James Emmett SC

James Emmett is an experienced advocate practising in public and administrative law, commercial litigation, professional negligence and maritime law.

His experience also extends to tax and revenue law, including before the High Court. He is ranked in the Doyles Guide (2022, 2023, 2024) as a leading Senior Counsel in Australia in administrative and public law, and recommended Senior Counsel in Australia in transport law. He is also recognised as a recommended global and national leader in Transport – Shipping in Lexology Index (2022, 2024, 2025 – formerly Who’s Who Legal).

Prior to coming to the Bar, James was the Associate to Chief Justice Gleeson in the High Court of Australia and practised as a solicitor at Mallesons Stephen Jacques (Now King & Wood Mallesons).

James holds an LLB (University of NSW) and an MA (Cantab), and has lectured since 2007, primarily at the University of NSW, with a focus on statutory interpretation and conflict of laws.