Hodge Jones & Allen

Nina Ali

Nina, formerly a qualified cardiology nurse, is now a senior partner with extensive experience of a variety of medical negligence cases ranging from maximum severity/high value claims including brain and spinal injury to claims of more moderate value but with equally and sometimes more complex medical and legal issues. She has a particular interest in psychiatric cases and is committed to working towards ensuring the same level of accountability that prevails in general medicine to this currently very poorly represented area. She has considerable experience of fatal cases, including advocacy at inquests.Nina is also one of the team at HJA representing a large cohort of bereaved families at the ongoing Lampard Inquiry.

Patrick Allen

Patrick qualified as a solicitor in 1977 shortly after co-founding Hodge Jones & Allen in Camden Town with Henry Hodge and Peter Jones. He managed the firm for 48 years, becoming Senior Partner following Henry’s retirement in 1998. Patrick retired as Senior Partner and from all active roles at Hodge Jones & Allen on 30 September 2025. He remains a Partner in an advisory capacity.Patrick specialised in complex personal injury and multi-party cases. He led the Gulf War illness claims for UK veterans and the New Cross Fire inquest. He managed the MMR and Sheep Dip multi-party actions and played a lead role in the King’s Cross Fire and Marchioness Litigation on behalf of claimants. He assisted a number of women sent to Magdalene Laundries to claim compensation. He acted for Leigh Day in the initial stages of the claims brought against them by the SRA. He was a member of the HJA team working on Hillsborough and Grenfell claims, the enquiry into the death of a construction worker in Qatar and the leading case of Al Najar v Cumberland Hotel.Patrick received the 2017 Solicitors Journal Lifetime Achievement Award. In April 2026 he received the Lifetime Contribution Award at the Lexis Nexis Legal Awards for his services to the legal profession and access to justice over nearly 50 years.

Bahareh Amani

Bahareh joined the Property Dispute and Dispute Resolution team on 1st June 2023 from the Housing and Property Dispute team which she was a part of since November 2018. She has specialised in litigation and property disputes since qualifying in 2010 and joined Hodge Jones & Allen in December 2018 as a Senior Associate, and was promoted to Partner in May 2022. Bahareh has experience in the area of civil litigation since 2005. Bahareh is a tenacious litigator and is recognised for her strengths in negotiating settlements to benefit her clients. Bahareh has also led and supervised leading cases in the Court of Appeal as well as challenging by way of a High Court Appeal . She has conducted a variety of cases, including property related litigation, contested possession claims, disputes arising for misrepresentation on sales and purchases and Party Wall Act claims. She has also acted for Freeholders and Leaseholders on disputes arising out of service charges, ground rent and mismanagement of leasehold interests. She has acted for clients on a group action, securing positive outcomes for her clients without the need for contested trial. Bahareh has acted on both residential and commercial property disputes, including possession proceedings arising for breaches of lease and covenants, forfeiture claims as well as Lease renewals and claims arising from business leases contracted in or out of the 1954 Landlord and Tenant Act. Since joining the Dispute Resolution team she has acted for both Claimants in relation to claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependant) Act 1975, as well as executors, seeking challenged to wills based upon capacity and undue influence and claims for beneficial interests in property. Bahareh’s approach to property disputes and litigation has been to consider alternative means and to avoid court process and litigation, and where possible to address matters with the opponent in a conciliatory approach, without the need for litigation however, where this is not possible, Bahareh is a confident and strong litigator in areas of property disputes and enjoys presenting her client’s cases raising points of law, and finding arguments to further her client’s case.

Ruhul Ameen

Ruhul is a partner in the dispute resolution team, specialising in commercial and chancery litigation and has over 20 years’ experience representing clients. He primarily deals with disputes relating to property, possession claims, Party Wall Act claims, landlord and tenant (both commercial and residential), commercial and business law, construction, insolvency, professional negligence and contested wills and probate (including Inheritance Act claims). He also has extensive experience dealing with injunctions, judicial reviews, as well as alternative means of dispute resolution, such as negotiation or mediation. Reported cases Zas Ventures Ltd v. Lillian Forkener [2016] EWCA Civ 1062 Hussain v. Salam [2012] EWHC 1760 (Ch) Chaudhary v. Yavuz [2011] EWCA Civ 1314 Redbridge LBC v Mustafa [2010] EWHC 1105 Shaw v. Finnimore & Watts [2009] EWHC 367 (Ch) Crane v Upakweship Ltd FJ 142/08 (High Court, QBD) West v. London Borough of Newham [2007] EWCA Civ 304 Redworth Construction Ltd v. Brookdale Healthcare Ltd [2006] EWHC 1994 (TCC) R (Salman) v. LB of Barking & Dagenham [2005] EWHC 731 (admin) R (M-P) v. LB Barking & Dagenham and Barking Abbey Comprehensive School [2002] EWHC 2483 (admin)

Sasha Barton

Sasha specialises in public and private law challenges against state bodies, with a particular interest in serious privacy breaches by state and other bodies, challenging the police for failures to investigate crimes and to protect vulnerable victims of sexual violence, challenging the police and CPS over serious disclosure failures and cases involving other human rights violations.

Raj Bhattoa

Raj joined Hodge Jones & Allen as a Partner in October 2024. Her previous role involved heading two offices where she managed over 10 members of staff, supervising over 300 cases. Prior to this, she played a pivotal role in launching a boutique family law practice in the City of London, which continues to run a successful practice. Raj has been a Partner for over seven years and has nearly two decades of experience in Family Law. Raj has a wealth of experience in all areas of family law including HNW finance work, which frequently has an international aspect, including Schedule 1, Part III Matrimonial and Family Proceedings Act, nuptial and cohabitation agreements, complex issues involving trusts and capacity. She has represented a Premier League winning footballer, former captain of the Indian national cricket team, member of the Indian royal family, wealthy entrepreneurs and the owners of companies listed in the FTSE 500. Raj works on all types of Children work including those with an international element. She has represented respondents in child abduction and in public children matters where parents do not want to instruct a legal aid lawyer and can afford a lawyer of their choice. In her early years she worked for seven years undertaking legal aid work during a time when all types of children matters were legally aided. In those years, she worked on complex public law matters involving serious allegations of sexual abuse, neglect and substance abuse, as well as applicants in international child abduction. She’s known for her ability to think creatively, act decisively, and offer an empathetic, supportive experience to every client from their very first meeting. Her cases often involve challenging dynamics, but Raj is calm under pressure, strategic in approach, and deeply committed to achieving the best possible outcomes. Raj is recognised in the Citywealth Leaders commending the best leaders in private client industries, and she has specialist Resolution accreditation in high-net worth finance matters and complex children matters.

Steven Bird

Steven Bird is a Consultant Solicitor in Criminal Defence, Financial Crime and Regulatory team at Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors.He specialises in serious fraud, regulatory and criminal cases, but especially:-• serious fraud, including insider dealing, bribery and corruption• murder and other serious offences of violence;• gross negligence manslaughter• large drug cases• confiscation and restraint proceedings• various regulatory matters (including trading standards investigations, health and safety investigations, disciplinary proceedings by various professional bodies or investigations involving financial regulation)• rape and other serious sexual offences.Steven has been rated as a Star Individual in the Chambers and Partners directory since 2011 and has been described as having “excellent technical experience and ability, allowing him to identify issues at an early stage”. In various directory entries he has been described as “a true class act”, “a lawyer’s lawyer” and “a superb solicitor whose judgement can be trusted implicitly” and it is said that “he has incredible procedural knowledge, and he prepares and supports fabulously.” He remains in that position in the Chambers and Partners rankings and as a Leading Individual in the Legal 500 for 2027.Steven has been included in Who’s Who since 2014.In 2016, Steven was admitted to the List of Counsel at the International Criminal Court.He is well known for taking on cases where there has been a potential miscarriage of justice and has a busy appellate practice both in the Court of Appeal and by way of applications to the Criminal Cases Review Commission. He represents previous victims of miscarriages of justice in claiming compensation from the Home Office. PublicationsSteven writes two chapters in Blackstones Criminal Practice on costs and public funding and has recently contributed two chapters to Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery Law and Practice (Southwell, Brewer and Douglas-Jones).Previously he has written and contributed to the Police Station Adviser’s Index (Spiro and Bird), the Criminal Cases Review Commission: Hope for the Innocent? (McNaughton) and The Confiscation Law Handbook (Eissa).Work HighlightsIn previous years Steven has defended in numerous high profile fraud cases such as the corruption cases involving London Mining, Guralp Systems and Alstom, large FCA insider dealing cases, Operation Elveden (involving illegal payments from journalists to police officers for information), land banking frauds, various boiler room frauds, the LIBOR and Foreign Exchange investigations and corruption involving the EBRD. He also recently successfully defended a Labour MP in internal disciplinary proceedings.He is currently engaged on numerous fraud related cases as well as numerous appeals against conviction, CCRC applications and first instance trials on sexual and violent crimes. He is instructed on the first prosecution under the universal jurisdiction of the International Criminal Courts Act 2001 for war crimes, namely murder as a crime against humanity and torture arising from events in Syria in 2011/12 when civilians were killed in demonstrations against the then ruling regime. His client having bene found unfit to plead, he is now court appointed for the trial of fact to take place in 2027.

Claire Brigham

Claire is a partner in the Civil Liberties & Human Rights team. She represents those subjected to ill-treatment by the police, prisons and other state bodies. She has particular experience in representing bereaved families in inquests and associated civil claims arising from deaths in police custody and in prison. She also acts for clients in claims arising from unlawful treatment by the police and failures to investigate serious sexual offences. She has worked on a number of novel and high-profile human rights cases and the large-scale group litigation arising from the Grenfell Tower fire.

Oliver Carter

Oliver is a Senior Associate in the Civil Liberties & Human Rights team at Hodge Jones & Allen. Oliver joined Hodge Jones & Allen in June 2026 after working at another law firm for over 15 years.Oliver specialises in inquests, civil actions against the police and other public authorities, and judicial review cases. Oliver has particular expertise in representing bereaved families in inquests following deaths in police custody or in prison, including where the death results from use of force by police or prison officers.Oliver has acted in claims against the police for assault, false imprisonment, misfeasance in public office, discrimination and breaches of the Human Rights Act, and in judicial review challenges against government departments, coroners, the Independent Office for Police Conduct and local authorities.From May 2015 to May 2019, Oliver was co-chair of Young Legal Aid Lawyers, a national group of junior lawyers which campaigns for access to justice and seeks to promote social mobility and diversity in the legal profession. In July 2019, Oliver received a Special Award at the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards for making an exceptional contribution to legal aid and access to justice.

Sean Caulfield

Sean is a partner in the crime department at Hodge Jones & Allen. He has 23 years’ experience in defending clients facing criminal prosecutions and is well respected among his colleagues and peers. The spectrum of cases he regularly deals with include homicide, importation & supply of drugs and large scale organised prostitution. At the other end of the scale he has developed a name for himself dealing with all manner of road traffic offences. These range from fatal accidents to clients facing the prospect of losing their driving license due to more minor matters such as speeding.

Raj Chada

Raj Chada is the Head of the Crime Team at Hodge Jones & Allen. He is one of the country’s leading criminal lawyers with expertise in serious and complex crime, public order and financial crime.He has acted in a large number of cases with large amounts of media interest, including representing Apsana Begum MP, Claudia Webb MP, Greta Thunberg and a number of other high profile cases. He represented one of the Colston 4 who had toppled the statue of slave trader Edward Colston during the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. The trial attracted worldwide media attention. He has acted in numerous cases that challenge how defendants are treated in the criminal courts with appeals in the High Court, Court of Appeal, Supreme Court and the European Court of Human Rights. He has a particular expertise in protest cases, having been involved in nearly all the major protest cases of the last decade from Colson to Stansted 15 (labelled at the time, by the New Statesman magazine as “the most important political trial of our times”) to Just Stop Oil, Extinction Rebellion and Palestine Action.He has also developed a niche of representing those arrested or charged under terrorism legislation in the UKRaj was the winner of the Criminal Lawyer of the Year Award in 2012, (LALY), awarded by the Legal Aid Practitioners Group. As a Higher Rights Advocate, shortlisted on 3 occasions as “Advocate of the Year” by the Law Society Excellence Awards, being commended in 2017. He was also shortlisted as “Criminal Lawyer of the Year” by the Society of Asian Lawyers in 2017 and 2018.He regularly appears in the national media and writes a regular column for the Legal Action Group Magazine (LAG).PublicationsCo-author of Bribery: A Compliance Handbook; Regular column in Legal Action Group (quarterly) and contributor to national media.

Sarah Charnley

Sarah is a Partner in the Court of Protection team, acting as a Professional Deputy and Professional Trustee for clients who have suffered serious injury or clinical negligence and who have lifelong care needs following multi-million pound settlements.Her clients include individuals with catastrophic brain injuries, birth injuries and learning difficulties. Sarah advises on a wide range of Court of Protection matters, including statutory wills, lifetime gifts, powers of attorney and Personal Injury Trust work.She also provides expert reports and witness statements in relation to deputy and trustee costs in litigation for other law firms.Sarah is known for working efficiently and compassionately with clients whose circumstances may involve complex and sensitive personal, family and care arrangements. She provides a bespoke service for each client and aims to communicate in the way that best supports their individual needs.Clients value Sarah’s friendly, down-to-earth manner, approachability and trusted judgment when advising on and making best interests decisions.

Farzana Chowdhury

Farzana has been a Partner since 2010 and brings over 25 years of experience to the firm’s Housing department. She specialises in protecting the rights of tenants, with a practice spanning disrepair, possession and homelessness. She is a dedicated advocate for vulnerable clients, ensuring that those with mental health issues receive the specialised legal support and attention their cases require.Farzana’s expertise extends to large-scale group litigation, where she represents communities facing catastrophic housing failures, within the last year she was instructed as lead in the McGregor Road group claim after the front gable end of three terraced houses converted into flats fell to the ground overnight leaving tenants displaced. Other significant recent work includes a ground-breaking trial victory where she secured a 100% rent rebate for a client living in unfit conditions—a first for the industry.Beyond her litigation success, Farzana serves as a strategic lead of the Housing Department, overseeing the recruitment and professional development of the next generation of legal talent. She has pioneered the firm’s “new client experience” initiative, implementing innovative policies and bespoke procedures that have significantly enhance the client experience. Her operational excellence ensures the team remains at the forefront of the housing sector.

Reema Chugh

Reema Chugh is a highly accomplished Property and Commercial Disputes Lawyer with over a decade of experience in litigation. Her expertise spans both national and international legal disputes, where she has consistently delivered successful outcomes for her clients. In November 2023, Reema was honoured with a nomination for the prestigious Civil Lawyer of the Year Award at the Society of Asian Lawyers, reflecting her outstanding contributions to the field. An accredited Mediator by SIMI and CMC, Reema excels in resolving disputes amicably, emphasizing the importance of avoiding court proceedings when possible. Her pragmatic approach ensures that when litigation is necessary, she pursues it with unwavering determination and skill. In addition to her legal practice, Reema imparts her knowledge as a visiting Lecturer at Nottingham Trent University, nurturing the next generation of legal professionals. Reema’s expertise includes, but is not limited to the following areas: Civil Litigation Commercial Disputes Mediation and Conflict Resolution Legal Advisory Court Proceedings Legal Education

Rebecca Coates

Rebecca is collaborative lawyer and a Resolution specialist in cohabitation and private children law matters. Rebecca has represented clients in complex financial cases (involving trusts and complicated business structures), often acting against partners in ranked firms. She is regularly referred clients from previous clients and Counsel. Connected to these applications, Rebecca has been successful in securing funding for her clients as well as in maintenance pending suit applications. Given her collaborative stance, Rebecca’s preference is to try and resolve matters outside of Court; however, if Court proceedings are required, she is known for providing clear and robust advice to clients.Rebecca has also gained considerable experience in acting for parents in cases involving serious allegations of harm, coercive control and parental alignment. Some of these cases have involved attempted child abduction. She has represented parents in 16.4 cases- two of these had 5 day Fact Finding Hearings due to the nature of the allegations and the amount of disclosure involved. Rebecca was noted for her attention to detail and her conscientious approach to her cases. She has also acted for grandparents in securing contact with their grandchildren, as well as opposing these applications.Rebecca has advised on and drafted many pre-nuptial agreements and separation agreements. She is recognised for advising cohabitants on their rights- both in terms of property and child support- following a relationship breakdown. Lastly, Rebecca works with local charities supporting victims of domestic abuse; she has gained vast experience in applications for an order under the Family Law Act 1996 as well as defending them.

Francesca Cociani

Francesca Cociani is a Senior Associate in the Criminal Defence team at Hodge Jones & Allen. Francesca has a substantial practice in general crime, extradition and protest law. She works on a wide range of complex and sensitive cases, from serious sexual offences to drug supply, fraud, terrorism and murder. Francesca is dedicated to representing vulnerable clients and has successfully secured acquittals for victims of modern slavery and individuals with learning difficulties or severe mental health issues. She has become particularly involved in advocating for pregnant women in prison, including by submitting contributions to the Sentencing Council’s recent consultation on the sentencing of pregnant women and acting pro bono in Court of Appeal cases. Francesca has successfully challenged applications for extradition, to both Category 1 and Category 2 territories. She has built close relationships with many international experts who are regularly instructed to fight extradition requests, particularly from the United States. Francesca is a Higher Courts Advocate and regularly represents clients at the Crown Court. Last year she appeared on behalf of two defendants in a climate protest-related nine hander trial charged with criminal damage of £500,000 where they were all acquitted. rancesca has a busy protest law practice and has been involved in several high profile cases such as the Just Stop Oil protest at the Snooker championship in Sheffield in July 2023. She has recently represented some of the protestors first charged with the new statutory public nuisance offence and challenged their conviction at the Court of Appeal. Publications Francesca is regularly approached by different media outlets including LBC radio and BBC to comment on cases or points of law in the public eye. She has recently featured on the following: Cross Examination podcast episode discussing protest law Byline Times podcast with Adrian Goldberg on new protest legislation Lawyer in the News on the Law Gazette in July 2024 Owen Jones You tube channel discussing privacy laws and the criminal justice system during the BBC scandal in July 2023

Jocelyn Cockburn

Jocelyn Cockburn is a Partner in the Civil Liberties & Human Rights team at Hodge Jones & Allen. She has a wealth of experience representing bereaved families at inquests and in claims and other legal challenges against the state and private companies carrying out public functions. In 2019 Jocelyn successfully applied to the Attorney General, and subsequently the High Court, to order that a second inquest should be held into the death of Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah to explore the link between Ella’s death from asthma and high levels of air pollution in her area. At the inquest in 2020, and in a legal first, the Coroner ruled that her death was contributed to by excessive air pollution. Jocelyn has conducted an array of difficult and often high profile cases, for example acting for Neville Lawrence in relation to the Undercover Police Inquiry and other ongoing investigations. She is concerned about increasing deaths in police custody and in prison and have supported families through the very difficult inquest and claim processes. She has represented families of UK soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan in a challenge to the Ministry of Defence’s use of poorly armoured ‘Snatch Land Rovers’. She argued that the MoD failed to take reasonable steps under the European Convention on Human Rights to protect the lives of UK soldiers sent out in Snatch vehicles which could not withstand the roadside bombs in use by Insurgents. The case explored the extent to which soldiers deployed on active service abroad remained within the UK’s jurisdiction for the purposes of the ECHR and the scope of the MoD’s obligation to protect their lives. Jocelyn is widely recognised for her work, being awarded an honorary Doctorate of Laws by the University of Kent in 2017. In 2019 she was highly commended by The Law Society for Human Rights Lawyer of The Year, whilst she has also featured in The Lawyer’s Hot 100 list.

Dean Cruickshanks

Dean is a specialist asbestos and occupational disease solicitor with over 18 years’ experience, specialising in asbestos litigation and complex industrial disease claims. He has extensive experience managing high-value, complex and sensitive cases from initial investigation through to settlement or trial.An APIL Accredited Specialist in Asbestos and Occupational Disease, Dean has expertise in complex case management, legal research, evidence development, negotiation and dispute resolution. His work involves detailed investigation of historic asbestos exposure which involves locating witnesses, working closely with medical experts, counsel and other professionals.Dean has extensive experience representing clients exposed to asbestos at HM Dockyard in Devonport and HMP Dartmoor prison along with other local industries. He has acted in claims involving mesothelioma, asbestosis, asbestos-related lung cancer and pleural thickening, providing specialist legal advice alongside guidance on care, financial support and rehabilitation. His approach combines specialist legal expertise with a strong commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for every client.Dean is committed to providing clear, compassionate and practical legal advice, particularly to clients facing serious illness and vulnerable circumstances. He understands the importance of keeping clients fully informed and supported throughout what can be an extremely difficult period.

Daniel Denton

Daniel Denton is a Partner in the Personal Injury team and has exclusively represented Claimants for over 25 years in some top-ranked firmsHe has a wealth of experience in handling cases where the client has suffered life changing injuries and has a special interest in amputation cases, brain / head injuries and serious orthopaedic and psychiatric conditions. He also has a vast amount of experience in representing bereaved families and friends who have lost a loved one through negligence.Daniel has built an enviable reputation in the industry as being tactically astute, an outstanding negotiator as well as providing an unrivalled tailor-made client service to meet each individual’s needs. He is both extremely personable and approachable. He is fully committed to fighting his client’s case. Although Daniel’s view is often to adopt a collaborative and pragmatic approach with opponents, he can take a more robust approach when necessary.Daniel is a firm believer in arranging effective rehabilitation treatment, care packages and accommodation measures at the earliest opportunity and securing large interim payments in order to assist clients in replacing their lost income. He is renowned for working collaboratively with case managers, medical experts and professionals in order to achieve the best possible outcome for his client’s recovery.Daniel is passionate about access to justice and has partnered with numerous Universities and Law Centres to provide free legal advice on Personal Injury claims across over 50 locations in England and Wales. This culminated in Daniel being shortlisted in the prestigious LawWorks Pro bono Awards 2024 in the “Best Contribution by an Individual” category and winning the “best contribution by a small or medium firm” award at the LawWorks Pro bono Awards 2025.Daniel has also represented a significant number of Trade Union members who have either been involved in an accident at work or whilst travelling to or from work. He has prepared and delivered many presentations to Shop Stewards.Work Highlights Notable successes over the las 12 months include:Daniel acted for a client who suffered a below knee amputation of his leg as well as other serious orthopaedic and psychiatric injuries as a result of a motorcycle accident. He secured a large interim payment from the Defendant’s insurance company at an early stage despite liability for the accident being strongly contested. Daniel also urgently instructed a team of rehabilitation experts and therapists in order to optimise his client’s recovery. Settlement: £3.6 million.Daniel represented a client who suffered catastrophic injuries as a result of being struck by a skip lorry whilst he was riding his bicycle. These injuries included a below knee amputation of his leg and other very serious orthopaedic injuries. Daniel secured a substantial interim payment at an early stage in the case and arranged for an Immediate Needs Assessment to be carried out to ensure that the client’s rehabilitation requirements could be put in place expeditiously. Liability for the accident was strenuously disputed as the client had attempted to undertake the lorry as it approached a junction to turn left. Settlement: £3 million.Daniel acted for a Doctor who suffered significant orthopaedic and psychiatric injuries as a result of a road traffic accident when another vehicle user drove into the back of her stationary vehicle. He instructed a forensic accountant to prepare a report on the client’s complex loss of earnings and pension claim. The case eventually settled after intense negotiations. Settlement: £1.1 million.Daniel represented the bereaved family of SH who suffered a fatal road traffic accident when she skidded on a large amount of water in the road caused by a blocked drain resulting in a head on collision with another vehicle. He conducted the case in a compassionate and sensitive way and provided valuable support to the family throughout the life span of the case. Daniel successfully recovered a dependency award. Settlement: £850,000.

Christine Dyson

Christine is a Partner and Solicitor at Hodge Jones & Allen, where she heads the Court of Protection & Deputyship department. She is also a Director of the Hodge Jones & Allen Trust Corporation Limited. She specialises in property and financial affairs Court of Protection applications, including Statutory Wills, trustee matters, and gift applications. Christine acts as a professional Deputy for over 50 clients, many of whom have sustained catastrophic injuries and received substantial damages or interim payments. Christine works closely with clinical negligence and personal injury lawyers to provide the evidence required for successful claims. She also manages interim funds, supports clients through the financial aspects of their claims, and provides expert witness statements on deputyship costs in litigation proceedings. In addition to her Deputyship work, Christine acts as a professional trustee, helping clients understand their financial awards and guiding them in managing their money within a safe, protected framework. Her approach ensures clients are empowered to make informed financial decisions. Christine has successfully completed the intermediate tier Professional Deputies Forum qualification.

Darrell Ennis-Gayle

Darrell is a Partner in the Criminal Defence Team and Head of the Data Deletion team. He specialises in all areas of criminal defence, representing clients at all stages of the criminal justice system. He appears regularly as an advocate in the Magistrates’ Court, Youth Court and Crown Court. He runs a varied caseload including cases such as murder, serious violent offences, drug offences, terrorism and sexual offences. He also represents clients in ancillary proceedings such as confiscation and forfeiture. He has an excellent track record in dealing with data deletion matters. He regularly represents clients in applications to have their criminal records deleted and applications to be removed from professional barred lists. He has represented clients as a litigator and counsel in a number of high-profile cases. These include murder, terrorism and computer misuse. He has represented high-profile individuals and is regularly instructed by record labels to represent their acts. He has a reputation for representing music artists in relation to criminal cases and civil injunction proceedings where the police have tried to prevent artists them from performing their music. Recent Notable Cases R v KL [2020] – Represented a youth who was charged with attempted GBH. The client was a youth who was accused of attempting to attack a police officer with a machete. He was acquitted as the defence were able to establish that he was acting in self-defence. R v CK [2022] – Represented a female school teacher who was charged with murdering her partner during lockdown in the Pandemic. She accepted stabbing him to death but was acquitted of murder and found guilty of manslaughter. She received a reduced sentence as the defence were able to demonstrate with expert evidence that she was the victim of abuse at hands of her partner. R v AM [2023] – Represented a youth charged with conspiracy to supply class A drugs. The client who was 14 years-old was charged with seven other defendants in relation to a large ”county lines” drugs operation in Essex. The client was the only defendant to be acquitted in the proceedings as the defence were able to demonstrate with the use of expert evidence that he was an exploited child and the victim of modern slavery. R v SB [2024] – Represented a defendant who was charged with attempted murder and possession of firearms. The prosecution alleged that the client was involved in a gang related shooting. The defendant was acquitted of all charges as the defence were able to establish that he had been acting under duress. Durrell Goodall, Reano Williams and Nathanial Williams [ongoing] – Representing three clients in a joint application to the Criminal Cases Review Commission. The clients were three of eleven defendants convicted of murder under the doctrine of joint enterprise. Applications have been made to the CCRC to review the convictions on the basis that the prosecution adopted a false and racist gang narrative against them in the proceedings. A decision is pending. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-65756935 Data Deletion Cases TC [2023]: Represented a client who had been convicted of a serious sexual offence when he was a youth. When he turned the age of 18 years he was added to the children’s barred list which prevented him from working with children. With the support of expert medical evidence we were able to establish that the client posed no threat to children and successfully applied to have him removed from the barred list. SC [2024]: Represented a teacher who had been cautioned for a dishonesty offence when she was a youth. She needed to immigrate to China for personal and professional reasons but would have prevented from doing so because of the caution appearing on her ACRO Police Certificate. We successfully applied to have the caution expunged resulting in the client having a “no trace” ACRO Police Certificate.

Ruchi Fowle

Ruchi s a Partner in the Personal Injury team and has exclusively represented Claimants for over 25 years in the field of Personal Injury.She has experience in dealing with complex cases in all areas of personal injury including claims for pain conditions, psychiatric injuries, catastrophic injuries, adapted accommodation, amputations, CRPS, fibromyalgia, brain and spinal injuries. She also deals with claims involving fatal incidents. Her special interest is in amputation cases. She has represented clients in both the County Court and High Court. Ruchi obtains early rehabilitation for clients to enable a return to their pre-accident state as soon as possible, and early interim payments to assist with their financial needs.She collaborates with charities such as The Limbless Association, The Child Brain Injury Trust and the Road Safety Charity, Brake where she helps people who have been involved in serious accidents or been bereaved. Ruchi is highly regarded by her clients due to her exemplary levels of care and service. She has a real ability to understand her clients’ needs from the outset and works collaboratively with them to obtain a good outcome.Notable casesRuchi successfully secured settlement in excess of £4.7 million for a husband and wife involved in the same accident where they sustained injuries while on their motorbike. Both clients sustained permanent and life changing injuries. One client sustained a below the knee amputation and the other sustained leg fractures requiring her to wear an external metal frame for several months. Both clients also developed severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The settlement included sums for their injuries, single level accommodation, adapted vehicles, future ongoing care and medical expenses, aids and equipment, loss of earnings, past losses, and future prosthetics. She also obtained £1.4 million for a seriously injured young driver of a car. The settlement included compensation for adapted accommodation. Ruchi also acted for a client who sustained injuries by a hit and run motorist. She presented the claim to the Motor Insurer’s Bureau under their Untraced Driver’s Agreement and obtained settlement of £900,000 for the client who suffered from permanent leg injuries which resulted in him being unable to work. Ruchi represented a client who lost several fingers in an accident and suffered from chronic and phantom limb pain in his hand, along with injuries to his leg. He required lifelong care and assistance with his activities of daily living and could not return to employment. She obtained settlement of over £400,000.

Vanessa Friend

Vanessa is a partner and Head of the Family Law team at Hodge Jones & Allen. Vanessa qualified in 2009 and has practised exclusively family law. In 2017 she won a City Wealth Award for her work on high value and complex matters. Her practise encompasses all areas or private family law with a particular focus on the financial issues arising out of separation, relationship agreements (including cohabitation, prenuptial agreements, and separation agreements), and arrangements for children. Many of her cases have an international element with clients who live abroad or have assets located outside of the jurisdiction. She works with family lawyers in foreign jurisdictions to ensure her clients receive comprehensive advice.Vanessa is also a Resolution trained mediator who assists couples in reaching a negotiated outcome. Vanessa has a busy mediation practice for both financial and children matters and offers shuttle and hybrid mediation. She also mediates for couples entering into prenuptial agreements and other relationship agreements.

Ruth Harris

Ruth leads the Financial Crime & Regulatory Team at Hodge Jones & Alen, bringing over 20 years of experience of defending criminal cases to this role. She has defended cases investigated and prosecuted by authorities such as the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the National Crime Agency (NCA), the Insolvency Service and Trading Standards. She has successfully defended those responding to allegations such as conspiracy to defraud through boiler rooms, missing trader and long firm fraud; cheating public revenue including Covid related offences; offences relating to market manipulation and all forms of money laundering. Ruth has an enormous breadth of experience in dealing with complex, multi-handed and frequently multi-jurisdictional trials. She relishes acting in cases which have voluminous material and complicated disclosure issues. She is adept at managing such trials, dealing with teams of counsel, solicitors, experts and witnesses to bring cases to successful conclusion. Ruth is aware that for many of these cases, clients are obliged to seek public funding and is committed to accepting cases in these circumstances. She is conscious that those facing such complex matters, but reliant on legal aid, should also have access to the most experienced and able representation. The proficiency Ruth has developed in defending weighty, often high-profile trials, has allowed her to build the skills to adeptly intervene in matters at the investigation stage. Her experience of how cases develop and need to be defended help her to assist clients at commencement of an investigation, seeking to conclude or limit matters before proceedings start. Her clients are largely professionals and reputation management is at the forefront of her mind in each case. Ruth defends complex, serious crime and frequently acts in cases that have both a serious crime and financial crime element, allowing Ruth to bring all her expert knowledge and skills in this area to good effect. She confidently advises on matters flowing from criminal investigation including restraint, asset seizure and lawfulness of search warrants. Ruth is also well-equipped to deal with regulatory issues which may arise from criminal investigation. Notable Cases R v A: Acted for one of eight defendants alleged to have misled investors through the sale of carbon credits and diamonds in a multi-million pound ‘boiler room’ fraud. The trial collapsed due to disclosure issues surrounding the revelation of an unqualified expert. R v B: Acted for client facing multiple charges of fraud, money laundering, theft and neglect relating to care provided to vulnerable adults. R v B: Acted for client who was the sole director of the company at the time of a winding up order. He faced three charges all relating to the accounting, management and record keeping of that company. R v M: Acted for one of the defendants in this FCA prosecuted matter alleging fraudulent trading in a case involving carbon credits. Successfully negotiated limited basis of plea secured a lenient sentence. Acted in the extraordinarily complex confiscation proceedings that followed with positive outcome for defendant. R v B: Defendant accused in relation to text scam fraud, where stolen funds were funnelled through multiple mule bank accounts. R v R: Criminal property case including allegation of involvement in an Organised Crime Group where context to evidence of involvement rested on intercepted data from an Encrochat enabled device. R v Y: Conspiracy to commit fraud by abuse of position of trust, fraudulent trading and conspiracy to transfer criminal property relating to a sovereign wealth fund. Matter investigated by NCA. R v A: Multi-handed trial with tens of thousands of pages of evidence, alleging cyber-enabled fraud where emails were intercepted and redirected, misleading people involved in the financial transaction to divert funds into mule bank accounts. R v S: Multi-handed HMRC matter alleging VAT fraud after successfully securing a reduction in a previous confiscation order for this defendant of several millions of pounds A: Successfully argued removal of Account Freezing Order after submitting that the account was being used as an informal family trust and not for money laundering. R v T: Company Finance Director accused of fraud by abuse of position of trust.

Andrew Harrison

Andrew is a Partner in the Medical Negligence team. He has a wide range of experience including birth-related injuries to mother and child, brain damage following surgery (for example after late removal of untreated tumours) and other maximum severity cases involving disablement or life-limiting injuries. He also handles orthopaedic claims (negligent hip/knee replacement for example), cosmetic and dental surgery claims, fatal claims involving substantial dependency awards and all other types of clinical negligence claims. Andrew has handled a claim for the family of a 32 year old Portuguese mother of three who died when five months pregnant following negligent removal of an ovary instead of an infected appendix. Two junior surgeons operated on her unsupervised and there were proceedings relating to practice at the GMC as a result.

Chloe Hartnell

Chloe is a partner in the Criminal Department at Hodge Jones & Allen. She joined the firm after running her own firm for many years. She is a strong advocate conducting trials. She conducted a leading case in Modern Day Slavery and specialises in serious crime such as drug and violent offences. Her technical skills make her adept at dealing with large and complex cases.

Phoebe Hill

Phoebe is a Partner in the Family Law team at Hodge Jones & Allen. Phoebe qualified in 2014 and has practised exclusively family law since that date. Phoebe’s practice covers all aspects of private family law including determining financial matters for those divorcing, unmarried parents or cohabitees. Phoebe also specialises in pre and post-nuptial agreements and resolving arrangements for children including international and domestic relocation and those involving coercive control and parental alienation. Phoebe has been consistently recognised as a Key Lawyer by The Legal 500 and described as “Excellent” (2023) and “She works with care and concern, guiding her clients through the most difficult times and making sure their interests are properly represented” (2024) and “Phoebe Hill goes above and beyond and is very thorough in all the work that she does” (2026). Phoebe takes a client focused approach and aims to achieve the best possible outcome for all her clients, considering and tailoring her advice to each individual set of circumstances. Phoebe wishes to resolve matters through negotiation as constructively and efficiently as possible but is fully prepared to take a strong and robust approach if court proceedings are required. Phoebe has been complimented by clients for her professional yet personal approach, offering clear and practical advice to help clients achieve their goals.Phoebe volunteers at the Royal Courts of Justice Family advice clinic and is a member of Resolution and the Resolution Specialist Accredited Scheme for private child and cohabitation/Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act matters.

Graeme Hydari

Partner specialising in serious crimes and Head of the Sexual Offences Team. In particular, Graeme specialises in representing those with disability including Autism and Learning Disability; all sexual offences including Rape and internet Cybor sexual offences; and serious and complex fraud. He is one of the leading criminal defence solicitors in the country specialising in representing those with mental health and learning disabilities. Graeme was awarded the Criminal Defence Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Award 2017 for his specialist work on behalf of vulnerable Autistic defendants and suspects. Recent cases include:- Client tried for a £3million Conspiracy to Defraud involving the sophisticated defrauding of numerous internationally based Film Equipment Companies (Operation Willsbridge). Representing Compliance Officer in a firm of Solicitors, charged with Conspiracy to defraud the Legal Aid Agency out of £4 million pounds by making false claims. She was acquitted. Murder cases. Mentally ill man who murdered his mother in violent attack with a weapon and a gang member who with others was involved in the murder of a rival gang member. Graeme successfully appealed the case of Chez Copeland an autistic man charged with terrorism offences all the way to the Supreme Court, where the Court overruled the trial Judge and stated that his obsessional collecting and experimenting could be a defence to making and possessing explosives and being in possession of material that may be of use to those involved in terrorism. Graeme has represented high profile criminal offenders including the paedophile and child killer Sidney Cooke and professional clients such as an Accountant in the music business charged with fraud; theft and false accounting involving high profile bands including Suede and Primal Scream.

Louise Jukes

Louise is a highly experienced personal injury solicitor with over 25 years’ experience representing claimants who have sustained life-changing and catastrophic injuries. Her work includes cases involving traumatic brain injury, spinal injury, chronic pain, serious orthopaedic injury and fatal accidents arising from road traffic collisions, workplace incidents and public liability claims.Known for her careful preparation, strategic judgement and determined approach, Louise has a strong track record of achieving successful outcomes for clients, including in complex or challenging cases transferred from other solicitors. She works closely with clients and their families to understand the full impact of an injury and to ensure that each claim is presented clearly, thoroughly and effectively.Louise is committed to securing early rehabilitation, practical support and fair compensation for those affected by serious injury. She regularly represents vulnerable clients and works alongside specialist charities, including the Child Brain Injury Trust and Brake, the Road Safety Charity, supporting individuals and families as they navigate the legal, medical and personal consequences of serious injury or bereavement.

Jayesh Kunwardia

Jayesh Kunwardia is the Head of Housing Litigation Team at Hodge Jones & Allen. A Partner at the firm since 2008 and a member of the firm’s Senior Management Team since 2015, Jayesh is recognised as one of the country’s leading housing and property dispute solicitors and regularly appears in the media to discuss housing and property dispute matters.He leads a specialist team and litigates across a broad range of areas of housing and property law disputes ranging from disrepair claims, landlord and tenant disputes, judicial review, possession claims, reviews/appeals relating to local authority housing decisions, property disputes and planning appeals. His ability and meticulous attention to detail has been recognised by various legal directories and awards. In 2015, he was named Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Award for Social Housing Law, whilst he was also named Civil Lawyer of the Year in the 2019 Asian Legal Awards. Moreover, his team were Highly Commended in the Solicitors Journal Awards in 2017, reflecting the depth of breadth of the practice.Jayesh is well-known for representing a Camden homeowner in her case against HS2 Ltd, challenging the lawfulness and safety of the Three Tunnel design in Euston. Another of his most notable recent cases is that of Nzolameso v City of Westminster [2015] UKSC 22, where Jayesh cemented his position as a leading authority on the question of whether it is lawful for a Council to accommodate a homeless person a long way away from the authority’s own area where the homeless person was previously living.Another of Jayesh’s reported cases is Regina (Eatherly) v LB Camden [2016] EWHC 3108 (Admin). This involved a planning challenge to the excavation of a basement which was not authorised under “permitted development” rights. Jayesh has extensive experience of cases decided in the First-Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), County Court, Administrative Court, Court of Appeal and in The Supreme Court. He is a member of both the Housing Law Practitioners Association and the Property Litigation Association.Other notable cases Jayesh has advised on include, a multi-party claim involving 56 residents on a claim for repairs and damages against a housing association and Burgos & Amayo v Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government and others [2019] EWHC 2792 Admin where an application was brought under the Acquisition of Land Act 1981 to challenge the London Borough of Haringey (Ward Corner Regeneration Project) Compulsory Purchase Order. Jayesh is also well-known for dealing with multi-party disrepair claims.

Karolina Kupczyk

Karolina is an experienced litigator in managing large groups and individual matters. She represents individuals and companies in actions relating to professional negligence, contractual and debt disputes, contentious probate and harassment. Karolina joined Hodge Jones & Allen’s Dispute Resolution team in January 2023 having qualified as a solicitor with Russell Jones and Walker (now Slater and Gordon) in 2012. After qualifying Karolina specialised in representing claimants in wide range of complex actions and collective actions. Her experience includes dealing with a number of multi-client financial product misseling cases brought against numerous banks. In her career, she represented clients in employment and personal injury cases and delivering solutions using a collective approach as well as discrete cases. Karolina acted in a major negligence action against a firm of solicitors and their insurers over failure to properly advise around 150 clients involved in a property equity release transactions. She acted in one of the largest collective actions brought against Volkswagen for installing defeat devices in vehicles manufactured by them and was one of the leading lawyers in a claim against Mercedes-Benz acting for thousands of clients.

Susie Labinjoh

Susie Labinjoh is a Head of the Civil Liberties & Human Rights practice at Hodge Jones & Allen. She specialises in civil actions against the police and public authorities and related Human Rights Act claims, as well as in bringing compensation claims for victims of miscarriage of justice and public law challenges related to these areas. Susie is renowned for her dedication to using the power of the law to fight for what’s right and secure justice. She has devoted her career to fighting for those who have suffered injustice, training at Hodge Jones & Allen from 1997 and being promoted to Partner in 2005 based on her dedication to her work and her clients. As an expert in her field, Susie has a strong track-record in complex cases, including representing bereaved families at inquests and civil claims arising out of deaths in custody. She represents families in relation to prison deaths, police restraint deaths and police pursuit deaths. Susie is also well-known for her commitment to securing compensation for victims of miscarriage of justice. She has dealt with multiple high profile cases involving serious accusations such as murder, including the M25 Three and the Bridgewater Four. Susie also has extensive experience in representing protestors, often those involved in major political and social demonstrations. She has represented a number of protestors in claims arising from many recent protests, including anti-DSEI, anti-EDL, BLM, XR Autumn Uprising and XR Lambeth Bridge. Since 2005, Susie has held a position on the advisory board of the Miscarriage of Justice Support Service, a division of the Royal Courts of Justice Citizens’ Advice Bureau – a service that provides free legal advice and assistance for victims of miscarriage of justice. She is also a member of The Police Action Lawyers Group and The Miscarriage of Justice Lawyers Group.

Caroline Liggins

Caroline is renowned for her ability to build trusted, enduring relationships with young and vulnerable clients. She understands the importance of continuity of representation and works collaboratively with families, social workers, psychologists, intermediaries and other professionals to ensure that her clients are empowered to participate effectively in their defence and navigate the criminal justice system with confidence.She is regularly instructed in Crown Court proceedings involving the most serious allegations, including murder, serious violence, sexual offences, fraud, firearms offences, drugs conspiracies and organised criminal activity. Caroline's expertise, judgment and discretion have led to repeated instructions on behalf of high-profile individuals and their children.Recognised as a leading practitioner in youth justice, Caroline is at the forefront of policy and practice developments affecting children in conflict with the law. She gave evidence to the House of Commons Justice Select Committee opposing the introduction of Knife Crime Prevention Orders and is a respected contributor to national youth justice policy. She sits on the Youth Justice Specialist Panel and served as Co-Chair of the Quality of Advocacy Working Group's Expert Advisory Group for the Ministry of Justice, helping to shape standards and best practice in advocacy for children and young people.Caroline has also been involved in the development and implementation of the CHiRP pilot, contributing to innovative, child-centred approaches designed to improve participation, engagement and outcomes for children navigating the criminal justice process. She is a sought-after speaker at conferences and training events on youth justice and children's rights and is a member of an All-Party Parliamentary Group seeking to reduce the length of time children may lawfully be detained in police custody. She was also instrumental in the creation of the Youth Practitioners Association (YPA), an organisation dedicated to promoting excellence in the representation of children and young people within the criminal justice system.Clients value Caroline's practical, straightforward and empathetic approach. Her sound judgment, strategic thinking and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes have earned her a reputation as one of the leading advocates in the field of youth justice.

Isobel Lovett

Isobel, Partner and Head of the Asbestos and Workplace Illness Team, has specialised in asbestos disease cases for Claimants for 28 years, and consequently, she has vast experience in this specialist litigation. She leads an established team of expert asbestos lawyers.In addition to securing high-value settlements for mesothelioma sufferers, Isobel has enabled her clients to gain security in being able to access approved, non-NHS funded treatment, paid for by Defendants’ insurers, thereby expanding her clients’ treatment options, resulting in many cases, in extended lifespans.Isobel takes a holistic approach to client care: not only does he help her clients to obtain compensation and treatment, but she also ensures they obtain their full state benefit entitlement and has helped put care regimes in place, where needed. She works closely with medical professionals, local support groups and related charities to ensure the support needs of victims of mesothelioma and other asbestos diseases are met.She is known for being tremendously calm, reassuring, helpful and supportive of her clients and their families, whilst simultaneously being tenacious and skilled litigator and negotiator.Isobel’s commitment to supporting asbestos victims means she has been involved with many support groups over the years, her involvement culminating in her working to establish the London Asbestos Support Awareness Group, a charity covering London and the South East. She has also fundraised for research into treatment for mesothelioma over the years.Isobel’s expertise is recognised by those she works with and through independent accreditation by The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers, of which she is a Fellow and Asbestos and Occupational Disease specialist. She also assesses others seeking this accreditation.Whilst specialising in asbestos disease work, Isobel has past experience of other industrial diseases, particularly other occupational respiratory conditions and work–related cancers.Work HighlightsIsobel’s recent successes include a claim for a former art teacher, who developed mesothelioma as a result of being exposed to asbestos dust in school buildings. Evidence was found to show work done in the buildings likely disturbed asbestos materials, though the level of exposure could have been open to challenge. The Defendant Council admitted breach of duty after proceedings were issued and ultimately, the case settled for a six-figure sum with the Defendant agreeing to pay for non-NHS funded treatment if needed in the future. When that moment arrived, Isobel arranged for a private consultation and her client has continued to receive treatment ever since, funded by the Defendant.Isobel has also recently secured significant damages for a client who developed progressive visceral pleural thickening as a result of his work as a Health & Safety and Fire Officer on a Ministry of Defence site, where an explosion occurred, resulting in significant contamination with asbestos fibres. Her client was involved in the initial rescue work and in later clearance of the site. His possible exposure was documented by the MoD, who admitted breach of duty. The case was settled for a six figure sum, including significant future care costs.As the caselaw in the asbestos field has evolved, so has Isobel’s practice, which now includes English claims involving both employer’s and product liabilities, in order in suitable cases, to maximise her clients’ prospects of success.Isobel has also successfully handled asbestos product liability claims and since 2017, has advised and assisted clients in bringing claims in the US for mesothelioma caused by asbestos contaminated talc in powder and make-up. Her caseload currently includes English claims involving both employer’s and product liabilities, thereby iIsobel does not shy away from difficult cases. She achieved success early in her career in asbestos litigation in the case of Cox v Industrial Power (India) Ltd CA 2007, the first in a series of defining so-called “low exposure” cases in which Defendants have sought to test causation in mesothelioma cases by reference to exposure levels. The Claimant had worked seasonally in power stations and for the Defendant for a matter of weeks. Despite the Defendant arguing that any exposure he had would have been de minimis and therefore, not actionable, the Court held that the exposure was not minimal and found for the Claimant’s widow, the Claimant, having sadly succumbed to his illness by the time of the trial. The judgment was upheld by the Court of Appeal on appeal by the Defendant. The case is still referred to in other similar cases today.

Cormac McDonough

Cormac is a partner in the Civil Liberties & Human Rights team. He represents individuals and families in claims against the police, government departments and other public bodies, including cases involving human rights breaches, discrimination, public law challenges and serious personal injury. He regularly acts for clients who have suffered life-changing physical and psychiatric injuries as a consequence of state wrongdoing.He has particular expertise in acting for the families of those who have died in police and prison custody, at inquests and in associated civil claims. He regularly acts in complex claims against state bodies involving negligence, human rights violations and unlawful exercise of power. Notable cases have included representing bereaved families in the Fishmongers' Hall terrorist attack inquest and the inquest into the death of Edson Da Costa, who died during police restraint.Cormac undertakes public law and discrimination work. He acts for Diogo Santos Coelho in in the ongoing significant judicial review and appeal proceedings concerning the Home Secretary's exercise of powers under section 179 of the Extradition Act 2003, raising novel issues at the intersection of extradition law and human rights. He also represents musician Paul Weller in an Equality Act claim against his former accountants arising from his publicly expressed opinions on Israel and Gaza. He undertakes Public Inquiry work and is currently instructed in the Undercover Policing Inquiry on behalf of political activists whose organisation was infiltrated and a woman who was deceived into a relationship by an undercover officer. He also acts for victims of miscarriages of justice in compensation claims, including Subpostmasters who were wrongfully convicted as part of the Post Office Horizon scandal.

Kiran Mehta

Kiran is a Consultant solicitor in the Financial Crime/Regulatory and the Criminal Litigation departments. He has over 15 years of experience defending in investigations and proceedings commenced by various agencies including the FCA, HMRC and the CPS. He defends both individuals and corporates in financial crime work. His practice encompasses engagement in a wide variety of financial crime related circumstances. The current case load of cases involves a mixture of pre charge, investigations work and also defending entities in large, heavy weight trials involving large volumes of prosecution evidence. For example, Kiran recently secured a successful outcome in a large investigation by the Thames Valley Police, Economic Crime Unit representing a Partner and Head of Private Equity of a FTSE listed investment company. The investigation was led by a well-known television personality. He alleged a criminal conspiracy leading to his shares being sold at a lower value than they were worth, in the course, depriving him and other shareholders of a large sum of money. Kiran advised and represented one of the accused about how to navigate the interview with the police, attending this personally and managing the entire pre-charge strategy. This led to the police confirming they will be taking no further action against the client. Kiran is also currently instructed by a successful Timber entrepreneur in a large scale investigation by the National Crime Agency for money laundering arising from this involvement in a company selling cryptocurrency. Kiran is also currently representing an individual in a FCA investigation for selling fake investments to the public through a boiler room. Kiran is currently also instructed by various individuals being prosecuted by HMRC in a range of circumstances including VAT invoicing fraud and allegations arising from claims to the covid-19 support schemes. Most of Kiran’s matters involve marshalling large volumes of paperwork often containing complex information. Kiran is well experienced in presenting and explaining this to the client in a user-friendly way. Kiran’s practice also incorporates a niche in clients facing allegations for sexual offences. In the past few years, Kiran has been privately instructed by a variety of clients facing allegations of this nature in a variety of circumstances, securing favourable outcomes for clients: A banker facing FCA regulatory investigations for allegations of sexual harassment in the workplace The director a publicly listed company facing allegations of sexual harassment Well-known celebrities facing allegations of historic rape Representation of students facing allegations of sexual offences in an educational setting Various business persons and senior executives facing allegations of rape and other serious sexual offences.

Brenel Menezes

Brenel is a Partner in the Dispute Resolution team and is a professional and confident litigator with a wealth of experience in a wide range of civil and commercial disputes incusing those issued in the county court, high court and court of appeal. Brenel regular acts for both claimants and defendants and has experience in the following areas:Contested probate including 1975 Act claims, disputing validity of wills and Professional negligence including claims against solicitors, barristers, surveyors and other professionals. Contractual & commercial disputesFraud Data protection, privacy, defamation & harrassmentDebt recoveryGeneral civil disputesProperty disputesBrenel gives sensible, practical and commercial advice not only in litigated matters but also advises on alternative methods of resolution such as mediation. Brenel is skilled at understanding her clients’ needs and working with them to achieve a successful outcome.Key CasesBall & Anor v De Marzo (2019) EWHC 1587 (Ch)

Sarah Norman-Scott

Sarah is a highly experienced Solicitor, having qualified in 2011, and is a Partner in the Family Law team. She specialises in all aspects of family law but has a particular emphasis on finance case (whether that is acting for those married or unmarried). On financial matters, Sarah is regularly instructed to advise on complex high net worth cases often with an international element and is particularly skilled in wealth protection such as nuptial agreements (prenups or postnups). Sarah regularly receives referrals from peers that have successfully worked with her in this area. Sarah has attained Specialist Accreditation from Resolution in respect of her work on matrimonial finance cases.Sarah also has extensive experience acting for unmarried couples and helps them resolve issues relating to property and cohabitee disputes (under Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996) and financial claims on behalf of children (under Schedule 1 of the Children Act). Sarah has attained Specialist Accreditation from Resolution in respect of her work in this area.In respect of Sarah’s private law children practice, she acts for domestic and international parents including where one parent wishes to relocate with the children (‘leave to remove’) and child arrangement orders (formerly ‘residence’ and ‘contact’ orders) and specific issues such as schooling, medical and change of name.Sarah’s clients value her cost-effective and personal approach and she favours a collaborative approach to her work with the assistance of NCDR (non-court dispute resolution) which means the majority of her cases settle relatively quickly and out of the spotlight of the court and press. If that is not possible, Sarah is a skilled litigator and will strive to achieve the best result for her client.

Maria O’Connell

Maria is a Partner in the Civil Liberties & Human Rights team at Hodge Jones Allen. Previously Maria was an Equity Partner at Matthew Gold & Company (now Gold Jennings) and went on to continue her practice as a Consultant Lawyer and undertake further academic research and studies at Sussex University before joining the Hodge Jones Allen Civil Liberties & Human Rights team as a Partner in October 2023 Maria specialises in civil liberties litigation primarily focussing on claims against the police and other detaining authorities and in particular prisoner rights litigation and associated public law challenges in a criminal justice context. Maria was instrumental in pursuing a significant number of civil claims by female and transgender prisoners in the women’s prison estate arising from the successful prior judicial review concerning the unlawful strip searching of women and transgender prisoners at numerous women’s prisons run by Sodexo and the Ministry of Justice. The challenge and subsequent rigorous pursuit of litigation led to further revised policies on searching being implemented in January 2023 by HMPPS. Unfortunately, such litigation continues to be necessary with Maria and colleagues at Hodge Jones Allen acting for a number of women and transgender prisoners including in the male estate challenging the policies around non-intelligence searching by ionising x-rays. In 2021 Maria acted for a male prisoner who was subject to a serious assault and attempted strangulation by prison officers at HMP Parc and regularly acts for those experiencing violent assaults by officers and is involved in pursuing challenges to prison conditions including allegations of racial abuse and islamophobia. Maria has subsequently acted variously for clients who have not been protected from either themselves, or others including challenging inadequate safeguarding from the real and imminent risk to life associated with gang affiliations and inter-prisoner violence. Maria has experience of successfully challenging the imposition of non-standard licence conditions including recently those released from sentences relating to climate activism. She has been instrumental in challenging the unlawful recall of several activists some of which has engendered wide media scrutiny and the Home Affairs & Justice Committee’s inquiry into the Government’s intended extended use of electronic monitoring of prisoners within the forthcoming Sentencing Bill to ease overcrowding. She regularly receives referrals from solicitors, previous and existing clients to represent them. She prides herself on her excellent client care and approachable nature, bringing a human face to the law.

Sam O'Flaherty

Sam has worked in social housing law for over 11 years, specialising in possession, homelessness and disrepair. He is recognised by his peers for his particular expertise in public law challenges. Sam delivered training on strategic litigation at the Housing Law Practitioner’s Association’s 2025 annual conference, and was the only solicitor in the UK shortlisted for the ‘Legal Aid Newcomer’ category in the 2022 Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year awards. His attention to detail, passion for justice and tenacious approach has helped vulnerable clients and their families retain their homes, to secure suitable homes for those experiencing homelessness, and to make safe dangerous housing conditions. Sam’s skill and knowledge has led to positive developments in social housing law, having obtained important judgments in the High Court on homelessness judicial reviews, as well as successfully securing amendments to local authority’s social housing policy which allowed hundreds of homeless households to seek permanent social housing.Notable cases• R(Ibrahim) v Westminster CC [2021] EWHC 2616 (Admin): established that new medical evidence pertaining to historic circumstances could require a local authority to accept a fresh homelessness application.• R(Shadacia White) v LB Brent (2021) (not reported): Sam successfully challenged Brent Council’s social housing policy, which had unlawfully prevented over 1,200 homeless households from accessing social housing since 2013. As a result, Brent amended their policy to allow homeless applicants to join the housing register and bid for properties.Client Comments“Excellent housing solicitor -highly recommend. I had great experience with Sam O’ Flaherty. He helped me through a stressful housing issue with professionalism, clarity, and genuine care. From the first consultation to the final resolution. He has always been responsive, knowledgeable and patient in explaining every step of the process. His expertise made a real difference in securing a positive outcome for my case. I’m truly grateful for his support and would highly recommend him to any one that needs legal assistance especially with housing matters.”“I had the pleasure of working with Sam on my homelessness judicial review case, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the exceptional service and support provided. Sam’s professionalism, expertise, and dedication were evident throughout the entire process, and I felt truly supported at every step. Sam went above and beyond to ensure my case was handled with care and attention to detail. It’s been a comfort knowing that I had such a skilled and compassionate solicitor on my side. I highly recommend Sam’s services to anyone seeking legal assistance. Thank you so much for all your hard work, Sam!”“I can’t thank my attorney Sam O’Flaherty enough for all of his assistance and focus. He’s been a lifeline, ensuring that my mother didn’t become homeless during a difficult time. Sam’s availability at all hours of the day and night, as well as his unwavering support, have been irreplaceable to us. His dedication to providing frequent updates, paired with his outstanding skill, has made this experience far less worrying. I can confidently state that no other lawyer compared to Sam. His compassion and skill set him apart in the legal profession, and my family and I will be forever grateful for his extraordinary service. Thank you for being such an amazing representative, Sam.”“If you ever need a lawyer, ask for Sam O’Flaherty; he’s been fantastic and is the perfect individual to defend your case. I’ve had the best experience with his professional expertise, and I’ve felt trust in him since the first time I spoke with him. There are no words to express the outstanding work he has done; he always keeps me informed of updates in our case; he spared my family from being homeless; and we were protected at all costs because of Sam…Sam is someone you will need on your side because, believe me, he is exceptionally excellent. I can’t thank Sam enough for his work; I don’t believe anyone can replicate his work or him as a person given that he’s the kindest and most professional lawyer available.”Barrister Comments“Having been instructed by him I can assure you he’s brilliant, he’s persistent, he’s rigorous and he leaves no stone unturned. You would want him on your side if you were challenging a difficult homelessness decision.” – Liz Davies KC, barrister“I have been extremely impressed not only by his legal and intellectual ability but also his clear commitment to the cause not only of individual claimants and defendant tenants but the wider implication for other persons affected by unlawful acts of public bodies. Sam is truly a rising star in the world of homelessness, social housing and community care as indicated by not only the outcome of in the case of White but also as instructing solicitor for the claimant in R(Ibrahim) v City of Westminster [2021] EWHC 2616 (Admin). This and Sam’s other case work is truly impressive combined with his enthusiasm and drive for the work. This is something much more experienced solicitors would often struggle with whereas as Sam appears to take it easily in his stride … he is among the best junior solicitors I have ever worked with over many years of practice.” – Tim Baldwin, barrister“Sam is indefatigable in the pursuit of justice for his clients. If one argument fails he will seek out another to find a pathway to success for his clients” – Ed Fitzpatrick, barrister

Laura O'Brien

Laura is a Partner at Hodge Jones & Allen and prominent member of HJA’s Protest Team and Youth Team. Laura has a particular interest in representing young people and those who have mental disorders, neurological disorders and neurological impairments. Laura also has an interest in criminal cases which engage public law issues and challenges to police powers. Through her time at Hodge Jones & Allen has developed specialist experience in protest law and is a leader in this niche area. Laura regularly represents Extinction Rebellion, Animal Rebellion, Just Stop Oil and Insulate Britain protestors as advocate and litigator in the Magistrates Court, Crown Court, Court of Appeal and High Court in criminal charges, contempt of Court and appeals. Laura has been involved in a number of appeals that have shaped protest law. Laura represented two of the four defendants acquitted of criminal damage after the toppling of the statue of Edward Colston in Bristol during a Black Lives Matter protest. Laura acted in the Court of Appeal following the referral of this case by the Attorney General. Laura represented one of the two defendants charged with causing a public nuisance after being suspended from the QEII Bridge for two days as part of a Just Stop Oil protest. This included in the Crown Court trial, in parallel contempt of Court proceedings in the High Court and in the Court of Appeal. Laura acts for individuals facing the most serious allegations from sexual offences, drug supply, terrorism and murder. Laura has acted for a number of young people accused of murder and terrorist offences and young people who have been victims of criminal Laura is a keen trial advocate in the Magistrates Court and the Crown Court. Laura gives legal training and writes on the law on a regular basis. Notable cases: Criminal damage – R v G & S – representing two of the four people charged with criminal damage to the statue of Edward Colston in Bristol Encouraging terrorism – R v P – representing a man charged with encouraging terrorism Murder – R v R – representing a young person charged with the murder of a taxi driver Murder – R v S – representing a man charged with the murder and arson following the death of his estranged wife. Child abduction – R v P – represented woman acquitted of child abduction after taking someone else’s child to another country without permission of her lawful guardian. Murder – R v D – represented a young adult who was first on a multi-handed indictment for murder and possession of a bladed article. Attempted murder – R v I – represented man charged with attempted murder in relation to a stabbing that left the young complainant with a knife lodged in his eye-socket. Conspiracy to rob – R v A – representing a youth facing a charge of conspiracy to rob in a multi-handed case in the Crown Court. Exposure – R v D – acted as Crown Court advocate for a man suffering complex psychological problems including obsessive compulsive disorder. He was found not fit to plead and following a trial of issue was found not to have done the ‘act’ alleged. This required a careful application of the law surrounding what comprised the ‘actus reus’ and what the prosecution had to prove. Sexual assault – R v H – represented a captain facing Court martial in relation to an alleged sexual assault on a fellow officer. Conspiracy to supply – R v H – represented the only defendant to be acquitted following a lengthy trial lasting a number of months. GBH – R v D – acted as Crown Court advocate for a man charged with stabbing a long-time friend. Arson reckless as to whether life would be endangered – R v B – represented a young vulnerable woman accused of setting a fire at a halls of residence. Rape – R v R – man acquitted of raping his girlfriend following targeted disclosure requests that supported the client’s defence and undermined the account given by his girlfriend. Successfully defended the same client in the Magistrates Court accused of breaching a non-molestation order after careful cross-examination of the complainant in relation to her phone records. Client feedback: “Laura was absolutely amazing and instrumental to our defence and us getting acquitted!” “Laura has been absolutely amazing, we cannot thank her enough, she always made time to answer our questions and kept us updated throughout the whole experience. Very professional. Would highly recommend.” “I could not have found a better company and solicitor than Ms O’Brien at HJA! From the outset, communications and advice were clear and precise. The support, both moral and during trial was much appreciated over a very difficult period. Despite the shortcomings of the court, Ms O’Brien was extremely professional and a fantastic advocate. I would have no hesitation in recommending this company and solicitor.” “Laura O’Brien is amazing. Extremely passionate, knowledgeable and professional. Laura was incredibly supportive and treated me with kindness and care as well as expert legal representation. Laura O’Brien defended me against false allegations of assault on an emergency worker. I was found not guilty on both counts.”

Sioned Wyn Roberts

Sioned has specialised in social housing law for over 15 years and has particular expertise in public law, human rights and discrimination. She is regularly sought out for her in-depth knowledge upon the application and workings of homelessness legislation and to provide expert commentary within industry publications.Sioned is recognised amongst her peers for her litigation success on behalf of her vulnerable client base and for her tenacious approach in representing the homeless. Sioned is regularly instructed by national charities and has developed a niche practice in representing those fleeing domestic abuse and trafficking. Sioned is well regarded for advancing the development of the law as it affects these clients.

Anne Sanders

Anne has over 30 years’ experience and has been a member of the Law Society’s Personal Injury Panel since 2007. A highly experienced personal injury practitioner, she concentrates on complex injury cases, dealing with a wide range of matters including accidents at work, road traffic collisons, and public liability cases.Anne has extensive knowledge of the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB) Agreements and was formerly the Secretary of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) Transport Special Interest Group a position she held for four years.Anne has developed her practice to specialise in neuropathic pain cases and her practice areas also include amputees, fatal accidents and acquired brain injury cases.Anne is passionate about her work and puts the client at the heart of everything she does. Her primary focus is early rehabilitation for those who have suffered catastrophic injuries. She recognises that working with those who have been severely injured and their families is a privilege and she always does her very best to secure the maximum amount of rehabilitation and compensation available. This in turn enables the injured person and their family to refocus their lives after trauma with the financial and rehabilitative support they need.

Mike Schwarz

Mike Schwarz is a pre-eminent criminal defence, civil liberties, public inquiries, protest and fraud lawyer.Mike has over three decades of experience in defending those facing the most serious and complex criminal offences, including murder, white-collar crime and multi-party proceedings.Mike is well-known for representing high-profile political activists and campaigners fighting for progressive issues such as animal rights, pacifism and racial equality. He is particularly well known for representing, for over 3 decades, environmental campaigners on diverse threats to the planet such as the climate breakdown, biodiversity, GM crops, incinerators, fishing.He is the co-author of a leading textbook on protest and public order, and is an expert in the protection of citizens’ freedoms of expression and assembly under Articles 10/11 of the ECHR .Mike has been involved in the investigation and exposure of misconduct by the state – by, for example, giving evidence to parliamentary committees on alleged police misconduct and corruption.He currently represents over 100 ‘core participants’ in the ongoing Undercover Policing Inquiry (the Mitting inquiry) and some of the 100s of sub-post masters / mistresses victims of the Horizon IT scandal, most egregiously affected by the Post Office and its associates, who are core participants in the Post Office Inquiry (the Williams inquiry).Mike also regularly acts for professionals in trouble with the criminal law and regulators. For example, he acts for journalists facing serious and diverse allegations, including terrorism and harassment. He acts in key prosecutions under fraud and corruption legislation of accountants and other professionals.PublicationsMike is joint author of The Law of Public Order and Protest (Oxford University Press, March 2010)

Edward Sharp

Edward Sharp is a Partner in the Housing team at Hodge Jones & Allen and has specialized in housing law since 2010. He is recognised for his expertise in complex housing litigation and acts across the full spectrum of housing law, including defended possession and injunction proceedings, disrepair, and fitness for human habitation claims, homelessness appeals, judicial review challenges, Equality Act claims, unlawful eviction matters, and ownership disputes. He has developed a particular reputation for cases involving the interaction between housing law, disability discrimination, and public law. He has frequently been instructed on behalf of clients lacking litigation capacity.His recent work includes acting for the successful tenant in London & Quadrant Housing Trust v Kaleel [2026] County Court at Central London, defending possession and injunction proceedings and obtaining damages for disability discrimination and victimisation. His previous work in this area includes Rosebery Housing Association v Williams & Anor [2021] EW Misc 22 (CC), which was the first successful disability discrimination claim to be widely reported on in the context of a Housing case. Other notable cases include Campbell v London Borough of Ealing [2024] EWCA Civ 540, a Court of Appeal case concerning the relationship between housing assistance and local authority duties under the Care Act 2014, and Kannan v London Borough of Newham [2019] EWCA Civ 57, an important authority concerning the approach to homelessness decisions involving disabled applicants. He has litigation experience before the County Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court, as well as the Upper Tribunal and a wide range of alternative dispute resolution processes. He regularly acts for tenants in housing conditions cases that result in substantial settlements.He is passionate about improving access to justice. Alongside his casework, he has worked closely with housing charities and advice agencies, delivering training and providing specialist support on complex housing and homelessness matters.

Geoffrey Simpson-Scott

Geoffrey Simpson-Scott is a Partner in the Medical Negligence team at Hodge Jones & Allen. He specialises in neurological injuries and his practice comprises of a fascinating panoply of catastrophic nerve injuries; spinal injuries arising from surgical error; the effects of delays in diagnosing immunological diseases; and head and brain injuries arising from clinical mistakes and diagnostic delays. Geoffrey has a proven track record of assisting clients with litigating technically challenging cases.In PJS & Another v Essex University Partnership NHS Foundation Trust very significant compensation was recovered on behalf of clients who were severely injured as a result of the Defendant’s negligent failure to assess the risk posed by a mental health patient under its care. The risk posed sadly arose when Geoffrey’s clients were assaulted sustaining life-changing neurological injuries. There remains no legal precedent imposing liability in such cases and recovering much-needed compensation for injured clients remains at the cutting edge of legal practice.Geoffrey is passionately in favour of promoting legal education for lawyers in this field. He is the author of A Practical Approach to Clinical Negligence which is now in its 4th edition (2026); co-authored A Practical Approach to Fixed Costs in Clinical Negligence Cases (2024) and is working on the provisionally-titled A Practical Approach to AI in Clinical Negligence (2027). He also co-presents a series of legal webinars available online; seminars around the country; and organises Hodge Jones & Allen’s Asking Better Questions seminar series aimed at further improving the results the firm achieves for its clients.Geoffrey joined Hodge Jones & Allen in 2023, joining from a national firm where he was Head of Clinical Negligence. He has also assisted a legal tech start up in integrating clinical negligence best practice into its business model.

Priya Singh

Priya is a Partner at Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors. Formerly, a qualified medical doctor, she converted to law and is currently a Partner in the Medical Negligence Department. Priya has worked on cases that have attracted significant media attention, more recently to include cases involving failings in psychiatric health care. The huge number of cases coming Priya’s way led to her becoming actively involved in a campaign to secure a statutory inquiry into failings in mental health care across Essex. This statutory inquiry (the Lampard Inquiry) is now up and running. Priya along with her colleague Nina Ali is currently representing 100+ families for the Lampard Inquiry.Priya’s caseload is very varied and her expertise includes both high value brain injury cases as well as representing bereaved families at Inquests.Priya is known for her meticulous approach to detail, empathy for her clients and always going the extra mile. In October 2025, Priya was nominated for Civil Lawyer of the Year at the upcoming Asian Legal Awards 2025.

Kerry Spence

Kerry is a Partner and a Deputy Head of the Criminal Litigation department. She was admitted as a solicitor in 1992, originally dealing with all aspects of high street practice but soon discovered a passion for criminal defence work which to date has not diminished. Her work often involves serious organised crime, which by its very nature is often complex and needs a through and forensic approach. She is held in high regard by her peers and clients. Whilst she dealt with all aspects of criminal defence work, from attending police stations, advocacy in the Magistrate’s Court and preparation of summary and Crown Court trials, she has specialised in the more serious and complex cases over the last 30 years. Often those have included multi-defendant cases, such as conspiracies to murder, to defraud, to money launder, to commit armed robberies and to rob. She also represents clients facing serious sexual assault allegations, including historic sexual offences, some of which have been multi-defendant cases, rape, incitement to sexual activity and possession of indecent images. Kerry has dealt with numerous single defendant cases, including murder, large scale frauds, kidnap, drugs cases and robbery. Many of these cases by their nature have been lengthy and complex at trial and, as a result of undertaking this work over the years, she became accredited as a VHCC Supervisor, authorised by the Legal Aid Agency to undertake and supervise complex cases. Kerry has established a faithful client base over many years who frequently refer new clients to her. This is due to her skill as a criminal lawyer, friendly, approachable and professional manner and she always strives to ensure the best outcomes for all her clients, whether privately or publicly funded. Kerry was shortlisted for the Legal Aid Criminal Defence Lawyer of the Year 2019.

Agata Usewicz

Agata Usewicz is the Head of the Medical Negligence team at Hodge Jones & Allen. Her practice includes a mix of claims of maximum severity, with a focus on obstetric injuries, cases of surgical error, claims against GPs and ophthalmic injuries. Agata has a proven track record of successfully litigating fiercely contested cases. Cases of note include Gallardo v Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust [2017] EWHC 3147 (QB), which represented an extension of the Montgomery principles in the context of the giving of information, including diagnosis and treatment options, post-operatively. In Totham v Kings College NHS Trust [2015] EWHC 97 (QB), Agata acted for a girl who suffered a brain injury at birth and as a result has cerebral palsy. The trust admitted liability but damages were contested to trial. Agata’s client was awarded damages which at the time was the highest court award for a claim for personal injuries for a UK national. Agata’s cases regularly attract national attention, and she is often called upon to provide comments in the legal press and national media. Whilst Agata is renowned for her work on complex, high-value cases, she is passionately committed to providing access to justice and is equally dedicated to her clients with more modest claims as well as those with catastrophic injuries. Agata joined Hodge Jones & Allen in 2011, soon being promoted to Partner in 2014. Agata is a member of the AvMA Specialist Clinical Negligence Panel and The Law Society Clinical Negligence Panel. Before training to become a solicitor Agata pursued a successful career in NHS project management.

Nicola Waldman

Nicola deals with complex wills, all aspects of trust and estate administration (including estates with a foreign element), preparation and registration of powers of attorney, wealth protection and planning. She has been appointed and acted as executor and trustee on many occasions. Nicola much enjoys this area of the law and is described as having a ‘very friendly professional style’.

Lorna Webster

With over 25 years of dedicated experience, Lorna specialises in fighting for individuals and families affected by asbestos exposure, industrial diseases and accidents, including road traffic claims, accidents at work and claims for injured children. Her career is defined by a deep commitment to every client, a meticulous approach to complex legal battles and a passionate drive to secure justice. Whether guiding a grieving family through the tragedy of a fatal accident, ensuring an injured child has their future secured financially, or helping a client face a terminal asbestos related illness, Lorna applies her trademark meticulous precision and profound empathy to ensure her clients receive absolute justice and financial security.Lorna understands that behind every claim is a human story, often involving families navigating the most difficult moments of their lives. Her goal is to carry the legal burden entirely for her clients, providing clear, compassionate guidance while aggressively pursuing the compensation, accountability and specialised medical care they deserve.Areas of Expertise• Asbestos Diseases: Expert handling of all asbestos conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural thickening, for both living clients and in fatal matters.• Complex Personal Injury: Drawing on a vast background of dealing with and supervising personal injury cases of all types across many years, Lorna's personal injury work is focused on high-value and fatal matters. This includes serious road traffic accidents, accidents at work, and accidents involving children.• International Claims: Specialised assistance for pursuing mesothelioma claims in the USA, working closely with expert American Attorneys, for claims arising from contaminated talcum powder and makeup products.• High-Value Settlements: A proven track record, spanning over two decades, of regularly securing six-figure settlements. For her mesothelioma clients, Lorna also secures agreements to cover the costs of medical treatment not available on the NHS. Litigation in these fields is highly complex, often involving multiple defendants, historical evidence, highly detailed medical and financial matters and urgent timelines. Lorna relishes these challenges and applies a logical, thorough and relentless methodology to every claim. Lorna is widely known for driving cases forward rapidly without ever sacrificing detail. Due to her structured preparation and sharp negotiation skills, she always ensures the very best outcome for her clients. Navigating multi-party claims and legal complexity without fear, Lorna does not shy away from tough cases. She will actively issue Court proceedings whenever necessary to ensure her clients receive the correct level of compensation and a meaningful sense of justice for the situation they find themselves in. Lorna prides herself on being down-to-earth, friendly and professional, translating complex legal jargon into clear answers for her clients. Because many of her clients are facing terminal illnesses, have suffered serious injuries or are dealing with sudden family loss, she approaches every interaction with the utmost dignity, warmth, and respect. Lorna’s passion for justice extends far beyond her case work. She helped establish the London Asbestos Support Awareness Group (LASAG) and continues to provide vital legal assistance and training to the charity. She is an active campaigner against unfair legal frameworks. Her work includes launching a national petition regarding unfair asbestos regulations and she has experience of sharing her legal knowledge on live national television, radio, and in publications like The Times.

Leticia Williams

Leticia joined Hodge Jones & Allen in 2009, became a Partner in 2014 and was appointed Head of the Personal Injury team in June 2019. She became an Equity partner in 2021.She has more than 18 years of experience dealing with all areas of personal injury, specialising in complex road traffic collision claims, repetitive strain injury claims, and employment matters. Leticia also takes a keen interest in accident abroad cases, often taking cases on with limitation and jurisdictional issues.Leticia has a track record of consistently achieving positive results for her clients who have serious and debilitating injuries. She is focussed on obtaining early rehabilitation for her Clients to ensure they start rebuilding their lives as quickly as possible. The medical evidence for these types of cases is often challenging when proving causation. Leticia’s measured and calm approach means she is able to analyse the evidence and is not afraid of taking cases to trial. She is an excellent litigator.

Chun Wong

Chun Wong is the Head of the Dispute Resolution team at Hodge Jones & Allen. She has over 20 years litigation experience and specialises in a wide range of civil litigation disciplines especially contested probate and TOLATA claims. She strives to provide an excellent service to her clients whether they are Claimants or Defendants, bringing or defending claims in county courts, the High Court or the Court of Appeal.Notable cases include Kousouros v O'Halloran and another [2014] EWHC 2294 (Ch) and TPKN v Ministry of Justice (2019) EWHC 1488 (QB).Chun has appeared on radio, TV, and press. She is also a keen blogger and user of LinkedIn.

Emma Wray

Emma, a partner in the Medical Negligence team, combines a sharp intellect with rigorous clinical knowledge. She is relentless in her pursuit of justice for her clients, who praise her ability to achieve exceptional results while supporting them through the legal process. Her practice covers all areas of clinical negligence from high value cerebral palsy, spinal injury and amputation claims to more modest value, but usually equally complex, claims across the spectrum. Emma has an outstanding talent for uncovering case-winning evidence in clinical negligence claims, recently securing a £16m settlement in complex litigation for a child whose limbs were amputated following a delay in diagnosis of streptococcal septicaemia. Another highlight was settling a challenging and fiercely fought child brain injury case with recovery of life changing damages in the face of a pre-existing genetic condition which meant the child would have had significant disabilities in any event. Clients have found that Emma is ruthless at tracking down the necessary documents and ensuring proper disclosure. With 10 years’ frontline clinical experience in the NHS, she brings an insider’s understanding, allowing her to interrogate records to her clients’ advantage. Clients praise Emma’s rare combination of empathy and legal excellence. One recently said she “was not just a solicitor for my son” but had “gone beyond her call of duty to support us when we needed help”. Emma’s results, they said, had “changed our lives forever”. Client comments"I cannot thank Emma Wray enough for all her support, guidance and professionalism throughout my medical negligence case. Not only was Emma incredibly supportive she was not afraid to be brutally honest with me which I needed. From day 1 it was great communication promptly responding to my questions in clear concise answers and always demonstrated a genuine interest in my best interest I will always be forever grateful I highly recommend Emma Wray." "Thanks so much Emma for all your support and understanding throughout my case, I couldn’t have got through it without you...wishing you all the very, very best that you deserve." "You are kind, thoughtful...and a very good lawyer. You are different!"“You’ve been amazing, I couldn’t have asked for a better legal team. I am very mindful of the complexity and depth of challenge that the case presented and I’m so grateful to you and the wider team for sticking it out! “

Riffat Yaqub

Riffat Yaqub is a Partner in the Personal Injury team, specialising in high-value claims involving spinal cord injury, brain damage and serious orthopaedic injuries resulting in amputations and fatalities. She is a hugely talented claimant personal injury solicitor with a calm, empathetic and measured approach who gets results. Riffat is known for adopting a client-focussed, holistic approach whilst being committed and a fierce litigator. She is not afraid to take cases to trial when necessary. She acts for vulnerable clients and is a strong advocate for securing early rehabilitation, ensuring her clients can get their lives back on track as quickly as possible. Throughout her career of 26 years, Riffat has developed a formidable reputation for consistently achieving strong results for her clients who have suffered serious life changing injuries arising from road traffic accidents, workplace accidents, accidents in public places and medical accidents. She is dedicated to her clients’ wellbeing to meet their every care, treatment need and secure their future financially. Riffat works effectively with case managers, medics and professionals to achieve the right outcome. Riffat has pursued a number of high-profile cases involving foreign nationals who have been injured in the UK, including a Ukrainian national injured in a workplace accident, three UAE nationals who were viciously attacked whilst staying at a London hotel and a French national who suffered devastating life-changing injuries after being thrown from a viewing gallery. Riffat has set up what is perhaps the first community based neuro rehabilitation package for her brain injured client in Ukraine where there is a complete dearth of brain injury services. When war broke out, Riffat was determined to help her client, to return to the UK and worked tirelessly to get UK authorities to grant visas to her client, his family, and his Ukrainian based community rehabilitation team. Whilst running her complex catastrophic caseload, Riffat also leads and co-ordinates support work with CBIT. Attending meetings with caseworkers, events and fundraising. Riffat is a confident public speaker and regularly presents on HJA’s London Legal Podcast and Facebook Live sessions with CBIT and other groups. Riffat works closely with junior HJA colleagues to provide mentoring and coaching. Riffat works closely with charities including CBIT, Brake, Headway and others. Work Highlights Impressive successes, over last twelve months, include: • French national (Tate Modern). Widely reported event – Claimant thrown over viewing terrace resulting in catastrophic injuries. Involved three potential defendants who all deny liability. Riffat works with French lawyers. Supports her client with ongoing complex rehabilitation for this multi-million pound case. • Swedish National knocked down by a car when visiting London suffered catastrophic injuries. Riffat’s client was incompletely tetraplegic, doubly incontinent, dependent on constant care. Liability disputed throughout. Riffat engaged Swedish solicitor and replaced Guardian when it became apparent they were not acting in her client’s best interests. Settlement: £2.85 million. • Cambridge undergraduate suffered serious injury when knocked off her bicycle. Working collaboratively with the defendant, Riffat employed a Case manager and put together an intensive rehabilitation programme to support Claimant both mentally and physically, to help re-build her confidence, strength and resilience. Settlement: £2.25 million. PROFESSIONAL TESTIMONIALS Dr Jackson, Clinical Neuropsychologist “Without reservation You -Riffat have been outstanding in such unusual and challenging circumstances, with unselfishness, resilience and humanitarianism. It has been a pleasure to work with you, being creative in providing an effective rehabilitation programme partly remotely in the Ukraine. After the onset of war, you were unnerving in finding the best way to arrange the evacuation of your severely brain injured client and his family to the UK. In my 30 years of medico-legal work I have rarely seen a solicitor with such concern for their clients and the capacity to work so insightfully with the Neuro-rehabilitation services.” Dr Mark Holloway, Senior Brain Injury Case Manager “Throughout the whole process Riffat has sought to understand the complexities faced, she has been a committed advocate for her client and his family, and, whilst rightly holding us all to account, has recognised just how difficult this has been. She has liaised collegiately and robustly with her defendant counterpart and has ensured we have a shared vision of what we aim to achieve”. William Latimer-Sayer QC, Cloisters “Riffat cleverly negotiated with the Defendant’s representatives to make further payments under the Rehab Code, which therefore are not subject to the contributory negligence discount. Her dedication and commitment to the client has been truly inspirational, and we are now working to secure the necessary expert evidence to quantify and resolve the claim.” Beth Bartlett, Clinical Manager, Harrison Associates “I worked with Riffat on the case of a young woman who sustained life changing injury to her upper limb. Whilst her tenacity and resilience helped maximise her rehabilitation and recovery potential, having an equally tenacious and resilient solicitor fighting her corner was just as important: Riffat really supported both her client and me as the case manager enabling the young lady to access rehabilitation tailored to her needs, as expediently as possible. Riffat has a terrific manner, is very innovative, calm, emphatic, caring and an extremely bright capable lawyer who is very client focussed. Working so collaboratively with Riffat made the whole rehabilitation process so much easier, not to mention such a pleasure!” Graham Lynch, Defendant Solicitor Riffat adopted a pragmatic and collaborative approach throughout the process including early notification of the claim, dialogue in relation to liability resolution, rehabilitation, quantum evidence and overall settlement. Throughout I found Riffat to be a, pragmatic, skilled negotiator. She was a formidable opponent, very determined, who clearly cared for her client. Riffat was very approachable, highly experienced litigator”.