Introducing our NEW Partners: James Young

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I’m a Partner in the Commercial team, assisting with the day-to-day running of the department. I provide advice to our clients on all aspects of commercial property and any company or commercial matters for which they might need legal support.

I’ve worked in the Cardiff legal sector for the last twelve years and have a particular interest in legal matters relating to commercial leases, telecoms, infrastructure and renewables as this is where most of my experience lies.

When I’m not in work, I love to travel and spend time with family and friends. I’m also very keen on archery and love playing and watching a variety of sports. I am also very interested in military history.

What was it that attracted you to a career in law?

I’ve been interested in the law from an early age as a close family friend of mine was a lawyer when I was growing up. When I was a bit older, I went on to do some voluntary work for the Citizens Advice Bureau, and this experience started me thinking that I probably had the correct skillset to be a lawyer as I loved listening to people and offering solutions to their problems.

After school, I went on to study Law and French in Aberystwyth University, before completing a Masters in International Business Law and IT Law.

Do you have a career highlight?

I think becoming a Partner with Harding Evans within less than a year of joining the business might take the top spot!

Describe a typical day as a Partner in the Commercial Property team…

In my role at Harding Evans, I deal with a variety of commercial property matters ranging from leases of industrial/commercial units, shops and pubs.

In addition to this, I deal with the acquisition and disposal of commercial properties and agricultural land.

There is also company formations, partnership agreements and various corporate and commercial transactions for clients.

My focus is serving the firms existing client work and attracting new commercial clients.

No day is the same and I enjoy the variety of work and challenges these present!

What attracted you to Harding Evans?

I was keen to join a recognised and respected law firm in Wales, but one where I would also have the freedom to carve out a role for myself and become involved in shaping the future of the team and the firm.

I’ve been really impressed with what I’ve seen so far in the past 12 months and can tell there is great scope to build on the department’s success to date.

What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a career similar to your own?

To be successful in this industry, you have to have great attention to detail, excellent client care and strong commercial awareness to understand what your clients needs.