Birketts LLP has extensive cross-industry experience in serious health and safety, defence including disasters and multiple fatalities. The practice, which is made up of barristers, solicitors, and health and safety consultants, has a nationwide caseload and acts for clients in sectors as diverse as agriculture, manufacturing, leisure, construction and education. Barrister Matthew Gowen in Ipswich leads the practice. Legal director Julie Gowland in Norwich and Ipswich-based senior associate Daniel Irving are also key members of the regulatory and corporate defence practice.

Gotelee Solicitors in Ipswich handles the defence of health and safety matters as part of a broad-ranging criminal practice led by experienced partner Hugh Rowland. His work encompasses all aspects of criminal law, which sees him advise clients involved in cases of multiple fatalities and also in minor claims. Howard Catherall moved to Leathes Prior.

Howes Percival LLP‘s Cambridge office has ‘a niche health and safety practice providing all round excellent client care and advice‘. Led from Leicester but acting for clients across the firm’s office network, the group assists clients in numerous sectors, among them construction, manufacturing, healthcare and education, and it is especially well known for its work on behalf of companies in the minerals and extractives sector. The firm frequently advises health and safety professionals, and also provides in-house services to facilitate compliance and defence work. Robert Starr is the key partner in Cambridge. He is ‘a household name in the health and safety world and always goes that extra mile bringing a commercial, practical and real-world approach to his work‘.