Solicitor practising in Symonds Inn, London. All his nephews began their legal career in his office, and Thomas and James (Graham) eventually became partners in the Firm, which is still (2010) in existence and called Lawrence Graham and Co.

Arms (granted 1784): Sable three catherine wheels Argent. Crest. A demi lion rampant Gules.21

According to 41, all their children died in infancy. They became very attached to the children of James’ sister.

James was the subject of the article by Albert J. Schmidt, “Provincial to Professional: the mentalite of attorney James Coulthard (1718-86)”, Quinnipiac Law Review 213, (2003). This is an interesting look at the relationships between James and his clients, and describes James as “ ... an extraordinarily diligent fellow, who unabashedly recounted his triumphs in the trade but exhibited little intellectual curiosity ... he clearly enjoyed comfortable living and hobnobbing with his betters. His shallowness is perhaps best perceived by his pecking order mentality, notably the disdain which he evidenced toward those beneath him.”

of Skirsgill