The Hon. James Stevenson SC

Independent arbitrator, mediator, referee and neutral evaluator.

James was a judge of the Supreme Court of New South Wales from 2012 until 2025. James sat primarily in the Commercial, Technology & Construction and Commercial Arbitration list. Prior to his return to private practice, James was the Commercial List Judge, managing what has been described as Australia’s most efficient commercial and building court.

James understands the need for expeditious resolution of commercial, building and construction disputes.

James was the Adoptions List Judge from 2022 to 2025 and in that capacity gained deep experience in the care sector.

Prior to his appointment, James practised as a solicitor for 15 years and then for 23 years as a barrister, including 9 years as Senior Counsel. James appeared in many significant commercial cases both at trial and appellate level as well as for regulators such as the Australian Securities and Investment Commission and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority.

James welcomes appointment as an arbitrator, including in building and infrastructure matters, and as a mediator in commercial and other matters.