Firms To Watch: Product liability: defendant

Duane Morris LLP has an excellent record of advising automotive clients with practice head Alex Geisler defending manufacturers and suppliers in litigation.

Product liability: defendant in London

Baker McKenzie

The compliance and risk management specialists at Baker McKenzie advises a broad spectrum of high-profile multinational manufacturers, distributors and retailers on all aspects of management of product risk. The firm supports clients through the entire product life cycle from raw material origins to end-of-life responsibilities. Practice head Kate Corby represents clients in litigation and arbitration with a focus on construction and engineering disputes. John Leadley handles regulatory issues around products while Joanne Redmond provides product safety and regulatory compliance advice. Rachel MacLeod advises companies on compliance with operational, environmental and health & safety obligations.

Practice head(s):

Kate Corby


Other key lawyers:

John Leadley; Joanne Redmond; Rachel MacLeod


Testimonials

‘Led by the doyen of the defendant product liability side (John Leadley), B&M has a long-standing and high quality product practice. In contrast to some firms, its practice is broad (ranging from medical devices to technology to engineering-related matters) and B&M brings to bear strong intellectual qualities with practical and highly experienced commercial and litigation nous. Crucially, B&M has strength in depth and John Leadley has made sure that his department has excellent partners in support (e.g. Kate Corby) as well as juniors (Jo Redmond).’

Key clients

Emerson Electric


Work highlights


  • Acted for a number of companies in the Emerson Group in relation to product-related issues.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP handles a range of matters  including major product liability disputes, class actions, large scale product recalls, client competitor claims and prosecution of advertising litigation. The firm also advises on regulatory compliance laws, risk management and regulatory insurance challenges. Howard Watson specialises in personal injury-related matters with civil and criminal liabilities arising from dangerous or defective products. He co-heads the team with Philip Pfeffer, who works on product liability regulatory issues. Partner David Bennett has extensive experience of major product liability class actions and product recall cases.

Practice head(s):

Howard Watson; Philip Pfeffer


Other key lawyers:

David Bennett


Testimonials

‘An excellent team. Significant depth of experience and knowledge of the law. Very flexible in how they get the work done and proactive in making suggestions.’

‘Leaving aside their technical knowledge, which is excellent, it is rare to find lawyers that our business colleagues trust and are happy to work with, but this is the case with Howard and David. In addition, HSE law is not something I am familiar with; Howard and David are able to explain new and complicated concepts to me in a way I understand.’

‘Very experienced and professional team, with a good understanding of clients’ needs.’

Key clients

Diageo


BAT


Associated British Foods


Volvo Trucks


General Mills


Eat Just


Zitsticka


Work highlights


  • Acted for Diageo in relation to the global coordination of legal and commercial issues arising from its distribution of thalidomide in the late 1950s/early 1960s.

Hogan Lovells International LLP

Hogan Lovells International LLP advises manufacturers and retailers across all sectors on the full range of product safety, sustainability and liability issues. The practice has experience of issues such as breast implants, nanotechnology, lithium ion batteries and power tools. Valerie Kenyon provides regulatory assistance and product compliance support in addition to working on a number of diesel emissions group actions. She co-heads the team with Matthew Felwick who handles cross-border and multi-party disputes across the life sciences, automotive and tobacco industries. Elise Martin works on medical device issues, while Lookman Rawat is well-versed in the tobacco industries.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Felwick; Valerie Kenyon


Other key lawyers:

Elise Martin; Lookman Rawat; Lydia Savill; Adeela Khan; Elise Martin


Testimonials

‘The team acts in the highest profile and most high value disputes in the product liability field. As a result, they have unparalleled experience and expertise. Clients can be assured that they are dealing with the very best in the business.’

‘Matthew Felwick is an exceptionally talented team leader. Lydia Savill is a real upcoming star of a partner – she is across all of the issues in the case and upcoming strategical decisions. She is always one step ahead of the game.’

‘I have worked with Valerie Kenyon and Hannah Piper on a major case for an international client. They are focused and hard-working and try very hard to get the client where it needs to be.’

‘HL is a highly experienced firm in the area, distinguished in this field by its team of in-house scientists.’

‘Matthew Felwick is a dynamic partner. Adeela Khan and Elise Martin, in particular, are highly talented senior associates.

‘Hogan Lovells is unmatched in what it is able to deliver in this sector. Its facilities are exceptional as is the strength in depth of its personnel. It has, in particular, a significant female presence amongst all levels of seniority. They are a joy to collaborate with as a barrister. I am able to repose a great deal of trust in them, both as to their analysis of large swathes of documents and substantive issues as well as their general case management at every stage of large scale product liability litigation. They have an enormous wealth of experience in this area to draw upon.’

‘Matthew Felwick (Parter): Incredible commercial awareness combined with a sharp mind that is deep into the details. He is always prepared and never taken by surprise. An excellent strategist in large scale litigation.

‘Incredibly concrete, smart and business oriented lawyers.’

Key clients

BAT


Ford


Google


Nike


NO&T


Novartis


Viatris


Vodafone


Zimmer Biomet


Work highlights


  • Advising Nike on product safety and regulatory issues relating to its full range of sporting goods and innovative sports tech products globally.
  • Advising Vodafone on product safety and regulatory issues relating to the full range of their products.
  • Advising Zimmer Biomet on its European product liability litigation in relation to NexGen knee replacements.

Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard provides a one-stop shop solution to product liability issues and works on all the aspects of a lifecycle from the regulatory and advisory space to handling global recall products. The firm is also well-versed in group litigation matters with experience in the English courts in defending clients from claims. Cécile Burgess leads the team and has a strong track record of handling product liability group actions in both single and multiple defendant claims. Mark Chesher is an expert in e-disclosure, while David Young advises on regulatory and compliance challenges for food and beverage clients.

Practice head(s):

Cécile Burgess


Other key lawyers:

Mark Chesher; David Young; Alex Hogarth;


Testimonials

‘In particular they are a full service firm, clients come to them in knowledge they are a one stop shop who can advise and litigate for all their needs. They do product safety / product liability work across their civil and criminal litigators; they cover the regulatory side too and investigations.’

‘Stand out for me are recent partners Cecile Burgess and Mark Chesher, really getting stuck in at partner level as the next generation. They are both dynamic and possess an exceptional level of expertise, professionalism, and dedication to their clients. They take a genuine interest in understanding clients’ concerns, needs and objectives. They are already leading and bringing on a new generation of associates underneath them in the same vein.’

‘Addleshaw Goddard is able to offer the full package to any client in this area. They deliver excellent client care, making their clients feel at ease and properly informed at every step of the way. When hard truths need to be delivered (which was frequently the case in the matter that I worked on with them), they did not shy away from this and managed to convey messages in a firm but constructive manner. They have everything needed at their firm to host and entertain clients, including excellent catering facilities. They also have, in particular, a strong female presence across all levels of seniority.’

‘Alex Hogarth. Excellent commercial mind and a fantastic strategist. He’s a fierce negotiator and is always prepared for the fight.’

Key clients

70 BMW/MINI dealerships


GlaxoSmithKline


Britvic plc


Diageo


KEMET Electronics Corporation


FTSE 100 multinational company manufacturing and selling cigarettes, tobacco and other nicotine products


German medical and pharmaceutical device company


Weyerhaeuser Company


tRIIO


A supplier of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles


Work highlights


  • Advising BMW/MINI dealerships in the defence of potential claims being brought on behalf of over 44,000 potential customers.
  • Acting for KEMET Electronics Corporation as defendant in a multi-million pound claim that has been issued in the Technology and Construction Court (London) by multiple entities in the ZF Group.
  • Acting for GSK in their defence of over 100 claims brought under a Group Litigation Order.

Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co specialises in complex supply chain disputes across a range of industries including agriculture, automotive, aviation, medical device and pharmaceuticals. Neil Beresford heads the practice and is particularly well-versed in product liability and recall, professional liability and environmental claims. Peter Barnes handles matters in a number of jurisdictions including Japan, Africa, Europe and Australia. Emma Ager acts for market insurers and reinsurers with experience of product liability arbitrations.

Practice head(s):

Neil Beresford


Other key lawyers:

Peter Barnes; Emma Ager


Testimonials

‘This team is led extremely well by Peter Barnes and Charlotte Kelly. They are outstanding in this field and we use them for all Product Liability matters including our most complex and large claims.’

 

Key clients

Stryker/Depuy International (Finsbury Orthopaedics)


Cooley (UK) LLP

Cooley (UK) LLP assists clients across the full product lifecycle encompassing product liability litigation, B2B disputes, product safety and regulatory compliance issues. The practice also advises on investigations, product recalls and compliance issues with expertise in the life sciences and technology sectors. Rod Freeman leads the team with experience in disputes work and policy interventions. Sascha Grimm is well-versed in crisis management issues, litigation and regulatory investigations.

Practice head(s):

Rod Freeman


Other key lawyers:

Sascha Grimm


Key clients

Estee Lauder


Google/Fitbit


Meta


Nintendo


Nike


Polaris


Stanley Black & Decker


Uber


Whirlpool


Zoom


Work highlights


  • Acting as the sole legal representatives for Whirlpool in the Grenfell Public Inquiry which was instituted by the UK Government following the Grenfell Tower Fire.
  • Represented IQVIA, the world’s largest provider of biopharmaceutical development services, in its dispute with Cardiorentis, a Swiss pharma company that engaged our client to conduct an enormous global clinical trial (excess of twenty-three countries) to test its primary product – a heart failure treatment.
  • Acted as international products counsel for a global cosmetics manufacturer, providing strategic product liability focused advice on a large portfolio of brands and products, across the entire product lifecycle.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Praised by clients for its 'great team' and its 'knowledge and focus on solutions', Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP handles a host of high-value product liability claims for various corporates, both domestically and internationally. The team is headed up by Richard Matthews, whose expertise in product failures and other sensitive incidents spans the manufacturing, chemical, technology, and automotive sectors. Other key figures include Peter Shervington, 'an outstanding individual' noted for his capabilities in engineering and tech-focused matters, and Aimee Taroni, whose experience includes a host of corporate and commercial claims.

Practice head(s):

Richard Matthews


Other key lawyers:

Peter Shervington; Aimee Taroni


Testimonials

The team is very good in proposing business oriented solutions that meet our and our customers’ needs and requirements. They are able to always bring experts on very specific topics and are very responsive even when we are in crisis mode.’

‘Peter Shervington was a wonderful support in our product liability matter. He helped us find innovative solution and protect our interests in the best way. He always brought new ideas that helped us keep our customers satisfied. He and Aimee Taroni were excellent support for our company.’

‘Great team to work with. Excellent communication, knowledge and focus on solutions.’

‘Peter Shervington is an outstanding individual. He worked with us through a complex situation. His knowledge, clarity, promptness and willingness to support was essential.’

‘Responsiveness and availability across multiple jurisdictions in relation to a safety-critical product compliance matter.’

Work highlights


Kennedys

Kennedys acts in respect of large mass claims in consumer law and product regulatory matters. The firm represents defendant manufacturers in group actions internationally with a particular specialism in the medical devices and healthcare products industry. The practice is headed by Samantha Silver who advises on recalls, inquiries and product liability claims with a focus on pharma. Trevor Davies‘ experience includes mass tort claims while Sarah-Jane Dobson works on the full product life cycle. Karishma Paroha is a dual-qualified lawyer with a focus on claims emanating from the pharmaceutical industry. Ben Aram is a recommended product liability practitioner.

Practice head(s):

Samantha Silver


Other key lawyers:

Trevor Davies; Sarah Jane-Dobson; Karishma Paroha; Ben Aram


Testimonials

‘Kennedys have a fantastic product liability team. It is full of very talented lawyers, with real depth of knowledge of this area. Kennedys are adept at running high profile product liability litigation, be it GLOs or group claims, or important individual claims that move this area of law forward.’

‘Samantha Silver is intelligent, insightful and a brilliant lawyer. She has very good instincts, and is brilliant at leading a team through complex litigation. Adam Blanchard is very clever, well-liked and trusted by clients for his commercial approach. Paula Margolis is a very effective solicitor, with great understanding of the product liability regime. She is a delight to work with.’

‘A deep commitment to sustainability and practical advice in helping clients navigate the various (sometimes unclear!)regimes related to products.’

Key clients

Beko Plc


Chubb


Johnson & Johnson


Stryker


DePuy International Limited


Finsbury Orthopaedics Limited


Work highlights


  • Defending two medical device manufacturers, Finsbury Orthopaedics Limited and Stryker UK Limited, in a product liability case before the UK Supreme Court.
  • Representing Stellantis, a leading global car manufacturer, in respect of two of its entities (Fiat-Chrysler and Peugeot Citroën), its finance entities and various dealerships in connection with tens of thousands of ‘dieselgate’ emissions claims brought against several well-known brands in the UK.
  • Acting for Johnson & Johnson in connection with claims relating to pelvic mesh implants brought in England & Wales and managing related litigation across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

RPC

RPC is known for its work for insurers and insured with experience of handling life sciences claims, de-fending manufacturers and suppliers of medical devices. The practice has experience of products in a range of sectors including automobile, construction, packaging, telecoms, food and drink. Gavin Reese deals with product claims with an international element and co-heads the team with Dorothy Flower , who focuses on the defence of medical devices and pharmaceutical products. Lucy Dyson specialises in complex casualty insurance coverage and litigation.

Practice head(s):

Gavin Reese; Dorothy Flower


Other key lawyers:

Lucy Dyson


Testimonials

‘Highly regarded team with strength and depth, engaged in some of the most complex and specialised cases in the sector.’

Key clients

AXA XL


Bard Pharmaceuticals Ltd


British Standards Institution Group


Heidelberg Engineering Ltd


Make Yourself Amazing (MYA)


Medisoft Ltd


Shook, Hardy & Bacon International LLP

The product liability team at Shook, Hardy & Bacon International LLP represents clients across a spectrum of industries including pharma, medical devices, automotive, technology, telecommunications, construction and engineering. The practice has a focus on defense with experience in mass tort and complex litigation. Practice head Simon Castley focuses on mass claims and managing compliance with regulations. Sarah Croft focuses on product liability claims involving medical devices and automotive products.

Practice head(s):

Simon Castley


Other key lawyers:

Sarah Croft


Testimonials

‘Very good communicative team.’

‘Go above and beyond, excellent communication. Clear and concise advice’

‘Expert product liability practitioners, master strategists and trusted advisors to some of the world’s biggest companies.’

‘Sarah Croft – incisive, market leading knowledge of the latest developments affecting her clients, globally connected and knowledgeable Simon Castley – very personable, well connected, great strategist and client’s right hand man’

‘The questions we had related to a niche market. SHB had a team of attorneys well-versed in this area of law, as well as had connections with others in various countries on the same topic. This allowed us to full resolve our issue in the different jurisdictions.’

‘Simon Castley is outstanding for product work and its overlap with health and safety.

‘Shook, Hardy and Bacon LLP has an in-depth knowledge of product liability issues including international ones. They have developed a great expertise on how the various regulators (UK, EU, US and Canadian to name a few) interact with each others and what they will be looking at. They notably rely on a pool of scientists which help them understand the latest developments and technology aspects of the matters.’

Shoosmiths LLP

Shoosmiths LLP is well-versed in several areas of product regulation including licensing, safety, data and insurance. Typical workstreams for the practice include major disasters, public inquiries, investigation and regulatory enforcement. Phil Ryan is particularly known for his tobacco and e-cigarette expertise while Richard Marshall does product liability work for insured and self-insured entities. Charles Arrand acts for both individuals and well-known national businesses.

Practice head(s):

Roy Tozer; Susie Wakefield


Other key lawyers:

Phil Ryan; Richard Marshall; Charles Arrand; Paul Eccles; Matthew Brown


Testimonials

‘A compact team that packs a big punch. Tough litigators. Commercially astute. Hugely knowledgeable and resourceful.’

‘Richard Marshall – a go to for complex disputes in this area. Very capable litigator. Gets a grip on a case from day one and viewed by many as a formidable opponent. Matthew Brown – very experienced with sound judgment and a close eye for detail. A safe pair of hands in complex disputes. Paul Eccles – a very experienced and capable litigator. Cuts through the issues and gets to the heart of a case very quickly. Commercially astute and a a very safe pair of hands.’

‘Richard Marshall and Matthew Brown are both excellent lawyers. Richard is a charmer with clients, but tough as old boots when it comes to fighting a case. Matthew is all over the detail and leaves no stone unturned.’

‘In my experience the team is entirely focused on delivering proper results for clients – no wasting time on unnecessary points attractive to lawyers, but a clear prioritisation of what matters to the client. They are commercial and ensure that the client is front and centre of decision making.’

‘For me the stand out aspect is that individuals in the team are genuinely collaborative on a case and work together for the client. This means that everybody is able to bring to the table their skills, talent and ideas on a case irrespective of whether they are the Partner or the new associate. This is hugely valuable and it is very refreshing to not have to manage individual egos within a firm. My stand out partner in this line of work would be Paul Eccles, an exceptional case manager and problem solver. My stand out Senior Associate would be Matthew Brown, a truly gifted young lawyer and one to watch.’

‘Very measured, practical advice from someone who feels like part of the business.’

‘Charles Arrand. Very clear advice and stands by the advice.’

Key clients

AmTrust Europe Limited


Hoover Limited (part of Haier Group)


Premier Guarantee / AmTrust Europe Ltd


Chubb Insurance


HDI Gerling


Husqvarna Limited


Work highlights


  • Acting as Hoover Limited (part of Haier plc)’s sole UK legal adviser on product liability claims, including multiple defence instructions relating to domestic appliance fires involving complex forensic evidence.
  • Advising a major structural warranty insurer on a range of high-value cladding fire-safety claims, including acting in the defence of a High Court claim for £17 million pounds relating to allegedly defective cladding and fire stopping on two tower blocks
  • Advising a leading global restaurant business on its product safety, recall, food hygiene, labelling, supply chain management and investigation, health and safety, public safety, licensing and general risk management across a range of issues.

Bird & Bird LLP

Bird & Bird LLP works with clients through the life-cycle of products from its initial concept and design phase through to its supply, use and disposal. The firm supports designers, manufacturers, importers, distributors and suppliers. Jonathan Speed focuses on disputes in the automotive and tech sectors. He co-heads the team with Russell Williamson who is experienced in cross-border insurance coverage disputes across both litigation and arbitration.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Speed; Russell Williamson


Other key lawyers:

Sally Shorthose


Testimonials

‘Led by the highly effective Jonathan Speed, B&B has a commercial, highly practical and knowledgeable product liability expertise. A particular advantage is the strength and depth of the team (Russell Williamson is an associate to watch).’

‘fast understanding of the specifics of our industry, very clear legal advice.’

‘Russell Williamson (associate) and Sally Shorthose (partner): apart from being very responsive, highly professional it is also very easy to connect with them on a personal level.’

Work highlights


  • Advising producers, manufacturers and distributors on product safety obligations when a product safety hazard arises in the market, including how to conduct a safety risk assessment pursuant to UK and EU laws.
  • Advising and acting for producers and manufacturers in relation to product recalls and market surveillance.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper offers advisory services in the product liability space in addition to corporate investigation and defence expertise. Part of the practice includes advising on the implications of new EU-wide product safety and market surveillance regimes. Practice head Teresa Hitchcock provides advice on legislative requirements on both the EU and UK while Nick Rock is well-versed in distribution and supply matters.

Practice head(s):

Teresa Hitchcock


Other key lawyers:

Nick Rock


DWF

DWF has experience in handling product liability claims across a range of industries from construction, industrials and life sciences to aviation and agriculture. The firm has handled high-profile opioid claims in addition to medical device cases. John Groome advises on policy coverage issues for both primary and excess layer insurer. He co-heads the team with Antony Woodhouse who is known for his expertise in reinsurance and complex coverage work. Hilary Ross advises on compliance in relation to systems and safety.

Practice head(s):

John Groome; Anthony Woodhouse


Other key lawyers:

Hilary Ross


Key clients

RSA Insurance Group


QBE


Aviva


Chubb


HDI Global


Zurich


Swiss Re


MS Amlin


Direct Line Group


Travelers Insurance Company


Work highlights


  • Acting for insurers on the sixth and seventh excess layers in coverage claims arising from Purdue’s (and the Sacklers) manufacture and sale of the opioid OxyContin across the USA.

Keystone Law

The insurance team at Keystone Law has particular expertise in handling product liability matters arising from international trade. The firm is also well-versed in dealing with property damage claims arising from fire and escape of water. Antony Colman focuses on acting for insurers and manufacturers. Jason Kallis specialises in issues surrounding product recalls, repair actions and property damage, while Elaine Chan is an expert in commercial litigation.

Other key lawyers:

Jason Kallis; Elaine Chan; Antony Colman


Testimonials

‘The person that I work with at Keystone is Elaine Chan who has deep and long experience in relation to product liability litigation – a notoriously complex area of law which can have a significant international dimension. Elaine deploys all the skills at her disposal – including ADR to resolve disputes quickly and at reasonable cost. Elaine brings to her practice niche understanding of the Chinese markets and challenges in dispute resolution with a Chinese ingredient.’

‘Elaine is very switched onto her clients and bottoms all problems tenaciously and quickly.’

‘Antony Colman, a highly experienced and knowledgeable product liability specialist with a long established reputation in the field. Personable and friendly.’

Key clients

Electrium Sales Limited


Mayer Brown International LLP

Mayer Brown International LLP handles all aspects of product liability from initial crisis management counsel to advising on risk and defending claims for both manufacturers and insurers. The team frequently works on issues in the context of construction claims including designs involving pipework, valves, pumps or cladding. Practice head Miles Robinson is known for his expert counsel on large-scale group actions, while Mark Stefanini leads on cases relating to food and automotive products.

Practice head(s):

Miles Robinson


Other key lawyers:

Mark Stefanini


Testimonials

‘The team have a wealth of knowledge and experience in this field. What I appreciate the most is that they are extremely quick to respond to an incident and bring recommendations and solutions. The calm approach and clear guidance allows us to solve our issues quickly and easily.’

‘Miles Robinson, an expert in his field, very quick and responsive and brings a wealth of experience.’

‘Industry experience and expertise plus responsive approach have always featured when we have used Mayer Brown. Billing estimates and progress updates regularly updated and the outcome is always in mind so there is no feeling of getting lost in process.’

‘Miles Robinson. Have worked with Miles for nearly 10 years due to understanding of our business and his interest in it. Always up to date and focused on giving advice that is right.’

Pinsent Masons LLP

The product liability team at Pinsent Masons LLP is involved in a number of major litigations such as acting in pelvic mesh and metal on metal hip replacement cases. The practice advises on product compliance, regulatory requirements and product recall. Jacqueline Harris represents clients across a range of products such as medical devices and pharma. Zoe Betts is particularly experienced in health and safety-related advice and litigation.

Practice head(s):

Jacqueline Harris


Other key lawyers:

Zoe Betts


Testimonials

‘Experience and excellence at all levels.’

‘Jacqueline Harris manages her team superbly well to get the best from everyone. Poppy Mulligan is a rising star.’

‘They have extensive experience of acting in cases involving a wide range of products over many years.’

Key clients

Smith & Nephew


SIG Plc


Chubb


Taylor Wessing LLP

The product liability and safety experts at Taylor Wessing LLP advise companies on product recalls, corrective action, product compliance, regulatory investigations and supply chain disputes. The firm operates in a range of sectors including tech, manufacturing, life sciences and automotives. Practice head Katie Chandler is experienced in handling coronial inquest proceedings and regulatory investigations. Tasmina Goraya works on regulatory and compliance issues relating to pharma and medical devices.

Practice head(s):

Katie Chandler


Other key lawyers:

Tasmina Goraya; Edward Spencer


Testimonials

‘Led by Katie Chandler, the product liability team at Taylor Wessing has very quickly established itself at the top table. What sets Taylor Wessing apart is their experience in dealing with the full range of issues arising from medical devices and pharmaceuticals: regulatory investigations, inquests, product liability claims and civil follow-on claims in negligence.’

‘Partner Katie Chandler is exceptional, always on top of the detail and ensuring that clients are advised on merits, strategy, and what is in store in the future.’

Edward Spencer, Senior Counsel, is an obvious star of the future, managing complicated product liability problems across their full life cycle in multiple jurisdictions.’

‘We regularly work with Taylor Wessing on a global scale. In this matter, we have worked with their London office for a project in the UK and certain questions in relation to product liability.’

‘Katie Chandler was the partner in charge – she is superb when it comes to product liability issues! Katie has an outstanding legal understanding, fully understands the client’s needs and is very much committed finding the best solution for her client. We love working with her!’

Key clients

Abbott Laboratories


LivaNova Deutschland GmbH


Estrella Damm


Getac


Zeppelin GmbH


Anika Therapeutics


Bakker Magnetics


DC Thomson & Company Limited


Ruggable


Cochlear


Work highlights


  • Acting for LivaNova in relation to the defence of product liability claims arising out of their manufacture and supply of medical device products involving multiple claimants and the global co-ordination of defences across multiple jurisdictions.
  • Advising Anika Therapeutics Inc on a worldwide product recall of certain medical devices used for surgical interventions on tendons, peripheral nerves and joints to prevent the formation of post-surgical adhesions.
  • Acting for a large German manufacturer of machinery in a dispute with a UK manufacturer and supplier of consumer goods relating to product safety standards and regulatory matters.

Burges Salmon LLP

Burges Salmon LLP is instructed on product liability matters from a range of industries including manufacturing, commerce, food and drink. The firm is particularly well-versed in issues relating to medical products, tobacco products and toys. The team is headed by Andrew Burnette who is best known for his claimant professional negligence work while Brian Wong is knowledgeable in the general product safety framework.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Burnette


Other key lawyers:

Brian Wong


Testimonials

‘Smooth processes, felt they work client first, quick responses, high quality of work.’

‘Always a good balance between professional and good in terms of relationship level.’

Key clients

Baxter Storey


Agropecuaria Montelibano SA


Rad Power Netherlands BV


Apetito


Ooni


Work highlights


  • Acted on behalf of Agropecuaria Montelibano SA, a large scale Honduran melon producer and exporter, on Food Standard Agency proceedings following an outbreak of salmonella in the UK and EU.
  • Assisted Boxine / tonies UK Limited in relation to the product safety risks arising from a shipment of products that had gone missing whilst in transit in the UK, and were being sold unlawfully on Amazon and eBay.
  • Advised a prominent German research institution on a potential contract with a sponsor for investigational medicinal products to be used in clinical trials in the UK.

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

The commercial dispute resolution team at Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP guides multinational product manufacturers, distributors and retailers on their obligations and litigation risks. John Doherty  is a leading practitioner in EU product safety matters and co-heads the team with litigation expert Clare Arthurs. Lisa Page provides regulatory advice on medical devices.

Practice head(s):

Clare Arthurs; John Doherty


Other key lawyers:

Lisa Page


Testimonials

‘The real strengths of this team are that they know their areas inside and out and go the extra mile to make sure clients are happy.’

‘John Doherty is a lovely chap, and very good with clients.’

‘John Dogherty – head of the practice with extensive experience and practical approach

Richard Marshall – excellent litigator with experience in court litigation and arbitration. Furthermore, he successfully represented one of our clients in a mediation process.’

‘Penningtons’ team has outstanding knowledge about the product liability practice in the UK. Moreover, Penningtons’ strength lies in its network with EU law firms which makes it possible to keep pace with rapid developments and respond promptly to requirements posed by governmental authorities in EU countries concerning product liability matters.’

‘John Doherty’s work is impressive. His first priority lies in the client’s satisfaction, not to mention his expertise in this field. He is always quite responsive and considerate of the client’s needs and expectations.’

Key clients

Breathe Happy Limited


Eco Insulation Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising Breathe Happy Limited concerning the production and marketing of their novel reusable face masks.
  • Advising Eco Insulation Ltd, a manufacturer of a novel product for the insulation of home loft hatches.
  • Advising a client on the voluntary global recall of wireless in-ear headphones after reports emerged of the charging case overheating, creating a risk of ignition / fire / bodily injury.

Simmons & Simmons

The product liability practice, headed by James Pollock, at Simmons & Simmons advises insurers and reinsurers on a range of issues including product compliance, product recall and mass claims. David Kidman is particularly strong in the life sciences field and matters such as PIP breast implant group litigation.

Practice head(s):

James Pollock


Other key lawyers:

David Kidman


Testimonials

‘They have very competent lawyers who are responsive and work hard to achieve good outcomes for their clients.’

‘David Kidman (Partner) has provided well considered, pragmatic advice on a particular matter and has made the effort to be available to advise at times that suit US based members of our team.

I have also worked with Emma Spence (Associate) who has provided helpful and pragmatic advice on another matter. Her written input was concise and to the point which helped manage the matter appropriately.’

Key clients

Great American Insurance Group


MS Amlin


Axis Specialty Europe SE


3M United Kingdom plc


QVC UK


Pret A Manger (Europe) Limited


Liberty Mutual Insurance Europe


Zurich Global Corporate


RiverStone Managing Agency Limited


Welbeck Healthcare Limited