James Hart

James Hart

Founding Partner, Managing Partner

James Hart leads Hillmont Partners office in London. He heads the Private Client practice and co-heads the Cross-Border Dispute Resolution practice.

James Hart is a trusted advisor to international companies, private clients, and family offices operating in Ukraine or seeking to invest in the Ukrainian market. He provides comprehensive legal counsel on a broad spectrum of matters, including investment planning and support, asset structuring, acquisition and protection, corporate conflict resolution, business restructuring, and debt reorganization. James also assists clients in navigating complex multi-jurisdictional disputes and arbitration proceedings.

James Hart is a brilliant rainmaker and facilitator in strategic investment relations and projects involving Ukraine. He enjoys the reputation of Ukraine’s brand ambassador at global networking communities where investment potential of Ukraine is discussed.

Professional experience

He has been an advisor to the former Prime Minister of Ukraine and former First Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine – Minister of Economic Development and Trade of Ukraine. Provided counsel to Ukrainian government and legislative representatives on matters related to reform, asset recovery, and trade and investment.

James Hart is appointed as an independent non-executive director of Nostrum Oil & Gas PLC, an independent mixed-asset energy company with world-class gas processing facilities and export hub in north-west Kazakhstan. He is also appointed to the audit committee and as chairman of the remuneration committee of the company’s Board.

Education

  • Eton College;
  • Durham University, First Class Honours in Russian and French;
  • London Business School, Executive MBA.

Awards and Recognition

  • Benchmark Litigation Europe Awards, 2025 – shortlisted for the award in the category ‘Ukraine Litigator of the Year’.
  • The Legal 500 EMEA, editions 2021-2025 – recognised as a Leading Partner in Dispute Resolution and featured amongst recommended practitioners in the Private Client and Banking, Finance, and Capital Markets practices.
  • ‘Top 100 Lawyers of Ukraine. Client Choice’ ranking, editions 2023-2025 – featured as s a practice leader in Public-Private Partnership & Infrastructure.