Weightmans LLP > London, England > Firm Profile
Weightmans LLP Offices

THE HALLMARK BUILDING
105 FENCHURCH STREET
LONDON
EC1M 5JG
England
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Weightmans LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Dispute resolution > Professional discipline Tier 1
Further to its June 2022 merger with RadcliffesLeBrasseur LLP, Weightmans LLP‘s large, combined national team routinely represents healthcare clients at GMC and GDC hearings, and defends solicitors facing SRA and SDT proceedings. The firm also undertakes work involving architects, accountants and the police. Sam Flew leads the healthcare professionals team, in which William Childs, Stewart Duffy, Simon Gomersall, Anne Green, Ian Sadler, Alistair Hewitt and Ricardo Bassani are all key partners. Richard Jolly is national health sector practice head; Mickaela Fox specialises in matters involving solicitors; Susanna Heley specialises in professional disciplinary work for legal professionals; and Nigel WestPractice head(s):
Sam Flew; Nigel West
Other key lawyers:
William Childs; Stewart Duffy; Mickaela Fox; Simon Gomersall; Anne Green, Richard Jolly; Susanna Heley; Richard Palmer; Ricardo Bassani; Alistair Hewitt; Simon Kernyckyj; Michaela Nicholas; Alex Leslie; Richard Privett; Tom Thurlow; Sadie O’Reilly; Ian Sadler
Testimonials
‘The arrival of the team from Radcliffes will bring strong support to the existing disciplinary team.‘
‘Simon Gomersall, Sam Flew and Stewart Duffy stand out as highly experienced in this field. They are ably supported by a strong team of juniors.‘
‘Nigel West and Susanna Heley are both very experienced and without question experts in their fields. They combine a deep understanding of the law with a practical and highly effective approach. Both are commendably thorough in all that they do.‘
‘Nigel West has unmatchable experience in dealing with the Solicitors Regulation Authority, which he has amassed over many years of practice. I have absolute confidence in his legal advice in this area.‘
‘Principal associate Tom Thurlow is very attuned to his clients’ needs.‘
Key clients
Assent Building Control
Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
Professional Standards Authority
MDU
MPS
NHS England
Work highlights
- Advised a leading corporate Approved Inspector on a number of disciplinary matters before the client’s regulator, CICAIR.
- Represented Alder Hey, the defendant NHS Trust, in Sasha Burn v Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust and subsequent appeal before the Court of Appeal.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant Tier 1
Weightmans LLP has a ‘great breadth of experience’ in casualty, disease, motor, public authority and large loss claims. Head of practice, Dave Cottam has earned a strong reputation for his defence work in high value claims involving spinal and brain injury, amputation, chronic pain, as well as those arising out of motor, employer’s liability, public authority, and police cases. Steve Robb handles public liability claims, with a niche advising on injuries arising from sporting and leisure activities. Mike Simpson is noted for motor accidents, Andrew Clarke and associate Asad Hadadi provide local government defence, while Paul Debney is a go-to for industrial disease claims.Practice head(s):
Dave Cottam
Other key lawyers:
Steve Robb; Mike Simpson; Paul Debney; Andrew Clarke; Asad Hadadi
Testimonials
‘The team have a great breadth of experience and can always be relied upon for excellent advice and handling of cases. There is always someone available with the specialism I need, which gives me confidence that my cases are in safe hands.’
‘Really top quality service to all clients – cases fought robustly and well – great client care’
‘Andrew Clarke – intelligent, measured and capable.’
‘Asad Hadadi – associate – pursues case robustly but sensibly’
Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 1
Under the experienced leadership of Laurence Pritchard, the team at Weightmans LLP continues to be widely recognised for its expertise in competition law damages claims. The firm’s representation of UK Trucks Claim in its application to the Competition Appeal Tribunal on behalf of 600,000 UK purchasers and lessees of trucks who suffered loss as a result of cartel activities is just one recent example of such work. The firm is also noted for its depth of industry knowledge in the airline, energy, food and drink, and insurance sectors. Gary Jones regularly advises local authorities and universities on subsidy control issues.Practice head(s):
Laurence Pritchard
Other key lawyers:
Gary Jones; Vincent King
Testimonials
‘Very good industry knowledge.’
‘Laurence Pritchard is super.’
‘The work involved such a breadth of legal areas that I needed a major firm with the necessary level of experience to assist. Weightmans were the first choice and have not disappointed. The project is led by Vincent King who calls on a further team of experts within Weightmans who together have helped to seamlessly deliver the necessary agreement which simply would not have been possible if we attempted to do it in-house.’
‘Vincent King has an encyclopedic knowledge of procurement and contract law, pays very clear attention to the important details, and distills complex legal points to the client in a very accessible way.’
Key clients
UK Trucks Claim Limited
S. Norton & Co. Limited
Chiesi Limited
Swissport
John West Limited
Esken Limited
Wi-Manx Limited
Washington Mills Limited
The Integrity Foundation (HIES)
British Insurance Brokers Association
Lotus Bakeries Limited
The Double Glazing & Quality Assurance Ombudsman Scheme
Gazprom
Sonoco
All About Food
Peel Ports Group/Mersey Docks and Harbour Company
Wizzair
Doncaster Sheffield Airport Limited
Crafter’s Companion Limited
North Lincolnshire Council
Emko Capital LLC
Composite Ones LLC
Costcutter
ZO Skin Health Inc
Anixter Limited
NHS Southport & Formby CCG
The Quality Assurance Co Limited
Cumbria County Council/University of Cumbria
Wigan Council
Flintshire County Council
Work highlights
- Representing UK Trucks Claim, which has issued proceedings on behalf of owners and lessees of over 600,000 trucks which were sold by way of unlawful anti-competitive practices, undertaken and admitted by a cartel of European truck manufacturers over a 14 year period.
- Advised ZO Skin Health – a US-based manufacturer and supplier of skincare beauty products – on the European and UK merger control aspects of its proposed acquisition of the distributors of its products in the UK, Ireland and France.
- Advised All About Food on its distribution arrangements in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, particularly post-Brexit, ensuring that those relationships operate in compliance with EU and UK competition laws.
Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 1
Weightmans LLP handles debt recovery matters for clients across a range of industries, including utilities, local government and other public sectors. Practice head Andrew Cox is renowned for providing solution-based and technology-led advice acts for clients in banking, utilities and transport. Co-head and consultant Mark Burch has particular expertise in dealing with complex defended actions and the use of insolvency procedures to assist in the collection of debt.Practice head(s):
Andrew Cox; Mark Burch
Other key lawyers:
Benjamin Davies
Testimonials
‘We have always found the team very approachable at all times. They deal with our requirements as per our request and in a timely manner.’
Key clients
Motor Insurers’ Bureau
Johnsons Textile Services Limited
Hillfoot Steel Limited
Maersk Line A/S
Murray Metals Group
Liverpool City Council
NWF Agriculture Limited
Specific & General Services Limited
Radius Group (including UK Fuels Limited)
NWF Fuels Limited
Alphabet (GB) Ltd
Davis Coffer Lyons
Work highlights
- Acted for the MIB in recovering monies (paid out under the Uninsured Drivers Agreement) from uninsured drivers.
- Provided Murray Metals with all of its debt recovery requirements.
- Acted for Alphabet in England and Wales in recovering monies owed under vehicle finance agreements and providing regulatory advice.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 1
The health and safety specialist team at Weightmans LLP has niche expertise in areas such as environmental and business crime, as well as the ability to defend and prosecute cases involving health and safety, trading standards, and fire and food safety. Its clients include national charities, educational institutions, local authorities, sports teams, and insurance providers. Dewi Ap-Thomas leads the regulatory team and is highly regarded for his criminal and coronial advice, while senior partner David Lewis covers health and safety enforcement actions, having acted as both defence and prosecution, with additional expertise in corporate and gross negligence manslaughter investigations.Practice head(s):
Dewi Ap-Thomas
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Weightmans is the best of the insurance firms. The lead lawyers are well respected, thoughtful and commercial.’
‘Dewi Ap-Thomas is a leader in the field. He is insightful, considered, approachable and commercial. He is robust and thoughtful, carefully considering strategies to maximise his clients’ position. Weightmans acts on the most complicated mandates and public interest cases in the country; they are my first call as I trust them to do the job right.’
‘Very good team with some excellent lawyers. They are very good in representing clients in their specialist sectors and have good industry knowledge.’
Key clients
E.on UK plc
E.on Climates & Renewables
Jaguar Land Rover
North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Wedge Galvanising Group
Swissport UK
Lancashire County Council
EMCOR UK Ltd
Bayswater Care
Work highlights
- Acted for North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) at the Manchester Bombing Inquiry where they are a Core Participant.
- Acted for Nike Inc on relevant health and safety matters.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
Weightmans LLP handles clinical claims for NHS trusts and primary care beneficiaries (GPs), as well as numerous medical malpractices claims for insurers. The team is noted for its work on birth and brain injury cases, organ transplant and blood donor issues well as national inquires. Richard Jolly co-heads the Liverpool office alongside Vicky Morris, with the latter recognised for her work on blood donor and organ transplant cases. Ian Critchley handles a range of matters including high-value birth injury work, while Lisa Spencer works on prison healthcare claims. On the personal injury side, the practice specialises in casualty, disease, motor, public authority and large loss claims. Co-heads Peter Forshaw, Jim Bryant, Peter Wake and Suzanne Milne all oversee northwest based sub-teams. Roddy MacLeod is recognised for his work on stress claims, while Louise Mutch handles complex catastrophic injury cases. David Holt specialises in non-indemnity insurance work.Practice head(s):
Richard Jolly; Vicky Morris; Peter Forshaw; Jim Bryant; Peter Wake; Sue Milne;
Other key lawyers:
Ian Critchley; Roddy McLeod; Louise Mutch; David Holt
Testimonials
‘The team at Weightmans has strong and longstanding relationships in the North West with a number of NHS trusts, medical defence organisations and private hospital groups. The team specialises in medical liability and regulatory cases involving all types of health professionals.’
‘Ian Critchley is a very able lawyer. He is extremely har working and has good judgement.’
‘Vicky Morris is very dedicated and hardworking. She is particularly able in understanding complex medical matters.’
‘This is a leading defendant PI practice with solicitors and partners with excellent legal knowledge and first rate commercial and client considerations at the forefront of what they do.’
‘Richard Jolly is unparalleled in experience and expertise.’
‘Richard Jolly is hugely experienced and incredibly knowledgeable. He is likeable and modest but very able indeed. His team, as a result, are very good indeed across the board.’
‘Peter Wake has encyclopeedic knowledge of this area of law and is a very safe pair of hands.’
‘Roddy Macleod’s reputation is unparalleled.’
Key clients
NHS Resolution
IDH
Markel
CFC
North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh NHS Foundation Trust
Tameside & Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust
Mersey Care NHS Trust
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Blood & Transplant
Wirral Community NHS FT
Zurich Insurance
Motor Insurer’s Bureau
AIG Europe Ltd Insurance
AXA XL Insurance
PwC (Chester Street Holdings)
Municipal Mutual Insurance
Ageas Insurance
Tesco Underwriting
First Central Insurance
InterEurope AG Insurance
Covea Insurance
Octagon Insurance
Collingwood
Sabre Insurance
Travellers Insurance Company
Tradex Insurance
Insure the Box
RSA Insurance
HDI Global
Esure Insurance
Prometheus Insurance
Hastings Direct
Markerstudy Insurance
Berkshire Hathaway Speciality Insurance
Liberty Mutual
Markel Insurance
DCL Insurance
Hiscox Insurance
Broadspire / Crawfords
Protector Insurance
Vinci
Jaguar Landrover
Rolls Royce
Nestle
Retailers including Lidl, Primark and Menzies
Energy companies including Shell and BP
DHL
Utilities including Severn Trent and Eon
Hundreds of local authorities and police authorities
Work highlights
- Advised NHS Resolution/Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in a case relating to the failure to diagnose and treat an internal hernia resulting in bowel resection, intestinal transplant and a still birth, successfully negotiating a settlement in a lump sum with no provisional damages order or ongoing PPO.
- Advised NHS Resolution/Mersey Care in a claim concerning an allegation that the trust failed to provide a reasonable standard of nursing care to the claimant following his attendance at a clinic for a regular dressing of his below knee amputation wound.
- Advised NHS Resolution/Leicester Partnership NHS Trust in a case relating to the failure to provide appropriate mental health care in prison, leading to the deceased’s suicide.
- Acted on behalf of Warrington Council and others and identified a massive fraud ring which involved over 500 fraudulent “slip and trip” cases.
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 1
Weightmans LLP‘s professional risk department specialises in defending claims made against solicitors and construction professionals, in particular architects, engineers and design and build contractors. The practice also acts for a number of high-profile insurers. Mickaela Fox heads the team, with expertise in solicitors’ and valuers’ indemnity claims and regulatory work. Co-head Mike Grant and Alex Marler focus on defending claims against construction professionals and insurance coverage work. Associate Pamela Freeland is recommended for dealing with professional indemnity claims.Practice head(s):
Mickaela Fox; Mike Grant
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very good allrounders, who can turn to any aspect of professional indemnity work.’
‘Mike Grant is a consummate team leader who commits the time and effort to bring on young lawyers, whilst handling demanding clients and workload.’
‘Mickaela Fox is a top notch lawyer and class act. Unafraid to take on complex, difficult cases and navigate a way through.’
‘I think Weightmans has a notably cohesive and well-run team. They respond to requests for help and information really quickly and in comprehensive detail.’
‘Mike Grant is a leading light in heavy duty professional negligence claims. His wealth of experience gives him both perception and perspective: he sees three moves ahead and clients love him for it.’
‘Pamela Freeland is one of the strongest professional negligence associates I have ever worked with.’
‘Mickaela Fox is an exceptional lawyer; she is very clear and concise in her advice.’
‘Mickaela Fox is absolutely outstanding. She gets to grips with any claim you give her very quickly.’
Key clients
Tokio Marine HCC
Markel
Wren
WSP
Hamilton Underwriting
AmTrust
Hiscox
Zurich
HDI
Work highlights
- Acted for one of eight search providers sued, along with a local authority, by 106 claimants in a case where it is believed that the specific issues in contention have never before been dealt with by the English courts.
- Defended HDI, the insurers of Heatwave Energy Solutions, who are alleged to have been negligent in their pre-installation surveying of properties before retro-fitting cavity wall insulation (CWI), and then in the work itself.
Private client > Family Tier 1
Weightmans LLP is highly experienced in advising on international family law, as well as pre- and postnuptial agreements and children work. The team is noted for its work on behalf of LTBTQ+ families, as well as its mediation expertise. National team leader Emma Collins advises on relationship breakdown and children work, while Carole AtkinsonPractice head(s):
Emma Collins
Other key lawyers:
Carole Atkinson; Fiona Davison; Fiona Turner; Rachel Lim
Testimonials
‘The team is helpful and supportive to clients and efficient in its dealings with court staff and other professionals.’
‘Fiona Turner is a sensible, thoughtful solicitor who gives firm, but positive advice and works hard to achieve the best outcomes for clients.’
‘Fiona Davison is fantastic. She is warm, friendly and sensible, but is not to be underestimated – she knows which cases to fight. Always well prepared she is pragmatic and efficient.’
‘The team is well-resourced and dedicated. It provides an efficient legal service with good awareness of the client’s needs and good tactical awareness. The team contains a number of experienced lawyers with good knowledge of the issues, adopting a pragmatic approach to cases.’
‘Fiona Davidson is excellent – reassuring, technically able and clear and calm. Fiona brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her cases and is pragmatic and sensible in her advice. Fiona builds excellent client relationships and clients trust her instincts and advice.’
‘The team at Weightmans is well known in family law circles and have expertise in financial remedy application and private law children disputes. They are pragmatic and sensible in their dealings with other professionals; and are respected for representing clients in a courteous and straightforward way.’
‘Fiona Turner is a well-respected lawyer who is dependable and pleasant to deal with. Fiona is well known amongst family law professionals for her reputation and is involved in co-ordinating seminars for the region with key practitioners.’
‘All members of the team I have met have been very friendly and personable. They are all experts in their field and have the ability to explain complex legislation in a easy to understand manner.’
Work highlights
Public sector > Education Tier 1
The Weightmans LLP practice is primarily noted for its focus on higher education, regularly assisting universities with large strategic projects, including academy-industry joint ventures as well as with employment issues and construction projects. The team also advises on students’ claims as well as highly sensitive situations such as on-campus deaths and suicides. Based in Manchester, practice head Martin Vincent focuses on joint ventures, collaboration, income generation and procurement arrangements while Josh Conroy specialises in high-value litigation and contractual claims. Employment lawyer Claire Hollins departed the practice in July 2021.Practice head(s):
Martin Vincent
Other key lawyers:
Josh Conroy; Melanie Steed
Testimonials
‘Weightmans provide us with an excellent, timely service.’
‘Melanie Steed provides exceptional service with her availability and the standard and delivery of the information she provides.’
Key clients
Lancaster University
University of Cumbria
London Business School
UCL
University of Leeds
Solent University
Royal College of Physicians
University of Leicester
Newcastle University
Liverpool University
Work highlights
- Acting for University of Cumbria in the creation of its campus in Barrow in Furness.
- Acting for Lancaster University in the resolution of student complaints.
- Acting for Leicester University in a series of multi-million £ construction disputes.
Public sector > Health Tier 1
Praised as ‘strong across the board’, the practice at Weightmans LLP is able to provide full support to health bodies, from employment disputes to judicial reviews. The team is noted for its support of clients on complex strategic issues as well as a number of high-profile inquiries. Richard Jolly leads the national health work, and acts for NHS trusts in particular. Dewi Ap-Thomas oversees the regulatory team while Emlyn Williams focuses on employment issues for health clients.Practice head(s):
Richard Jolly; Dewi Ap-Thomas; Emlyn Williams
Other key lawyers:
Edwina Farrell; Morris Hill
Testimonials
‘The Weightmans team are a pleasure to work with – they are strong across the board.’
‘Morris Hill who is a truly excellent solicitor – he is razor sharp but hugely personable with it. He has a command of his cases, and his area of law, which is second to none.’
Key clients
NHS Resolution
Tameside & Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust
Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS FT
NHS Blood & Transplant
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
Liverpool University NHS FT
Alder Hey Children’s NHS FT
Countess of Chester NHS FT
Southport and Ormskirk Hospital Trust
NHS England
Bolton CCG
Mersey Care NHS FT
Partnership Caring Ltd
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS FT
IDH Dental
Dentex
Wirral University Hospitals NHS FT
Work highlights
- Acting for Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust in proceedings that received worldwide media attention when MHUT brought proceedings under the Children Act 1989/the inherent jurisdiction for orders allowing the withdrawal of life sustaining treatment to a two year old child. Successfully resisted applications for permission to appeal to the Supreme Court and the European Court of Human Rights.
- Advising North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust, one of the key Core Participants at the statutory Public Inquiry into the bombing at the Manchester Arena on 22 May 2017.
- Represented Alder Hey in the case of Sasha Burn v Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.[2021] EWHC 1674 (QB).
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 1
Weightmans’ Newcastle-based practice handles an array of high-volume matters including complex multi-party claims as well as high-profile, sensitive issues. The team supports various professionals such as engineers, inspectors and contractors in addition to defending insurers in direct claims. Richard Palmer, who heads up the practice, is experienced in dispute resolution tactics and an accredited mediator. Key partner Anne-Marie Knight draws on over 30 years of experience in professional indemnity while principal associate Tom Thurlow contributes strengths in professional negligence construction disputes. Barrister Amy Nesbitt was promoted to the partnership in May 2021.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Deep understanding of our industry sector, great staff with a clear understanding of our objectives at a reasonable price.’
‘Experience, expertise, hardworking.’
‘Particularly strong in construction claims.’
‘Richard Palmer is very proactive and innovative in seeking resolution to our claims.’
‘Obvious choice for all manner of construction-related professional negligence matters. Particularly good knowledge and expertise when it comes to cladding issues and fire safety matters, as well as claims relating professionals working in the asbestos industry. The team do advise on a wide range of professionals (not just construction) and also provide policy coverage advice, but it is their expertise in all matters construction that sets them apart from their peers.’
‘When it comes to a complex claim that appears to have reached an impasse you can always rely on Richard Palmer to think outside of the box. Strategic advice is one of Richard’s key skills and that, together with his impressive negotiations skills, is what makes him stand out from his competitors. Anne-Marie Knight is very good procedurally and is a trusted pair of hands for litigated claims which require you to ‘get into the detail’.’
‘Whilst some firms dip in and out of professional negligence, Weightmans are true specialists, with members having acted in some of the most serious and high profile cases in recent years. Without exception, the solicitors which they have assembled are of the highest quality in terms of strong interpersonal skills, work ethic and most importantly excellent knowledge of the subject area. In addition, they also make good use of an online platform for managing large quantities of material. The firm is also very good at collaborating with counsel and experts, ensuring that everybody works as a team to achieve the bets possible result for their clients.’
Key clients
Hiscox Underwriting Limited
Hamilton Underwriting Limited
Axis Speciality Europe (London Branch)
Star Stone Insurance SE
CNA Insurance Company Limited
Work highlights
- Advising numerous excess layer professional negligence insurers on the extent of coverage available to a national design and build contractor across multiple policy years on a number of multi-million pound projects.
- Acting for a leading corporate Approved Inspector, in a c. £40m, multi-party litigation which is now months away from trial. The project concerns a PFI hospital build with the attendant complexities, and at trial will require the court to rule on yet untested law on attribution.
- Acting for a large main contractor in a multi-layered dispute concerning the foundations of a printing press of a major national newspaper. As well as the usual complexities of such claims, there is the added complication of an insolvent contractor to pursue and a complex tower of syndicate insurers to pursue.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 1
Weightmans handles a varied caseload for a client base of national and multinational corporations encompassing covenant enforcements, possession claims, service charge disputes, dilapidation claims and contested lease renewals. The group is also notably active across the energy, construction, education and leisure sectors and counts Northern Powergrid, the University of Sunderland and Camerons Brewery as clients. Team head Christopher Graham regularly acts for energy clients and advises on injunctive relief, while, at principal associate level, Jill Dalkin has experience in lease covenant breaches and Mark Reeves acts for utilities companies.Practice head(s):
Christopher Graham
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Chris Graham has always made it clear that he is always available and oversees caseload and provided us with good easy means of contact.’
‘The individual Jill Dalkin who has undertaken (or managed) the several matters on our behalf and retained interest and involvement where another specialists involved. Her professionalism, abilities, determination and openness all inspire confidence.’
Key clients
Bellway Plc
Northern Powergrid (North East) Plc
Northern Powergrid (Yorkshire) Plc
Camerons Brewery Limited
Northern Electric Plc
South Shore Developments Limited
AND Group Limited
University of Sunderland
Northern Trust Company Limited
Yorkshire Electricity Group Plc
Nucleus Holdings Limited
Work highlights
- Represented an electricity distribution business in a successful application for rectification in the First-tier Property Tribunal.
- Advised an electricity distribution business following receipt of various notices to remove apparatus, including potential cost liability quantified at circa £10m.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 1
Combining commercial and corporate expertise with know-how in IT and telecommunications, the team at Weightmans supports technology businesses from commercialization of their technology to securing an exit. In line with the corporate team’s strengths in acting for venture capitalists and accelerator programmes focused on technology businesses, the practice is also active at the nexus of investment and technology. Paul Wigham leads the Newcastle practice, he is specialised in acquisitions and disposals as well as private equity investments, as is Duncan Reid, a key practitioner on the team.Practice head(s):
Paul Wigham
Other key lawyers:
Duncan Reid; Nathan Bilton
Testimonials
‘Nathan Bilton provided us with clear and concise advice across a range of complex issues. Nathan helped us to make informed decisions.’
Key clients
Northstar Ventures
Hicomply Limited
Oak Engage
Perwyn Advisors UK
Maven Capital Partners
Givepanel Inc
Screenreach Interactive Limited
Redu Group
Drone AG
Altitude Angel
Work highlights
- Advised the sellers on the sale of Frontier Telecom, a business technology provider specialising in mobile, connectivity and IT solutions, to Radius Payment Solutions for an undisclosed amount.
- Acted for Oak Engage Limited on a further significant investment from Maven Capital Partners and Northstar Ventures.
- Acted for Perwyn on its investment into LRG Online, trading as Secret Sales.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
Weightmans LLP is home to a ‘really strong team that is tenacious in its approach’. It remains appointed to all NHS Resolution panel lots which includes advising on clinical claims for NHS trusts and primary care beneficiaries and also handles numerous medical malpractice claims for insurers and independent practitioners. Tony Yeaman and Deborah Bannister are both NHS Resolution nominated partners while Jasmine Armstrong has advised on numerous defendant clinical negligence actions for NHS Resolution. Sarah Hopwood heads the healthcare fraud service while the personal injury practice is likewise large and highly regarded, acting for most major insurers and 1/3 of FTSE 100 companies. Chris Webb-Jenkins is an experienced advocate and has particular expertise in group actions whereas Navdip Wilson has particular strength in various areas such as chronic pain claims. Henry Bermingham is a known name for his handling of social care abuse/inquiry matters. David Tuck is a key member of the disease team while Penelope Marshall handles a wide range of litigation on behalf of local government and public sector clients as well private care home and educational bodies. Bruce Ralston is adept at advising on sports liability and frequently advises insurers, sports governing bodies and sports companies/organisations on a whole host of issues. The team was pleased to add Nicola Pegg to its ranks from Bevan Brittan LLP .Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Deborah Bannister and Tony Yeaman are part of a strong and cohesive team. Sophie Quinney is a “stand-out” associate, who punches well above her weight. Clever, thoughtful and tenacious, she is definitely one to watch’.
‘Weightmans healthcare team in Birmingham is extremely professional and knowledgeable but also very friendly and approachable. The team ensures that clear precise and practical advice is delivered at the right level which has helped to build trust and a robust and professional relationship with the in-house legal team. Jasmine Armstrong is an excellent lawyer, very client focussed and leads an exceptional team‘.
‘Provides useful claims analysis for individual trusts. Very strong client relationship partner – previously Tony Yeaman and recently Jasmine Armstrong. Receptive to feedback’.
”Go to’ firm for defendant clinical negligence work in the Midlands. The team handles all forms of defendant clin neg work at all levels. Maryam Storr – relentlessly brilliant. Jasmine Armstrong – charming and assiduous in equal measure’.
‘Leading firm dealing with CN cases for defendants including the NHS in this area. Richard Briggs. Very skilled and experienced in dealing with high value and complex CN cases including claims relating to birth injury and other neurological trauma’.
‘Always provides good sound advice, which is easy to understand. Professional and good value for money. Have good systems in place and can work fully electronically. Expert in their field and pro-active management of cases where possible’.
‘Reliable, excellent advice and friendly, they build up good relationships with a client. Peppy Marshall, Chris Webb-Jenkins, Shaheen Akhta, Roger Bishop, Yvonne Hudders are especially good’.
Key clients
NHS Resolution
Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital NHS FT
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Combined Legal services NHS Trust
University Hospitals of Birmingham NHS FT
University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS FT
University Hospitals of Derby & Burton NHSFT
Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHST
Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust
Northampton General Hospital NHS FT
S Warwickshire Hospital NHS T
Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS FT
Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust
Broadspire
Weight to Go Ltd
Baxter Healthcare Ltd
AIG
Broadspire
Gallagher Bassett
MMI
Medical Defence Union
NHSLA
Sandwell MBC
Topmark Claims
Travelers Insurance
Warwickshire County Council
Worcestershire County Council
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Zurich
Work highlights
- Advising Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust on a complex claim linked to a CQC prosecution involving emotive issues as well pure clinical analysis. The defendant did not admit the poor management in ED caused the death as the evidence suggested the sepsis was established on presentation to ED. Nevertheless, there was a desire by both parties to resolve the claim without formal civil proceedings. Settlement £900,000.
- Advising Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital NHS FT in a case where a 75% discount was secured following forensic review of the literature dating back to 2007 – 2013 regarding a newly recognised genetic condition. The condition and lack of treatment caused the claimant’s stroke at age 6. The defendant demonstrated the condition was not well known, nor were there established practices for diagnosis or treatment at the time. Settlement £3.75m.
- Advising Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust where liability was disputed in litigation associated with birth injury (brain damage): secured 15% liability risk discount. Quantification by 10 experts per party during the pandemic to resolve by negotiation: agreeing lump sum and PPO settlement in the region of £17m.
- Acted on behalf of Zurich Insurance and its local authority insured who had a significant financial interest in this claim. The claimant alleged he developed functional neurological disorder because of being assaulted at a residential care home whilst working there as a care worker. The defendant could find no record of the incident which they said could not therefore have happened. Following the exchange of evidence, the claimant sought to discontinue the claim.
- Advising MMI Insurance / Humberside Police in a case whereby the claimant was employed by the police force since the age of 16 and during her employment with them she alleged exposure to asbestos within the basement where she would access custody files. The claimant was diagnosed with mesothelioma (an incurable cancer caused by asbestos exposure) at the age of 48. The claim was valued at more than £1.5m. A forensic analysis of the claimant’s promotion prospects, pension and lump sum payments was undertaken by the handler, significantly reducing the value of the claim.
Corporate and commercial > Partnership Tier 2
Weightmans LLP advises a range of professionals, especially in the legal, medical/health and accountancy fields, on partnership disputes and transactional matters. It also routinely assists clients on restructurings. The team advises on the incorporation of new LLP vehicles; restructuring and insolvency issues and risk and compliance audits. Team head, Andrew Cromby is highlighted by clients for his partnership and litigation skills combined with being ‘brilliant with clients‘ and Edwina Farrell specialises in medical partnerships. Richard Corran and Michelle Garlick (both based in Manchester) are key partners in a national team that includes specialists in Liverpool.Practice head(s):
Andrew Cromby
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘As Weightmans are HQ’s in the North of England, they offer a very different proposition to London centric firms, and their billing approach reflects that.’
‘I have worked with the wider teams, including Andrew Cromby (partnerships) Richard Bate and William Sharpe. All are excellent and the knowledge Andrew has of partnerships is second to none.’
‘Very focused partnership expertise, especially in disputes but also in non-contentious partnership too. very knowledgeable.’
‘Andrew Cromby who leads the team and is now head of the London office is a terrific partnership disputes lawyer. I would instruct him if I had a partnership problem’
‘Wholly dedicated to helping clients achieve what is best for them, with whatever flexibility that may require, not on point scoring or with a view to billing targets.’
‘Andrew Cromby makes every client feel valued and at ease, which is not easy given the very personal nature of many partnership disputes. He is equally adept at being forceful with the other side when he needs to, but at working with them to find solutions where that is possible. He is very ably assisted by Benjamin Turner.’
‘Andrew Cromby is a very able litigator. He has a real specialism in partnership and LLPs acting in particular acting for partners in professional services firms, or the firms themselves. He is very bright, brilliant with clients, skilled at the area of law and has a very strong focus on obtaining a commercially sensible outcome for his clients.’
Work highlights
Insurance > Clinical negligence: defendant Tier 2
The Weightmans team, which is led by Rachel Kneale, was boosted by the firm’s merger with RadcliffesLeBrasseur in March 2022. The team’s caseload regularly sees it defending claims in court, though the team does also have a reputation for its expertise in mediation and ADR. It acts cases in the multi-millions, involving catastrophic birth injury and cerebral palsy, obstetric, psychiatric and dental injury, as well as delayed treatment. The ‘hugely knowledgeable’ Warren Forsyth leads the GP-focused sub-team, dedicated to handling GP claims, often with multi-defendant components. ‘Fantastic‘ legal director Isobel Michie is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Rachel Kneale
Other key lawyers:
Warren Forsyth; Isobel Michie; Paul Thomson; Nicola Shand; Peter Cutler; Sonia Morgan
Testimonials
‘Paul Thomson is very able and experienced, as is the firm, which has a deserved reputation as one of the best defendant clinical negligence firms.’
‘The team’s junior lawyers are thorough and investigate cases appropriately.’
‘The clinical negligence team at Weightmans is superb. Its solicitors have a very good grasp of their cases. Everyone is pleasant to deal with and I think Weightmans produces excellent outcomes for its clients.’
‘Paul Thomson is brilliant, with the right mixture of a sensible, strategic view of a case, combined with attention to detail.’
‘An excellent team – efficient and effective.’
‘Warren Forsyth is hugely knowledgeable; Paul Thomson is very thorough and an excellent litigator; Isobel Michie is sympathetic and empathetic.’
‘Increasingly heavyweight and prominent NHS defence team. They recruited Warren Forsyth to head up their GP claims team, which was a very wise move!’
‘Isobel Michie is fantastic – always well-prepared. She is supportive and sensible with it.’
Key clients
Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust
East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust
My Dentist/International Dental Holdings/White Cross Dental Care Ltd
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Foundation NHS Trust
Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust
Public Health England
Insurance > Personal injury: defendant Tier 2
The ‘dynamic and diverse’ large loss and technical team at Weightmans LLP in London is led by the ‘fantastic’ Elaine Chapman, who has a strong reputation for catastrophic injury work and vast experience handling issues of care, statutory funding, rehabilitation and accommodation. The team deals with high-value, serious injury and industrial disease, as well as employers’ and public liability matters and complex motor incidents. Notably, principal associate Phillip Bratt is assisting with the defence of Cornwall Council against a fatal road traffic claim, which is awaiting approval at the Supreme Court. In addition, Nicholas Richards has a strong reputation in cases concerning accidents which took place abroad. Factors often involved in the matters the team defends include severe injury, paraplegia and tetraplegia, amputation, severe brain and spinal injury, and fatal claims. Associate Shaun Lavery, described as ‘a true natural with tremendous skill’, is one to watch in the team.Practice head(s):
Elaine Chapman
Other key lawyers:
Seva Singh; Nick Richards; Catherine Kearney; Patricia Williams; Kathryn Hinchey; Phillip Bratt; Shaun Lavery; Karyn Brannigan
Testimonials
‘Elaine Chapman heads this dynamic and diverse team. Her London team deals with claims of the highest value. They have an impressive client base, consisting of composite insurers, who are loyal to the team.’
‘A heavyweight defence personal injury firm with many impressive individuals. The standout stars in the London team are Seva Singh and Elaine Chapman. They are both seasoned lawyers with great talent, insight and ability.’
‘Shaun Lavery is immensely capable and works at a level many years beyond his current level of qualification. He is a true natural, with tremendous skill and instinct for a case.’
‘Elaine Chapman is a very strong and impressive performer with an unerring sense of the winning features in a case. Seva Singh too, is a very industrious and able, well-seasoned professional with a strong instinct for the winning features in a case.’
‘Weightmans is a big firm that has the friendliness and accessibility of a small firm. Their partners and associates are available and lovely to deal with at the same time as having real expertise.’
‘Elaine Chapman is fantastic. She is tactically astute and incredibly client focused. She is a calm and excellent leader of any legal team. Catherine Kearney has been an excellent addition to the Weightmans team. She is smart and astute and a tough negotiator.’
‘Philip Bratt has a very bright future. He is a technically excellent lawyer with excellent attention to detail and first class judgment. Shaun Lavery is a rising star. He is exceptionally bright and an excellent choice for legally complex cases.’
‘They are very good with insurer clients. Friendly, down to earth and easy to deal with. They have a clear grasp of the market and provide appropriate, pragmatic advice.’
Key clients
Zurich Insurance Plc
Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB)
Armour Risk Management
Premia Re
Direct Commercial Limited
Haven Insurance
Catalyst Insurance
Prometheus Insurance Company Limited
Tradex Insurance Company Ltd
AIG Europe
Dekra
Van Ameyde
Cornwall Council
TUiR Warta
Enterprise Rent A Car
Swiss Re Commercial Solutions
Work highlights
- Repudiated a £22m traumatic brain injury claim for MIB.
- Repudiated an £8m complex multi-party liability claim arising out of a building site accident.
- Represented Cornwall Council in the Court of Appeal against the appeal of a successful strike out.
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 2
The ‘incredibly well-organised’ team at Weightmans LLP is headed by the ‘top notch private client lawyer’ Jonathan Shankland. The team is lauded for being ‘fast, effective communicators and real problem solvers’. It has an impressive client list of entrepreneurs, heritage estates, royal families, dignitaries, lottery winners and sporting stars. Shankland is particularly known for his offshore tax and estate planning practice having built up an extensive network across Europe, South East Asia and the Middle East. Patrick Malone is a leading figure in the firm’s estate administration department. Arshoo Singh has extensive experience on a broad range of cross-border and UK succession and taxation issues.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Shankland
Other key lawyers:
Arshoo Singh; Patrick Malone; Caroline Doyle
Testimonials
‘Jon Shankland and Patrick Malone have built an incredible practice around deep expertise, client service and a focus on the best possible outcomes for their clients. Process efficiency, thoroughness and follow up are hallmarks of the team. But above all it is the client centricity in everything they do is the huge differentiator’.
‘Jon Shankland – depth of experience, creative solution builder, team builder, client satisfaction. Patrick Malone – tenacity, thoroughness, dogged to the end in delivering the best outcome, resourceful, all round great person to work with’.
‘Broad reaching, capable team. Arshoo Singh is a confident individual with strong client relationships’.
‘Solid reputation in private client and trust matters – excellent client base built around the longevity of relationships. Jonathan Shankland – a superb lawyer, driven and precise in everything he does. Fantastic client relationships and always strives for the best result for his clients’.
‘Such an approachable team with a can-do attitude. Jonathan Shankland – an outstanding lawyer with a hugely impressive capacity to take a very strategic overview whilst maintaining incredible attention to detail and a very personal approach to private clients’.
‘I have to call out Jonathan Shankland. He is totally on top of his game. He is knowledgeable, competent and literally sets the benchmark for responsiveness. He seems to be available 24/7 and will always reply within an hour at least. He is a very personable lawyer and has great understanding of client needs. Certainly one in a million’.
‘Arshoo Singh is extremely knowledgeable, personable and easy to work with. Very professional company. I feel safe in their hands. Always there when I need them’.
‘Jonathan Shankland & Caroline Doyle are incredibly knowledgeable, efficient and provide clear and coherent advice at all times. It’s a pleasure to instruct both of these individuals in solving complex legal issues for our clients.’
Key clients
HFMC Wealth Management
Codan Trust Company (Conyers Fiduciary)
Collas Crill International Law Firm
JTC Group PLC (Trust & Fiduciary Company)
The Van Dedem Family & Estate
The Executors of the Estate of Arto Matossian Deceased
The EM Family and Businesses
LB Group Accountants
Swiss Independent Trustees SA
Lady Annabel Bainton (the Lady Sutherland) and the Estate of the Lady Elizabeth Sutherland 24th Countess of Sutherland
Work highlights
- Destructuring Offshore Trust & Company structure with assets globally and international tax consideration across jurisdictions
- Acting as a family office for the well-known family ( The Van Dedem Estate & Trusts) in administering their international estate and advising on planning and tax matters.
- Acting for a multi-national company over multiple jurisdictions alongside EY in international tax and estate planning for the company UBO’s and advising on tax residency and permanent establishment issues for the corporate entity.
Public sector > Education: institutions Tier 2
Weightmans advises a large number of universities on matters largely related to development and expansion. Martin Vincent advises on acquiring collections and the establishment of institutes, which has involved working across jurisdictions. Susan Matthews deals with policies related to anonymous reporting and complaints. Principal associate Melanie Steed joined from the University of Leeds, where she was an in-house lawyer, in August 2021.Practice head(s):
Martin Vincent
Other key lawyers:
Susan Matthews; Melanie Steed
Key clients
Lancaster University
University of Cumbria
London Business School
UCL
University of Leeds
Solent University
Royal College of Physicians
University of Leicester
Newcastle University
Liverpool University
Work highlights
- Advised the Royal College of Physicians museum on the acquisition of an internationally important collection of Physicians’ tools and papers from the 18th Century.
- Acted for Lancaster University in its creation of a Confucius Institute.
- Assisted Solent University’s People and Development team on their five-year people plan, part of a wider project to prepare for the future.
Public sector > Healthcare Tier 2
Following a merger with RadcliffesLeBrasseur, the healthcare team at Weightmans LLP has significantly bolstered its offering, with a strong national presence across nine offices. The team has expertise handling public inquiries, acting for the NHS in a number of high profile matters, including the infected blood inquiry. As well as this, the firm is known for a strong GP practice, led by Edwina Farrell, and its handling of more niche commercial work around procurements, FT constitutions and reconfiguration of services. Richard Jolly is the national head of healthcare and is the client partner for a number of NHS Trusts. Rachel Kneale specialises in handling clinical negligence claims of the highest value, including obstetric, neurological and other catastrophic injuries. From the Radcliffes side, Andrew ParsonsPractice head(s):
Richard Jolly; Emlyn Williams; Rachel Kneale
Other key lawyers:
Edwina Farrell; Andrew Parsons; Sam Flew; Michael Clifford; Dewi Ap-Thomas; Morris Hill
Testimonials
‘The whole team are very strong’
‘Morris Hill is hugely experienced and is a solicitor at the top of his game. He has a quiet confidence and a pragmatic and practical approach to the most complex of problems. He is completely unflappable even in the most complex and demanding of cases. He is a joy to work with and for.’
‘Extremely responsive and good value’
‘Andrew Parsons best in class’
‘Stand out as having invested time in understanding our organisation and thinking about the best way to support us. They respond extremely promptly to any request for assistance. They always identify the best person for the job. Everyone in the team is friendly , approachable and always value for money. Very accurate on their cost estimates for work to be carried out. Always transparent in all stages of a case. They always provide all the available options and are true professionals. I would have no hesitation in recommending them.’
‘Richard Jolly – Can run litigation effectively and very cost efficiently and has great skill at assembling the right team’
Key clients
NHS Resolution
Tameside & Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust
Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Birmingham Women’s & Children’s Hospitals
NHS Blood & Transplant
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
Liverpool University NHS FT
Alder Hey Children’s NHS FT
NHS England
Mersey Care NHS FT
Partnership Caring Ltd
IDH Dental
Dentex
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS FT
Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Acted for Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust in proceedings that received worldwide media attention when the Trust brought proceedings under the Children Act 1989/the inherent jurisdiction for orders allowing the withdrawal of life sustaining treatment to a two year old child. Following a hearing the High Court concluded that it was in the child’s best interests for treatment to be withdrawn.
- Represented Alder Hey in the case of Sasha Burn v Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust [2021] EWHC 1674 (QB). The case involved the question of whether the Claimant was entitled to disclosure of all documents in the possession of the case investigator before she was required to attend an investigatory interview. The team was successful in the Court of Appeal.
- Advising Elysium Healthcare on the Sophie Riley Inquest involving the death of a detained patient who absconded from the unit and was then knocked over and killed on the A14 dual carriageway
Public sector > Local government Tier 2
Weightmans' local government team is known for its expertise in handling matters relating to public service transformation, devolution, regeneration projects and large employment projects. As well as a growing social care team, the team also works on investigations, commercial agreements and property transactions. Liverpool-based team leader Simon Goacher leads on a number of significant housing projects and frequently advises clients on governance and vires issues including independent reviews on sensitive and high profile issues. In Leeds, Stephen Johns' practice encompasses a range of sectors, with a particular expertise on PPP and PFI projects.Practice head(s):
Simon Goacher
Other key lawyers:
Stephen Johns; Lee Gordon; Jane Marshall; Clive Beasdale; Vincent King; Peter Wake
Testimonials
‘Specialist understanding of local government law and procedure.’
‘Simon Goacher – sharp mind, helpful and constructive.’
‘Very experienced and local practice which has very dedicated and able lawyers who go the extra mile. they provide an excellent service.’
‘Peter Wake and Simon Goacher are excellent. They are very approachable and extremely bright and are always happy to talk through any issues. You can count on them at all times’
‘Provide an excellent, responsive service for local authorities. Very personable and approachable. Hugely knowledgeable about a range of local authority issues, particularly strong on governance matters.’
‘Simon Goacher is excellent. Very supportive, responsive and has a superb grasp of the local government governance framework and its many intricacies. The wider team at Weightmans are very knowledgeable and dependable.’
Key clients
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
York City Council
Liverpool City Council
LLG (Lawyers in Local Government)
Rutland County Council
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council
Rotherham MBC
EM Lawshare
North West Legal Consortium
St Helens Borough Council
Work highlights
- Acted on behalf of a local authority (LA) in two sets of proceedings before the Court of Protection, one relating to a husband and the other to his wife in a case where there is no previous authority on the issue of whether a single judge can determine the best interests of two connected persons
- Acting for Liverpool City Council in relation to disputes with a tenant concerning delays and additional costs allegedly due under an agreement for lease and deed of variation in connection with the construction and occupation of a substantial facility in the Knowledge Quarter.
- Advising Hertford County Council in the drafting and procurement of their £150m, five year Smart Highways framework.
Transport > Travel Tier 2
Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 2
Under the leadership of Haydn Rogan, the Weightmans LLP team expertly advises on the tax aspects of corporate acquisitions, disposals and restructurings. Assisting owner-managed businesses with the design and implementation of employee incentives is another area of strength, as is providing tax support to other professionals, including accountants.
Practice head(s):
Haydn Rogan
Key clients
Sonoco
ANS Group Limited
Bestway National Chemists Limited t/a Well pharmacy
Bruntwood
DSW Angels LLP t/a DSW Ventures
Populo Design and Build Limited
S Norton & Co Limited
George Roberts (North West) Limited
Liverpool Media Academy (LMA)
Apadmi Limited
Community Integrated Care
OBG Pharmaceuticals Limited
Seventeen Group
Indigo Environmental Group
Work highlights
- Advised tool hire chain HSS Hire Group on the sale of its heating, ventilation and air-conditioning business, All Seasons Hire, to Cross Rental Services.
- Advised the shareholders on the sale of plastics recycling solutions company Indigo Environmental Group to THG.
- Advised Silverbean, an affiliate marketing specialist, on the design and implementation of a flexible, tax efficient share incentive scheme.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Liverpool Tier 2
Weightmans LLP‘s well-established offering services a broad and diversified client base, which spans large corporates, owner-managed businesses, local authorities, and private individuals. The manufacturing and education sectors are ones in which the team is seeing an increasing level of instruction. Co-heads Sarah Conroy and Andrew Roberts are both noted for their expertise in commercial contract disputes; under their guidance, the team is renowned for being ‘able to handle the most complex and challenging litigation‘. Principal associate Michelle Connor completes the roster of recommended practitioners.Practice head(s):
Sarah Conroy
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Sarah Conroy: strategic and practical.’
‘Weightmans are easy to approach, friendly and extremely professional.’
‘Sarah Conroy is outstanding. She is thoughtful, proactive, excellent at drafting, and is a pleasure to work with. Most importantly, she has excellent judgement and is able to focus on what really matters in a case. Sarah is one of the most impressive lawyers I have ever worked with.’
‘Weightmans practice provides a tailor made approach, they listen to the customer needs and allocate the appropriate level of resources for an effective and efficient service. They are open, clear and transparent, collaborative and work co-operatively with other practices (including in foreign jurisdictions) to ensure the best outcome for the client.’
‘The lead contact for our case is Andrew Roberts, he is approachable, clear and he puts the interest of the client first. His advice is always balanced, simple to understand and hugely helpful. The thorough analysis of the specifics of the case results in a detailed yet straight forward recommendation and option for the customer.’
‘Sarah Conroy has been particularly helpful in supporting our business in complex litigation, she has always been available and has arranged for further support and guidance whenever required.’
‘Top litigation team. Able to handle the most complex and challenging litigation.’
‘Sarah Conroy is a highly experienced and talented litigator, able to fight cases effectively and efficiently.’
Key clients
Northside Truck & Van Limited
Ventcroft Limited
Gentoo Group Limited
Empower Housing Association Limited
Liverpool City Council
Sovini Property Services Limited
Merseyside Scaffolding Limited
University of Liverpool
Landmarc Support Services Limited
Bertazzoni S.p.A
EOC UK Limited
Anglesey County Council
Kirkby (Tyres) Limited
Staffordshire County Council
Work highlights
- Acted for Northside Truck and Van throughout their successful defence of High Court proceedings brought against them by Green GRP Logistics.
Employment Tier 2
Weightmans LLP is noted for representing clients before the Supreme Court, Employment Tribunal, and Employment Appeal Tribunal, often regarding complex discrimination claims. The team also advises on redundancies and restructurings, TUPE transfers, and the employment aspects of corporate, commercial and real estate transactions. Emlyn Williams is highly regarded for his work on whistleblowing and discrimination matters. Lee Rogers and Jon Gregson were both promoted to partner in May 2021, with Rogers specialising in large-scale restructures and industrial relations, while Gregson is highly experienced in complex Employment Tribunal litigation. Sophie Fulwell made principal associate in August 2021.Practice head(s):
Nick Newman
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Team at Weightmans is accessible. The service we get is exceptional. The team is very personable as well as professional.’
‘The team knows our sector and T&C’s well. This makes the advisory process efficient.’
‘Pragmatic. They understand the nature of the queries that crop up in the day to day employment environment.’
‘Very extensive knowledge base cut across key areas of employment with a practical insight to our operating environment. HR Rely service is excellent value both in terms of initial response and billing and the accompanying web provision and timely email/blog updates.’
‘Very client-focused and well organised as a team in terms of continuity, access and consistency. Lee Rogers has an outstanding wide-ranging knowledge base and is an action-orientated excellent advocate as well.’
‘Weightmans has experts in every area of law – employment, pensions, criminal, immigration etc. so they are the ‘go to’ solicitor’s firm for our business. The advice is affordable, commercial and meets our business needs each time.’
‘Great team with pragmatic solutions to tricky cases. Excellent technology and reporting on volume litigation.’
Key clients
NHS England & NHS Improvement
The Lowry Hotel Limited
Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
Swissport GB Ltd
Royal Mail Group Ltd
Torus Group
The Placement Group
BARDOC Limited
The Merchant Taylors’ School
Hilary Meredith Solicitors Limited
Beacon GP Care Limited
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Liverpool Hope University
Regenda Group
The Active learning Trust (Multi Academy Trust)
Hope University
Chief Constable of Merseyside Police
Office of Nuclear Regulation
Colas Ltd
Exertis UK Ltd
Certas Energy UK Ltd
University of Liverpool
Work highlights
- Advised Royal Mail Group Ltd on its successful defence of the case of Efobi v Royal Mail Group Ltd in the Supreme Court.
- Advised Swissport GB Ltd on Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and a redundancy exercise which resulted in over 3,200 redundancies.
- Represented Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust in its successful defence of the case of Sasha Burn v Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust [2021] EWHC 1674 (QB).
Employment > Pensions Tier 2
Weightmans LLP advises employers, trustees, and pension providers, as well as clients in local and central government on all pensions-related matters, including winding up of pension schemes and risk management. Practice head Mark Poulston advises on risk reduction projects, pensions disputes, and pension-related matters concerning corporate transactions. Jane Marshall is highly experienced in the intersection of employment and pensions law, covering areas such as education sector pensions and public sector scheme changes and outsourcing.Practice head(s):
Mark Poulston
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Weightmans very clearly have a deep understanding of the legal aspects of pension schemes and have provided us with advice that proved to be perfectly accurate and beneficial. The advice given was in respect of the closure of a DB scheme which was handled very professionally and without controversy. The approach recommended to us was novel which resulted in a quick and cost-effective closure process.’
‘The clarity of advice, both written and oral, was excellent. Legal mumbo-jumbo was avoided wherever possible and the supporting documentation well prepared. I take this public opportunity to thank Mark Poulston for his guidance and clear explanations.’
Key clients
The Scheme Advisory Board for the Firefighters’ Pension Scheme
Equality and Human Rights Commission
Southbank Centre Limited
Surrey Police
Sussex Police
British Insurance Brokers’ Association
Colas Limited
N Brown Pension Trustees Limited
Bridgewater School
The Post Office
The Football Pools Limited
London Business School
Swissport GB Limited
Michael Weinig UK Limited
Anixter Limited
Work highlights
- Advised The National Scheme Advisory Board (SAB) of the Firefighters’ Pension Scheme on the current Firefighters’ Pension Schemes and helped shape future changes to the schemes.
- Advised numerous independent schools on withdrawal from the Teachers’ Pension Scheme and the future provision of defined contribution pensions to teaching staff.
- Advising several employer clients on the potential termination of their trust based occupational pension scheme and the implementation of a defined contribution scheme for future pension provision.
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 2
The specialist private client team at Weightmans LLP advises business owners on general succession planning, including the establishment of lifetime trusts. Practice head Richard Bate is a key contact regarding estate and trust planning, as well as FICs and tax mitigation matters, while Sarah Louise Walker and associate Lorraine Wilson focus on complex trust administration matters. Principal associate Sally Cook is another name of note. John-Paul Dennis departed in January 2022.
Practice head(s):
Richard Bate; Sarah Louise Walker
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very professional. Excellent communication skills & knowledge. I particularly valued their personal service.’
‘Very responsive, accurate in the understanding of law that prevails, works to clients requests and always available. Having dealt with a number of large Manchester law firms the service I get with the team at Weightmans is what I really need.’
‘Richard Bate was perfect for our requirements without a doubt, dealing with difficult issues I had to resolve, so I’m very pleased we moved to Weightmans.’
‘Sally Cook gives really good support and is very responsive, took a weight of work of my shoulders and is someone I can rely on.’
‘The people in the team are lovely, friendly and sympathetic at what is a difficult time for many.’
‘Lorraine Wilson has been brilliant, always available and able to deal with what has been a complex estate.’
Public sector > Local government Tier 2
A broad spectrum of support services to local authorities is at the core of Weightmans LLP’s practice, ranging from regeneration projects and property transactions to procurement issues. The team also has capabilities in issues of child care and adult social care. Simon Goacher leads the team, with significant experience on governance and conduct investigations involving members of local authorities. Key practitioner Vincent King is an experienced projects and commercial lawyer, while former BLM public sector head Paul Tarne joined the team in summer 2022.Practice head(s):
Simon Goacher
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
York City Council
Liverpool City Council
LLG (Lawyers in Local Government)
Rutland County Council
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council
Rotherham MBC
EM Lawshare
North West Legal Consortium
St Helens Borough Council
Work highlights
- Advising Hertford County Council in the drafting and procurement of their £150m, five year Smart Highways framework.
- Acting for Cheshire Fire & Rescue Services in relation to their £24m co-location of the ambulance service, fire service and police services into a single headquarters superhub together with the sale of the exiting sites,
- Acting for Flintshire County Council in relation to their £35m redevelopment of Theatr Clwyd, a public arts theatre in Mold.
Real estate > Commercial property: Liverpool Tier 2
The commercial property team at Weightmans LLP takes on a wide range of matters, working with clients across sectors including energy, retail and leisure. Andrea Steventon acts for clients in the manufacturing and industrial sector, from multinational developers to smaller regional businesses. Karl Jackson co-heads the team with Steventon, specialising in city centre regeneration projects as well as regular landlord and tenant matters. Clive Bleasdale brings a wealth of experience to the team, acting for Liverpool City Council on major development projects, and former practice head Janice Weatherly continues to provide services to education institutions, owner managed businesses and private healthcare clients.Practice head(s):
Andrea Steventon; Karl Jackson
Other key lawyers:
Clive Bleasdale; Janice Weatherly; David Tabinor
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable in the residential sector, especially residential public sector opportunities.’
‘Karl Jackson – extremely knowledgeable. Works hard to find solutions to problems.’
‘A sound commercial approach to all real estate matters without being bogged down by slavishly following precedents, and always mindful of getting the job done to the client’s time frame. Cost is important, and they provide greater value for money than their competitors. It is usually partners who do the work, and is not handed down to junior fee earners who may soon get out of their depth. Continuity is important to us, and builds a strong bond of trust.’
‘Janice Weatherly handles the work herself, and knows and understands our needs and requirements. Very commercial and sees all the angles, yet providing the best solution to close the deal.’
Key clients
Barratt Homes
St Helens Borough Council
MHA London
Bruntwood
Liverpool City Council
Eccleston Homes Ltd
Escape to Freight Island
Landmark
Liverpool Media Academy
Thomas Jones & Sons (Liverpool) Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for St Helens Borough Council in connection with site assembly in connection with a major regeneration scheme for the town centre including all due diligence in connection with the acquisition of substantial properties within the town centre.
- Advising MHA London on the purchase of the Debenhams building at the Moor in Sheffield from the M&G Property Portfolio.
- Acting on behalf of FTSE 100 housebuilder client in the acquisition of land acquired from Homes England at Cottam, Preston for 117 dwellings
Real estate > Planning and environment Tier 2
At Weightmans LLP, Simon Colvin leads on environmental and energy sector work, as well as heading up the firm’s own ESG group; according to one client, his approach to these areas is ‘constantly praised by directors and senior leaders in the business‘. The team also fields infrastructure and urban extension specialist Lee Gordon, who is able to ‘get to grips with the detail at the same time as taking a strategic overview‘, and regularly advises on the most complex residential projects both locally and nationally. Public sector mandates, including contentious issues, are also frequently handled by the department.
Practice head(s):
Simon Colvin; Lee Gordon
Other key lawyers:
Elaine Field
Testimonials
‘Simon Colvin provides clear and concise legal advice and recommendations with a clear commercial angle and is constantly praised by directors and senior leaders in the business about his approach and way that he handles complex legal matters. Simon is also clearly very passionate about this area of law and the journey to net zero and provides added insight and information in those areas.’
‘I think Weightmans are an excellent firm with a strong market presence in all planning and environment work particularly Development Consent Orders and Compulsory Purchase Orders.’
‘I want to commend Lee Gordon – what impressed me most was his ability to get to grips with the detail at the same time as taking a strategic overview of the client’s objectives and how to achieve them. He did what I can only describe as a brilliant job. What’s more, he was a pleasure to work with, and I know how highly the client valued his work.’
Key clients
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Welsh Government
Barratt & David Wilson Homes
Northern Powergrid
Thornton Hall Hotel Limited
Safetykleen
Certas Energy
Severn Trent Water
Vinci Plc and Taylor Woodrow
Mariana Waste Management Ltd
London Fire Commissioners
Bolsover District Council
S Norton & Co
Charnwood Borough Council
5th Leisure Limited
Bolton Council
Cumbria County Council and Eden District Council
Cheshire East Council
Ford Motor Company Ltd
Anglesey Aluminium Ltd/Rio Tinto
Viridor Waste Management
Chiesi Ltd
BOAL Ltd
AIG
Castle Green Developments Ltd
Wirral Metropolitan Borough Council
Royal Mail Group
Terracycle Inc
Zipp World Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising Liverpool City Region Combined Authority on the promotion of the Mersey Tidal Energy Project, a multi-billion pound major energy project which is a key priority for the Combined Authority and the Mayor.
- Advising Bolton Council on all planning aspects of the Rivington Chase mixed-use regeneration project, which is to include 1,700 dwellings on one the largest brownfield sites in the country which is part owned by the Council.
- Representing a North West local authority in a sensitive matter concerning a nuisance claim relating to leachate emanating from a historic landfill site.
Real estate > Social housing Tier 2
Fielding a team that is ‘always on the ball and knows the minute detail of every claim’, Weightmans LLP acts for a growing roster of housing associations with key examples including Clarion Housing Group, Gentoo and Midland Heart. The team handles the full spectrum of public sector and social housing work spanning real estate issues, litigation, employment work and financing mandates. Sian Evans leads the group, which benefits from the expertise of principal associate Matthew Wilson .Practice head(s):
Sian Evans
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Its the people for me. I regularly spoke on the telephone with the solicitors from Weightmans, they were dealing with numerous cases for me and they were always on the ball and knew the minute detail of every claim they were dealing with.’
‘Matthew Wilson in particular knew the finer details of every claim he looked after for us. He actively tries to understand building pathology issues and so regularly challenges the other sides statements.’
‘Weightmans’ social housing team provide a service which is unique by combining a down-to-earth approach with an exceptional level of knowledge and a wealth of experience. The whole team can be trusted with cases of the utmost complexity. They are able to quickly get to the heart of the issues in a case and explain it to clients in a straightforward matter.’
‘Sian Evans (Partner) is a very good litigator. She quickly grapples with the legal issues in a case and distils the strengths and weaknesses to enable her to form a clear strategy on how to achieve her client’s aims. Commercially, Sian is astute and pragmatic and understands the need to ensure that litigation is conducted proportionately. From a client care perspective, she quickly instils confidence and takes away the worry from her clients – they immediately know that they will be in good hands.’
‘Matthew Wilson (Principal Associate) is an outstanding member of the team. Matthew has a wealth of experience in disrepair litigation in particular and displays a depth of knowledge which puts him way ahead of his competitors. At an early stage, he focuses on gathering the necessary evidence to put his client in the best possible position at trial. He is very good at managing client’s expectations and putting them at ease in the litigation process.’
‘Sian Evans has had a long career in the social housing sector and continues to be respected as a leader in that specialism. Key other team members include Matthew Wilson.’
Key clients
Midland Heart
Riverside
Clarion Housing Group
Magenta Living
Jigsaw Homes Group
Gentoo
Sovini
The Guinness Partnership
Liverpool Jewish Housing Association
Harbour Light Assisted Living
Work highlights
- Acting for a PRS subsidiary of a Registered Provider client in a number of acquisitions of existing tenanted stock and new build stock to assist with building a PRS portfolio and block management programme.
- Instructed to represent Midland Heart in a long-standing claim for housing disrepair against a social landlord by a tenant.
- Instructed to advise on the securitisation of some of One Vision Housing Limited’s housing stock with Yorkshire Building Society.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2
Weightmans LLP is instructed by vendors and purchasers of software systems within the private and public sectors, including niche software providers, major video games, NHS bodies, insurance organisations and police authorities. The Manchester-based Sean Crotty leads the team and is recognised for his expertise in data protection. Sarah Walton, also head of the firm’s national corporate, commercial and wills, trusts & estates teams, handles corporate finance matters for technology companies from the Liverpool office. John Schorah is noted for his work within the video games industry. Victoria Robertson departed the firm in April 2022.Practice head(s):
Sean Crotty
Other key lawyers:
Sarah Walton; John Schorah
Key clients
Apadmi Limited
Insurance Fraud Bureau
Swissport GB Limited
West of England Combined Authority
The Open University
The shareholders of Frontier Telecom Ltd
Mercarto Limited
British Transport Police
DSW Ventures
Surrey and Sussex Police
Oak Engage Limited
PW Whisper
Side (UK) Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Apadmi on a contract matters with their clients for the development of digital solutions, in particular mobile app development, UX/UI design and system integration.
- Advised a major public body in relation to Department for Transport funded project to provide a Future Transport Zone, including the creation of a Mobility as a Service (MaaS) Solution which will essentially be a public transport app.
- Advised a world leading global airline and transport logistics provider in relation to a major Data Protection compliance and contractual nexus project regarding the handling and processing of sensitive customer information.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment Tier 2
Weightmans LLP is recognised for its work in relation to interactive video games and celebrity image licencing. The practice is also intructed by clients within the education, funding and pharmaceutical sectors. Practice head Sean Crotty handles a wide range of issues, including major video game development contracts, licensing matters, image rights and recording agreements. Managing partner John Schorah offers extensive experience in corporate transactional and commercial contract work, particularly within interactive video game industry. Principal associate Tom Trowhill, also manager of the national commercial team, splits his time between the London and Liverpool offices. Commercial specialist Victoria Robertson departed for Trowers & Hamlins LLP in April 2022.Practice head(s):
Sean Crotty
Other key lawyers:
John Schorah; Tom Trowhill
Key clients
Playground Games Limited
Side (UK) Limited
Liverpool Media Academy Ltd
Nomad Games Limited
Apadmi Limited
The Open University
Novarama Technology SRL
AXM Venture Capital Limited
Secret Sorcery Limited
Sounding Sweet Limited
Motor Insurers’ Bureau
Mercato Limited
Chiesi Ltd
Sussex & Surrey Police
Work highlights
- Advised Side (UK) on a variety of voice talent and motion capture agreements with high profile actors in relation to a number of high quality titles (primarily AAA).
- Advised on key strategic arrangements for Liverpool Media Academy.
- Provided corporate/commercial advice, contract review and negotiations as well as governance and strategic support to Apadmi Limited. Advised on various commercial agreement in 2021, ranging from app development and maintenance agreements, licensing and professional services agreements to tender and framework agreements.
North West > Transport Tier 2
Weightmans LLP‘s core areas of strength include regulatory road transport, public inquiries, operator licence compliance, motoring offences, DVSA investigations and prosecution. The firm also has a road regulatory team that offers comprehensive advice to clients, including advising clients on commercial fleet risk and representation of drivers involved in fatal collisions. The transport and logistics practice is now led from London by Lili Oliver, a criminal regulatory specialist who joined the firm in mid-2021; key lawyers in the North West are primarily based in Liverpool, including marine specialist Mike Burns.Practice head(s):
Lili Oliver
Other key lawyers:
Mike Burns; David Holt
Key clients
First Group
National Express
Turners of Soham
Alstrom Transport
Go Ahead
Swissport GB Ltd
Tuffnells Parcels
Willis Towers Watson
AXA XL
Map Group UK
Work highlights
- Advising an operator investigated by the DVSA for punctuality concerns on its local bus services.
- Advising an Operator investigated by the DVSA for two separate incidents where wheels physically came off their vehicles, one resulting in a HGV flipping on the road. A short suspension was secured.
- Advising an Operator that was called before the Traffic Commissioner following a bridge strike to a Preliminary Hearing and conjoined Driver Conduct Hearing. The Traffic Commissioner accepted the firm’s submissions and took no action, including deciding not to issue a warning.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Newcastle Tier 2
Under the leadership of Duncan Reid, who ‘offers a very client centric service’, Weightmans’ corporate practice in Newcastle takes a sector-focused approach to its transactional work, excelling in the technology, finance, private equity and franchise arenas. Marc Allison is the key contact for corporate finance work and joint venture transactions, while Paul Wigham focuses on private equity investments, particularly those involving early-stage companies, and principal associate Kirsty Adamson is active in the financial services space.Practice head(s):
Duncan Reid
Other key lawyers:
Marc Allison; Paul Wigham; Kirsty Adamson: Nathan Bilton
Testimonials
‘Duncan Reid offers a very client centric service and is well supported by his team. Confident, commercial advice without any unnecessary defensive lawyering!’
‘Nathan Bilton – extremely responsive, quickly understands the challenge from your perspective and delivers a solution. Nice guy too!’
Key clients
Business Growth Fund (BGF)
Bluetree Design & Print Limited
Perwyn Advisors UK Limited
HiComply Limited
Crafter’s Companion Limited/Sara Davies
Camerons Brewery Limited
Northstar Ventures
Explore Wealth Limited
Maven Capital Partners
Building Design Partnership Limited
Total Recycling Services
J & B Recycling
Energize Recruitment
Redu Group
Zerolight
Datum360
Palringo
Broadband Satellite Services
N21 t/a Silverbean
Oak Engage
Work highlights
- Acted for the Business Growth Fund on the sale of its investment in Arc Trinova Limited to Permira Private Equity backed Quotient.
- Advised Perwyn on its investment into LRG Online, trading as Secret Sales.
- Acted for the shareholders of J & B Recycling Limited, including BGF, on the sale to Spanish company, Urbaser.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Newcastle Tier 2
With ‘a refreshing willingness to collaborate’, Weightmans’ Newcastle practice sits as part of the firm’s wider litigation North team, which acts for national and global corporations in data theft and fraud issues, boardroom disputes, contract litigation and claims in the energy and TMT sectors. Andrew Cox leads the group from the firm’s Birmingham office; key names on the ground in Newcastle include regional office head and fraud specialist Christopher Graham, principal associate Jill Dalkin and Anthony Rance, who splits his time between Newcastle and Leeds.Practice head(s):
Andrew Cox
Other key lawyers:
Christopher Graham; Jill Dalkin; Anthony Rance; Mark Reeves
Testimonials
‘Anthony Rance (partner)- superb on IT and employment disputes – including urgent injunction applications in these areas; very effective solicitor who always gets results for his clients; a hands-on partner; excellent knowledge of commercial court procedures.’
‘Jill Dalkin has been (and still is) exceptional in every possible way. Her professionalism and thoroughness to detail is outstanding. Always a warm welcome, always ‘on the ball’, fair and practical approach with modest yet very strong determination for the best results for her clients, not portraying any degree of overconfidence or giving one hope of the impossible yet explaining the options and making one comfortable with relevant factors.’
‘Their willingness to collaborate has been refreshing.’
‘Chris Graham – very experienced litigator with substantial experience and knowledge.’
‘Mark Reeves – impressive operator.’
‘I worked with Anthony Rance who helped us deliver an exceptional result. Anthony was creative, detail oriented, responsive and proactive throughout the process.’
Key clients
Northern Powergrid
Tanfield Group Plc
Crafter’s Companion
Millbrook Proving Ground Limited
Satcom Global Limited
David Allen Chartered Accountants
Leighton Corporation Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for AIM-listed Tanfield Group plc in a multi-million pound professional negligence claim against a major UK firm and a US-based firm.
- Advising a client with significant shareholdings in numerous property investment companies in a dispute worth £10m+.
- Acting for one half of a family in a shareholder dispute concerning a deadlocked family-owned business.
Employment Tier 2
Praised for its ‘first rate’ technical knowledge, the Newcastle practice at Weightmans acts for a diverse client base of local, national and international corporates, senior executives, charities and individuals. The team regularly cooperates with corporate colleagues on complex transactions and also has particular expertise in post termination restrictive covenants litigation. Christopher Graham is experienced in representing clients before the employment tribunal, employment appeal tribunal and the High Court while Newcastle and Leeds-based principal associate Kerry Waters undertakes contentious and non-contentious work.Practice head(s):
Christopher Graham
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very experienced team with a background in a number of areas and a pragmatic approach.’
‘People are easy to deal with and as well as providing sound legal advice they work with the client on a human basis. I have seen them being very good in helping inexperienced and nervous clients through the process.’
‘Broad capability in range of specialities and geography. The practice acts as a partner rather than just a service when there is a need for legal support. This means that issues don’t escalate. We are also supported to build our own capability.’
‘I have worked with Christopher Graham for c15 years over which time we have built a relationship of trust and candour. Honest advice and guidance covering various scenarios where necessary is very useful. Kerry Waters has also been a good support to us.’
‘A very strong and capable team who fully understand the needs of clients. They are knowledgeable, approachable, easily contactable and adapted to the changing world with Covid. They always make the client feel as though they are the sole focus of their attention.’
‘Have worked with Christopher Graham on several occasions. He has many years’ experience and his down-to-earth and robust approach demonstrates his understanding of clients and their needs. He is commercially minded, tactical and has a brilliant memory for detail and impressive knowledge of employment law. It is always possible to get in touch with him directly and he always clearly explains everything. Have always been glad to have him in my corner!’
‘Their technical knowledge is first rate but it is their ability to take this and guide you through what can be difficult waters that makes their work so good.’’
‘Chris Graham is very responsive, pragmatic and commercial in his approach.’
Key clients
Federal Signal Inc
Stewart Reader
Bluetree Design and Print Limited
Adrian Shaw
AIG UK Limited
The shareholders of Frontier Telecom Ltd
J & B Recycling Limited
Building Design Partnership Limited
Work highlights
- Advised a US Parent company with a UK subsidiary on the closure of one of its operations in the UK. Instructions came from the parent company in the US and so detailed local guidance and assistance was needed throughout.
- Advised an individual who had claims for unfair and wrongful dismissal against his previous employer, South Tyneside Council (STC).
- Advised on the employment aspects of Bluetree Design and Print Limited’s acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Kingsbury Press Holdings Limited.
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 2
Weightmans counts clearing banks, building societies, asset financiers, venture capitalists, private equity companies and borrowers on its client roster, and takes a cross-departmental approach to financing work. The team assists with a broad range of issues including financing transactions, crowd funding issues and restructurings, and also benefits from the finance expertise in the firm’s property group. Corporate lead Duncan Reid heads up the group, and Paul Wigham advises on venture capital mandates.Practice head(s):
Duncan Reid
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Handelsbanken
Santander
Lloyds Bank
Development Bank of Wales
Lok Developments
Northstar Ventures
Maven Capital Partners
BGF plc
The Morton Group
DSW Ventures
Work highlights
- Acted for Oak Engage Limited on a significant investment from Maven Capital Partners and Northstar Ventures.
- Acted for Perwyn on its investment into LRG Online, trading as Secret Sales.
- Acted for Hicomply on a significant investment from BGF plc.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant Tier 2
Employment > Health and safety Tier 2
Weightmans LLP leverages a strong reputation regionally and nationally and is hailed as ‘excellent‘. It fields lawyers adept in different aspects of environmental and business crime, acting on both the defence and prosecution of matters such as trading standards, health and safety, fire and food. In addition, it defends a significant number of commercial fleet risk clients. Andrew Brammer’s experience spans inquests, formal health and safety investigations and prosecutions as well as health and safety compliance. Associate James Muller and principal associate Tom Boulton are also lauded for their work in this area.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is really on top of its game when it comes to this challenging and sensitive area of law. James Muller is a consummate professional and has guided the company and the individuals involved through a very tricky and sensitive situation. He is extremely knowledgeable, personable and has absolutely raised the bar in my expectations of legal services going forward’.
‘In Tom Boulton and James Muller, the team has a strong associate level regulatory practice in the Midlands. Tom Boulton has a calm and level-headed approach towards his cases which provides his clients with reassurance in challenging circumstances’.
‘In addition to being very knowledgeable the team was very personable and able to tailor its vocabulary and approach to the knowledge/experience of the group/individual, and provide appropriate advice and guidance as necessary’.
‘The overall approach and consistent expertise level provided throughout the team. Even though you knew that yours was only one of a number of cases they would be working on in different teams, there was a consistent message throughout, and it felt as though your case was always the main focus of their work’.
‘This practice has an in-depth knowledge of health and safety issues across a wide range of industry sectors and includes people who can bring insight from having worked for both the defence and the prosecution’.
‘Tom Boulton has always been very focussed on helping his clients get the best advice they could so that they understand the challenges facing them and can act from a position of informed choice. I was impressed that Tom went beyond providing the traditional provision of high quality legal advice following incidents. He also identified areas where clients could improve their practice and manage risks better to avoid future incidents or to mitigate their impact. In doing so, he sought input from relevant engineering risk management experts so that his client got the best possible combination of engineering and legal advice’.
‘The team at Weightmans is quintessentially professional at all times and always demonstrates empathy and consideration to clients when engaging with them. Andrew Brammer has guided and mentored me through a number of incidents and issues and this has led to my education and understanding of my role’.
‘ I have travelled with Andrew through three different businesses. I have worked with and he is always my ‘go to’ solicitor. The reason for this is that he is simply trustworthy! A consummate professional he has a cool persona that is infectious at times of stress’.
Work highlights
Private client > Family: Birmingham Tier 2
Weightmans LLP's team leverages both a national and cross-border reach and is led by Manchester-based Emma Collins . It has been expanding its national mediation practice and has particular expertise in nuptial agreements, the treatment of inherited wealth and other issues such as onshore and offshore trusts, pre-marriage acquired assets and co-habitation issues. Consultant Fiona O’Sullivan is a key figure who advises on the financial aspects of relationship breakdown meanwhile principal associate Tania Derrett-Smith is well-versed in financial remedy proceedings and children matters.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Fiona O’Sullivan is an experienced and personable solicitor; she is collaborative and pragmatic. Tania Derrett-Smith is a friendly and practical lawyer who wants to reach a good outcome for her client but doesn’t unnecessarily inflame things‘.
‘A diverse and strong team, up to speed with the latest developments and excellent client service. Tania goes the extra mile for her clients and always makes herself available. Her cases are impeccably and thoroughly prepared and she gives robust yet clear advice giving her clients realistic expectations‘.
‘My experience is that it is a very client focused firm. I have worked with Tania Derrett-Smith on a number of cases. I have found her to offer clients high quality practical advice. She is thorough and conscientious in her preparation of cases and ensures all appropriate avenues are properly explored. I have found her to be very professional and easy to work’.
‘The team in Weightmans family department is highly proficient and well regarded. The lawyers provide advice at early stages about how to move swiftly and cost efficiently through the financial remedies process.; always with an eye on costs and proportionality without scrimping on high quality advice and representation. Tania Derrrett-Smith is a highly skilled and experienced practitioner, with high standards of client care; an absolute pleasure to work with’.
‘Fiona was excellent, and ensured that I understood what my options were‘.
‘Exceptional is the first word to mind that I would describe Weightmans team. Fiona O’Sullivan – I was met with friendliness , professionalism and a great knowledge of the law.’
‘Fiona O’Sullivan is an exceptional solicitor and her team helped me through an extremely difficult time in my life. From the first meeting with Fiona I felt a comfort that the next few months or should I say years I was in good hands. Fiona always showed me empathy when needed and professionalism at all times. I felt Fiona gave me 100% of her exceptional professional knowledge and time and this made me feel confident that I had made the right choice in choosing Weightmans’.
‘The lawyers give clear and professional advice as well as good quality representation. Fiona O’Sullivan is very wise and clever. Her client care skills are great. She adopts a measured approach to cases and nothing is too complex for her’.
Work highlights
Public sector > Health Tier 2
Weightmans LLP is especially known for its expertise in public inquiries. Beyond this, the team is experienced in judicial reviews, employment disputes, estates management and governance reviews. Mike Clifford is a specialist in joint ventures, due diligence projects and reorganisation activity. Deborah Bannister and Tony Yeaman focus on clinical negligence claims. Jasmine Armstrong has vast experience on GDPR and discriminatory claims, as well as clinical negligence matters.Practice head(s):
Deborah Bannister; Michael Clifford
Other key lawyers:
Tony Yeaman; Jasmine Armstrong; Melanie Isherwood; Sarah Hopwood
Testimonials
‘Have introduced claims analysis report, which compares claims data with peer organisations.’
‘Excellent relationship partners – previously Tony Yeaman and recently Jasmine Armstrong.’
Key clients
Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital NHS FT
University Hospitals of Birmingham NHS FT
University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS FT
Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHST
Royal British Legion
Broadspire
Community Integrated Care
Weight to Go Ltd
Summit Partners Ltd
Work highlights
- CQC prosecution for unsafe care and treatment pursued following review of emergency medicine review. Advised NHS trust Board throughout its improvement journey. Advised upon PACE responses, plea, sentencing and appeal. Ultimately the Magistrate accepted the deaths of 2 patients were associated with poor care and the trust was fined over £2m.
- Sale of CIC’s older people’s care home business EachStep Care, to Park Homes UK Limited. Comprising 15 care homes. Dealt with property, pensions, employment and commercial due diligence as well as negotiating the detailed terms of the sale and securing approval from English and Scottish Care Regulators and approval from 6 local authorities to the assignment of existing care contracts to Park Homes.
- High profile inquest following death of a teenager. The patient was known to mental health services but was lost to follow up. The patient advised a physiotherapist of suicidal thoughts and this was escalated to local authority, GP and a local mental health team. The patient ligatured. Safeguarding policies were reviewed and the Coroner accepted the improved systems and the trust avoided a PFD finding.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 2
Weightmans is ‘committed to really excellent client care’, providing a full service to a range of clients that includes public sector bodies, local authorities and blue chip corporates. Practice head David Lewis splits his time between Leeds and Liverpool and is a ‘stand out member’ who advises in corporate and gross negligence manslaughter investigations as well as sensitive jury inquests. Principal associate Anna Naylor is noted for her expertise in food safety matters.Practice head(s):
David Lewis
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The firm is committed to really excellent client care.’
‘Weightmans have a sensitive approach to the individuals at the heart of the decision making process in the commercial clients they act for. This is coupled with realistic and very competent advice.’
‘David Lewis is a stand out member of this firm. His intellectual ability to assess and assimilate large complex cases is second to none.’
‘Anna Naylor is excellent to work with and our client feels in safe hands when she is instructed on a case. She is knowledgeable and professional; quick to respond to any queries and sends regular updating putting everyone at ease. ‘
‘The team has striven to get to know us as a business, not just as a client with an individual case to respond to.’
‘Approach has been non judgmental, seeking first to understand issues before offering counsel on strategies and approaches to adopt.’
Key clients
Jaguar Land Rover
North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Zurich
AXA XL
AIG
Wirral Borough Council
Lancashire County Council
British Transport Police
Camerons Brewery
Staffordshire County Council
Damasco Ltd
Postpack Ltd
Premum Care Ltd.
Cheshire East Council
East Riding District Council
Work highlights
- Representing North West Ambulance Service at the Manchester Bombing Inquiry where it is a Core Participant.
- Acting for Jaguar Land Rover in relation to a range of health and safety matters.
- Advising Zurich and its insureds in relation to a number of health and safety issues, including acting for public bodies who have been made interested persons concerning inquests into the deaths of adults and children who have died in tragic circumstances.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant Tier 2
Weightmans‘ personal injury team is jointly led by ‘effective and tough negotiator’ Helen Brown and seasoned specialist Blaise Smith. The group acts for several of the UK’s leading insurers and has experience in casualty, disease, motor, public authority and large loss claims. Jim Byard is an occupational disease claims expert, while Lindsay Staddon has extensive experience in catastrophic injury claims.Practice head(s):
Blaise Smith; Helen Brown
Other key lawyers:
Jim Byard; Lindsay Staddon
Testimonials
‘The Yorkshire and Humber team have the combined benefit of being part of a national firm, but with local knowledge. They have a very loyal following.’
‘Helen Brown is a really effective and tough negotiator.’
‘A large firm of defendant PI/insurance lawyers, its department in Leeds has a number of high quality players.’
‘Blaise Smith brings an interesting and unique intellectual slant to large claims, finding angles to exploit that others would miss.’
‘Lindsay Staddon brings a thorough and balanced approach to the careful organisation of her work.’
Key clients
Ageas
AIG
Covea
Durham County Council
East Riding of Yorkshire Council
Leeds City Council
Markel
Newcastle City Council
Tesco Underwriting
Zurich
Work highlights
- Representing Ageas in relation to a fatal accident involving the collapse of a chimney which fell onto an adjoining bungalow killing one occupant and seriously injuring the other.
Real estate > Planning Tier 2
Weightmans is noted for its expertise in large-scale energy infrastructure projects and residential developments, as well as for its work on compulsory purchase orders and challenges to judicial reviews. Praised for his ‘ability to give advice on complex issues in a practical and accessible way’, practice leader Lee Gordon has experience in infrastructure projects and residential development schemes. Bob Pritchard left to Shoosmiths LLP in April 2021, while Michelle Spark joined from DWF in October 2021 and focuses on the planning aspects of regeneration and infrastructure projects.Practice head(s):
Lee Gordon
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Responsive and easy to work with, excellent breadth of experience across the sector.’
‘Lee Gordon is approachable and has the ability to present advice on complex issues in a practical and accessible way.’
‘The real estate team has a high level of expertise. They are able to deal with technical queries quickly and simply. Their straightforward advice can prevent matters from escalating unnecessarily and they are all easy to deal with, personable, sensible and responsive.’
Key clients
Northern Powergrid
Welsh Government
City of York Council
Harlow & Gilston Garden Town partner authorities
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Royal Mail Group
Prospect Estates Limited
Leeds City Council
Thornton Hall Hotel
Casey Group Limited
Nottinghamshire County Council
Gloucestershire County Council, Cotswold District Council and Tewkesbury Borough Council
Barratt & David Wilson Homes
Charnwood Borough Council
5th Leisure Limited
Bolton Council
Cumbria County Council and Eden District Council
Work highlights
- Advising Liverpool City Region Combined Authority on the promotion of the Mersey Tidal Energy Project.
- Advising Harlow & Gilston Garden Town Partners in relation to delivery of Harlow Garden Town, a project which comprises 23,000 dwellings and infrastructure, including new river crossings and sustainable transport corridors.
- Advising City of York Council regarding the promotion of a proposed CPO and planning aspects for the £75m York Outer Ring Road Dualling Scheme.
Private client > Court of protection Tier 3
Weightmans LLP and RadcliffesLeBrasseur have recently completed a merger. The combined group acts on a wide range of health and welfare as well as property and affairs matters for a large number of local authorities, NHS trusts, private health and social care providers. In addition it recently added Robert Rushton to its ranks from Ward Hadaway LLP.Practice head(s):
Simon Goacher; Richard Jolly; Richard Bate; Sarah Louise Walker; Jonathan Shankland; Andrew Parsons
Other key lawyers:
Robert Rushton; Morris Hill
Testimonials
‘Weightmans went above and beyond in its interaction with myself for a case I held as part of my role as a social worker within the County Council’.
‘Weightmans practice was very person centred and was able to excellently support and represent both myself, and the person to a very high standard. This resulted in a positive outcome’.
‘Morris Hill was really experienced in acting for a local authority and was able to guide me through something which was incredibly different to my own role and made the whole experience a lot easier’.
Key clients
Kirklees MBC
Knowsley MBC
Carmarthenshire County Council
Derby City Council
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Rutland County council
Derbyshire County Council
Wirral MBC
East Riding of Yorkshire Council
Bolton CCG
Projects, energy and natural resources > Water Tier 3
Weightmans LLP offers clients a range of water-related services, advising on regulatory and competition matters and assisting water and sewerage companies in meeting their statutory duties. Team leader Clive Mottram, who joined the firm in 2021, is a water specialist with over 35 years of in-house and private practice experience. He is an expert on water legislation and advises major water companies on their powers and duties with regard to regulators and customers. Environmental law expert Simon Colvin heads the energy and utilities team and advises companies as to their duties in regard to environmental protection regulations and enforcement actions. Navdip Wilson is recommended for contentious matters.Practice head(s):
Clive Mottram; Simon Colvin
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
“They have a depth of knowledge in what is a specialised area of the law. Easy to work with and provide considered and commercial advice.”
“Clive Mottram is a real expert in this area, which is something of a rarity. His advice is always comprehensive and client-friendly, easily digestible by non-lawyers. His depth of experience is clear and he is always mindful of the wider picture, especially important in a heavily regulated sector such as water.”
“The team at Weightmans are easily accessible and approachable. Weightmans are there when you need them and get involved in all areas of an investigation. They align with our green approach, offering innovative solutions to the reduction of their carbon footprint.”
“The team at Weightmans are all focused and dedicated to the support of our claims handling function. Nav Wilson is our main point of contact and is fully supportive and committed to our claims handling approach.”
Key clients
Severn Trent Water
South Staffordshire Water
Pennon Group
Water UK
Gallagher Developments
Taylor Woodrow
Clarion Housing
North Lincolnshire Counsel
Peel Ports Group
Certas Energy Ltd
Real estate > Residential property Tier 3
Weightmans LLP handles the full array of high-end residential property matters for owner-occupation, investment and development by UK and offshore clients with particular expertise in leasehold enfranchisement. Practice head Karen Mayne is well-regarded for her work in this area. Clients include landed estates, high-net-worth owners, occupiers, investors and property companies.Practice head(s):
Karen Mayne
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Liverpool Tier 3
At Weightmans LLP, corporate and commercial work is overseen by Seray Kitchingman and Tom Trowhill, respectively. The firm continues to be known for its private company M&A work and is increasingly making a name for itself in cross-border mandates. Competition law expert Laurence Pritchard and managing partner John Schorah are both recommended, as is principal associate Michael Murphy.Practice head(s):
Seray Kitchingman; Tom Trowhill
Other key lawyers:
Roland Hutchins; Laurence Pritchard; Michael Murphy; Sean Crotty; John Schorah
Testimonials
‘Weightmans has consistently provided the right resource at the right time helping us to make the right decisions to both move the business forward and mitigate the risks. The commercial advice they offer us is exactly that, commercial. We do not operate in a world of black and white and the partners and associates who are dedicated to our account understand that.’
‘They truly understand what it means to be an advisor to a business. Whilst they understand we plan ahead, there are always challenges that need to be faced at a moment’s notice and both Roland Hutchins and Tom Trowhill at Weightmans always make themselves available to take a Teams call, mobile call, face to face meeting and so on to ensure they keep helping us make the right decisions for the business.’
‘The team is very responsive and has an in-depth knowledge of our business in the UK. M&A and other corporate matters are dealt with swiftly and with good insights.’
‘Roland Hutchins is very responsive and eager to help also outside of normal business hours. Very knowledgeable in corporate and banking matters.’
‘Very responsive and able to work to tight timelines. Good use of the wider team across the specialisms.’
‘Dedicated and professional, delivered a first class service under time pressure’
Key clients
OBG Pharmaceuticals Limited
Liverpool Media Academy (LMA)
Rösler UK Limited
Indigo Environmental Group
Duality Group
HealthNet Homecare Limited
EDP Health, Safety & Environment Consultants Ltd
Archibald Bathgate Group
Sutcliffe Engineers
MSIF
Goonhilly Earth Station Limited
Park Holdings Limited
S. Norton & Co. Limited
TuffX Processed Glass Limited
George Roberts (North West) Limited
Great Ideas Group Limited
Seventeen Group
BES
Dimerco
Manchester Fertility Clinic
Mersey Docks & Harbour Company
Merseytravel
Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Trust
St Helens & Knowsley NHS Trust
Cheshire East Council
Gwynedd Council
Liverpool City Council
Markel Insurance
Zurich Insurance
Coversure
Work highlights
- Advised the shareholders on the sale of the entire issued share capital of of GJC Holdings and Tuff X Processed Glass to Alcuin Capital Partners, and reinvestment by John Tierney to include a 40% stake in the buyer Project Crystal Topco.
- Advised HSS Hire Group on the commercial contracts relating to its sale of its heating, ventilation and air-conditioning business – All Seasons Hire – to Cross Rental Service.
- Advised Side on a variety of voice talent and motion capture agreements with high-profile actors in relation to a number of high quality titles.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Manchester Tier 3
Under the guidance of ‘great point person‘ Sarah Walton and owner-managed-business expert Paul Raftery, the corporate offering at Weightmans LLP assists clients from the technology, healthcare, utilities and waste, manufacturing and financial services sectors with the full gamut of transactions, including acquisitions, disposals, and venture capital deals. On the commercial side, Martin Vincent and Vincent King take the lead; in this sphere, the firm is particularly renowned for its work within the public sector.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Approachability, responsiveness and capability of solicitors. Above all, a level of confidence and trust in the advice received and commercial approach taken to get a deal over the line.’
‘The team at Weightmans have expertly facilitated delivery of instructions and they have adapted their usual procedures where possible to suit the client and encouraged feedback at all stages including regular update meetings. This has allowed large amounts of advice on discrete points to be provided, in-keeping with the client’s processes. To date, I have not experienced any other law firm to do this willingly for their clients.’
‘Sarah Walton is an exceptional lawyer with outstanding interpersonal skills who articulates the situation in a clear and precise way to achieve a great outcome for her clients.’
‘Sarah Walton is extremely easy to deal with. She is great point person and leads the team well. As a result they are very responsive and adapt well to short-term fluctuations/changes. Her advice is pragmatic and simple, but provides high confidence that she knows her stuff. Would highly recommend her and the team.’
‘They always make time for me and it always feels like I am their most important client. Turnaround is quick and efficient.’
‘Sarah Walton takes an excellent commercial approach.’
‘Weightmans were the first choice and have not disappointed.’
‘Clarified important details and distilled complex legal points to the client in a very accessible way.’
Key clients
Sonoco Limited
Bestway National Chemists Limited t/a Well Pharmacy
Sontay Limited
ANS Group Limited
DSW Venture Capital LLP
Community Integrated Care
TAC Holding Limited
Hoyer Petrolog UK Limited
Cybertill Limited
Great Ideas Group Limited
Robert Smethurst
Composites One LLC
Prosperity Investments and Developments Limited
Seventeen Group
Card Saver Limited
Manchester Fertility Services Limited
Mercarto Limited
Apadmi Limited
West Northamptonshire Council
Rutland County Council
Harrogate Borough Council
NHS Blood Transplant
London Fire Brigade
North West Ambulance Service
Northern Health Science Alliance
Copeland Borough Council
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Leicestershire County Council
Surrey Police
Sussex Police
Cambridgeshire Police
Lancashire Police
West Mercia Police
Cheshire East Council
Wigan Council
National Crime Agency
Locala Community Partnerships CIC
Be Caring
National Forest
Irwell Valley Housing Association
Mosscare St Vincent’s Housing Association
University of Cumbria
Southampton Solent University
University of London, Queen Mary
Lancaster University
University of Liverpool
University of Law
Manchester Metropolitan University
London Business School
Liverpool Hope University
The Open University
Work highlights
- Advising Global Capital Partners on an investment in Flint Global.
- Advised CIC on the sale of its older people’s care home business, EachStep Care, to Park Homes UK.
- Assisted Hoyer Petrolog with its joint venture and acquisition of 51% of Fuels Transport & Logistics from DHL Supply Chain.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Manchester Tier 3
Weightmans LLP‘s ‘exemplary‘ team is noted for its ‘unique ability to adapt and pivot in any situation‘. Manchester office head Carole Spiller brings a particular expertise in professional negligence claims to her role. Corporates, owner-managed businesses, companies, entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals particularly value Damian Carter‘s provision of ‘a cool head in a crisis‘, while Richard Corran is singled out by one client for his capacity ‘to get the best possible outcome in any given situation‘. In May 2021, the group was further strengthened by the arrival of principal associate Victoria Brickell, formerly of DAC Beachcroft LLP.Practice head(s):
Carole Spiller
Other key lawyers:
Robert Jones; Damian Carter; Richard Corran; Josh Conroy; Jessica Kraja; Matthew Fox; Joanne Williams; Victoria Brickell
Testimonials
‘The team has a great depth of legal knowledge as well as a fantastic blend of the right personalities and experience, which gives them a unique ability to adapt and pivot in any situation.’
‘Richard Corran is a fantastic, cool-headed dispute resolution lawyer who uses all of the knowledge and experience he has built up in his career to get the best possible outcome in any given situation.’
‘Josh Conroy genuinely takes each case to heart and handles it expertly, anticipating the moves of the opposition with precision, accuracy and planning for them.’
‘They take the time to get to know the business, and clearly prioritise commercial resolution, rather than purely legal.’
‘Damian Carter is an incredible partner, clearly in great control and able to advise with a cool head in a crisis.’
‘Damian Carter – a comprehensively good leader who is able to communicate effectively with both his team and clients whilst remaining grounded and with a well balanced approach. Jessica Kraja – her attention to detail and the ability to co-ordinate with the team coupled with her ability to quickly grasp complex and detailed issues makes her input invaluable.’
‘The Weightmans team has been exemplary in every aspect, I can confidently recommend the team to anyone that requires full attention to detail and 100% commitment to their clients.’
‘I have had an extensive relationship with Damian Carter, Jessica Kraja and Mathew Fox. A great synchronised team, that makes me feel very reassured, and nothing is too much trouble. Damian heads the team; his calmness and expertise helps a lot to make me feel more at ease and patient in very stressful situations.’
Key clients
Kenneth Downing (former guitarist of Judas Priest)
Be Caring Limited
Stephen Ullathorne
Acasta Europe Limited and Acasta European Insurance Company Limited
Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts
London Fire Commissioner
Nottingham College
Ansador Limited
Seddon Developments Limited
Simian Risk Management Limited
Anixter Limited
Chiesi Limited
Costcutter Supermarkets Group Limited
Lancaster University
Royal Mail
Topmark Claims Management Limited t/a TMS
Mawdsleys
Work highlights
- Acting for KK Downing – former guitarist in Judas Priest – in a multi-party professional negligence claim against solicitors who had advised on a multi-million pound property refinance deal to develop The Astbury – a stately home, hotel, golf and leisure complex in Shropshire.
- Acted on behalf of Stephen Ullathorne in successfully concluding unfair prejudice proceedings after the respondents sought to dilute the client’s ownership of a company valued at in excess of £25m from 26.36% to 0.075% by issuing 4,857,142,857 swamping shares.
- Successfully defended Be Caring against a substantial breach of contract claim brought by a telecoms service provider.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3
The property litigation team at Weightmans LLP handle real estate disputes work for commercial developers and investors, and local government bodies. Experienced litigator Sian Evans heads up the practice with experience in advising commercial and residential clients. Peter Hall has a particular focus on high value landlord and tenant disputes and telecommunications law, while Karen Neald has expertise in claims for adverse possession and trespassing.
Practice head(s):
Sian Evans
Other key lawyers:
Peter Hall; Karen Neald; John Darnell
Testimonials
‘Pragmatic and capable.’
‘John Darnell is highly skilled and particularly good in complex property litigation. Gets results.’
‘Wide ranging expertise which was especially helpful in dealing with recent complex disputes. Clear, concise advice provided within the timescales required.’
‘Highly knowledgeable. Quickly identifies the issues and potential options and resolutions to the issue at hand. Excellent communication skills.’
‘Strong and commercial.’
‘Peter Hall is top quality.’
Key clients
BDW Trading Limited (Barratts David Wilson Homes)
Bruntwood Group
Clarion Housing Group
Ramac Holdings
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM)
Derbyshire County Council
Various Eateries Trading Limited (Strada Restaurants)
Warrington Borough Council
Halton Housing
Nextdom Property Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Various Eateries Trading Limited on liability under a guarantee of a prime central London site and negotiated a concession agreement with the current landlord and tenant on terms which relieved our client from substantial liability for rent accrued during lockdown and which amounted to a ‘win-win’ for all parties.
- Advising Transport for Greater Manchester on obtaining possession of premises from business tenants to enable the redevelopment of both the site in question and also neighbouring land for a large-scale residential scheme.
- Instructed to represent Ramac Holdings (Trading) Limited in a trespass matter and unlawful occupation of an unoccupied unit within a shopping precinct and adjacent to residential area.
Real estate > Commercial property: Newcastle Tier 3
Weightmans’ sectoral expertise encompasses matters in the infrastructure, energy, education, retail, leisure and social housing industries, and the practice is also a key name for housebuilder clients. Key names in Newcastle include principal associate Helen Warren, who handles landlord and tenant matters. David Tabinor oversees the practice from Liverpool.Practice head(s):
David Tabinor
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Morton Group / Lok Developments
Bellway Homes
Engie Regeneration / Power
Camerons Brewery Limited
Gentoo Housing Group
Unity Trust Bank
Quattro Property Group
Real estate > Construction Tier 3
The ‘approachable, adaptable and professional’ practice at Weightmans focuses on contentious mandates in the construction arena, particularly professional negligence claims, acting for public bodies, developers, contractors and insurers in litigation, mediation and arbitration proceedings. Sitting within the wider national practice, key names in Newcastle include professional indemnity specialists Richard Palmer and Anna-Marie Knight, and principal associate Natalie Keyes.Practice head(s):
Colette Morgan-Ford
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable and responsive team with specialists in many areas.’
‘Natalie Keyes has provided excellent advice and service to us in relation to complex contract reviews and dispute resolution.’
‘Competent and deliver on what they say they will.’
‘Approachable, adaptable and professional.’
‘The strengths are a broad professional team where the exchange and consultation on advice is clear and precise.’
Key clients
Hamilton Underwriting Limited
Tokio Marine HCC
C.N.A Hardy Underwriting
Hiscox Underwriting Limited
Sunderland City Council
Millbrook Proving Ground
BXB Interiors
K Home International
Towergate Underwriting Group
Camberford Underwriting
AIG UK Ltd
CoreCare Global
LBSBuildersMerchantsLtd
Work highlights
- Advised an international insurance company and its insured, a design and build contractor in relation to a dispute concerning a project to construct residential units and associated external works at a residential block of apartments.
- Advising a design and build contractor in relation to a dispute worth in excess of £20m concerning allegedly defective piling to a warehouse.
Employment Tier 3
The versatile team at Weightmans LLP has an established and growing client base in the hospitality and leisure sectors and also fields a dedicated equal pay offering. Under the leadership of Jawaid Rehman , it has a strong reputation too in the education sector and for its work with embassies, also routinely conducting local government and police matters. Andrew Forrest , who is a qualified mediator, was promoted to the partnership and is also an experienced advocate in the employment tribunal.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Thursdays (UK) Limited T/A Fridays
Pizza Hut (UK) Limited
Whitbread Group PLC
Pizza Express (Restaurants) Limited
London Business School
Government of the State of Kuwait
GLH Hotels Management (UK) Limited
English National Ballet
Nuffield Health
Fuller’s
Work highlights
- Operating a HR helpline for London Business School’s HR department and members of the wider management team within the university.
- Along with a range of hospitality sector clients, the team advised Whitbread in connection with the employment law implications of the coronavirus pandemic from March 2020 to date.
- Advised the Government of the State of Kuwait -in Fenniche v 1. Kuwait Health Office, 2. Government of the state of Kuwait[2021] – this was the first case to ever consider the relationship between Brexit, state immunity and discrimination.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 3
Weightmans LLP‘s Leeds offering is headed by Matthew Morton. The team acts on high-value, often multi-jurisdictional, complex disputes. Its workload predominantly consists of Inheritance Act claims, will validity cases and various administrative claims involving estates. Many of its lawyers are STEP qualified. In addition, the team advises on breach of trust actions, relating to trusts and proprietary estoppel claims.Practice head(s):
Matthew Morton
Testimonials
‘Matthew Morton is just the perfect solicitor for this type of work. He is firm, but not overbearing and, at the same time, gentle and empathetic. Clients are often extremely emotional when they are dealing with complicated matters arising after the death of a family member. Matthew is brilliant at steering them through the choppy waters of a contentious probate claim.’
‘Matthew Morton is a highly knowledgeable and skilled lawyer.’
‘Weightmans are a well-priced firm who know exactly what they are doing and give excellent value for money.’
Work highlights
Employment > Health and safety Tier 4
The regulatory services department at Weightmans acts frequently on behalf of care homes, schools and healthcare bodies. The team is comprised of health and safety regulatory specialists, both defending and prosecuting matters such as trading standards, fire and food. Crispin Kenyon is head of the London practice, with experience running highly charged and high profile inquests within the construction, waste, printing, transport, schools and care home sectors. Dewi Ap-Thomas is the national head of regulatory, specialising in work in the criminal and coronial jurisdictions. Senior partner David Lewis is highly experienced handling safety enforcement actions for both defence and prosecution.Practice head(s):
Dewi Ap-Thomas; Crispin Kenyon
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Brammer; David Lewis; Lili Oliver
Testimonials
‘Crispin Kenyon is great at delivering clear advice and excellent support to his clients in a thoughtful and considerate way.’
‘Crispin Kenyon – immensely experienced, good with clients and calm in a crisis.’
‘Crispin Kenyon is a very well-liked and respected character in the H&S community. He is knowledgeable , experienced and charming to deal with.’
Key clients
Interstate Hotels UK Ltd
NJP Consulting Engineers Ltd
E.on UK PLC
E.on Climates & Renewables
Jaguar Land Rover
North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Wedge Galvanising Group
Swissport UK
Lancashire County Council
EMCOR UK Ltd
Bayswater Care
Zurich
AXA XL
AIG
Wirral Borough Council
British Transport Police
Camerons Brewery
Staffordshire County Council
Damasco Ltd
Postpack Ltd
Premum Care Ltd.
Cheshire East Council
East Riding District Council
Work highlights
- Wedding party gathered on wooden staircase at rear of Hotel which then collapsed due to rotten timbers, advised clients in immediate aftermath, investigation by expert, representations drafted with counsel; eventually the local authority prosecuted the clients and the owners of the hotel itself
- Representing Greif in the HSE’s prosecution of Greif and its co-defendant, a facilities management company under sections 2 and 3 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
- Instructed by Bayswater Care Ltd following the death at work of one of their employees who was crushed by his works vehicle. Following a HSE and Coronial Investigation, HSE were persuaded to take no further action and the inquest was therefore changed from a multi-day jury hearing, to a half day coroner-only hearing.
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 4
Weightmans LLP is active in defending claims in the construction, cyber and financial services sectors. The firm has been heavily involved in defending a large number of cladding-related claims post-Grenfell on behalf of construction professionals. Quentin Fox acts on behalf of insurers and has over thirty years experience in the field. James Denison has a focus on the financial services and construction industries. Legal director Eleanor Kilner is regarded for her work in niche areas of professional negligence including auctioneers, matrimonial and interior design.Practice head(s):
Quentin Fox; Simon Adam
Other key lawyers:
Ed Lewis; Eleanor Kilner; James Denison
Testimonials
‘Quentin Fox is an acknowledged expert in the field of professional liability particularly as regards insurance related disputes. He rightly commands a huge following amongst insurers and has a remarkable ability to choose the right points and make them count.’
‘The team are responsive, knowledgeable and on point with their advice whether dealing with a large corporate client or small SME which is important to us in the work Weightmans provide as our clients are very diverse in size.’
‘Quentin Fox’s ability to cut to the chase and at a very early stage and identify a strategy which fits both ours and our clients needs is highly appreciated.’
Key clients
AmTrust Europe Ltd/Collegiate
AIG
Amtrust
Antares
Argenta
Argo Global
Aspen Insurance
AXA Insurance UK Plc
Axis
BIBA
Canopius
CFC
Markel (UK) Ltd
Markel International
Nexus
Tokio Marine HCC
Pioneer
Starstone Insurance SE
Vibe
Zurich
Work highlights
- Acted for the professional indemnity insurers of one of the parties involved in the construction of a City Tower block at 100 Bishopsgate, RNP, in relation to a very substantial claim arising from the use of a “slipform” rig to construct the central concrete core of the development.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 4
Weightmans, which recently merged with RadcliffesLeBrasseur, has a ‘particularly user-friendly’ team which is ably led by Jonathan Shankland, Dominic Green and Nigel WestPractice head(s):
Jonathan Shankland; Dominic Green; Nigel West
Other key lawyers:
Arshoo Singh
Testimonials
‘A small but effective team that offers real value for money. Dominic Green is very experienced and effective’.
‘Confident, experienced professionals. Arshoo Singh is passionate about her clients’.
‘Dominic Green impressed me by quickly grasping the complications of my problem and suggesting alternate ways of proceeding. The ease of working together with Jon definitely gave me the feeling that I was being assisted by the team’.
‘It’s the attention to detail, plain speaking and efficiency that were apparent from the start. The contentious probate issue was brought speedily to a close, in my favour, and I could not be more delighted with the service Jon Shankland and his team provided’.
‘Jon Shankland was beyond helpful. He spoke clearly and plainly about the case, kept me up to date with what was happening and speedily brought the matter to satisfactory close. I wish I had used them earlier. It would have saved me a year of stress’.
‘Jon Shankland is both personable, wise, knowledgeable and confident. He is a great communicator and able to calm any situation down. Most of all, he is passionate about getting it right and fair for his clients. Nigel West, who has also been involved with the case is a great litigator and a pleasure to deal with’.
‘The team brings with it a huge amount of experience in relation to complex commercial and fraud cases which makes it very well placed to service particularly complex trust disputes including those involving fraud’.
‘Nigel West is an experienced litigator with excellent judgment. He is very effective at spotting, and exploiting, the weak spots on the other side’.
Private client > Family Tier 4
The team at Weightmans LLP draws in high-net-worth and high profile work under the direction of Caroline Penfold, who led the practice at RadcliffesLeBrasseur prior to the recent merger of the two firms. Penfold advises on all aspects of private family law from pre-and post-nuptial agreements and cohabitation agreements to complex financial and property cases involving substantial assets in an international context. Other primary areas of focus include advising on disputes over children, domestic violence and emergency injunctions. It is a ‘partner-led family practice that more than holds its own reputation wise. It is a top-notch alternative to the big City firms’.
Practice head(s):
Caroline Penfold
Other key lawyers:
Carina Smith; Lucy Raho Jeavons; Christopher Butler; Robert Emmett
Testimonials
‘Working with the team you get fabulous service and continuity – they remember everything and forget nothing. Carina Smith is excellent, compassionate and capable. She provides excellent advice’.
‘Caroline Penfold was in charge of my divorce. She provided me with an invaluable service and she is not pushing me to do things that I don’t feel comfortable yet she did give me very good advice on how to proceed forward and why she would do it’.
‘Caroline Penfold – has (or sends to me) the most unusual and difficult cases and deals with them calmly and realistically, whilst fighting her client’s corner tenaciously.’
‘A niche family law firm who pay great attention to their clients and fight their corners every step of the way. Carina Smith is a highly intelligent family solicitor who pays great attention to detail and to the lay client. Lucy Raho Jeavons is a conscientious and caring solicitor who leaves no stone unturned. Caroline Penfold has a wealth of experience and expertise and supports the junior staff very well’.
‘Very experienced. Christopher Butler exudes judgment and wisdom’.
‘A relatively small but highly impressive family law team, which continues to make strides in the London family law market. Caroline Penfold – hugely experienced, a complete pleasure to work with. Christopher Butler – a very sound, knowledgeable family law solicitor. Robert Emmett – an exceptional family lawyer who consistently delivers an impeccable service’.
‘The family team provides a truly excellent services to its clients, and is much more reasonably priced than its competitors. The whole team functions extremely well together, and in particular the partners have breadth and depth of experience, with very finely tuned sense of the best route to take in litigation’.
‘I have worked closely with Carina Smith and Robert Emmett on a number of matters. They are both high quality lawyers, hugely competent, insightful and very client focused. They are committed to their clients, ensuring that their cases are immaculately prepared and the clients are carefully and sensibly advised at every stage of the process. I have found them to be accessible, and very happy to work in partnership with counsel’.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment (including media finance) Tier 4
Weightmans LLP's media & entertainment practice has a strong IT angle, advising media companies on a range of commercial matters. On the commercial side, the team is led from Liverpool by Sean Crotty who focuses his expertise on agreements pertaining to interactive entertainment, talent rights, and the music industry. Managing partner John Schorah is deeply ingrained into the interactive entertainment sector where he advises clients on both corporate and commercial matters.Practice head(s):
Sean Crotty
Other key lawyers:
John Schorah; Sarah Walton; Nicola Gonnella; Laurence Pritchard; Tom Trowhill
Key clients
Playground Games Limited
Side (UK) Limited
Liverpool Media Academy Ltd
Nomad Games Limited
Apadmi Limited
The Open University
Novarama Technology SRL
AXM Venture Capital Limited
Secret Sorcery Limited
Sounding Sweet Limited
Motor Insurers’ Bureau
Mercato Limited
Chiesi Ltd
Sussex & Surrey Police
Work highlights
- Advised Side (UK) Limited on a variety of voice talent and motion capture agreements with high profile actors.
- Advised Liverpool Media Academy on strategic arrangements.
- Advising Apadmi Limited on contract review, negotiations, governance, and strategy.
Transport > Aviation Tier 4
Weightmans LLP sits on several aviation underwriter panels and acts for airlines such as Wizz Air, Condor Airlines, Flybe and Jet2. Practice head Andrew Krausz specialises in aviation litigation work and handles a broad range of related claims. Adam Baker strengthened the practice with his arrival from Clyde & Co.Practice head(s):
Andrew Krausz
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A big advantage of the Weightmans aviation team is their knowledge of the aviation industry, which is second to none. The industry is not easy to understand and it is always a great benefit that the lawyers have a first-rate understanding of the complexities involved.’
‘I have worked with Andrew Krausz at Weightmans. I have always found him to be totally professional in his dealings with me.’
‘We have always found the firm to be very efficient, professional and all the team have a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in aviation. We would definitely consider using the firm on any new instructions’
‘We have found them to be very knowledgeable, friendly, professional, approachable. Andrew Krausz heads up the team and our dealings with Andrew have always been a pleasure. He is very good to work with and his knowledge is exceptional. On the cases we have worked on he has a great relationship with clients and always will go the extra mile to fight our corner as a team. He will always look to settle cases early if liability is an issue for us and he is always available to take a call to discuss strategy. Overall Andrew and the team are a pleasure to work with.’
‘Fantastic strong team with excellent experience and knowledge in general aviation and ballooning. Andrew Krausz and Adam Baker both really know their stuff as both are experienced qualified pilots.’
‘I have a good working relationship with Andrew Krausz and I fully trust him with my claims.’
‘The Weightmans team provides a consistently reliable legal advice in all areas of aviation law. Apart from their knowledge of aviation law, they are very well versed in commercial matters including litigation.’
Key clients
Wizz Air
Condor Airlines
PDG Helicopters
National Police Aviation Service
Flying Time Limited
ExecuJet Aviation Group / ExecuJet Aviation Nigeria
Virgin Balloons
Multiflight Limited
Falko
Helicopter Services Limited
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 4
Weightmans LLP's banking and finance team is known for its excellent public sector financing group, which has advised on major social housing, green finance, and Covid-19 business interruption lending matters. It also offers a traditional financing experience, serving on panels for numerous major banks. Patricia Grinyer leads the team from Manchester and offers unique services advising funds on the impact of Brexit. Gary Jones offers borrowers expertise on state aid compliance.Practice head(s):
Patricia Grinyer
Other key lawyers:
Gary Jones; Louise Neave
Testimonials
‘The uniqueness that we have found using Weightmans is their personal service. Further to this is their willingness to support, to ensure that their clients understand everything that is presented to them and also their dedication to ensuring that our best interests are put forward. Their advice, support and understanding has been second to none.’
‘Patricia Grinyer in particular needs to be commended on her personal and professional approach. She has been able to navigate a particularly complex situation with a range of different parties involved and has done her best at ensuring that we as her client is represented in the best manner whilst also ensuring that all parties are heard.’
‘Very hands-on approach when providing advice, always well structured.’
‘Doesn’t feel as though working to billable time, equally costs remain sensible. Very quick turnaround on work ensuring all bases are covered. Patricia Grinyer in the team is always a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
Octopus Capital Limited
Lloyds Bank Plc
Coventry and Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust
Santander Bank Plc
Maven Capital Partners
North West Business Finance Limited
West Midlands Combined Authority
Progressive Living
Business Enterprise Fund (BEF)
Mercia Fund Managers
Work highlights
Real estate > Commercial property: Manchester Tier 4
Weightmans LLP's real estate team has a broad range of expertise, notably handling numerous significant regional and national regeneration projects. Team co-head Andrea Steventon has a particular specialism in property development and also leads the national practice. Karl Jackson acts as national head of the firm's Built Environment group and is regularly instructed by local authorities on regeneration work.Practice head(s):
Andrea Steventon; Karl Jackson
Other key lawyers:
Brian Ghatan
Testimonials
‘Great working with this team. Capable of handling a wide variety of property work, ranging from routine lettings to major acquisition and disposals, very often with strict deadlines. Timely, clear advice throughout.’
‘Quickly identify all the relevant issues and the likely structure of the transaction. Knowledgeable and easy to contact when required.’
Key clients
Barratt Homes
Oak Tyres UK Limited
MHA London
Bruntwood
Elan Homes
Eccleston Homes Ltd
Escape to Freight Island
Landmark
Nottinghamshire County Council
Thomas Jones & Sons (Liverpool) Limited
Transport for Greater Manchester
Milton Keynes Council
Samsonite Europe
Stockport Homes Limited
Midland Heart Limited
Sandway Homes Limited
KS Habro
BDW Trading Limited
Work highlights
- Advised MHA London on their purchase of the Debenhams building at the Moor in Sheffield from the M&G Property Portfolio. There were complications to the deal by virtue of Debenhams’ insolvency, previous CVA and its temporary arrangements in place with the seller.
- Acting on behalf of FTSE 100 housebuilder BDW Trading Limited in the acquisition of land acquired from Homes England at Cottam, Preston for 117 dwellings Complex Building Lease arrangement under Homes England’s Accelerated Development protocol with freehold drawdown arrangements for plot sales .
- Acting on behalf of Thomas Jones & Sons (Liverpool) Limited in connection with an exchange of conditional contracts for a site subject to planning, satisfactory services and suitable ground conditions.
Real estate > Construction Tier 4
The practice at Weightmans LLP is headed up by leading practitioner Colette Morgan-Ford, who regularly advises contractors on cross-jurisdictional disputes and provides strategic advice. Tom Collins, described as 'truly exceptional', manages the team nationally with a focus on contentious work for clients in the public and private sectors.
Practice head(s):
Colette Morgan-Ford; Tom Collins
Testimonials
‘I have worked with the team at Weightmans for a number of years on a complex and challenging issue, throughout this time I have found them to be responsive, client focussed, professional and committed to resolving issues. Their advice is always clear and comprehensive, with both risk and alternative courses of action discussed and agreed prior to action.’
‘The individuals’ commitment in challenging timeframes is second to none. From a client perspective, I would have no hesitation in recommending the Weightmans team.’
‘Tom Collins is a truly exceptional partner, always on top of both legal and technical issues, sees through all the volume and draws out key facts / arguments. He is able to articulate challenging legal / technical issues and present these in a comprehensive, clear and concise manner. Very client focussed and an excellent communicator in all respects.’
Key clients
Jacobs (Halcrow Group Limited)
Read Construction Group Limited
One Vision Housing Limited
Fab Cladding
Walsall Council
Liverpool City Council
University of Leicester
Sefton MBC
Clarion Housing Group
Loughborough University
Greenwich University
Watkin Jones Group
Carroll Build Limited
Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council
Adoni Developments Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Liverpool City Council on disputes arising out of agreement for lease relating to construction and occupation of substantial facility in significant local development.
- Advised Flintshire County Council in relation to a major £35m redevelopment of Theatr Clwyd a public arts theatre.
- Advised Hertfordshire County Council on drafting and procurement of a £150m 5-year Smart Highways Framework.
Insurance > Personal injury: defender Tier 4
Weightmans LLP offers ‘a dedicated and highly efficient team with knowledge in the insurance industry’ according to clients, and is noted for its handling of historic abuse and neglect claims as well as catastrophic injuries. Spearheaded from Glasgow, the practice is jointly managed by Pamela Stevenson and Seonaid Busby.Practice head(s):
Pamela Stevenson; Seonaid Busby
Testimonials
‘The team have an excellent knowledge of disease claims, which can be quite specialised and not easily understood across the board.’
‘The team provide excellent advice, timely updates and first-class understanding of the issues and claims that we come across and the service they provide is worth the fees presented. They are also friendly and engaging.’
‘Excellent team. Passionate, sensible, and committed. Weightmans is particularly innovative with technology.’
‘Pamela Stevenson is a standout solicitor in defenders’ reparation. She has an extraordinary breadth and depth of experience, dealing brilliantly with industrial disease, road traffic, medical, and other cases.’
‘A highly regarded, able and professionally competent team of solicitors.’
‘More than capable of conducting high-value, complex, catastrophic injury claims in all courts in Scotland. Knowledgeable, personable and hard-working.’
‘I have worked with Seonaid Busby and Pamela Stevenson. Both are highly efficient and have significant legal and procedural knowledge in this practice area.’
‘They are organised, pragmatic, personable and diligent.’
Key clients
Zurich Insurance
Markerstudy (formerly the Co-Operative Insurance)
First Central Insurance
AIG Europe
Sabre Insurance
Peel Ports
PIB Insurance Brokers
First Underwriting
AXA XL
BAI
Work highlights
- Acting in a high value, complex amputation RTA action, which was one of the first cases in Scotland to consider Swift v Carpenter and the appropriate approach to take to accommodation claims.
- Acting in Anna Imrie & Ors v Fife Council (MMI) in a complex Court of Session fatal mesothelioma action in respect of the death of the late Andrew Imrie in which the date of knowledge of the risks of asbestos exposure was a live issue.
- Acting for David Arthrell v Iain Tait (Markerstudy) in a complex high value action arising from a RTA on 21 July 2016 which has complex medical causation issues.
Private client > Family Tier 4
Glasgow-based solicitor advocate Noel Ferry leads the family practice at Weightmans LLP which has experience advising on pre- and post-nuptial agreements, assets and child-relocation issues. Ferry has an extensive track record litigating complex cohabitation claims and advising on treatment of inherited wealth.Practice head(s):
Noel Ferry
Testimonials
‘ Noel Ferry is knowledgeable and easy to negotiate with. He has a measured approach to cases and works to try to find ways of compromising disputes between clients.’
‘Noel Ferry’s significant experience means that he is able to provide excellent quality work within very short timescales in cases where urgent orders are needed, leading to excellent outcomes for clients.’
‘Strong partner involvement and oversight. An experienced team of professionals with an excellent technical knowledge mixed with a good practical approach.’
‘Noel Ferry – pragmatic and balanced approach that is effective in finding a negotiated settlement.’
‘Noel Ferry is an extremely experienced solicitor who has a real breadth of knowledge across the whole spectrum of family law. As a solicitor advocate he regularly appears in the Court of Session, and his understanding of how a case should be presented makes him an excellent preparer of cases for counsel. I have found him to be thorough and very diligent on his clients’ behalf.’
Real estate > Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow Tier 4
At national firm Weightmans LLP, Cassandra Auld is a development and investment specialist who often handles acquisitions, disposals and lettings within the hotels and leisure space; she leads the practice, receiving finance expertise from Andrew Warren and disputes capabilities from Claire Thornber. Other fields of activity include healthcare, higher education, energy, infrastructure and retail.Practice head(s):
Cassandra Auld
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Cassandra Auld is an expert in her field, and can apply that extensive legal knowledge to very bespoke client commercial property needs and briefs, leading her team to deliver above and beyond client expectations.’
Key clients
Thorntons Limited
Magell Limited
Santander
Regent Capital plc
House of Hearing Limited
Bannatyne Fitness Limited
Smith Brothers Stores
Dentex Healthcare Group Limited
Building Design Partnership
Freyssinet Limited
Investec Bank plc
Shawbrook Bank
My Dentist
Dickson Chemists
Octopus Finance
Real Life Options
Viridor
S Norton
Safety-Kleen
British Transport Police
Build a Bear Workshop
Work highlights
- Advised Investec Bank plc on the financing of a large portfolio of medical practices across the UK with a value of c £20m.
- Advising Magell on the sale of a retail investment in Glasgow for a price of c £15m.
- Advising a Regent Capital Syndicate on a major recladding project of a large city centre hotel and further advising the same Syndicate on the proposed sale of the hotel for c £30m.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham Tier 4
Employment > Employment: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 4
Weightmans‘ employment, pensions and immigration group handle a mixture of litigation, projects and risk management work. It has particular expertise within the transport and logistics sector and is adept at handling industrial disputes and senior level organisational change management. Ben Daniel leads the team that includes the ‘outstanding‘ principal associate Nick Newman and data protection and immigration expert Ross Hutchison.Practice head(s):
Ben Daniel
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Weightmans are extremely professional, helpful and supportive.’
‘The solicitors have taken the time to understand the industry that we work in, the culture, the unions and the employees. Very knowledgeable in giving advice and understand the details of cases very quickly.’
‘Being able to adapt professionally in terms of expertise and practice. Giving advice in layman’s language which is quick, concise and clear and very personable.’
‘Nick Newman is outstanding – professional, knowledgeable and a real appreciation of our organisation and the values we hold.’
Key clients
FirstGroup (multiple operating companies)
National Express (Bus and Coach)
Hoyer Group
Turners of Soham
Cafcass
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Leeds City Council
Harrogate & District NHS Foundation Trust
St Helens & Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Mid-Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust
Phoenix Futures
Yorkshire Energy
Contis Group
Nucleus Group
Independent Marketing & Promotions Limited
Work highlights
- Advised a large transport provider on Employment Tribunal litigation pursued against one of its subsidiary companies in which it was alleged that senior members of the Board had discriminated against the Claimant on the basis of their gender when appointing an alternative candidate to a newly formed position.
- Assisted St Helens & Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in the drafting of contracts (and arrangements) for applicable individuals working on the Covid-19 Vaccination Programme.
- Advised a major haulage operator in respect of a Trade Dispute with the Recognised Trade Union across multiple UK locations arising from proposed variation to contract and flexible patterns of working following the first Lockdown.
Private client > Family: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Tier 4
Weightmans LLP recently bolstered its Leeds offering with the hire of former Knights plc and Keebles partner Antony Ball. The team’s workload predominantly involves advising on high-value financial remedy cases, with notable experience in non-traditional family structure cases. In addition, it acts on complex and sensitive children matters.Practice head(s):
Antony Ball
Testimonials
‘Weightmans LLP are an excellent firm. Antony Ball is an experienced solicitor and mediator and is able to deal with more complex, high-net-worth mediation cases due to his skill set.’
‘Antony Ball is an experienced solicitor and mediator with a conciliatory approach. Antony is an excellent addition to Weightmans.’
‘Antony Ball is a great family lawyer. He is hard-working, diligent and has a lot of patience with clients, he is always friendly and polite and he will always go the extra mile. In addition, he is a skilled mediator and a true advocate of conciliation and early resolution.’
‘Antony Ball is a great mediator and collaborator. Always calm, constructive and solution-focused. I refer clients to Antony. It’s always a pleasure working with him, as when he is on the other side you can be assured that he will make sensible progress in a timely and respectful manner.’
‘The team works well together, they are clear with their messages and intentions.’
‘Antony Ball is caring and operates with integrity. He is wonderful to work with because he is professional but also laid-back and friendly, nothing is too much trouble and his clients all love him.’
Work highlights
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 4
Weightmans’ property litigation team acts for clients across the hotels, licensed and leisure industries, including Punch Pubs & Co, Fuller Smith & Turner and Camerons Brewery, among others. Also recognised for its expertise in the education and social housing sectors, the practice is led by Ben Mackenzie, who counts dilapidations disputes, forfeiture proceedings and possession claims in his caseload.Practice head(s):
Ben Mackenzie
Testimonials
‘Ben Mackenzie and his team are very knowledgeable on dealing with pub matters, both within general litigation and the “pub code”. They work as a team with the client at the very start, right up to disposal. Commercial reality is always a component to the advice given. Highly successful in assisting landlords in effective management of their estates.’
‘Ben Mackenzie is hands on and always makes himself available.’
‘In-depth experience in pub-co property work.’
‘Ben Mackenzie is a long-established expert in his field. He is great to work with and is always happy to think about things from a new angle and listen to the views of others.’
‘They are extremely responsive and genuinely appear to have resource dedicated to my team. Always available and apply themselves at an appropriate level. Commercially very aware, with a deep knowledge of the industry and my business’ place in it.’
‘Ben Mackenzie is very impressive, he understands my requirements and tailors his advice accordingly. He spends an appropriate amount of time and resource on individual matters and provides useful insight and understanding from a fresh perspective.’
‘The Weightmans property litigation have constantly proved themselves to be extremely important advisers to our business. Providing excellent practical advice, dealing with cases in timely manner and fully understanding of our business. In particular they realise our time pressures and provide support in a way that meets our needs. Great support delivered from all their team.’
‘Ben Mackenzie delivers excellent advice, his depth of knowledge is impressive in our specialist field and he gives our business great confidence.’
Key clients
Camerons Brewery Limited
Punch Pubs & Co
Greene King
Admiral Taverns
Leeds City Council
Clarion
AS Watson Group
Strada
Fullers, Smith &Turner PLC
AND Group Limited
Work highlights
Insurance > Insurance and reinsurance litigation Tier 5
Weightmans LLP continues to diversify its offering with a steady stream of instructions in D&O, cyber and aviation, complemented by its existing reputation for insurance work in the property, construction and financial services. Rob Williams heads the practice from Liverpool where he primarily acts for composite insurers.Practice head(s):
Rob Williams
Other key lawyers:
Ling Ong; Alex Marler
Testimonials
‘The insurance/reinsurance team brings a very bespoke service for insurance/reinsurance disputes that keeps cost down and tends to bring a positive resolution.’
‘They are responsive and think through the steps they take in dealing with a claim, but without spending excessive amounts of time (and money) doing so.’
‘Ling Ong is my go to reinsurance dispute legal advisor. She has a way of always making herself available and providing key opinions in a short timeframe to enable good decision making. Her opinions are also well though out and she brings both an intellectual and commercial approach to her opinions.’
‘Alex Marler is a highly professional and personable practitioner which is underpinned by his outstanding technological knowledge. His ability to communicate and convey complex matters in a structured and well rounded manner is first-class.’
Key clients
Zurich
AIG
Tokio Marine HCC
CFC Underwriting
Starstone
HDI Global Specialty
Sirius International Insurance Corporation
Argo Global
Markel International
Markel UK
Hamilton
RiverStone
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 5
National firm Weightmans merged with RadcliffesLeBrasseur LLP in June 2022; the combined team has expertise in dilapidations, enfranchisement and residential property management. Simon Hartley heads the London team. He is well versed in array of sectors including retail, healthcare and real estate.Practice head(s):
Simon Hartley
Testimonials
‘Always picks up the phone or replies very promptly. Fantastic level of service.’
‘Knowledgeable, commercial and speedy.’
‘Simon Hartley – very good property litigation and dilapidations knowledgeable. Very commercial.’
‘The team I dealt with were very coordinated, always answering doubts as quick as possible and explaining issues.’
‘Simon Hartley is very knowledgeable and also a pragmatic and commercial lawyer. He has an in depth interest in commercial dilapidations and is well known as a practitioner in that area.’
Key clients
Newflex Leases Limited
J.H. & R.R. Mundy (Roofing Supplies) Limited
MacIntyre Hudson LLP
Ten Hyde Park Square Limited
Pankhurst Family Trust
MDDUS Property Limited
Four Seasons Health Care Limited
Knightsbridge Residents Management Company Ltd
P J Care Limited
27 Lennox Gardens Limited
Bramgard Freehold Limited
Maypole Dock Limited
Lanafame Limited
Avison Young UK
Sir Robert Ogden Estates Limited
Sheraton Dwellings Ltd
Lawrence Barnes Ltd
6 Embankment Gardens RTM Company Limited
Mary Adwoa Akyaa Boakye
Work highlights
- Acted for J.H. & R.R. Mundy (Roofing Supplies) Limited in relation to an attempt to review a purported lease of its premises, which led to the defence of a claim by its landlord for a declaration that the lease was valid.
- Advised Maypole Dole Limited in relation to an overage claim for over £1m against the developer who purchased its development site.
Transport > Shipping Tier 5
Weightmans LLP‘s strengths include ports and terminals liability issues, as well as regulatory and casualty work, where it advises clients such as ship operators, charterers and P&I clubs. The firm is regularly sought out by insurers for its expertise in shipping disputes relating to contractual claims, bills of lading, and cargo or infrastructure loss. Head of marine Mike Burns fields experience in drafting contracts of carriage and vessel acquisitions alongside litigation matters. Glasgow-based Seonaid Busby is another key contact.Practice head(s):
Mike Burns
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Peel Ports Group
Zurich Insurance (Marine)
Bibby Marine Limited
Isle of Man Steam Packet Company
AIG Insurance (Marine)
Hamburg Sud
Champion Tankers
Gard P&I
NMU Speciality (Munich Re)
Maersk Line
DHL Global Forwarding
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow Tier 5
Weightmans LLP’s fields a team in Glasgow which operates in close tangent with its nationwide practice. The department is instructed on OMB and SME-related M&A deals in addition to general corporate law support such as commercial contract, governance, joint venture and company law affairs. Key fields of activity include sport, IT, real estate, healthcare, insurance and the public sector. Claire McCracken and Nicola Gonnella make up the two-partner team.Practice head(s):
Sarah Walton (Manchester)
Other key lawyers:
Claire McCracken; Nicola Gonnella
Testimonials
‘It is a truly partner-led relationship, and is like working with a niche firm but with the support of the UK national team. The team at Weightmans have always been able to resolve our issues, and answer any questions we have across the spectrum of legal disciplines.’
‘Claire McCracken leads the team in Scotland and I have always found her a pleasure to work with. Claire understands the need for clear commercial advice, and has always served us well in getting to the crux of our issues, coming up with clever business solutions to get us to where we want to be. She offers pragmatic advice, and adapts well to fast moving situations. Claire is ably supported by a strong team.’
Key clients
Apadmi Limited
Mercarto Limited and Mercarto Enterprise
NHS
BJSS
Studio Messa PTY Limited
International Medical Press Limited
Chiesi Ltd
PIB Insurance Brokers
Archers Toolbox
Street Systems Limited
Surrey & Sussex Police
British Transport Police
Luxfer Mel Technologies
Valiant Sport Horses
Nucleus Holdings Limited
ExposePro Limited
Rutland County Council
University of Newcastle
British Swimming
Real Life Options
McGill’s Bus Services Limited
Environmental Air Conditioning (Scotland) Limited
National Autograss Sports Association Limited
Mearns After School Care Service Limited
Simian Risk Management Limited
SB Drug Discovery Limited
Holdfast Entertainment Limited
Greenlight Digital Limited
MethaMeasure Limited
Axius Homes Limited
Magell Limited
Higgs & Co Solicitors
Work highlights
- Represented Apadmi (award winning software development company) with negotiation of a high value software development/services agreement with Sainsbury’s.
- Provided dedicated general counsel support to Mercarto, recently representing it in a negotiation of agile software development services agreement with Bohoo.
- Providing on-going general corporate/commercial advice, contract reviews/negotiations and policy and governance support to International Medical Press Limited.
Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 5
Weightmans advises a varied client base including landlords, tenants, developers and property owners across the licensed and leisure and healthcare sectors. Practice leader Mark Crabtree notably acts for pub companies, such as Punch Taverns, Greene King and Admiral Taverns, and advises on estate management, lease work and issues involving landlords and tenants.Practice head(s):
Mark Crabtree
Key clients
Punch Taverns
Admiral Taverns
Greene King Plc
Hoyer Petrolog (UK) Limited
Bootham School
NHS Blood and Transplant
Gaunts Limited
Chevin Retail Limited
Fountainhead Investments Limited
FSS
Omavale Limited
Well Pharmacy
Ultimate Commercial
Mallard Homes Limited
Devonshire Properties Limited
Seventeen Group Limited
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 6
Weightmans LLP acts for insolvency practitioners and individuals in the financial, legal, construction, property, energy and insurance sectors. Charles Boyne is an insolvency specialist; Andrew Cromby is 'a skilled commercial litigator'; and James Denison acts in professional and management liability claims. Principal associate Simon Adam is London litigation team manager.Practice head(s):
Andrew Cromby; Simon Adam
Other key lawyers:
Charles Boyne; James Denison; Conrad McDonald; Mark Surguy; Kiri Hutton; Shevy Narendra
Testimonials
‘The entire team at Weightmans was superb throughout an extremely lengthy and complex process – a commercially-minded team, with good partner engagement and appropriate resourcing.’
‘James Denison was a pleasure to work with. I found him the consummate professional. Very thorough, especially with regards to his drafting of documents. He was also always available.’
‘Charles Boyne is just great – client focused and commercial in his approach.‘
‘Andrew Cromby is a really skilled commercial litigator. He has a particular specialism in professional services disputes, but his experience and skillset extends into general commercial litigation. He’s very bright, focuses on the commercial realities of a case, and works very hard and effectively in defending the interests of his clients.‘
‘Mark Surguy – great attention to detail.‘
‘We have received a first-class service from Andrew Cromby and principal associate Conrad McDonald, who have worked tirelessly in support of an ongoing issue.‘
‘Conrad McDonald – experience and ability beyond his years.’
‘Associate Kiri Hutton is an excellent recent addition to the team.’
Key clients
UK Trucks Claim
Henry W Pollard & Sons
Public sector > Administrative and public law Tier 6
For the 'pool of talented lawyers' at Weightmans LLP, statutory public inquiries are the core focus; the firm is typically involved with all major examples of such work at any given time, with current highlights including representation of participants in the Manchester Arena Inquiry and Undercover Policing Inquiry. Martin Forshaw, Hannah Walsh and Martin English are the key senior names to note. Principal associate Simon Cheverst joined from DAC Beachcroft LLP in August 2021.
Practice head(s):
Martin Forshaw; Hannah Walsh; Martin English
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Martin Forshaw is a first-rate partner with deep experience of police law, who has an intensely practical and pragmatic outlook to cases and gives clear and concise instructions to the counsel with whom he works.’
‘Bright, committed and personable.’
‘I know the team very well indeed. They are remarkable, not only in terms of levels of expertise, industry, application and organisation, but also in terms of team spirit and morale.’
‘Excellent team with good skills and knowledge.’
‘They go the extra mile and then some. An exceptional work ethic and outstanding legal knowledge.’
‘Martin English – what a great lawyer. A bright and knowledgable individual whose commitment to his clients is unparalleled.’
‘A pool of talented lawyers and advocates on whom I can always rely for quality legal support and advice. They are down to earth, approachable and work collaboratively and in partnership with their clients. To me the team stands apart from other teams in the same market space and they are always my first choice.’
‘Martin English is a leading layer in the field of public inquires and inquest work. He is recommended for his calm, clear, insightful advice in complicated and technical inquests and inquiries. He is great to work with and is very client focused providing in depth support and knowledge.’
Key clients
NHS Blood & Transplant
North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
NHS Resolution
Telford & Wrekin Council
East Riding of Yorkshire Council
Surrey Council
Sheffield City Council
Surrey Police
Sussex Police
The Metropolitan Police Service
Work highlights
- Representing one of the principal core participants – North West Ambulance Service NHSFT – in the ongoing statutory Public Inquiry into the terrorist explosion at the Manchester Arena.
- Representing the East Riding of Yorkshire Council in the statutory Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse.
- Representing the Sussex Police in the statutory Public Inquiry into the mistreatment of individuals detained at Brook House Immigration Removal Centre.
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
North West > Transport
Weightmans LLP‘s core areas of strength include regulatory road transport, public inquiries, operator licence compliance, motoring offences, DVSA investigations and prosecution. The firm also has a road regulatory team that offers comprehensive advice to clients, including advising clients on commercial fleet risk and representation of drivers involved in fatal collisions. The transport and logistics practice is now led from London by Lili Oliver, a criminal regulatory specialist who joined the firm in mid-2021; key lawyers in the North West are primarily based in Liverpool, including marine specialist Mike Burns.Practice head(s):
Lili Oliver
Other key lawyers:
Mike Burns; David Holt
Key clients
First Group
National Express
Turners of Soham
Alstrom Transport
Go Ahead
Swissport GB Ltd
Tuffnells Parcels
Willis Towers Watson
AXA XL
Map Group UK
Work highlights
- Advising an operator investigated by the DVSA for punctuality concerns on its local bus services.
- Advising an Operator investigated by the DVSA for two separate incidents where wheels physically came off their vehicles, one resulting in a HGV flipping on the road. A short suspension was secured.
- Advising an Operator that was called before the Traffic Commissioner following a bridge strike to a Preliminary Hearing and conjoined Driver Conduct Hearing. The Traffic Commissioner accepted the firm’s submissions and took no action, including deciding not to issue a warning.
North West > Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Liverpool
At Weightmans LLP, corporate and commercial work is overseen by Seray Kitchingman and Tom Trowhill, respectively. The firm continues to be known for its private company M&A work and is increasingly making a name for itself in cross-border mandates. Competition law expert Laurence Pritchard and managing partner John Schorah are both recommended, as is principal associate Michael Murphy.Practice head(s):
Seray Kitchingman; Tom Trowhill
Other key lawyers:
Roland Hutchins; Laurence Pritchard; Michael Murphy; Sean Crotty; John Schorah
Testimonials
‘Weightmans has consistently provided the right resource at the right time helping us to make the right decisions to both move the business forward and mitigate the risks. The commercial advice they offer us is exactly that, commercial. We do not operate in a world of black and white and the partners and associates who are dedicated to our account understand that.’
‘They truly understand what it means to be an advisor to a business. Whilst they understand we plan ahead, there are always challenges that need to be faced at a moment’s notice and both Roland Hutchins and Tom Trowhill at Weightmans always make themselves available to take a Teams call, mobile call, face to face meeting and so on to ensure they keep helping us make the right decisions for the business.’
‘The team is very responsive and has an in-depth knowledge of our business in the UK. M&A and other corporate matters are dealt with swiftly and with good insights.’
‘Roland Hutchins is very responsive and eager to help also outside of normal business hours. Very knowledgeable in corporate and banking matters.’
‘Very responsive and able to work to tight timelines. Good use of the wider team across the specialisms.’
‘Dedicated and professional, delivered a first class service under time pressure’
Key clients
OBG Pharmaceuticals Limited
Liverpool Media Academy (LMA)
Rösler UK Limited
Indigo Environmental Group
Duality Group
HealthNet Homecare Limited
EDP Health, Safety & Environment Consultants Ltd
Archibald Bathgate Group
Sutcliffe Engineers
MSIF
Goonhilly Earth Station Limited
Park Holdings Limited
S. Norton & Co. Limited
TuffX Processed Glass Limited
George Roberts (North West) Limited
Great Ideas Group Limited
Seventeen Group
BES
Dimerco
Manchester Fertility Clinic
Mersey Docks & Harbour Company
Merseytravel
Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Trust
St Helens & Knowsley NHS Trust
Cheshire East Council
Gwynedd Council
Liverpool City Council
Markel Insurance
Zurich Insurance
Coversure
Work highlights
- Advised the shareholders on the sale of the entire issued share capital of of GJC Holdings and Tuff X Processed Glass to Alcuin Capital Partners, and reinvestment by John Tierney to include a 40% stake in the buyer Project Crystal Topco.
- Advised HSS Hire Group on the commercial contracts relating to its sale of its heating, ventilation and air-conditioning business – All Seasons Hire – to Cross Rental Service.
- Advised Side on a variety of voice talent and motion capture agreements with high-profile actors in relation to a number of high quality titles.
Weightmans LLP > Firm Profile
Weightmans is an award-winning UK law firm, employing more than 1,200 people. The firm has grown rapidly because of its focus on two key aspects of its business: its clients and its people.
The firm: Weightmans’ people are determined to achieve the best result for their clients. The firm monitors results to provide value that can be measured – ensuring clients come back time and time again and that it is their preferred choice of legal service provider. As such the firm recognises the importance of its people enjoying what they do. That’s why it is committed to creating a friendly and inspiring working environment.
Types of work undertaken: The firm’s practice is structured into six key segments: built environment, corporates, insurance, owner managed businesses (OMB), private client and public bodies.
In brief, the firm offers a formidable reputation and heritage in insurance in which it is a leading national player; a substantial and diverse range of commercial services for public sector bodies, large institutions, owner-managed businesses and plcs; an impressive reputation in the public sector market, acting for many local, police and fire authorities and a range of NHS trusts, and a full family and private client service, including wills, tax, probate and residential conveyancing.
Weightmans is a national firm with international reach, with an extensive informal network of law firms in most foreign jurisdictions courtesy of its membership of Insurance Law Global (ILG) and Legalink.
Clients: the firm’s clients include insurance companies, public sector organisations, UK plcs, multinational companies, education establishments, private individuals, SMEs and owner managed businesses.
Other offices: Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Leicester, London, Manchester
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing partner | John Schorah | ||
Senior partner | David Lewis | ||
Built environment | Karl Jackson | ||
Corporates | Tim Lang | ||
Insurance | Rob Williams | ||
OMB | Paul Raftery | ||
Private client | Carole Atkinson | ||
Public bodies | Martin Forshaw |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Sarah Al-Talib | Sarah is an experienced defendant clinical negligence Principal Associate acting on… | View Profile |
![]() | Jeremy Arnold | Jeremy specialises in acting on professional indemnity claims on behalf of insurers.… | View Profile |
![]() | Kulraj Arri | Kulraj has over 20 years PQE all gained in leading City… | View Profile |
![]() | Luiza Balan | Luiza trained at Weightmans and qualified into the London litigation team,… | View Profile |
![]() | Christina Bateman | Christina is an Associate in the London Healthcare Team. She qualified… | View Profile |
![]() | Phillip Bratt | Phillip is ranked as a “Rising Star”, “Key Lawyer” and “Recommended”… | View Profile |
![]() | Elaine Chapman | Elaine joined Weightmans in 1989, qualified in 1994, and was made… | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Cochrane | Emma is an experienced insurance litigator specialising in property damage claims… | View Profile |
![]() | Matthew Collings | Matthew is a Principal Associate based in Weightmans’ London office, having… | View Profile |
![]() | Andrew Cromby | Andrew has over 25 years’ experience in commercial litigation and dispute… | View Profile |
![]() | Chris Doran | Chris specialises in all forms of construction and engineering disputes, both… | View Profile |
![]() | Mark Fitzgerald | Mark joined Weightmans as an Associate in October 2018. He has… | View Profile |
![]() | Nick Fothergill | Nick is a corporate lawyer specialising in mergers and acquisitions, joint… | View Profile |
![]() | Luke Gleeson | Luke is a Principal Associate in the London Healthcare team who… | View Profile |
![]() | Kathryn Hinchey | Kathryn joined Weightmans in 2008 and is a Principal Associate in… | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Jeffries | Emma Jeffries is an associate solicitor and costs lawyer within the… | View Profile |
![]() | Jim Jordan | Jim advises on all aspects of non-contentious matters in the construction… | View Profile |
![]() | Catherine Kearney | Catherine joined the Large Loss team in London in March 2019.… | View Profile |
![]() | Crispin Kenyon | Admitted in 1980, Crispin was a partner from1986 and joined Weightmans in… | View Profile |
![]() | Eleanor Kilner | Eleanor has over 12 years of experience acting for major insurer… | View Profile |
![]() | Seray Kitchingman | Seray is a Principal Associate in the firm’s corporate department, based… | View Profile |
![]() | Rachel Kneale | Rachel joined Weightmans in 2014 where she leads the healthcare team.… | View Profile |
![]() | Andrew Krausz | Andrew is recognised as a leading practitioner in the Who’s Who… | View Profile |
![]() | Helena Liebster | Helena joined Weightmans in 2018 and is a partner in the… | View Profile |
![]() | Jon Lord | As a part of the niche costs team, Jon advises the… | View Profile |
![]() | Helen McCann | Helen was admitted as a solicitor in 1997 and joined Weightmans… | View Profile |
![]() | Isobel Michie | Since first qualifying as a solicitor in 1994, Isobel has acted… | View Profile |
![]() | Ling Ong | Ling joined Weightmans in 2008 and is a partner in the London… | View Profile |
![]() | Daniel Rutherford | Daniel is a Principal Associate based in our London office and… | View Profile |
![]() | Harvir Sahota | Harvir is an Associate in the London Healthcare team who acts… | View Profile |
![]() | Nicola Shand | Nicola is an Associate in the London Healthcare team and acts… | View Profile |
![]() | Adele Shortman | View Profile | |
![]() | Kate Shute | View Profile | |
![]() | Louise Singh | View Profile | |
![]() | Basiru Terry | Basiru is an Associate in the Large Loss department, based in… | View Profile |
![]() | Lottie Tyler | Lottie trained as a solicitor at Manches LLP (Oxford) before joining the… | View Profile |
![]() | Janet Wallis | Janet works predominantly on personal injury cases for defendant insurers such… | View Profile |
![]() | Hannah Walsh | Hannah Walsh heads the London police team. Clients describe Hannah as… | View Profile |
![]() | Maria Watmough | Maria is a partner in the finance team and has many… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 197 Number of other UK fee-earners : 633- Dispute resolution > Professional discipline
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
- Corporate and commercial > EU and competition
- Dispute resolution > Debt recovery
- Employment > Health and safety
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Private client > Family
- Public sector > Education
- Public sector > Health
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Real estate > Property litigation
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Partnership
- Insurance > Clinical negligence: defendant
- Insurance > Personal injury: defendant
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Public sector > Education: institutions
- Public sector > Healthcare
- Public sector > Local government
- Transport > Travel
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Liverpool
- Employment
- Employment > Pensions
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Public sector > Local government
- Real estate > Commercial property: Liverpool
- Real estate > Planning and environment
- Real estate > Social housing
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment
- Transport
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Newcastle
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Newcastle
- Employment
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant
- Employment > Health and safety
- Private client > Family: Birmingham
- Public sector > Health
- Employment > Health and safety
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant
- Real estate > Planning
Firm Rankings
- Private client > Court of protection
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Water
- Real estate > Residential property
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Liverpool
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Manchester
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Manchester
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Real estate > Commercial property: Newcastle
- Real estate > Construction
- Employment
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Employment > Health and safety
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Private client > Family
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment (including media finance)
- Transport > Aviation
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Real estate > Commercial property: Manchester
- Real estate > Construction
- Insurance > Personal injury: defender
- Private client > Family
- Real estate > Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham
- Employment > Employment: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire
- Private client > Family: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Insurance > Insurance and reinsurance litigation
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Transport > Shipping
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire