James Russell (1790–1861) was a Scottish barrister, best known as a law reporter in the English courts.
He was the eldest son of James Russell of Stirling; his brother John joined the Scottish bar, and became known as a travel writer.
After graduating with distinction at Glasgow University, he was called to the English bar at the Inner Temple in June 1822.
He ultimately became leader in the court of Vice-chancellor James Lewis Knight-Bruce, but his eyesight failed.
Russell also contributed to the Quarterly Review, and with his brother John for some years edited the Annual Register.