Travel in London

Blake Morgan LLP

Blake Morgan LLP‘s ‘super team with a solid grounding in travel law’ has strong expertise in commercial travel, providing such well-known clients as Air France and KLM, with specialist support in relation to such areas as insolvency, employment and IP. Stojan Essex specialises in related corporate advisory work. Ian Skuse leads the regulatory and commercial practice from London. Additionally, the team has notable experience handling the personal injury side of travel; the ‘versatile’ and focused team in this regard is led by ‘standout practitioner’ Daniel Scognamiglio from Southampton. It is well-equipped to handle complex international matters for claimants in matters involving injury ranging from serious to catastrophic. It also acts for defendants, namely package tour operators and liability insurers, on the defence side of such cases. Associates Ian Skuse and Katherine Ettridge are described as ‘super team members’.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Scognamiglio; Ian Skuse


Other key lawyers:

Katherine Ettridge; Ian Jenkins; Isabel Bathurst; Iqval Dale


Testimonials

‘A great team for cross-border work including aviation claims and package travel claims. They are versatile and can cover many different bases. There is solid personnel in the team, with good leadership from the top.’

‘Daniel Scognamiglio is a standout practitioner who is not afraid of taking on difficult cases and running them. He is joined by some super team members in Iqval Dale and Katherine Ettridge.’

‘Blake Morgan’s team has a deep knowledge of the insurance industry.’

‘Daniel Scognamiglio leads the team. His knowledge is of travel law and the insurance industry is outstanding.’

‘A super team with a solid grounding in travel law, unafraid of taking on tricky cases. I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone with a travel law issue. Great knowledge base, good leadership.’

‘A friendly and dynamic team offering high quality expertise and service at all levels in this area. They are also a firm ready to fight for consumers at the Court of Appeal.’

‘Isabel Bathurst and Daniel Scognamiglio are both highly personable and experienced travel lawyers. Not many firms have practitioners with such experience in this area.’

‘Ian Jenkins is brilliant, and I thoroughly enjoy working with him.’

Key clients

AXA Insurance/AXA Travel Insurance


DAS


Ageas


Admiral


MAAF (French Insurer)


Travelers


ERV (Previously ERGO/Munich Re)


Air France


KLM


Air France


KLM


Omega World Travel


Altour International Inc.


Ovation Travel


Ickenham Travel Group plc


Great Canadian Railtour Company (Rocky Mountaineer Railway)


Sunset Travel Limited


Meon Valley Business Travel


Healthy Holidays


Travel Talk Adventures


GlobalStar Travel Management


Ski Basics


Work highlights


  • Acted for a claimant involved in a road traffic accident in Mexico involving traumatic brain injury; liability was at issue, but the claim was resolved via mediation for approximately £1m.
  • Defended a claim brought by a policyholder against an insurer client for incorrectly denying a claim pleaded in excess of £1m, leading to significant ongoing difficulties.
  • Acted on behalf of the appellant for alleged breach of contract under the Consumer Credit Act 1974, which gave rise to wider legal issues of general public and legal importance.

Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co’s ‘top-notch’ travel personal injury defendant practice is headed up by road traffic accident and public liability-related work specialist Chris Murray, who works from Manchester, alongside London-based ‘experienced and knowledgeable operator’ Matthew Ford; catastrophic claim-focused Greg MacDougall who is based in Edinburgh; and Manchester-based May 2023-promoted partner Craig Evans, who ‘knows the sector inside-out’. The practice has such renowned names as Easyjet and Zurich Insurance in its client portfolio, and its workload is often of significant complexity, involving severe injury caused in a wide-range of circumstances abroad. In London, Emily List is noted as having ‘a good deal of experience and knowledge in this area’ whilst Sandeep Aujla is a senior associate to note, with experience handling catastrophic, cross-border matters.

Practice head(s):

Chris Murray; Matthew Ford; Greg MacDougall; Craig Evans


Other key lawyers:

Emily List; Sandeep Aujla; Calum Murray


Testimonials

‘A top-notch team in the most complex cross-border cases with a loyal following of foreign insurers. They standout for the training and development they provide their trainees and junior associates, bringing them on fast and well.’

‘Craig Evans is a thorough lawyer.’

‘Clyde & Co are a very strong team with excellent fee earners at all levels, from partners to trainees. They fight hard but will also settle when this is best. I rate them very highly.’

Key clients

EasyJet Holidays


Jet2


Tui


MS Amlin


Riverstone


Audley Travel


Leger Holidays


QBE


AXAXL


ADMIRAL


AVIVA


AXA


AIG


RSA


QBE


ZURICH


CHUBB


MAPFRE


SEGURO CAIXA


Deloitte Legal

The team at Deloitte Legal has a particular focus advising its portfolio of clients, which includes package holiday providers and travel groups, on the technological as well as the commercial aspects of travel. Key team member, Cawston-based director and newly appointed team head Luke Golding has strong expertise in this area and has experience advising on streamlining, overhauling and reviewing the management of related technological processes for key clients. May 2023 marked the departure of the team’s former lead Farina Azam to Fox Williams LLP.

Other key lawyers:

Luke Golding


Key clients

The Travel Network Group


Travel Leaders Group Inc


Global Travel Collection


Attraction World Limited


Costco Travel Limited


Abercrombie & Kent


Active Travel Group


Tek Travels DMCC


The Thinking Traveller


Sunvil Holidays


DMH Stallard LLP

The ‘stellar’ commercial and regulatory practice at DMH Stallard LLP is headed up by Brighton-based ‘excellent travel specialist lawyer’ Debbie Venn. The team has a strong reputation for its capabilities advising its plethora of clients on matters that range from advising on package holiday travel terms and arrangements, to related privacy policy and data protection advice. Within travel, ‘expert in her field’ Rebecca Thornley-Gibson and solicitor Abigail Maino both have an employment specialism, their work often featuring overseas worker issues and jurisdictional issues in relation to seasonal work abroad, for example. Helen Mead and Crawley-based Danos Athanasi have a focus on the corporate side of the sector, advising on such work as brand sales, restructuring and buy back schemes.

Practice head(s):

Debbie Venn


Other key lawyers:

Rebecca Thornley-Gibson; Helen Mead; Danos Athanasi; Abigail Maino; Jonathan Compton; Rebecca Leeves


Testimonials

‘DMH Stallard fully understand the external environment and context within which we work and have partnered with us effectively to understand our internal business drivers so they can provide effective advice.’

‘Rebecca Thornley-Gibson is not only an expert in her field but is full of pragmatic advice based on her extensive experience in delivering operational solutions. This team sets an example for other professional firms to follow.’

‘Debbie Venn is competent and available with a strong will to help and assist clients.’

‘They are an outstanding set of individuals who go above and beyond for their clients. They are always commercial and practical in their approach and their travel knowledge is second-to-none.’

‘Debbie Venn is an excellent travel specialist lawyer who responds to clients with sound knowledge and a level-headed approach.’

‘Helen Mead is an outstanding corporate lawyer who understands the nuances of the travel industry when dealing with transactions for clients.’ ‘

‘Jonathan Compton is one of the most accomplished litigators in the field – he applies his legal expertise with empathy and commerciality whilst ensuring he protects his clients every step of the way.’

‘A stellar team all round.’

Key clients

Specialised Travel Ltd


Airborne Representation Ltd


Hovertravel Ltd


CharterSync Ltd


Themis Advisory Ltd


15below Ltd


The Cruise Line Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advising Airborne Representation in relation to its business operations at various UK airports, including provision of flight disruption services and client-facing support roles, media support and customer communications.
  • Advising Hovertravel in relation to its customer booking Terms and Conditions, terms on carriage of passengers, goods, cancellation arrangements and finalising terms for use.
  • Advising Themis Advisory in relation to a marketing services and digital marketing agreement, including in relation to an agreement for the licensing and use of a widget for assessing and comparing live data.

DWF

DWF‘s travel personal injury offering, noted as being ‘a pleasure to work with’, has noteworthy abilities in handling high-value work in both national and international contexts, with evident expertise throughout the team in insurance; the team’s plethora of clients in predominantly formed of such well-known insurers as Hastings Direct. It advises on the claimant side of a range of cases, with a particular specialism handling complex road traffic accident matters overseas. ‘Very experienced operator’ Sara-Jane Eaton who focuses on complex and catastrophic injury claims, and ‘exceptionally gifted lawyer in this area’ Claire Bowler co-head the practice. Product liability and reinsurance are also areas the team holds expertise in. Former head of Plexus Law‘s team Michael Gwilliam joined the team in July 2023.

Practice head(s):

Sara-Jane Eaton; Claire Bowler


Other key lawyers:

Michael Gwilliam


Testimonials

‘DWF is an established player in the travel and international personal injury market with a good language range.’

‘Sara-Jane Eaton is a very experienced operator.’

‘A team of real specialists with impressive foreign law experience.’

Key clients

Generali


Van Ameyde


MS Amlin


Accredited Insurance


Hastings Direct


QBE


RSA


The Markerstudy Group


Travelers


LV=


HDI Global


Mannheimer Versicherung AG


Wuerttembergische Versicherung AG


Ergo Hestia


Allianz


ADAC


ERGO Rechtsschutz


Bravonext SA (Lastminute.com)


Work highlights


  • Acting for the German insurer Wuerttembergische Versicherung AG in the UK proceedings relating to a catastrophic motor accident, which occurred in Germany.
  • Acting for two bereaved families residing in Spain following a very serious road traffic accident in England involving a Portuguese defendant and insurer.
  • Acting for the insurer in defence of an Irish citizen on holiday in Malta catastrophically injured by drunk driver.

Enable Law

Enable Law‘s Southampton and Taunton-based team is headed up by Eleanor Armstrong, with support from Robert Antrobus and Alison McClure. It is experienced advising its claimant clients on matters from head injuries, bone breaks, fractures and whiplash incidents to fatalities, resulting from a variety of circumstances abroad, including during RTAs, adventurous activity-related accidents and hotel negligence-related incidents. Experienced senior associate Sophie Hamilton and her team joined from Ince & Co‘s Bristol office in April 2023.

Practice head(s):

Eleanor Armstrong; Robert Antrobus; Alison McClure


Other key lawyers:

Charlotte Morgan; Sophie Hamilton


Testimonials

‘The team does very good work and takes a caring approach to clients.’

‘Eleanor Armstrong is a careful, thoughtful practitioner with lots of experience of this type of work. Clients really like her because she is always on top of their cases and explains everything to them in straightforward and understandable terms.’

‘Eleanor Armstrong is a highly experienced international PI lawyer with considerable knowledge of cross-border litigation.’

‘Eleanor Armstrong is highly organised in her management of cases and has experience of litigating both liability and quantum under foreign law before the courts of England and Wales. Eleanor is unflappable and clear in her advice, she provides strong moral support to clients.’

‘Eleanor Armstrong is a very experienced travel lawyer – calm, personable and excellent with clients.’

Fox Williams LLP

The commercial and regulatory team at Fox Williams LLP, renowned for its ‘deep knowledge of the travel industry’, is well-known for its experience handling high-profile disputes for renowned clients in the industry, namely large travel companies. A key example of such work is its representing On The Beach in the High Court in a dispute against RyanAir regarding passenger refunds. Its workload is frequently of the multi-millions in value and cross-border in nature; it has developed a particular focus advising on compliance with UK and EU travel regulations and assisting businesses therein launching onto the EU market. Tech, travel and aviation expert Lucy England frequently handles such work. Noted as ‘the go-to lawyer for travel regulatory disputes’, Rhys Griffiths is at the helm of the practice. The team was notably bolstered in May 2023 with the arrival of the former head of Deloitte LLP‘s travel team Farina Azam. ‘Great talent’ Phyllis Acheampong is a senior associate to note at the practice.

Practice head(s):

Rhys Griffiths


Other key lawyers:

Lucy England; Jessica Howard; Phyllis Acheampong; Farina Azam


Testimonials

‘The team has a specialist knowledge of the regulatory framework for the travel sector combined with a deep knowledge of the travel industry. They are highly attuned to the needs of their clients and strong in achieving successful outcomes to difficult problems.’

‘Rhys Griffiths is the go-to lawyer for travel regulatory disputes – a specialist in the field who is able to provide practical solutions in times of difficulty. His work in respect of the effects of Covid-19 on the travel industry was outstanding. Phyllis Acheampong is a great talent in this sector, with a deep understanding of the regulatory framework who provides strong support to her clients.’

‘Possibly the leading team in the travel sector. Their network of travel lawyers and experience is of huge benefit in cross-border cases.’

‘Lucy England and Rhys Griffiths are both extremely approachable, knowledgeable and fun to work with. They know their stuff, and are practical and pragmatic.’

‘Their experience across UK travel regulation, ATOL and PTRs are the base for connecting the remaining travel industry “dots”.’

‘The team has a complete understanding of the commercial realities travel companies, both large and small, face – they provide a huge dose of calm analytical advice and attention-to-detail.’

‘Everything complex and high-risk we have goes to Fox Williams.’

‘The team has a wider understanding of the issues whilst being at the forefront of the current and ever-changing challenges in the sector.’

Key clients

Booking.com


On The Beach


Loveholidays.com


lastminute.com


Villa Plus


Virgin Voyages


Sunweb


Belmond


Secret Escapes


Iglu.com


Yourgolfholidays.com


Spabreaks.com


Travel Network Group


Direct Ferries


Flight Centre


Intrepid Travel


Sandals


TrustedHousesitters


Priceline.com


Work highlights


  • Acting for On the Beach in High Court proceedings against Ryanair for flight refunds.
  • Advising one of the world’s largest travel companies on all its travel regulatory matters in the UK and Europe.
  • Advising various travel companies on UK or EU launches.

Hextalls LTD

The team at Hextalls LTD has a strong reputation in ‘the tour operator and cross-border accident field’ and a niche focus acting for defendants in related disputes. It has strong capabilities acting for well-known UK tour operators in claims involving serious injuries and fatalities, in complex and often cross-jurisdictional matters. The team is based in offices in both London and Bishop’s Stortford. The ‘very loyal and committed’ team lead Alex Padfield is vastly experienced in the travel law sector.

Practice head(s):

Alex Padfield


Other key lawyers:

Natalie Greenwood


Testimonials

‘Hextalls provide a tailored service and a personal touch which is often missing with other solicitors – their advice is normally clear and to the point but, more importantly, takes into account economics.’

‘A niche firm which has remained and consolidated its position at the very top of the travel sector for many years. The firm goes from strength to strength under Alex’s leadership.’

‘A model firm – while they fight their clients’ corner, they do not take silly points. They are collaborative when it is sensible and in the best interests of all parties to be so.’

Key clients

Saga Cruises Ltd


Tokio Marine HCC Insurance Company


Mapfre Compania de Seguros Y Reaseguros S.A.


Riviera Travel


Saga Travel Group (UK) Ltd


Work highlights


  • Acted for Mapfre in relation to personal injury cases brought in England but where Spanish law applies, dealing particularly with the issue of Spanish penalty interest, which is being pursued in the Court of Appeal.
  • Acted for Saga in relation to an inquest arising out of a death on the quayside in Barbados, including obtaining evidence from abroad to establish the sequence of events that led to the incident in question.
  • Acted for TMHCC and its insured in a claim brought by the parents of an 18-year old who was killed crossing a motorway on the way to a festival in Croatia and successfully defended the claim at trial.

HFW

HFW‘s commercial and regulatory practice is well-equipped to handle multi-jurisdictional work for its impressive client list. The key specialism of the team is on aviation and shipping work, namely involving the yachting, ferry and cruise industries; its is regarded for its pre-eminence in shipping’. Maritime expert Claire Womersley is particularly adept at handling matters in this regard, frequently advising in defence of companies facing litigation in this sector, in complex disputes of substantial value. William MacLachlan is also an expert in the shipping space, particularly for his sale and purchase, shipbuilding, ship repair and ship recycling work therein. The team is headed up by Elinor Dautlich and Zohar Zik.

Practice head(s):

Elinor Dautlick; Zohar Zik


Other key lawyers:

Claire Womersley; William MacLachlan; Paul Dean; Kirsten Wright


Testimonials

‘A very experienced team with a range of expertise which spans multiple disciplines.’

‘The team stands out for its knowledge, experience and provision of timely responses.’

‘HFW has a dedicated and expert travel practice, with a particular focus on cases relating to ships, cruises and package tours. That focus ties in extremely well with HFW’s pre-eminence in shipping litigation and arbitration more generally.’

‘HFW’s team is extremely knowledgeable, commercial and a delight to work with.’

‘Paul Dean, Claire Womersley and Kirsten Wright bring a calm, measured and very commercial approach to all their cases, ensuring that the client’s commercial objectives in litigation, are kept firmly in mind.’

Key clients

Kiwi Rail


Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB


Finnlines


KiwiRail Ltd


Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB


Work highlights


  • Acted on the charter and purchase of a €13m ferry by KiwiRail Ltd for freight transport between New Zealand’s North and South Islands.
  • Acted for Skandinavska Enskilda Banken AB as documentation agent in the refinancing of Stena AB Group’s main credit facility, consisting of €515m revolving multicurrency credit facility.
  • Advised an Asian budget airline in connection with Russian sanctions which affected our client’s ability to make payments to the lessor of a commercial aircraft tainted by sanctions against Russia.

Hill Dickinson LLP

Hill Dickinson LLP‘s personal injury practice has strong capabilities handling significant injury work in cross-jurisdictional contexts. John Caddies heads up the team and leads across the full range of matters it handles, which range from significant injuries to fatal accidents. Legal director Sarah Barnes is a name to note and is experienced acting in defence of major tour operators, hotels, and cruise and ferry lines, whilst consultant Javed Ali has a specialism advising on the commercial and regulatory side of travel.

Practice head(s):

John Caddies


Other key lawyers:

Javed Ali; Sarah Barnes; Laura Wilson


 


Testimonials

‘The team’s knowledge and commerciality is notable.’

‘The team at Hill Dickinson are very experienced and fully capable of meeting the needs of both big and small clients. There is strength-in-depth at Hill Dickinson, and a level of pragmatism when dealing with claims that is sometimes lacking in other firms.’

‘Individuals in the team will often go the extra mile – nothing is too much trouble for them, and they will always make themselves available. Javed Ali and Sarah Barnes are noteworthy team members.’

Key clients

Royal Air Maroc


Fred Olsen Cruise Lines


Hudgell Solicitors

Hudgell Solicitors‘ ‘highly experienced and extremely competent’ travel PI team has strong capabilities acting for claimants on significant personal injury matters wherein incidents have occurred internationally. The practice is experienced in handling complex claims wherein an initial seemingly minor injury has led to a life-changing issue. ‘Exceptional practitioner’ Paul McClorry heads up the firm’s national travel litigation team and is noted as being ‘reassuring in the discussion of sensitive matters’. Associate Tracy Stansfield has experience handling matters ranging matters involving injuries ranging from minor to life-changing.

Practice head(s):

Paul McClorry


Other key lawyers:

Tracy Stansfield


Testimonials

‘A highly experienced and extremely competent team of sector specialists delivering efficient advice across the sector.’

‘Paul McClorry has excellent experience on both sides of the court and is adept at providing down-to-earth and well-judged advice to his clients. Paul has enormous experience at the highest levels within the sector.’

‘Paul McClorry is a very good partner with an outstanding knowledge of the area.’

‘Strong commercial approach to niche issues, with good breadth and depth of knowledge.’

‘Paul McClorry is an exceptional practitioner with many years experience in this area. He is focused, incisive and has excellent client-handling skills.’

‘Paul is reassuring in the discussion of sensitive matters – he puts clients at ease – he is so helpful, understanding and so approachable. I would most certainly recommend him and the team.’

‘At Hudgell you are treated as a person not a number; the team is very knowledgeable in this sector and firm but caring when explaining complex issues that arise, with empathy.’

‘Paul McClorry is very experienced and takes the time to explain complex concepts.’

Work highlights


  • Acting for a claimant who sustained a significant head injury in a motorbike accident, which was exacerbated during his time in an English hospital; it was settled through mediation.
  • Acting for an 18 year old girl who was catastrophically injured in a ski accident in Italy on a school ski trip; she is now fully wheelchair dependant.
  • Acting for the claimant who was born with cerebral palsy in a hospital in Spain, considering whether there was any medical negligence on the part of the Spanish doctors.

Hugh James

Hugh James‘ travel personal injury offering has Katherine Allen, who is noted for her ‘impressive technical knowledge’ and ‘client care skills that are second-to-none’, at its helm, alongisde Cardiff-based Mark Harvey who is experienced handling complex cross-border litigation matters. The team is adept at handling severe injury claims arising from a range of incidents, namely motor incidents, including cases where they have occurred as part of a package holiday or planned excursion. ‘Knowledgeable, compassionate and determined’ senior associate Rebecca Gilmore is a standout team member.

Practice head(s):

Katherine Allen; Mark Harvey


Other key lawyers:

Rebecca Gilmore; Aidan Lloyd


Testimonials

‘A very well-regarded team, known for its abilities dealing with complex and technical questions.’

‘Katherine Allen is exceptionally well-regarded in the sector with client care skills that are second-to-none. She has impressive technical knowledge and is conscientious in her case preparation. Rebecca Gilmore is also highly experienced and commercially-minded.

‘A very strong team.’

‘Mark Harvey and Aidan Lloyd are prepared to take on challenging cross-border litigation and see it through to a successful conclusion.’

‘A great knowledge of travel law with top client service provided in a down-to-earth manner.’

‘Rebecca Gilmore is knowledgeable, compassionate and determined. She is very reliable, and knows the sector very well.’

‘Katherine Allen is a hugely experienced partner and really is one of the leading lights of the claimant travel law scene. She knows the area like the back of her hand, and has a fantastic sense of a cases and what needs to be done.’

‘Katherine Allen and Rebecca Gilmore are noteworthy individuals.’

Irwin Mitchell

The team at Irwin Mitchell, regarded as a ‘market leader on a national scale’ has a strong reputation for its international, high-stakes injury work for claimants and their families, which is regularly of the utmost sensitivity and severity. Tracey Storey heads up the national practice. Demetrius Danas, noted for his encyclopaedic knowledge of the field’, leads in London and is vastly experienced handling complex cross-border matters. The team’s workload consistently features catastrophic injury claims of high-value, including spinal and brain injury; clinical negligence claims; and fatalities, the scope of which London-based Jennifer Lund is experienced in. ‘Consumer champion’ Philip Banks leads in Birmingham and is experienced advising on the broad-range of cases, from road traffic to work-related accidents abroad. Senior associate Kylie Hutchison has unique expertise in sports-related injuries with in international contexts. Birmingham-based Jatinder Paul, who was promoted to partnership in May 2023 is noted as being ‘a genuine expert and star individual’. ‘Magnificent performer’ Cheryl Palmer-Hughes leads on complex international multi-party actions and fatal accident matters.

Practice head(s):

Tracey Storey


Other key lawyers:

Demetrius Danas; Philip Banks; Cheryl Palmer-Hughes; Jennifer Lund; Nick Cerezo; James Riley; Simon O’Loughlin; Jayne Murphy; Kylie Hutchison; Jatinder Paul; Leane Shanks


Testimonials

‘Philip Banks is a a consumer champion in that he is experienced litigating cases which have a meaningful impact in enhancing consumer rights; Cheryl Palmer-Hughes is known for her expertise in overseas medical negligence cases, particularly in the cosmetic surgery sector; and Nick Cerezo manages cases with skill and expertise in advance of his years.’

‘Philip Banks is among the most highly-regarded cross-border personal injury specialists working in the UK. James Riley is fast developing a reputation as one of the brightest young travel personal injury lawyers in the country; he has a real enthusiasm for the work.’

‘There are no weak links in this team. Philip Banks is an exceptional partner and knows everything there is to know in this area, Jatinder Paul is outstanding, as are Simon O’Loughlin and Jayne Murphy.’

‘The travel team at Irwin Mitchell is a market leader on a national scale.’

‘Jatinder Paul is a genuine expert and star individual in travel law with a great knowledge of group litigation. Philip Banks has huge experience in dealing with accidents abroad. The team is supported by some outstanding junior colleagues including Jayne Murphy, a robust litigator who has been working in the field for years.’

‘Philip Banks has super legal skills and he has the experience to deal with the most complex matters; James Riley is a rising star who takes a very practical approach, always aimed at finding a solution for his clients; Cheryl Palmer-Hughes is also a magnificent performer.’

‘This team is undoubtedly top tier – the London Team are brilliant at what they do, have a superb reputation in the market and excellent strength-in-depth and resources.’

‘Star practitioners are Demetrius Danas for his encyclopaedic knowledge of the field, Philip Banks for his phenomenal attention-to-detail and sound judgement, Jatinder Paul for his total dedication to achieving the best he can for his clients, and Leane Shanks for her meticulous approach to her cases and superb client skills.’

Work highlights


  • Represented the families of 22 British citizens who were killed during the Tunisian terror attack in 2015, as well as over 60 injured victims in legal action against TUI UK Ltd.
  • Represented 16 clients, being families that lost their loved ones, against The Boeing Company in the USA following the crash of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft operated by Ethiopian Airlines.
  • Acting for a Dutch foundation representing over 100k claimants against Trafigura Beheer B.V and Trafigura Limited for PI and consequential losses sustained as a result of their dumping of toxic waste in 2006.

JMW Solicitors LLP

The ‘very capable team of highly experienced litigators’ at JMW Solicitors LLP, based in Manchester, is experienced handling a broad-range of litigation matters for claimants, including package travel-related, direct right of action, and cross-border workplace accident claims, which are often of a sensitive and complex nature. Its caseload ranges from sexual assault claims, to less severe injuries, to fatal accidents. Team lead Joanne Brine has expertise in cross-border and international work and is noted as being ‘adored by clients for her empathy and always-sound judgement’. 

Practice head(s):

Joanne Brine


Other key lawyers:

Natasha Ross


Testimonials

‘A very capable team of highly experienced litigators with particular expertise in maritime cases.’

‘Joanne Brine is a very experienced litigator with a comprehensive knowledge of the sector, excellent client care skills and particular expertise in dealing with vulnerable clients. Natasha Ross is a highly experienced litigator, down-to-earth, an excellent communicator and well-regarded by lay clients.’

‘A dedicated claimant personal injury practice with excellent leadership and a superb market product at the intersection of leisure industry and cross-border claims work.’

‘Joanne Brine has understated, but highly effective leadership skills honed through years of experience at the highest level; she is adored by clients for her empathy and always-sound judgement. She knows what works and she achieves results.’

‘Joanne Brine is a very talented lawyer with deep knowledge of the travel law business.’

‘The team has many experienced practitioners who are well-versed in all jurisdiction with links with foreign lawyers and medics, which ensures that their cases run smoothly.’

‘Joanne Brine is exceptional in her approach to cases and in her knowledge of the industry.’

‘The practice is very professional and accessible.’

Work highlights


  • Representing the parents of a child who tragically drowned in a hotel pool during a family holiday to Greece in their allegations of failure to provide lifeguards to the area.
  • Acting for a Dutch national injured during a beach horse hack in Wales who is claiming against a dog owner and stables; he now has incomplete paraplegia as a consequence of a buck, which occurred because of a loose dog on the beach which chased the horse.
  • Represented the claimant who contracted Salmonella food poisoning on a package holiday to the Dominican Republic which led to the rare development of a knee issue requiring a replacement, which left him severely disabled; a £750k settlement was reached.

Kennedys

The ‘first-class defendant focused team’ at Kennedys is led by Claire Mulligan, well regarded for her ‘great leadership’. It has significant experience advising namely well-known tour operators and their insurers in high-value and complex travel-related disputes and crises of the utmost sensitivity. Standout team member Justin Collins is particularly adept at handling high-profile matters for such key clients as TUI UK Limited. The team’s workload is formed in the main of defending on matters which are fatal or catastrophic in nature, often with multiple claimants; Gareth Thomas‘ area of expertise is in handling such work. Senior associate Kiran Birdi, noted for his ‘extensive experience’ in the sector, has a particular specialism handling claims resulting from activity excursions and holidays, sickness outbreaks, sexual assaults and fatal accidents, whilst senior associate Zoe Hurley ably advises high-profile clients in severe and catastrophic injury, as well as crisis investigation cases.

Practice head(s):

Claire Mulligan


Other key lawyers:

Justin Collins; Gareth Thomas; Zoe Hurley; Kiran Birdi; Milena Iyer; Louise Law


Testimonials

‘A first-class defendant-focused team serving many leading tour operators and their insurers. Great lawyers at all levels offer a huge depth of specialist knowledge and experience.’

‘The team are highly supportive and understanding of our needs and objectives as a client. They are industry leaders in the tourism sector and have valuable resources to draw upon as and when needed.’

‘Claire Mulligan is a valuable asset and we value the support that she and the team provide.’

Key clients

TUI UK Limited


ABTA


Touchstone Underwriting


Balkan Holidays Limited


Mark Warner Holidays


Royal Caribbean


Saga Holidays/AXA Corporate Solutions


ABTOI


Kuoni


Travelopia


Virgin Holidays


Chubb/Hilton International Hotels


Virgin Limited Edition


easyJet Holidays


Disney US


Disney France


HB Education


Outward Bound Group


Select School Travel


AVIVA Insurance


Work highlights


  • Advising a hotel following the death of two Thomas Cook customers in August 2018, a husband and wife who died in mysterious circumstances.
  • Advising BEIS and the Government as to how a compensation scheme for Thomas Cook customers who have suffered significant injury whilst on holiday and lost the right to bring a claim against their insurers, should be compensated.
  • Advising TUI UK Limited in relation to the inquest into the deaths of 30 British nationals as a result of the Tunisian beach massacre in June 2015 – the largest UK terrorist atrocity overseas.

Keystone Law

Keystone Law‘s team is adept at advising on commercial and regulatory matters, including high-value cases relating to the aviation and charter sectors of transport. In aviation, which is James Healy-Pratt‘s area of specialism, the team advises on corporate and employment-related issues, as well as consumer litigation. Its charter-related work ranges from assisting in issues with cargo vehicles, to advising on claims against charter employers. Trevor Sears - a highly experienced consultant solicitor and specialist in dispute resolution, travel, aviation and insolvency - is a further key name to note.

Other key lawyers:

James Healy-Pratt; Owen Hanna; Trevor Sears


Leigh Day

The Manchester-based personal injury offering at Leigh Day, formed of ‘tenacious lawyers’, is highly regarded for its abilities handling complex travel litigation matters on behalf of claimants. The team is adept in advising noteworthy clients on high-profile travel claims, which are consistently cross-border in nature and of catastrophic or serious nature. Senior associates Colin Murphy  and Joseph Dawson are noted as being an ‘outstanding practitioners’, whilst team lead and experienced personal injury specialist Clare Campbell is regarded as ‘a sensitive and supportive presence for clients’ in sensitive matters.

Practice head(s):

Clare Campbell


Other key lawyers:

Joseph Dawson; Colin Murphy; Caitlin Dunn; Jill Paterson


Testimonials

‘Clare Campbell leads an impressive team of experienced travel lawyers. She is at the cutting-edge of litigation, acting on high-profile matters.’

‘Clare Campbell is an innovative lawyer with a real compassion for clients.’

‘The team is committed, enthusiastic and utterly dedicated to their clients. The team brings a campaigning edge and a particular zeal to their cross-border personal injury claims.’

‘Clare Campbell is one of the most experienced solicitors in the sector – a brilliant leader and excellent judge of what will work in court. Jill Paterson brings sound judgement and inspires confidence in those she acts for. Joseph Dawson is sound, savvy and has an excellent court-sense. Colin Murphy is clever, confident and undoubtedly a real star in the making.’

‘Clare Campbell has a wealth of experience in this area and is a sensitive and supportive presence for clients. Joseph Dawson and Colin Murphy are both outstanding practitioners. All are tenacious lawyers and advocates for clients.’

‘This firm continues to break ground in pursuing difficult, complex cases, such as group actions or those involving foreign-based workers. They have great diversity and always adopt a collaborative approach to working with foreign lawyers.’

‘Colin Murphy is an excellent, intelligent, commercially minded lawyer. Clare Campbell is a highly experienced partner with unrivalled knowledge across a broad range of issues.’

‘The team goes above and beyond to get solutions, always keep you informed on where the case is and are responsive to queries.’

Work highlights


  • Acting for the Stade De France Group claimants, being over 1k football fans injured through kettling, crushing, assaults and indiscriminate tear gassing during the course of the UEFA Champions League Final 2022 at the Stade de France in Paris.
  • Acted successfully for a claimant individual who fell from a jetty whilst on holiday with his partner, suffering a fracture dislocation and spinal cord injury, requiring surgical reconstruction.
  • Successfully acted for an individual claimant in a trial against a Spanish Hotel’s insurer following a serious ankle and knee fracture which occurred during the individual’s stay, which required surgical fixation.

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

The personal injury practice at Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP is headed up by Mark Lee, who is noted for his ‘vast experience’ across the travel space. The team’s workload consists in significant part of acting for claimants in international transport-related incidents which lead to serious or catastrophic injury; road traffic accident-related cases are a particular area of specialism across the team. It also frequently acts against hotels. ‘Fantastic’ associate Joanna Wylie is experienced handling both claimant and defendant-side foreign accident claims. Consultant John Strange is also noteworthy for his marine-related work.

Practice head(s):

Mark Lee


Other key lawyers:

Joanne Wylie; John Strange; Warren Collins


Testimonials

‘Penningtons have a solid team with decades of travel law experience and a strong reputation.’

‘Mark Lee has vast experience in dealing with travel law matters and Joanne Wylie is fantastic too.’

Work highlights


  • Acted on behalf of a motorcyclist who suffered life-changing injuries in Germany, securing a 100% liability judgment at a 5 day liability trial in the English High Court.
  • Recovered damages for a professional motorcycle racer who suffered catastrophic injuries to his spinal cord, brain and lower-limb injuries while participating in the Isle of Man TT races.

Slater and Gordon

Senior associate Stephen Goodman leads the travel Manchester-based PI offering at Slater and Gordon with support from Madeline Seibert. The team’s workload is formed of claimant representation in matters involving accidents abroad which often lead to life-changing injuries; the circumstances range from road traffic accidents to issues with overseas cosmetic surgeries. Team changes include the departure of former team lead Kelly Williams in 2022 as well as the departure of senior associate Stephanie Osborne to Express Solicitors Ltd in August 2022.

Practice head(s):

Madeleine Seibert; Stephen Goodman


Other key lawyers:

Onyinye Ebizie; Andrew Tarling; Hannah Crosby


Testimonials

‘A large and long-established team, well-known for its bulk and group litigation work.’

‘Stephen Goodman has long-standing experience in the sector and has developed a number of the frameworks for group litigation in the area. He achieves strong results across the board.’

‘A diverse team of practitioners which continues to break ground in a highly competitive field. They work hard for their clients and get good results.’

‘Onyinye Ebizie is an excellent lawyer and a rising star in this area of the law who is highly committed to, and understands the full details of, every case.’

Work highlights


  • Representing a young boy who was only six years old at the time of an accident abroad resulting in life-changing injuries and a six-figure settlement.
  • Representing a claimant who was seriously injured during an accident whilst on holiday in Italy in a seven-figure settlement.
  • Representing a claimant who sustained life-changing injuries during a Road Traffic Accident in Norway, in a six-figure settlement.

Stewarts Law LLP

The ‘bright and incredible team’ at Stewarts Law LLP is well-equipped to advise on the remit of catastrophic and fatal injury matters in international contexts for claimants and their families. Christopher Deacon, noted for his ‘incredible depth of knowledge and experience’ in PI, and has a particular focus handling a broad-range of matters, from high-profile RTA work to leisure activity-related accidents. Team lead and ‘legend’ Julian Chamberlayne is an aviation expert, as is Sarah Stewart. Aviation is an area of specialism across the team; a notable example of its work in this sector is its representation of bereaved families following the fatal 2019 Boeing 737 plane crash. Peter Neenan and the ‘exceptional’ Rebecca Smith who acted together on this matter, are both key names in London. ‘Go-to litigator’ Scott Rigby is an APIL-accredited brain injury, spinal cord injury and accidents abroad specialist, adept at handling high-value matters across these areas.

Practice head(s):

Julian Chamberlayne


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Deacon; Scott Rigby; Sarah Stewart; Peter Neenan; Rebecca Smith; Rebecca Huxford; James Griffin


 


 


Testimonials

‘Rebecca Smith is exceptional and goes above and beyond to bring the claim to a successful outcome. She has a wealth of knowledge and expertise, is professional, understanding, kind, and has a knack of making you feel at ease in any situation. She is truly someone you would want on your team and I will never forget her.’

‘Stewarts delivers a service above and beyond expectations. Christopher Deacon checks in on me regularly and provide updates and plenty of notice to make some of the most complicated jobs stress-free.’

‘Christopher Deacon is a brilliant lawyer with a meticulous and measured approach to his work. He has an incredible depth of knowledge and experience in personal injury and leaves no stone unturned – from our first meeting he has been incredibly helpful, supportive and made me feel comfortable with all aspects of the case.’

‘I honestly couldn’t ask for more and feel incredibly grateful to be working with such a bright and incredible team.’

‘Stewarts’ travel team are leaders in their field.’

‘Christopher Deacon is an outstanding lawyer who combines an encyclopaedic knowledge of cross-border law with a calm pragmatism as a litigator. Scott Rigby is highly experienced and the go-to litigator for specialist Channel Islands litigation. Rebecca Huxford is able to handle the most challenging cross-border litigation with ease. Julian Chamberlayne is a legend, responsible for developing this outstanding team.’

‘The créme de la créme of the travel and international law personal injury market.’

‘Scott Rigby has the ability to unpick complex jurisdictional issues while providing calm, unwavering support to clients. Christopher Deacon is is meticulous in his approach and has an eye for detail.’

Work highlights


  • Representing the families of ground victims killed in the Shoreham Airshow disaster, which resulted in an unlawful killing verdict in December 2022.
  • Acting for a high-profile F2 driver who sustained life-changing injuries in a crash at the Belgian Grand Prix on 31 August 2019.
  • Acted for a dual US-UK national and product designer in his claim for damages following the catastrophic injuries he sustained in January 2019 while riding in the bucket of a Caterpillar telehandler.

Thompsons Solicitors LLP

The personal injury travel practice at Thompsons Solicitors LLP, which is based in Manchester, has Martyn Gwyther at its head, who is noted for his ‘encyclopaedic knowledge of travel law’. The team has expertise handling serious injury and multi-track cross-border claims, which are senior associate Neil Richards‘ exclusive areas of focus. The team advises claimants on a broad range of issues which have resulted from an array of circumstances, including RTAs, workplace incidents ranging from accidents to modern slavery-related issues, and unsatisfactory medical procedures.

Practice head(s):

Martyn Gwyther


Other key lawyers:

Neil Richards; Michael Dale; Nick Taylor


Testimonials

‘Neil Richards shows very good understanding in complex cases and is always approachable.’

‘Martyn Gwyther has an encyclopaedic knowledge of travel law and is commercially astute. Michael Dale is a very well-regarded associate and a thorough and conscientious litigator with an unmatched record of success at trial.’

‘Thompsons’ cross-border injury department is highly skilled in handling workplace accident claims with a cross-border dimension. They are excellent in cases involving aircraft crew, maritime and offshore industry workers in particular.’

‘Thompsons’ travel law team are used to dealing with all types of cross-border claims, which helps them solve matters in the best way for their clients.’

‘Thompsons are very impressive. They prioritise their clients’ interests in a way few firms can match and provide unrivalled client care throughout the claims. A real class act.’

‘Martin Gwyther is top-notch. He has extensive experience handling foreign claims in various jurisdictions. He marries an understated approach with a willingness to fight. Top- drawer.’

‘Martyn Gwyther has an excellent reputation in this field and is very diligent.’

Work highlights


  • Advised a German national who suffered severely traumatic brain injury as a result of a road traffic accident that occurred in Leicester and achieved a multi-million pound settlement.
  • Advised a British national who suffered moderately severe traumatic brain injury as a result of a road traffic accident that took place in England, which involved a Romanian motorist and insurer.
  • Represented a flight attendant in her claim against her employers after she was injured by a heavy oxygen cannister that fell out of an overhead locker; she received £250k.

Travlaw

Leeds-based ‘unique boutique firm’ Travlaw is highly regarded for its capabilities supporting travel agents, tour operators and travel industry workers in both regulatory and litigation contexts; key team member Nick Parkinson who was promoted to partnership in April 2023 – has significant experience in litigation. Krystene Bousfield and ‘doyen of the travel world’ Stephen Mason, co-lead the travel PI offering, which represents well-known clients such as On the Beach in high-stakes claims involving catastrophic injuries abroad. The ‘particularly excellent’ Bousfield is also at the helm of the commercial and regulatory travel team, alongside employment specialist practitioner Ami Naru, with former co-lead Matt Gatenby  having transferred internally in June 2022 from the travel team to the commercial team.

Practice head(s):

Krystene Bousfield; Stephen Mason; Ami Naru


Other key lawyers:

Nick Parkinson


Testimonials

‘TravLaw are a unique boutique firm supporting travel agents and tour operators and all those working in the travel industry, offering advice spanning regulatory advice to litigated cases. They provide a full-service to their clients and display a deep understanding of the industry.’

‘Stephen Mason is the doyen of the travel law world; Krystene Bousfield is a highly intelligent and experienced operator; and Nick Parkinson and Matt Gatenby are both outstanding individuals with enormous knowledge, experience and acumen.’

‘The team is expert in the field of travel law. They have an approachable, user-friendly style which is not formal, stuffy or pretentious and they deliver advice in a concise and pragmatic way. They are also responsive and turn around work very quickly. Overall, they make our life easier and take the pain out of litigation.’

Key clients

On The Beach Limited


We Love Holidays


Expedia


Southall Travel


G Adventures


Lotus


Dnata / Gold Medal


Travel Counsellors


LoveHolidays


Tokio Marine HCC


Red Sea Holidays


Hurtigruten


Noble Caledonia


AIG of Canada


Clarity


Quintessentially Travel


Pollen


Reader Offers


Solmar Villas


Midcounties Cooperative


Britannia


OTS Global


Great Rail Journeys Ltd


Awaze (t/a Cottages.com, Hoseasons & James Villas)


Cyplon Travel t/a the Travel Philpsophy


Brooklyn Travel Group


The Portman Travel Group


Work highlights


  • Acting for On the Beach Limited defending a multi-million pound PI claim arising from a catastrophic, near-drowning incident in Spain; a matter which involves significant cross-border litigation.
  • Acted for a package holiday provider in defence of a potential legal claim brought against them following catastrophic injuries including brain injury, facial fractures, fractured vertebrae and fractured wrists endured by a traveller abroad in Cyprus from falling over a wall outside his villa.

Trowers & Hamlins LLP

Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s Exeter-based personal injury travel team, noted as ‘helpful and honest’, is adept at handling cross-jurisdictional matters of significant value for claimants who have been injured abroad, which is Ian Brown‘s area of focus; its caseload varies from falls leading to minor injuries, to RTAs leading to complex head injuries. Additionally, it also ably advises defendants in litigation; Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp, who, per clients, ‘knows everything about the insurance industry’, leads the practice.

Practice head(s):

Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp


Other key lawyers:

Ian Brown; Tom Sampford


Testimonials

‘This firm has ample experience handling claims, some of which are very emotionally heavy, which oftentimes raise difficult legal questions. They have a good deal of experience and knowledge and obtain some exceptional results.’

‘Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp knows everything about the insurance industry and is a well-known personality in the industry.’

‘Ian Brown is a meticulous and tenacious litigator; and Tom Sampford is highly effective. The associates in the team also offer great support.’

‘The team focuses on its relationships with its clients. The work they do ranges from full representation and case management to more straightforward advice that we can pass on to our customers or use in determining the best course of action.’

‘In our experience they are prepared to go the extra mile for us, which is something we don’t often see.’

‘The team has excellent knowledge and understanding of our sector, as well as the challenges facing MGAs and claims handlers. We appreciate the presentation of choices, which are accompanied by pros, cons and financial implications.’

‘The team are very efficient, quick to respond, ever so helpful and honest. It feels as a client that they take pride in their provision of a good service.’

‘Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp and Ian Brown are both very prompt in their responses, knowledgeable in their field and always have the time to speak to us. They are also clear in their advice, which we really appreciate.’

Key clients

ARC Legal Assistance Ltd


Collinson Group


Millstream Underwriting Limited


Allianz Insurance


CEGA


Avid Insurance Services Limited


Claims Settlement Agencies


Whitehorse Insurance Services


Great Lakes Insurance SE


Mapfre


Work highlights


  • Achieved an approximate £500k settlement for a cyclist injured in a serious road collision in France.
  • Defending an approximate £2m damages claim brought by the estate of a deceased arising out of a ski collision in France.
  • Pursuing a cross-border clinical negligence claim for a minor who suffered significant injuries during his birth at a hospital in Australia.

Weightmans

Weightmans‘ personal injury practice has strong expertise acting for the defence of non-UK insurers in the main, in cross-border matters, namely involving motor incidents which have occurred abroad. Additionally, it is experienced in handling claims involving plastic surgeries which have been undertaken in foreign countries. Team lead Nicholas Richards is noted as willing to ‘go the extra mile’ for clients. In September the firm secured a major boost with the acquisition of Pierre Thomas Law, taking on an eight-strong team in London.

Practice head(s):

Nicholas Richards


Other key lawyers:

Simon Ball; Maud Lepez; Belinda Normandale; Virginie Medard


Testimonials

‘Weightmans provides an excellent service for high-value work, which is key for success in the cross-border market.’

‘Nicholas Richards’ expertise in this area is considerable, he is also very responsive and tries to go the extra mile on matters.’

‘Pierre Thomas has a fantastic team with expertise in European jurisdictions, particularly French law.’

‘Maud Lepez is smart, hardworking and achieves the best results for her clients.’

‘Pierre Thomas sorted everything for me in my case following my injury abroad. They helped me every step of the way. I was so relieved and it all took a lot of pressure of my family and I, we were pleased we had found a team with great experience.’

‘Maud Lepez is wonderful and informative. She is very reassuring in legal situations that can be intimidating; a true professional.’

‘Maud Lepez is fantastic. She knows her field very well, which is impressive, particularly in matters which span both UK and French law. She uses her wealth of knowledge to leverage cases to a pleasing and satisfactory resolution.’

‘Simon Ball is the best of the best – a true asset in assisting foreign insurers in defending any claim. Belinda Normandale is an excellent negotiator and Maud Lepez has extensive experience.’

Key clients

AIG Europe Assurances


Ageas Insurance


Coris


Dekra Claims Services


InterEurope AG


MIB


Van Ameyde


TUiR Warta


Zurich Insurance


Wizz Air


Lancashire Syndicate


Global Aerospace Underwriting


LRA


ION


CV Starr / Starr Underwriting


AXAXL


Allianz


Work highlights


  • Representing a Polish plastic surgeon and his clinic in Poland in a claim arising for the death of a patient who had attended his clinic for breast reduction surgery.
  • Representing an insurance company in a claims sought to challenge the jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales to hear the claim.