James Baker advises high-net-worth individuals and families on sophisticated US-UK lifetime and succession planning matters. He trained and qualified as a solicitor at Charles Russell, one of London’s leading private client firms, and has practiced in London since 2008. He was admitted to the State Bar of California in 2021.
James focuses his practice on international estate and succession planning, advising clients with personal, business, and financial interests in both the United States and the United Kingdom. He provides strategic counsel on estate planning, international probate and estate administration, and cross-border trust and wealth structuring, with particular attention to the legal, tax, and practical considerations affecting internationally mobile individuals and families.
His experience includes the preparation of wills, powers of attorney, and related estate planning documents; advising executors, trustees, and beneficiaries in multi-jurisdictional estate administrations; and establishing and administering international trust and wealth planning structures. He regularly represents US individuals with UK-based assets and UK individuals with US-based assets.
In addition to his private client practice, James brings a unique perspective from his experience in the media and entertainment industries. He has worked with production teams at ITV News and Universal Pictures, including on the feature film Robin Hood. He continues to advise clients in the television, film, and music sectors, combining legal insight with a practical understanding of the creative industries.
James is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and the Trusted Advisor Association.
Education:
- University College London, BA (Honours)
- The College of Law, London
Admissions:
- Solicitor, England & Wales (2008)
- Attorney, California (2021)