James attended law school after voraciously watching all 20 seasons of Law & Order. That show, as well as his experiences in his community, led him to a career in law - where he believed he wanted to be at the ‘tip of the spear’, prosecuting criminal offences. To that end, he entered the University of Ottawa Common Law Program in 2016.

Shortly after entering law school, and getting hands on experience in the real criminal justice system, he realized the inequity people charged with criminal and other offences face. It isn’t society who needs protection - it’s the people who need protection from the state.

James shifted his attention to the other end of counsel table and focused his efforts on gaining experience to become a Criminal Defence Attorney. He completed his articles with Michael A. Johnston at Shore Johnston Hyslop Day|LLP (currently Shore Johnston|LLP) - a prominent and respected criminal defence law firm in Ottawa where he gained valuable experience advocating for people who need assistance defending themselves. He continues to practice in shared Chambers with Shore Johnston and other respected attorneys practicing exclusively criminal defence.