Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2012 
James Hatton is a Partner at Farris LLP in Vancouver, British Columbia, with more than 30 years of experience advising companies on the development, commercialization, protection and strategic use of intellectual property assets. He is the partner responsible for the Technology Group at Farris LLP and advises clients across the biotechnology and life sciences, technology, corporate and intellectual property sectors.
James practises in the areas of Biotechnology and Life Sciences Practice, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property Law and Technology Law. His work includes technology transactions, licensing arrangements, strategic partnerships, financings, mergers and acquisitions, commercialization matters and corporate governance for emerging and established companies.
James has been recognized in legal industry directories for his work in life sciences, health and technology transactions. Best Lawyers has recognized him since 2012 in biotechnology law, life sciences law, corporate law, intellectual property law and technology law, and Chambers ranks him in Life Sciences: Corporate/Commercial.
In addition to his legal practice, James serves as an advisory board member for STEMCELL Technologies, a Canadian biotechnology company. He has also served as a director or officer for a number of organizations in the technology, energy and life sciences sectors.
His previous leadership and governance roles include service with BC Hydro and Powerex; the BC Tech Association; and Aspect Biosystems, a company focused on 3D bioprinting and tissue engineering. James also served as a director and past Chair of LifeSciences British Columbia, an organization representing British Columbia’s life sciences community.
James is a former member of the Governing Council of the National Research Council of Canada, where he contributed to matters involving research, development and innovation in Canada’s science and technology sectors. He is also a former member of the Board of Governors of Royal Roads University and the Judicial Advisory Committee for British Columbia, which assesses candidates for appointment to the superior courts.
