Background

James Steward is a Partner at Hunt & Coombs Solicitors, specialising in property law with a particular focus on the sale and purchase of both freehold and leasehold properties. He became a Partner on 1 October 2025, following a successful legal career advising a wide range of clients, from individual buyers and sellers to landowners and commercial tenants.

James has extensive experience in handling agricultural and commercial lease matters, and is known for his pragmatic advice, attention to detail, and clear friendly communication. His work often involves managing complex transactions and negotiations, and he is recognised for delivering efficient, results-driven outcomes that protect his clients’ interests.

James has many key area’s of expertise, and he regularly advises clients on all aspects of commercial and residential property transactions, including:

  • Sales and purchases of freehold and leasehold property;
  • Commercial and agricultural leases;
  • Agreements for lease, overage agreements, option agreements and conditional contracts; and
  • Commercial and residential mortgages.

James plays a key role within the firm’s Property Department, earning a reputation for his reliability, professionalism, and dedication to client service.

In March 2020, James was appointed Deputy Diocesan Registrar for the Peterborough Diocese.

In the 2026 Legal 500 Guide, James continues to be recognised as a Recommended Lawyer.

Interests

Outside of the office, James is a keen runner. Whether training for a local event or exploring the countryside on foot, he enjoys the balance and discipline that running brings – qualities he applies equally to his legal work.

Hunt & Coombs Solicitors are fundraising for Young Lives vs Cancer, a charity that supports children and young people with cancer. I’m taking on the Cambridge Half Marathon to raise money for this amazing cause. If you’d like to support, please consider donating via my page: www.justgiving.com/page/james-steward-1

Testimonials

"I am currently being represented by James Steward in the conveyancing department at Hunt & Coombs, and I have been consistently impressed with the exceptional level of expertise, care and attention he has provided throughout the handling of the two property sales. The speed and efficiency with which these transactions have been completed, and how seamlessly everything has gone, has truly exceeded my expectations. I've been a client of the firm for years, utilising two locations and working with various staff members on both personal and business matters. Time and again, they go above and beyond to deliver outstanding service with minimal fuss. One thing I particularly appreciate is their consistent and transparent approach to billing, which is a rare quality in today's market. It's a testament to their professionalism and integrity. My first experience with the firm was in 2013 when I worked with Henry Anstey. Henry was the first solicitor I instructed, and he truly set the bar high. He helped me navigate a complex estate, probate, Will and Testament setup, and the creation and ongoing management of my trust. Henry's knowledge, dedication, and passion for solving problems made the impossible possible. I am forever grateful to him for his unwavering support over the years. I cannot recommend Hunt & Coombs highly enough. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to client care make them stand out, and I look forward to continuing to work with them for many years to come."


"James Steward guided us through our house purchase, he was professional, responsive and reliable throughout. We would highly recommend him and Hunt & Coombs to others."


"Always helpful, efficient and provide an excellent service. Friendly and personable."


"We have used HC over the past few years for various reasons and will continue to in the future. Their professionalism, knowledge and ability to be time efficient mean we will choose to work with HC over others available to us."


"Superb service - nothing to add."


"The whole process has been hassle free and I have been completely satisfied with the service. Many Thanks."


"The purchase of the property was not straight forward and James handled the whole process with effciency and professionalism. James Steward looked after us extremely well and we would like to continue to use Hunt & Coombs for other requirements."


‘ I work mostly with James Steward, who provides us with an excellent service.’


"I would like to add that over the years I have dealt with a few Solicitors from different firms, but the one Solicitor that stands out from the rest is James Steward at Hunt & Coombs, Oundle office. From the very first phone call to the last, James was always approachable, friendly, polite efficient and professional. His approach to our case stands out as the best we have come across. At difficult times he remained supportive and professional. I cannot thank him enough for his help in our matters and would always recommend him to family and friends."


"I would easily have found a cheaper lawyer. However having used Hunt & Coombs previously I knew I would get the service I needed. Worth the money and would definitely use James again."


"Thank you for your excellent service. We are particularly appreciative of James Steward who is always friendly and extremely knowledgeable."


"James was great, moved things through quickly and was fast to respond to any question I had."


"James Steward worked extremely hard in sometimes difficult circumstances, to complete on time the sale of our existing property and the purchase of our new property. This involved working extended hours on a number of occasions."


"I have developed a good rapport with James Steward. This is our 9th buy together."


"James is first class. A great asset."


"Nothing but praise particularly to James Steward for his help, kindness and politeness during these difficult times."


"Thank you to James Steward for his patience in handling this purchase and the sale that he saw us through last summer. We are more than pleased with all the help and support that James provided."


"James was extremely professional and capable. We were very pleased with the service we received."


"We could not fault the service we received from Hunt & Coombs especially from James. We have never had such a good service from any solicitors firm previously and we will return with any further legal matters without hesitation. James made the process of buying our house so much easier. This was done by prompt returning of phone calls, extremely friendly and professional handling of our purchase. Many thanks again."


"Could not fault the work of James Steward. He was extremely helpful during a house move which was not straight forward. Would 100% recommend to others. Thank you."


Additional Information

Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer    Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer 2025    

Related News & Insight

Buying a property via a conditional contract

James Steward, Partner in our residential property team answers some key questions on buying a property subject to a conditional contract.

Key financial aspects of completing your commercial property purchase

Our commercial property solicitors outline the key financial aspects of completing your commercial property purchase.

Read more

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Hunt & Coombs LLP is a Limited Liability Partnership registered in England and Wales, Registration no. OC320243, VAT no. 120013160. Hunt & Coombs LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority with Registration no. 443035. A list of members is available at Westpoint, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6FZ.

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