Areas of Law:

• Criminal Law
• Criminal Assets Confiscation

With close to a decade-and-a-half of dedicated experience in the criminal law, James is committed to providing robust representation and strategic advice to clients facing complex legal challenges. From guilty pleas to minor matters in the Magistrates Court through to appeals in the Supreme Court, James has extensive experience in ensuring that his clients are properly represented and their rights are protected.

Aside from criminal law, James has developed considerable knowledge in the area of law regarding confiscations of criminal assets. The cross-over between the criminal law and these matters makes him an ideal advocate for clients looking to safeguard their property rights in this niche area.

James’ career has been marked by a diverse progression through both public and private sectors, building a comprehensive skill set that equips him to handle the full spectrum of criminal matters with confidence and empathy.

His professional journey began with roles at the Legal Services Commission and another leading private criminal law firm. These early experiences allowed him to develop a strong grounding in courtroom advocacy, negotiations with prosecution, and the practical demands of defending individual rights within the criminal justice system. James joined Websters Lawyers in 2020, before a tenure at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), where he immersed himself in serious major indictable prosecutions that demanded precision, resilience, and deep legal acumen.

At the DPP, he gained invaluable perspective across multiple facets of the criminal law system. This included work in the confiscations of criminal assets matters under the Criminal Assets Confiscations Act 2005 (SA), navigating large and complicated cases involving allegations of fraud and drug trafficking and appearing as Trial Counsel in jury trials. Those roles continued to hone his skills in managing serious and complex cases, in addition to his courtroom advocacy.

James’ experience as defence and prosecution Counsel gives his clients representation that is highly proficient in assessing a matter from the perspective of both sides of the bar table, before providing them with a practical approach on how a matter can be best resolved.

Returning to Websters Lawyers in 2026, James brings that unique blend of prosecutorial insight and defence-oriented advocacy to our clients, offering a balanced, client-centred approach that anticipates challenges and maximises opportunities for resolving matters with the best possible outcome. Whether defending the charges at trial, minimising the damage that can be caused by a guilty plea or confiscations proceeding, or advising on options for an appeal, he guides clients through the process with clarity, determination and care, drawing on his extensive experience to ensure that they know they are in safe hands.

James is contactable by email at jwatson@websterslawyers.com.au or by telephoning (08) 8231 1363.