James joined Bermans in February 2025 as a Partner in our Property Team based between the firms Liverpool and Manchester offices.
James studied Law and International Relations at Keele University and then went on to qualify as a solicitor in 2003.
He specialises in residential and commercial property development and works with high net worth individuals and owner managed businesses.
James is ranked by The Legal 500 and he won ‘Team of the Year (Property)’ at the Manchester Legal Awards (2023) for the work he carried out at a previous firm.
Outside of work, James is a keen triathlete and spends his spare time training whilst also looking after his young family.
Usha qualified as a solicitor in 2000 and joined Bermans in December 2024 as a Partner in our Commercial Property Team.
Usha graduated with a pure LLB Honours law degree in Liverpool and subsequently undertook the Legal Practice Course at the College of Law in Chester. Prior to joining Bermans Usha has previously worked in a large international law firm and subsequently a large northern based firm.
Currently Usha has a focus on :
commercial property management and non-contentious landlord and tenant law
acquisition and disposal of freehold and leasehold business premises
specialist healthcare transactions such as dentists and pharmacies
portfolio management in respect of asset management matters, particularly shopping centres and other multi let properties.
A member of the Liverpool Law Society Equality Diversity & Inclusion Committee, sitting on the Cheshire and Merseyside Legal Diversity Group and leading her previous firms REACH Group (“Race Equality and Cultural Heritage”), Usha takes a keen interest improving diversity in law firms through access, recruitment and progression. She was named as a finalist in the 2023 Northern Power Women awards in the “Agent of Change” category.
Alongside her day job Usha is a keen chef and specialises in cooking Rajasthani recipes, handed down from her family.
Usha is recognised as a ‘Leading Associate’ by the Legal 500 (2025 edition) which notes Usha as a key name in Commercial Property in the Liverpool City Region.
Olivia joined Bermans in October 2024 and is Property Finance Paralegal in our Property team based in Liverpool.
She assists with property finance transactions, including but not limited to, bridging finance deals, re-finances, buy-to-let investment acquisitions and sales.
Olivia studied Business Management The University of Liverpool before completing her LLM degree.
Outside of work, Olivia enjoys cooking, reading, playing the piano.
Zaafir joined Bermans in March 2024 and is a Post-Completions Paralegal in our Property team based in Liverpool.
He assists Bermans property team with a wide range of property matters, including residential and commercial property acquisitions and sales, residential and commercial developments and acquisitions and redevelopment of buy-to-let properties. Zaafir also liaises with HM Land Registry and other law firms to achieve our clients’ objectives.
Zaafirs qualifications include:
Professional Skills Course for Legal Practice – School of Law, University of Central Lancashire, Preston (2023)
Master of Laws, Legal Practice Course – Liverpool John Moores University (2022)
Master of Laws, Qualifying Law Degree – Liverpool John Moores University (2021)
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Human Resource Management – University of Liverpool (2007)
Outside of work, Zaafir enjoys reading, sightseeing, news/current affairs and beach and countryside dog walks. He also has a Golden Retriever who is his constant companion and best friend!
Climate change is an undeniable global phenomenon with far-reaching consequences for our environment, economy, and society. While discussions often focus on its ecological and economic impacts, it is essential to recognise that climate change is also having a profound influence on property law. This article explores the potential impact of climate change in this context, highlighting the need for adaptation and innovation within the legal framework.
The Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) is a recognised quality standard for firms offering residential conveyancing services. The scheme is the most widely recognised form of conveyancing accreditation and acts as a quality assurance mark.
Tom Simpson (pictured), joined Bermans in 2023 and is a Partner in our Property team. We spoke to him to learn more about him and his interests and work.
Joe joined Bermans in July 2023 and is currently a Trainee Solicitor in our Employment team based in Liverpool.
Joe obtained a degree and a Masters degree in Law at the University of Liverpool and has also completed his LPC at the University of Law.
Outside of work, Joe enjoys cooking and is a former chef. He also enjoys boxing and hiking/camping, as well as being a long suffering Everton fan and season ticket holder!
Rachael joined Bermans in October 2014 and is a Paralegal in our Property team in Liverpool.
Rachael is experienced in residential conveyancing and ensures her clients receive a smooth and hassle free experience when purchasing or selling a property.
Outside of work, Rachael enjoys going to the gym, visiting art galleries and going to gigs, as well as working her way round Liverpool’s bars and restaurants with family and friends!
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Partner 
a solicitor in 2000 and joined Bermans in December 2024 as a Partner in our Commercial Property Team.
The Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) is a recognised quality standard for firms offering residential conveyancing services. The scheme is the most widely recognised form of conveyancing accreditation and acts as a quality assurance mark.
