James Leo is a Partner and Head of the Employment Law team at Wilkes, based in Birmingham City Centre. With over 20 of years’ experience in employment law. James advises clients on a wide range of matters, including TUPE, restrictive covenants, whistleblowing, and defending employers against discrimination claims. His vast background allows him to support businesses of all sizes, offering guidance that balances legal requirements with cost-effective solutions. Working with departments such as Corporate, Business Recovery, and Commercial Litigation providing practical advice to business owners on employment issues during mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions, James ensures his clients receive comprehensive advice tailored to their needs.
James Leo
Partner, Employment
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Credentials
In addition to his role at Wilkes, James is a trustee of the Ikon Gallery and a member of the Employment Lawyers Association.
Testimonials
James Leo is always super prompt and explains complicated topics very simply, and always has the practical approach in mind, which we appreciate greatly.
The Legal 500 2025
James Leo is a highly professional lawyer. His advices are business oriented and practical.
The Legal 500 2024 Edition
James Leo could very quickly reduce legal complexities to a few relevant bullet points I could understand. He improved the size of a settlement agreement and reduced some of the risks. I felt like I had his whole attention.
The Legal 500 2024 Edition
James Leo is an excellent communicator who manages his clients’ expectations extremely well. He has a strong understanding of complex legal matters and to me and many of his clients, is considered a safe pair of hands. Whilst James offers a robust and pragmatic approach to claims, he also ensures that he brings a rounded and robust view of the material considerations to any legal issue. I find his appreciation of commercial, reputational and emotional matters to be amongst the best I have come across and I can rely upon him to reach a sensible, measured and effective conclusion.
The Legal 500 2023 Edition
Very proactive. Friendly and approachable. Gets the job done. James Leo is dynamic, is at the top of his game and helpful.
The Legal 500 2023 Edition
James Leo, is one of the most approachable solicitors I have worked with, I cannot rate him highly enough and have recommended his and Wilkes’ service on numerous occasions.