lightning mesh beneath, constituted a safety hazard and grounded several of the type, while Airbus contended that this was merely a cosmetic issue; the matter was settled in February 2023. Head of chambers Bankim Thanki KC is frequently sought out by lessors engaged in litigation around aircraft condition, maintenance obligations and rent payments, while Michael McLaren KC is acting on several disputes concerning business jets. James Cutress KC has expertise in cross-border aviation matters, with notable strength in advising on leasing issues. Giles Robertson is noted for his expertise in financing issues in the aviation sector, including advising on cases where fraud is alleged.
London Bar > Insurance and reinsurance
(Leading Silks)Ranked: Tier 4James Cutress KC –Fountain Court Chambers ‘James’s advices and pleadings are particularly strong; it is well considered, meets the lay client’s needs, and engages with the necessary points clearly, effectively, and with a forensic eye for detail.’
London Bar > Banking and finance (including consumer credit)
(Leading Silks)Ranked: Tier 3James Cutress KC – Fountain Court Chambers ‘Extremely diligent, details-oriented and a fluent advocate.’
London Bar > Professional negligence
(Leading Silks)Ranked: Tier 4James Cutress KC –Fountain Court Chambers ‘James is friendly and approachable. He is able to distil complex issues and give purposeful advice. His input is always helpful and constructive.’