Lawson made 26 first team appearances in the Football League for Southend United as well as spending time on loan at Grimsby Town and AFC Bournemouth.
Lawson began his career with Southend United, scoring within 10 minutes on his debut against Oldham Athletic in September 2005.
[5] He was unable to establish himself in the first team at the beginning of the 2006–07 season and joined League Two side Grimsby Town in September 2006 on a one-month loan.
[6][7] He made only one appearance as a substitute and was recalled by Southend with manager Steve Tilson explaining, "James was there for two matches and only played about 20 minutes We wanted him to get games and that wasn't happening, so he has come back to us now.
[13] He made nine league appearances without scoring for Grays and was transfer listed before joining Isthmian Premier club Chelmsford City on loan in October 2007.