James is an Associate in Appleby’s Dispute Resolution department. He is an experienced advocate and litigator. Before moving to Bermuda, James practiced as a Barrister from Chambers in London and appeared in many trials and applications before the High Court, County Court and Crown Court in England and Wales.
James has a particular interest in insolvency and restructuring, civil fraud, directors’ and shareholders’ disputes, corporate and regulatory matters.
Before entering private practice, James worked for the UK Business Department where he was responsible for developing anti-corruption policy and had conduct of proceedings against former directors of companies in liquidation who had defrauded creditors or committed other breaches of companies and insolvency legislation. In private practice, James continued to accept instructions from the Insolvency Service to prosecute delinquent directors in the Crown Court.
James was a drafting lawyer of the Insolvency (England and Wales) Rules 2016, a major overhaul of the insolvency regime in England and Wales. James worked with the SFO from 2017 to 2018 as disclosure counsel on a large investigation into dishonesty offences stemming from rates fixing at a London-based bank.
James holds an LLB degree and Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Legal Skills from City Law School, where he was the recipient of an award for excellent results. James was called to the Bar by Inner Temple in 2013.
James said, “I am very excited to be joining the Dispute Resolution team. Appleby has a reputation for excellence in heavyweight litigation, insolvency and restructuring. I look forward to working with such an esteemed group of lawyers.”
Melinda, a Bermudian who has been working overseas, is an Associate in the Corporate department. Before joining Appleby, Melinda worked inhouse in an international investment bank located in the city of London, focusing on regulation, regulatory changes and compliance. Melinda previously practiced at another Bermuda law firm.
Melinda practices in all areas of corporate and commercial law, including insurance, finance, public and private mergers and acquisitions, amalgamations, reorganisations and general corporate law.
Melinda completed the Masters of Law (Hons), Legal Practice Course (Distinction) and the Graduate Degree in Law (Commendation) at BPP University of Law School London. Prior to completing her legal qualifications, she acquired a BA in business from American InterContinental University (Hons) and an MBA (Hons) in accounting and finance from Devry University/Keller Graduate School. She was called to the Bermuda Bar in September 2017.
Melinda said, “Appleby’s Corporate team is renowned for its prominent role in high profile transactions and advising private and listed companies, including major New York and London finance houses, as well as FTSE 100 and Fortune 500 household names. I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to join such a reputable firm.”
Brad Adderley, Bermuda Managing Partner, said: “We are delighted to welcome James and Melinda to our growing team. We have seen a significant increase in both our corporate and dispute resolution practices and know James’ and Melinda’s knowledge and experience will provide valuable support to both our colleagues and clients. We are thrilled to have them on board.”
