James Walthall
James Walthall serves as the Head of the Care Team at Askews Legal LLP, bringing over 15 years of qualified legal experience to the firm. A specialist in public children law, James leads the department with a focus on safeguarding, complex risk assessment, and high-level advocacy within the Family Court.
A Unique Foundation in Care James’s path to the legal profession is distinct and deeply rooted in public service. Prior to qualifying as a Solicitor in 2008, James held successful roles within the NHS. This background in healthcare provided him with a nuanced understanding of clinical issues and public welfare. Although initially drawn to clinical negligence, James found his true vocation in public children law, where he successfully combines his medical knowledge with a profound commitment to child welfare and family justice.
Specialist Expertise and Approach As an accredited member of the Law Society’s Children Law Panel, James is recognised for his specialist knowledge and commitment to excellence. He represents the full spectrum of clients in care proceedings, from vulnerable parents to children.
At Askews Legal, we pride ourselves on being agile and forward-looking, and James embodies these values through his dynamic courtroom presence. He is known for his ability to distil complex, multi-agency legal issues into clear, concise advice. Whether representing a parent or a child, James ensures his clients feel valued, supported, and empowered, navigating high-stakes litigation with sensitivity and rigour.
Beyond his case work, James plays a vital role in the development of the department, acting as a mentor to colleagues and offering strategic guidance on challenging matters.
Career Highlights and Industry Recognition James is a respected figure in the legal community, with his legal acumen recognised in both the High Court and the Court of Appeal. His career is marked by a series of impactful cases that have helped shape best practices in child protection.
Notable highlights include:
- Court of Appeal Success (2025): James acted in a landmark appeal—Re H (Care Proceedings: Risk Assessment) [2025] EWCA Civ 727—presided over by Lord Justice Baker.
- Complex Safeguarding (2023/24): He successfully represented a 17-year-old girl in a Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLs) case. The matter involved complex issues regarding local gang involvement, exploitation, and assault, requiring a sophisticated application of domestic and international law.
James is also a dedicated educator. He serves as a guest lecturer in child protection law, delivering seminars to students and professionals at universities across the UK, ensuring the next generation of legal professionals are grounded in real-world experience.
Outside the Office Away from the courtroom, James maintains an active interest in current affairs and the arts, unwinding with music and film. He is a passionate rugby enthusiast, contributing to the sport not just as a supporter, but as a referee—a role that perhaps mirrors his professional ability to make difficult decisions under pressure.
