About James

James Macdonnell practices family law and civil litigation, with his work focused primarily on complex family law matters. Born and raised in Kelowna, BC, he earned dual BAs in History and Political Science from the University of British Columbia and an LL.B. with honours from Cardiff University in Wales. After returning to BC in 2006, he worked as a senior legal analyst for the provincial government's Liquor Control and Licensing and Adult Corrections branches before joining a family law litigation firm in 2010. He has appeared as counsel at all levels of court in BC and has guided clients through mediation and other dispute resolution processes. Macdonnell has also appeared as associate amicus counsel in circuit courts in Missouri and Florida, and before the BC Human Rights Tribunal and other tribunals. His practice also includes wills and estates matters.

Practice areas

Family LawCivil Litigation & Dispute ResolutionWills, Estates & Trusts

Education & credentials

Law school
Cardiff University
Undergraduate
University of British Columbia, dual BA (History and Political Science)

Listing compiled from public sources in July 2026. Confirm James Macdonnell’s licence and standing in the Law Society of British Columbia directory ↗