James Hartson, a successful barrister who worked on major cases, was a big supporter of his young brother, John.
14:26, 05 Feb 2026Updated 14:44, 05 Feb 2026
James Hartson sadly passed away(Image: Wales Online)
The brother of Celtic legend John Hartson has died at the age of just 53. The ex-Hoops, West Ham and Arsenal striker, 50, is mourning the sad passing of his barrister James, whose death was confirmed by his workplace today.
James, who hailed from Swansea, Wales, was a special branch police officer for the Met Police who later turned to law and became a successful barrister working on major cases, which he conducted in both English and Welsh.
The family tragedy follows the loss of elder sister Hayley who died in October 2020 at the age of 46. James’ death was announced at Swansea Crown Court where he regularly worked.
A tribute hearing is expected to take place later this week so barristers can pay their respects. His law firm, Angel Chambers, said colleagues were “too numb” to provide a tribute at this stage.
Staff at the court were said to be devastated by the popular lawyer’s death and trials were postponed today as a mark of respect.
John Hartson’s brother, James, has sadly passed away at the age of 52(Image: Getty)
James was part of the defence team that represented teenage killer Craig Mulligan who murdered his five-year-old step-brother Logan Mwangi. During the trial, his proud parents Cyril and Diana sat in the public gallery to watch James’ work on the case.
James enjoyed a 20-year career as a police officer in London and Cardiff, including many years as a detective in New Scotland Yard. He has a first class honours degree in law and was awarded an outstanding grade in his Bar course.
He was a big supporter of younger brother John who won 51 caps for Wales and joined Martin O’Neill’s side from Coventry City in August 2001, netting 88 times in 146 games before moving to West Bromwich Albion.
Following sister Hayley’s death, John posted a photo of them together, saying: “It is with great sadness we put our Beloved Hayley to rest. We are totally devastated. She will be sorely missed. There are no words. RIP Big sister.”
John Hartson during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Heart Of Midlothian in 2001(Image: Allstar)
Hayley was one of the many loves ones who urged fans to pray for her brother after he was diagnosed with aggressive testicular cancer and entered a critical condition which could’ve signalled the end of his life in 2009.
Hayley issued her plea to supporters after it was revealed the cancer which spread to Hartson’s brain had entered his lungs, too.
Following intensive treatment, including emergency brain surgery and chemotherapy, John confirmed was in remission by early 2010, and later announced he was five years clear in January 2013.