Deka Chambers

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Roderick Abbott

Roderick Abbott has developed and maintained a deliberately broad practice within Chambers’ key areas of specialisation. Roderick acts for several police forces across the whole range of civil claims, including false imprisonment, malicious prosecution, assault and battery, and human rights claims. He also advises and represents forces in police disciplinary matters. Roderick was recently seconded to the Metropolitan Police legal team working on the Undercover Policing Inquiry. He has also worked in-house on secondment to Thames Valley Police. Roderick acts for Claimants and Defendants across the full range of personal injury work. He has particular expertise in defending claims which are alleged to be fraudulent or fundamentally dishonest. Roderick has extensive experience of defending against fraudulent claims. He can advise on pleading points (including whether the evidence is strong enough to advance allegations of fraud) and on the many tactical questions which it is important to get right to maximise the chances of exposing fraudulent claims. A significant amount of Roderick’s practice involves trial advocacy in fraudulent claims, and he brings to bear a wealth of experience in cross-examining fraudulent claimants which is invaluable in getting the right result for defendants.

Shekinah is a highly experienced criminal advocate with over two decades’ practice in serious and complex crime. She is a Grade 4 CPS prosecutor and a member of the CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) Panel, regularly instructed in some of the most sensitive and high-profile cases. Her practice spans the full range of serious crime, with particular expertise in rape and serious sexual offences, human trafficking, and organised violence. She is recognised for her ability to manage vulnerable and child witnesses sensitively while maintaining robust, incisive advocacy. She is frequently instructed as leading counsel in trials involving multiple complainants, historic allegations, and complex evidential issues, including hearsay, bad character, and digital evidence. Shekinah’s recent cases include: Securing conviction in a non-fatal strangulation and multiple rape case where the defendant abused his partner for 18 years. Leading for the Crown in a human trafficking and sexual exploitation prosecution involving 5 defendants and 5 complainants. Prosecuting a Metropolitan Police special constable for sexual offences and theft, a case attracting national media coverage. She also undertakes defence instructions in serious sexual and violent crime, giving her balanced strategic insight into case theory and cross-examination techniques. Notable defence successes include a successful No Case to Answer submission in an attempted rape trial and the acquittal of a man accused of multiple rapes. Shekinah is highly regarded for her written advocacy and appellate work, preparing advices for the CPS on appeals against conviction, Unduly Lenient Sentence referrals, and complex evidential rulings. Before joining the independent Bar, Shekinah spent almost two decades with the Crown Prosecution Service, where she was a Crown Advocate Liaison at Croydon Crown Court and was awarded a Trophy of Excellence in Advocacy for consistently outstanding courtroom performance. She continues to mentor junior advocates and is committed to maintaining high standards of advocacy across both prosecution and defence. Key Skills & Expertise Elite Criminal Advocacy: Extensive experience as leading counsel in serious and complex crime, including rape, attempted murder, human trafficking, and multi-defendant violent conspiracies. Serious Sexual Offences Specialist: Appointed to the CPS RASSO Panel (2024); expert in historic and familial abuse, multi-complainant allegations, and vulnerable witness handling. Complex Case Strategy: Trusted for pre-trial evidential advice on disclosure, digital evidence, and expert testimony in high-profile, multi-handed cases. Written Advocacy & Legal Analysis: Successful appeals against conviction and ULS referrals; drafted complex submissions on abuse of process, bad character, and hearsay, often in multi-handed cases. High-Profile Casework: Regularly instructed in cases attracting national media attention, including the Grindr blackmail prosecution and misconduct by a Metropolitan Police special constable. Judicial Liaison & Leadership: Former CPS Liaison Advocate at Croydon Crown Court; strong relationships with judiciary and case progression expertise. Mentoring & Advocacy Training: Trains junior advocates in trial advocacy, charging decisions, evidential strategy, and ethical case preparation. Recognition for Excellence: Awarded a Trophy of Excellence in Advocacy for outstanding courtroom performance.

Catherine Atkinson

Catherine joined Chambers in 2008 after successful completion of her pupillage. She continues to enjoy a wide-ranging practice with particular interests in personal injury, employment, fraud and public family cases. Catherine's broad experience is invaluable in cases which cross over specialisms including; police work, criminal injury compensation cases, stress claims, inquest work and abuse cases. Catherine is a strong and confident court advocate while being approachable and pragmatic with clients. Catherine graduated from the University of Edinburgh with a First Class degree in Divinity before undertaking the law conversion at City University. She was awarded the Lincoln's Inn Gluckstein prize and was a Lord Haldane Scholar. Outside Chambers Catherine enjoys dancing, food and politics. She stood as the Labour Parliamentary Candidate in Kensington and Chelsea in 2005 and was a Councillor there from 2006-2010. Catherine is the secretary of the Society of Labour Lawyers. Catherine has been a contributing author to books in; occupational health, employment law and clinical negligence. She has also written articles on a wide range of topics from domestic violence and harassment to pirates.

Tabitha was called to the Bar in 1998 and since that date has developed a thriving practice in the area of family law, focussing in particular on child law; both public and private law cases. Tabitha is a fearless yet sensible advocate and is always energetic, willing and committed on behalf of her client. She always establishes an easy rapport with those she represents, whilst showing a drive and determination to do the best on behalf of her clients. In Public Child Law cases, Tabitha's practice concentrates on care proceedings, many of her cases involving allegations of non-accidental injury and sexual abuse. She also appears in cases involving adoption, and placement of children overseas. Tabitha is keen to develop her practice in Court of Protection work. Since 1999, Tabitha has been a volunteer advisor on family law at legal advice centres in London.

Giles Bedloe specialises in fraud and financial crime, commercial dispute resolution and business regulation. Giles is an accomplished advocate, equally at home before the Court of Appeal as in front of a jury. He regularly appears in the High Court, in Chancery and Queen’s Bench matters, and before a variety of tribunals. Giles is also a versatile advisor, able to provide a range of solutions tailored to the specific needs of his clients. Giles has extensive expertise in restraint, confiscation and asset forfeiture having appeared in the Court of Appeal authority of McDowell and having represented intervening parties in the substantial confiscation proceedings arising out of Operation Amazon and in the seminal matter of Ahmad & Fields. In 2015 and 2016, he was engaged by one of the UK’s major banks as a consultant in respect of a £4 billion review of the mis-selling of derivatives, directed by the Financial Conduct Authority. He is appointed to the CPS Specialist Fraud Panel and the Attorney General’s Panel of Specialist Regulatory Counsel. As part of his commercial defence practice, Giles regularly advises and represents individuals before the professional and disciplinary tribunals, and businesses before their regulators. Giles has particular expertise in matters involving the pensions and financial services ombdusmen. Giles is a qualified mediator and is adept in multiple forms of non court-based dispute resolution including arbitration.

All aspects of clinical negligence work and personal injury work with additional expertise in criminal injuries compensation claims. She is a well-established and highly respected senior junior regularly instructed against silks and occasionally led by silks from chambers. Her work is complex and high value and relates to life changing and catastrophic injuries of any sort. She is approachable, dynamic and knowledgeable. She regularly lectures in Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Law. She is a qualified arbitrator with PIcARBS. Publications: General Editor of the Third Edition of 9 Gough Square's 'Clinical Negligence Claims, a Practical Guide' published in 2015, Co-author of Criminal Injuries Compensation Claims (Law Society) and General Editor of the 2nd Edition published in 2016. Contributing editor Kemp and Kemp 'The Quantum of Damages.' Contributing editor Kemp and Kemp 'Law Practice and Procedure.' Contributing editor 'Guide to RTA Liability' (Jordans). She also sits on the editorial board of ‘Medicine Science and the Law’, the journal of the British Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Susanna Bennett

Susanna Bennett's practice comprises (a) civil claims and inquests concerning alleged failures in medical treatment and (b) duty of care claims brought against employers, occupiers, surveyors, landlords, land-owners, conveyancers, solicitors, highway authorities, education authorities and more. She is a talented and versatile clinical negligence practitioner who is instructed for both claimants and defendants. Her practice is very diverse: she acts in claims alleging negligent surgery, failure to diagnose (a heart attack, a stroke, gallstones, cancer of different stages, a leak following repair of an aneurysm, and more), failure to recognise rare side effects of medication, failure to obtain informed consent (for implantation/explantation of an ICD, hysterectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy, mastectomy, removal of a tooth following radiotherapy and more), failure to refer to a specialist, negligent treatment of diabetic patients, carrying out surgery despite excessively high blood pressure, failure to carry out necessary surgery in the elderly, substandard nursing care for the elderly, failure to communicate with other healthcare providers to ensure joined-up care, and delays in carrying out essential treatment. Her cases often involve a Human Rights Act element. She was instructed for the successful Defendant, led by Ed Bishop KC, in the case of Traylor and Traylor v Kent and Medway NHS Social Care Partnership Trust [2022] EWHC 260 (QB). The case is the first time the High Court has considered whether the ex turpi defence will apply when the claimant has been found to have been not guilty by reason of insanity. She was called to the Bar at Gray's Inn in 2017.

Edward Bishop KC

Edward Bishop KC has practised in the fields of clinical negligence and personal injury for most of his career. He has also more recently developed expertise and experience in claims involving violations of human rights in the healthcare setting. Edward has practised in clinical negligence and healthcare for over 25 years, and has experience in advising on, contesting and mediating complex and high value claims in all fields of medical care. In the early stages of his career he was involved in the sodium valproate group litigation, and later in a group action brought by heroin-addicted prisoners. His main area of practice now is in high value cerebral palsy and spinal injury claims. He is regularly instructed by both claimants and defendants. Edward has practised in personal injury litigation throughout his career, and now specialises in high value claims arising in many different circumstances, including injuries sustained in the course of employment and road traffic accidents. He is currently instructed in a number of claims for personal injury damages arising as a result of allegations of human rights violations.

Simon Brindle is an highly experienced and skilled barrister, practicing in the fields of Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence. Simon can be trusted to help progress the most difficult and complex of cases. In the field of Personal Injury, he is instructed on behalf of both Claimants and Defendants. His work is split roughly 80/20%. He conducts cases in his own right, often against leading counsel, and as junior counsel. In disputes arising out of Clinical Negligence, Simon acts exclusively for Claimants. Clients take to Simon’s warm and engaging, but authoritive style. He swiftly builds up the rapport of trust and confidence, with both lay and insurer clients, fundamental to a successful outcome in any case. Simon is praised by his professional clients for his advocacy, breadth of knowledge and approachability.

An experienced civil practitioner specialising in police law, professional negligence claims, personal injury cases and inquests for over 25 years. Appointed Chairman (Police Misconduct Panel) in 2015 and Assistant Coroner (Inner London) in 2016. Publications "Civil Actions against the Police" (3rd Edn Sweet and Maxwell 2004) "Preventative Orders" (Law Society Publishing 2010) Regular contributor to the Law Society Gazette

Laura has a particular interest in personal injury cases and regularly represents both claimants and defendants in the County Courts.

Simon is a leading barrister who applies expertise and innovation to a range of complex legal issues, and is known as a creative thinker who works fluently across many areas of expertise. His breadth of practice and extensive legal knowledge ensure complex cases are navigated with ease. He regularly appears in tribunals, the County Court, High Court and Court of Appeal. Described by Chambers & Partners as "very hard working, always going the extra mile and getting everything done with the minimum of hassle" and "the first port of call for many solicitors who value his great legal acumen and abilities in court". The Legal 500 notes that "his skill and experience has the ability to change the judge's mind, due to his experience of advocacy and life" and "he leaves no stone unturned in getting to the truth". Simon is able to offer pragmatic and effective solutions to the challenges faced by clients, and acts in their best interests to bring the matter to a swift and satisfactory conclusion in a cost effective manner. He is committed to providing a fair and affordable service in the interests of justice. He is a team player, who is enthusiastic, hard working and strives for excellence.

James has a growing reputation specialising in the field of complex fraud, restraint and criminal and civil asset recovery, appearing regularly in the Crown, Appeal and High Court. Over the past year James has worked closely with the Serious Fraud Office on a number of their most high profile and high value cases. Of particular note, James is currently instructed as junior counsel prosecuting the confiscation element of the Libor rate-fixing scandal involving some of the world's largest international banks. Alongside his work in fraud, James also accepts instructions in general crime, serious crime and regulatory crime. He particularly enjoys cases of a complex and tactical nature and presents as an astute advocate to the jury. James has recently concluded defending against the largest prosecution ever brought under the Gangmasters Regulations. As part of the defence James sought to challenge the abuse of process ruling of R v A (in the first case ever sat at Bristol Divisional Court). In concluding the case District Judge Cooper of Swindon took time to praise James for the outstanding contribution and hard work he had put in the case. From a seemingly hopeless situation, James ultimately earned his client an absolute discharge and minimal costs.

Matthew Chapman KC

Barrister specialising in personal injury, travel claims and general common law. Cases include: Winrow v Hemphill [2014] EWHC 3164 (QB, Slade J); Hyde v Sara Assicurazioni [2014] EWHC 2881 (QB, HHJ Moloney QC); Wall v Mutuelle de Poitiers Assurances [2013] QB 53 (QB); [2014] EWCA Civ 138; Brownlie v Four Seasons Holdings Incorporated [2014] EWHC 273 (QB, Tugendhat J); Ford v Malaysian Airline System [2013] EWCA Civ 1163; (1) Bloy (2) Ireson v MIB QBD 11/01/2013; Kira Middleton v Allianz IARD SA [2012] EWHC 2287; Cosmos Holidays v Dhanjal Investments [2009]; Baines v Baines [2008]; Dawson v Broughton [2007]; Barton v Goldensun Holidays and Arlida [2007]; Moncrieff and Moncrieff v Cosmosair plc [2006]; Godfrey v TUI UK Ltd (2006); Pemberton and Ors v First Choice Holiday and Flights Ltd (2006); Healy v Cosmosair plc [2005]; Keppel Palmer v Exsus Travel and Royal Westmorland Estates [2003]; Wong v Parkside Health NHS Trust [2001] CA.

Ian Clarke’s experience spans a range of high profile, sensitive and complicated claims relating to the obligations of public bodies. Ian regularly acts for local authorities, police forces and the NHS in cases concerning complex arguments about the existence and scope of duties of care, vicarious liability and claims concerning the Human Rights Act 1998 and the Equality Act 2010. Ian is recognised as a leading junior in the field of police law and represents all the major police forces in claims of assault, wrongful arrest and false imprisonment and also in judicial review proceedings. Ian also has significant experience of dealing with claims under data protection legislation, misuse of private information and breach of confidence for police forces, local authorities, and other public and private bodies. Ian has experience acting in professional negligence claims (including clinical) and for many years was a prosecutor for the Bar Standards Board and has appeared before a variety of other regulatory tribunals.

Tom Collins specialises in travel and cross-border litigation, personal injury and clinical negligence. Tom deals increasingly with high value/catastrophic injury claims and has experience in handling group litigation, particularly with an international dimension. He has considerable experience as a Trial and Appellate advocate and has appeared in Courts at all levels (including the Court of Appeal). In recent years has appeared in a number of landmark appellate decisions on jurisdiction as well as the last ever reference by a UK court for a preliminary ruling from the CJEU. He has extensive experience in ADR and had acted for clients in Arbitrations and JSMs Tom is a specialist in travel and cross-border claims, acting for both Claimants and Defendants. His clients include foreign insurers, tour operators, air and sea carriers and foreign Hoteliers as well as private individuals. His practice in this field includes (1) Conflicts (jurisdiction and applicable law disputes in a variety of contexts from claims against the MIB to overseas clinical negligence to the assessment of damages under foreign law); (2) ‘traditional’ package and other travel/holiday related claims against tour operators or Hoteliers, including arising out of excursions or winter sports; (3) claims against air and sea carriers under international conventions. Tom is regarded as approachable and provides clear, practical advice. He lectures and writes widely within his specialist areas of practice and is a contributor to the Travel Law Quarterly. Tom has a broad defendant personal injury practice, encompassing occupiers’ and employers’ liability claims, claims under the Highways Act 1980 and claims involving road traffic accidents. His clients include many of the UK’s leading insurers and local authorities. Tom has a broad clinical negligence practice, encompassing failures of consent, to diagnose or refer and in relation to treatment across a wide spectrum, ranging from elective sterilisation to cosmetic procedures to dentistry. His clients include NHS Trusts, private healthcare providers and individual clinicians as well as private individuals. He has a particular focus on clinical negligence claims with an international dimension, where his knowledge of jurisdiction and applicable law issues is of considerable value.

Jeremy Crowther

Jeremy Crowther is a clinical negligence and personal injury specialist with nearly 30 years’ experience. He is regularly instructed by the country’s leading personal injury firms in a wide range of high value cases, including those involving industrial disease. He is adept at evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of cases at an early stage, and giving constructive and strategic advice throughout the litigation process to achieve the best possible outcome. In his clinical negligence work, Jeremy acts on behalf of both claimants and the NHS, often in highly complex and valuable claims. He is interested in the development and evolution of clinical negligence work, and regularly co-authors articles for publication in the medical press.

Ella Davis has a broad civil practice with a particular emphasis on clinical negligence and personal injury. She regularly appears in court and has a busy paperwork practice. She also acts in mediations and settlement meetings. She has experience in handling complex cases on her own and working with a leader. Ella prides herself on being a thorough and approachable advocate. Ella acts for claimants and defendants in a wide range of clinical negligence claims. She is trusted to handle substantial claims without a leader, and acts as junior counsel in high value and complex claims. Ella also accepts instructions to provide advocacy at inquests. Ella practises across the field of personal injury, including in cross border claims. She has significant trial experience and her adept handling of fraudulent and exaggerated personal injury claims is recognised by Chambers and Partners. Ella is regularly instructed by local authorities in claims involving complex duty of care issues. She also has experience bringing and defending claims involving chronic pain and traumatic brain injury. Ella is regularly instructed on behalf of road traffic insurers in cases where fraud is suspected or alleged and as a result she is very familiar with the case law relating to fundamental dishonesty. Ella is able to draw on this trial experience to advise on suitable tactics in a wide variety of claims where such issues arise. In particular, she has acted in a number of clinical negligence cases involving exaggeration and other examples of dishonesty. She is sought after for her robust pleadings.

Adam Dawson is head of Chambers Personal Injury Team and has a very busy Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence practice. Adam acts across the spectrum of PI and Clin Neg cases. Known as a tough court room advocate, he is popular amongst peers and clients alike for his pragmatic and practical approach to all aspects of litigation. Adam’s current caseload includes six and low seven figure claims relating to head injuries; below knee amputation; catastrophic spinal injuries and multiple back fractures following accidents on the road and at work. In his Clinical Negligence practice, Adam is currently representing the victims of delayed stroke diagnosis; delayed cancer diagnosis; a contraindicated limb replacement and several lack of consent cases relating to ophthalmic treatment. Additionally, Adam is involved in a number of high-profile Inquests/fatal accident claims. Adam has been ranked in the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners as a Leading PI Junior for a number of years. Adam was a Co-Editor of the Deka Chambers ‘Guide to RTA Liability’ writing the chapter on ‘Pedestrian RTAs.’ He has also contributed chapters to all four of the Deka Chambers Clinical Negligence manuals.

William Dean is a barrister and mediator whose practice combines court advocacy and advisory work. His common law background gives him experience of a wide range of courts and tribunals at both first instance and appellate level. William advises and represents individuals, companies, local authorities, police forces, government agencies and other clients before and during proceedings. He advises on paper and in conference (including by telephone and video) on merits, evidence, quantum and legal issues. William also delivers lectures and seminars in matters related to his areas of practice.

Lisa Dobie is recognised as a leading junior in the fields of clinical negligence, personal injury and police law. Lisa represents Claimants and Defendants. She has a particular expertise in acting for public bodies, often where there are issues over the existence and scope of a duty of care / vicarious liability / non delegable duties. Lisa is recognised for her ability to put witnesses at ease. She gets to the heart of the issues with experts and provides calm and confident advice. She is instructed in high value cases involving brain and spinal injuries in her own right and as a junior. She represents Claimants and Defendants across the full range of clinical negligence work. Her work includes fatal accidents, birth injury cases, secondary victims, delays in diagnosis, spinal injuries and brain injury cases. Her claims range from the lower end of the multi-track to multi-million pound cases requiring management of a number of liability and quantum experts. She is frequently instructed in complex cases where the existence of a duty of care may be in issue, where a claim under the Human Rights Act 1998 is included, or where there are substantive issues on vicarious liability and/or non-delegable duties. Lisa has expertise across the full spectrum of personal injury work, including fatal accidents, road traffic accidents, highways claim, occupiers’ liability, employers’ liability, stress at work claim and historic sexual and physical abuse. Lisa represents a number of forces across all malfeasance and assaults claims, Human Rights Act claims, road traffic collisions involving the emergency services, police dog and police horse cases, employers’ liability and stress at work. Lisa’s practice areas of personal injury, clinical negligence and police law overlap with her Human Rights practice. When acting for public bodies, Lisa is often defending claims which include a claim under the Human Right Act 1998.

Thom is an experienced barrister whose practice encompasses serious and complex crime, human rights, prison law, and police law. He prides himself on combining expert legal knowledge with exceptional standards of oral and written advocacy and has an established track record of securing successful outcomes for his clients. Thom is regularly instructed in sensitive and high-profile matters, with a particular focus on cases in which civil and criminal law overlap, or which involve multiple jurisdictions. He is currently instructed as part of Operation Northleigh, the criminal investigation into the Grenfell Tower disaster. Thom writes on various issues of legal interest and has been published in The Times, The Guardian, Private Eye, New Statesman and Prospect, as well as in specialist law journals like Judicial Review, Public Law, Administrative Court Digest, and Solicitors Journal, and has been interviewed on BBC Radio 4 about legal issues. Recent cases include the successful prosecution of a neo-Nazi extremist who targeted prominent politicians with a campaign of virulently racist, anti-Semitic, and violent abuse, representing the police in misconduct proceedings against a former officer who preyed on vulnerable women, and acting for counter terror police in care proceedings in the Family Division relating to the daughter of a suspected terrorist who travelled to Syria to join ISIS. Thom is a registered pupil supervisor and volunteers his time as an advocacy trainer for Inner Temple, where he is a Governing Bencher. He’s a member of the advisory board of APPEAL, and in his (limited) spare time, enjoys tackling The Times crossword, and running.

Laura has a mixed civil practise, specialising in personal injury, employment law, professional negligence and clinical negligence. A significant part of Laura's personal injury practise is made up of employer's liability, including industrial disease, claims. Laura has a particular interest in the interface between personal injury and employment law, including claims involving bullying and harassment and long term sickness and disability. Laura also undertakes child abuse work, including regular appearances before the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority and the Irish Review Board - both in London and in Dublin. Allied to these areas of work, she has expertise in high value psychiatric injury claims. In the employment field, Laura appears for claimants and respondents, in the public and private sectors. Although she undertakes a range of work, she has particular expertise in handling complex discrimination and whistleblowing claims. She enjoys the challenge of advocacy in the Tribunal and feels this brings an added dimension to her personal injury practice. Laura has a varied professional negligence and clinical negligence practise. She is able to provide specialist advice in the tricky areas of compromise and abuse of process in cases involving overlapping personal injury and employment jurisdictions. Laura also has expertise in human rights and constitutional law. As a Pegasus Scholar in 2001, she undertook work at the Human Rights Commission in Sydney, Australia. She has twice appeared in the Privy Council on matters relating to the Mauritian education system. Laura regularly provides seminars on a range of topics. She is also able to offer public access work.

Edward Faulks KC

Edward Faulks KC specialises in clinical negligence, personal injury, police law and claims arising from the Human Rights Act. During his time in practice, Edward has appeared in c.25 cases in the House of Lords and the Supreme Court and over 100 cases in the Court of Appeal. He is also instructed in many group actions and enquiries. Between 1998 and 2007 Edward was head of Chambers at 1 Chancery Lane and clients say he creates a cool and calm atmosphere. Edward has been instructed in a large number of the leading cases in relation to Clinical Negligence and Healthcare, as well as the areas that they cross over into – Personal Injury, Police Law, Local Government and Public Sector & Human Rights law, over the last 10 years and is regarded as being one of the most highly regarded Appellate silks of his generation.

Jeremy is a leading junior practicing in all aspects of personal injury litigation, working only for claimants. He is a specialist in claims defended by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau and in road traffic accident claims were liability remains hotly contested. He also possesses deep rooted knowledge of all quantum aspects of catastrophic injury claims, especially those arising from polytrauma; traumatic brain injury; or fatal accident. He has a particular interest in functional neurological disorders; somatoform disorders; and chronic pain presentations and has considerable experience in litigating cases where losses are founded on self-employment / self-owned businesses. He is renowned for his professional approach; trial advocacy; and excellent client care, a leading expert recently describing him as “the most rigorous and thorough Counsel I have worked with over many years…”

Perrin has a busy and established practice specializing in personal injury and professional negligence claims. This work spills over into the arena of inquests and CICA applications. She also undertakes a fair amount of solicitors' negligence claims and costs work. Perrin's practice encompasses all areas of personal injury work from modest road traffic accidents through to high value brain injury claims. She also has an ever expanding clinical negligence practice which currently includes cerebral palsy cases. Having undertaken her pupillage at Deka Chambers , Perrin has a wealth of common law advocacy experience and a real expertise in maximizing quantum and schedules of loss. She is a contributing editor to Deka Chambers publication "Clinical Negligence Claims" and is a contributor to "Kemp & Kemp: Personal Injury Law, Practice and Procedure". She also appears in the Legal 500. Perrin lectures in house and upon request at solicitors' offices.

Stephen Glynn has huge experience in all matters personal injury drawn from over 30 years’ practice in the field, including RTA, EL, PL and clinical negligence and catastrophic injury. He has particular experience in subtle brain injury cases. He has a significant asbestos disease practice. He has substantial experience of child abuse claims particularly with an HRA element. He has expertise in the application of bankruptcy on personal injury claims. He is the author of two chapters in Kemp. He is the editor and author of a number of books published by chambers including Clinical Negligence, law and practice (now in its 4 edition) and Asbestos Claims, law and practice (now in its 4th edition). Known mainly for his claimant practice, Stephen is expert in carefully managing lay, professional (as well judicial expectations) in the running of all types of personal injury claim. He is particularly known for his sensitivity and understanding when instructed on complex and challenging cases involving brain and catastrophic injuries including birth and fatal accidents. He able to bring solid, commercial and good tactical sense to any claim. Until 2017 he served as a member of APIL’s executive committee and a member of APIL’s working party on the government’s discount rate change review.

Claire Harden-Frost

Claire Harden-Frost is an experienced barrister who is skilled at prosecuting and defending serious and complex cases. Claire is a grade 4 CPS prosecutor who has been appointed to the specialist rape panel for many years, she is a grade 4 specialist serious and organised crime prosecutor and a grade 4 specialist fraud prosecutor. Claire has also been appointed to List of Specialist Regulatory Advocates instructed by the Health and Safety Executive, the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, the Office of Rail and Road, the Care Quality Commission and the Office for Nuclear Regulation at Grade A. Claire is adept at prosecuting and defending road traffic offences including incidents where death and serious injury have occurred, she is instructed by the CPS and Solicitors acting through legal aid or through Insurers. Claire also prosecutes for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and is instructed by the Metropolitan Police in connection with the Undercover Policing Inquiry.

Jack Harding is a popular and highly experienced practitioner who specialises in complex personal injury claims. His practice encompasses the whole range of chambers personal injury work, but with a particular focus on two sub-specialties: public sector and human rights, and travel and cross border claims. He acts for claimants and Defendants in substantial six and seven figure claims, including traumatic brain injury and spinal injury. In his public law practice, Jack is regularly instructed on behalf of authorities such as local councils, NHS Trusts and the police and emergency services against a range of tortious and statutory claims, and has been involved in high profile decisions in the field of Vicarious Liability, Sexual abuse, Occupiers’ Liability and Occupational Stress. Jack is regarded as a leading junior in the field of cross-border personal injury claims. He is a co-author of Saggerson on Travel Law Litigation, now in its 7th Edition, one of the leading practitioner texts in this area, having recently been cited by the Advocate-General in the Court of Justice of the European Union. His broad practice spans all areas of travel and private international law, acting for and against tour operators, airlines, airports, foreign hoteliers and foreign insurers. He has a particular expertise in aviation-related claims and is involved in a number of ongoing claims arising out of aircraft incidents in Barbados and Venezuela. He advises, regularly, on the application of the Montreal Convention and EC Regulation 261/2004 as well as aviation related discrimination cases. Jack’s expertise has been in particularly high demand given the implications of Brexit in terms of jurisdictional issues. He is regularly asked to advise on this issue. Jack has also been heavily involved in advising travel agents and other companies in relation to their liability for cancellations arising out of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sabrina Hartshorn

Sabrina undertakes all forms of personal injury work. She is regularly instructed in multiple and significant orthopaedic injury claims, fatal accident and chronic pain claims. Sabrina is experienced counsel in the field of occupational disease, particularly NIHL, HAVS, Asbestos, COSHH, WRULD, Dermatitis and Occupational Asthma. She advises on complex issues of causation, breach of duty and limitation representing claimants nationwide. Sabrina is regularly instructed to deal with a variety of clinical negligence work ranging from delay in diagnosis claims, mis-diagnosis claims, negligent surgery, claims involving failure to admit for acute psychosis leading to suicide, dental negligence and cosmetic surgery claims. Publications: Sabrina is a contributing editor to the Occupational Disease chapter in Kemp & Kemp: Quantum of Damages, a contributing editor to the Chambers Asbestos Claims Handbook and a contributing editor to the Chambers Clinical Negligence Handbook. Published articles include an article on the discount rate and investment advice published in the JPIL Issue 1 2018 and an article on s33 Limitation Act published in the JPIL in Issue 2 2019.

Roger Hiorns spent his first 10 years in Chambers with a broad common law practice which saw him appear in all types of courts on a daily basis. For more than 25 years now he has practised exclusively in the fields of personal injury, fatal accident, clinical negligence and professional negligence claims. He now has a wealth of experience in these areas and can return paperwork very quickly.

Alastair Hogarth

Alastair Hogarth is a leading junior barrister specialising in all areas of family law. He has a busy practice in both public law child protection and private law cases arising out of all aspects of relationship breakdown. He is a highly regarded court performer with a reputation for being personable but tenacious. Al prides himself on his personable approach and an ability to build a rapport with clients and opponents alike. He is a strong believer in putting clients at their ease at all stages of the legal process whilst at the same time vigorously pursuing their interests. Al is regularly complimented on having made the process of litigation clearer, calmer and less daunting for those involved. Al is client focussed and practical with a view to achieving the best outcome for those he represents. He is a highly regarded court room advocate and negotiator with a reputation for being charming yet intelligent, reasoned and tenacious. Al regularly lectures solicitors on various aspects of family law and procedure. He has been a contributing author to various practitioners’ texts and provides updates for chambers’ publications on current relevant legal issues. Al is also direct access trained and approved by the Bar Council to accept instructions direct from lay clients.

James Holmes-Milner

James practises in the fields of property and insolvency, traditional and commercial chancery (including professional negligence work) and employment law. James sits as a Deputy District Judge (civil) on the SE Circuit, London group. He is authorised to hear personal insolvency cases within the county court jurisdiction at the Royal Courts of Justice. James has undertaken work under the Bar Council's direct public access scheme since 2008, regularly carries out pro bono work and provides training to solicitors and voluntary sector advisers in business tenancy and employment law.

Robert's practice encompasses high value personal injury and clinical negligence work together with health professions' regulatory. He was deputy head of the personal injury and clinical negligence group in his former set. Outside of work Robert enjoys cross-country running, albeit he finds it takes him ever longer to cover ever shorter distances. He is kept amply occupied and amused by his three young children. Robert's high level personal injury practice and his regulatory medical professional disciplinary practice dovetail perfectly with his clinical negligence practice. Robert has experience of representing both claimants and defendants where clinical practice is in issue. He is very familiar with the workings of medical institutions and clinical practices. He has extensive experience of cross-examining experts on highly technical points of medical procedure. He is able to analyse and marshal high volumes of information to great effect. His insightful and realistic approach is highly regarded by his professional and lay clients alike. Robert acts for claimants and defendants across the full range of personal injury work. His busy practice includes advising and representing clients in road traffic accidents, accidents at work, fatal accidents, occupiers’ liability, highways claims, CICA applications and appeals, claims involving the MIB and low velocity impact cases. He is fully conversant with claims involving allegations of fraud and cases involving credit hire. A lot of Robert's work is high value and much of it complex. Robert has a particular expertise in cases involving motorcycles, claims involving horses and construction accidents

Bethany Hutchison

Bethany is developing a busy common law practice, across the full range of Chambers’ specialisms. The breadth of Bethany’s experience as a barrister and in her previous career roles in the private and public sectors, means she is well positioned to work with professional and lay clients from all walks of life. Bethany regularly appears in the Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court, prosecuting and defending criminal matters. She has advised on disclosure issues and legal privilege sifts. She is also regularly instructed by the police and has successfully made applications for civil orders under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, such as Sexual Harm Prevention Orders and Stalking Protection Orders. Bethany has a broad civil practice and has achieved success for clients in both small claims and fast track matters. She regularly appears in the County Court and has experience in personal injury, occupiers’ and public liability matters. She has also acted in stage 3 hearings, approval hearings, and interlocutory applications. In her family law practice, Bethany appears in both private and public family matters. She has experience working with vulnerable parties, and those facing allegations of domestic abuse. She also accepts instructions on both Schedule 1 and Matrimonial Causes finance proceedings. She is also committed to pro-bono work as a member of the Family Panel at the legal charity, Advocate. Bethany has a growing Court of Protection practice, and has experience in matters concerning capacity, challenges to standard authorisations, and incapacitous marriages. She is also a qualified mediator, having trained with the London School of Mediation in 2024. Prior to coming to Chambers, Bethany gained a broad range of experience. She worked in the legal advisory teams in the Cabinet Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, following successful completion of her pupillage with the Government Legal Department. She advised on high profile commercial, immigration and contractual matters during that time. Before her legal career, Bethany worked as a management consultant, and volunteered as a debt adviser, advising and empowering individuals struggling with debt in South-West London. Outside work, Bethany is the singer in a semi-professional function band, performing at parties and gig venues around the UK.

Laura Johnson KC

Laura’s practice is focused on claims that are high value, complex or sensitive, acting for both claimants and defendants. She is an experienced advocate, equally comfortable advancing appellate arguments on points of law as she is addressing a civil jury. Many of Laura’s cases are resolved through ADR and she frequently represents parties in JSMs and mediations. Laura enjoys working as part of a team. Her client care skills are often commended in the legal directories. Whether acting for injured or bereaved individuals, or representing institutions facing public scrutiny in controversial cases, she is focussed on understanding the needs of the client and providing thoughtful advice setting a clear strategy. Many of her cases involve multiple experts and she is used to dealing with and advising on complex medical and quantum evidence. Laura’s current claimant work encompasses serious brain and spinal injury, amputation, functional neurological disorders, complex psychiatric and fatal claims. She is instructed in a range of claims of substantial value involving serious injury to children, including traumatic brain injury necessitating full time care for life with associated accommodation and MDT cost claims. She has considerable experience of managing cases involving large numbers of medical experts and complex medical issues. Laura’s expertise in clinical negligence work means that she is well placed to advise on such issues. Laura is a popular and experienced trial advocate, regularly acting for defendants in a range of work, often involving significant legal complexity and reputational sensitivity. She is very experienced in cases concerning the existence and scope of the duty of care, vicarious liability and those that intersect with discrimination and human rights law (for work involving public bodies, human rights and discrimination see Laura’s profile for Public Sector and Human Rights work). Laura has long been recognised as a leader in the field of clinical negligence. She acts for claimants and defendants and is very experienced in cases involving catastrophic injury, including brain and spinal injury. She is a popular and confident trial advocate, regularly instructed in substantial seven figure claims. She has a particular interest in novel legal issues and has appeared recently in the Court of Appeal and High Court in leading cases involving questions of consent and the duty of care owed to secondary victims. Between 2020 and 2022 Laura was instructed in the Manchester Arena Inquiry, representing the interests of Greater Manchester Combined Authority on behalf of the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, led by Andrew Warnock KC. Laura has long been recognised as a leading junior in the field of actions against the police, acting exclusively for police forces. Laura’s work encompasses misfeasance in public office, malicious prosecution, Human Rights Act claims for failing to conduct an adequate investigation, allegations of excessive force resulting in serious personal injury, wrongful arrest, vicarious liability claims for police officers accused of serious sexual misconduct, employers’ liability, occupational stress / harassment and claims concerning novel duties of care. Throughout her career Laura has acted for public authorities in a broad range of work. She has expertise in cases brought in negligence, under the Equality Act 2010 and the Human Rights Act 1998.

Civil: Tom’s civil practice principally relates to claims brought against public bodies in negligence and under the Human Rights Act 1998. His case load involves claims arising from alleged mistreatment in prisons, claims for false imprisonment and claims against local authorities for failures in children and adult social services functions. He acted for two local authorities in the Supreme Court in HXA v Surrey County Council; YXA v Wolverhampton County Council [2023] UKSC 52, concerning the question of whether local authorities assume responsibility to protect children from harm through their conduct. Court of Protection: Tom has a busy practice in the Court of Protection where he is instructed in disputes relating to serious medical treatment, residence, care and contact. He recently represented the applicant in Health Body A v JW and another [2024] EWCOP 40 in which declarations were sought that it was in the best interests of a patient to undergo a dental extraction under general anaesthetic. Children: Tom’s family practice principally relates to cases involving children. He has appeared in cases of neglect, substance misuse, non-accidental injury and cases involving the medical treatment of children and young people. He represented the health board in A Health Board v AZ and Ors (Termination of Childhood Pregnancy: Guidance) [2023] EWHC 2517 in which the applicant sought declarations that it would be in the best interests of an 11-year-old girl to undergo a termination of pregnancy. Public: Tom is a member of the Attorney General’s Civil Panel of Counsel (C Panel) and recently appeared for the Secretary of State for the Home Department in Re G (Disclosure of Fact-Finding to the Secretary of State for the Home Department) [2023] EWHC 450 (Fam), which sets out guidance for the disclosure of material within confidential family proceedings to the Secretary of State where there are parallel asylum proceedings. Inquests: Tom is regularly instructed to attend inquests on behalf of government departments, local authorities, health bodies, the police and private individuals. He has experience in healthcare cases, cases involving mental health provision, cases involving article 2 and jury inquests. Tom is currently instructed by ‘Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice’ in the national Covid-19 inquiry.

Cyrus Katrak is a specialist personal injury and clinical negligence practitioner and is recommended in both Chambers and Partners and the Legal 500. He has acted for both Claimants and Defendants in high profile cases including the British Coal Respiratory Disease Litigation and the Paddington Rail Disaster. His particular expertise is in high value brain injuries, clinical negligence and fatal accident cases. He also represents medical professionals in regulatory health care proceedings, has prosecuted in the General Medical Council and sits as a legal assessor at the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Cyrus also acts on behalf of injured clients before the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority. First and foremost Cyrus aims to put litigants at ease in what are often the most stressful of circumstances and is careful to ensure that conferences are tailored to fit the client’s particular needs. He considers that client care is fundamental but nonetheless will always give clear, direct and robust advice. Cyrus lives in Twickenham and can accept instructions at short notice either by DX or email. He is married to a Consultant Head and Neck Surgeon who practices at The Royal Surrey County Hospital. One day he intends to retire to New Orleans to play the blues piano in a bar.

Saleem Khalid is one of the leading juniors at the Bar in the field of Construction. He specialises in Construction & Professional Negligence actions. He has considerable knowledge and expertise of complex TCC cases, most recently those involving cladding and associated insurance policy issues. Saleem has a consistently excellent track record of achieving good results for clients, insurers and groups, and offers sound advice and advocacy. Some recent cases include: Acting for a number of Claimant Housing Associations in High Court (TCC) claims arising out of defectively designed and installed cladding, which is a fire hazard. Acting for a charity which purchased a number of tall buildings that have now been found to have potentially hazardous and combustible cladding. Advising a Claimant organisation on their defects liability insurance policy to assess if it covers their claim. Represented the Defendant in a High Court (TCC) claim brought against an architect for the alleged negligent certification of flats. Represented the Defendant in a professional liability and professional conduct High Court claim concerning a Silk. Represented the Defendant in a High Court breach of professional duty claim against a leading architectural services firm (planning obligation). Represented the Defendant in a High Court professional indemnity claim brought against solicitors (alleged settlement undervaluation). Represented the Defendant surveyor in a claim alleging breach of express duties relating to the development of buildings. Represented the Claimant company in respect of alleged defective glazing/software used for a large building developer who was part of an underlying action against various sub-contractors (TCC). Represented an investment company who purportedly failed to consider the client’s wishes relating to risk when creating a portfolio that was later affected by the global financial crisis. Represented a marine surveyor in respect of alleged negligent certification. Represented the Defendant architectural firm in a claim of alleged poor supervision involving complex issues on Limitation and third parties (TCC). Advised insurers on their policy coverage against allegations of fraud and non-disclosure and on numerous related quantum/costs specific issues. Representing a building owner who contracted for fire protection services. Representing an architectural firm in a TCC case where a hospital wing was built that is now allegedly beset with water ingress.

Edward is sought out by clients nationwide for his expertise in catastrophic injury, clinical negligence, family disputes, and the court of protection. Edward’s practice includes the most important private children cases with complex cross jurisdictional issues, inflicted non-accidental catastrophic injury on children, and clinical negligence/PI cases involving life-long disability (both children and adults), lack of capacity and birth injury. His expertise in these areas frequently places Edward in important and complex cases that involve multi-jurisdictional issues that span these specialisms. For some years prior to taking silk, he was regarded as a ‘leading Junior’ and was listed in both Legal 500 and Chambers UK across all his practice areas. Having been on the Attorney General’s Panel from 2021 to 2024, Edward has acted for the Home Office, FCDO and DWP in a range of public law matters. Often these cases involved complex international jurisdictional issues, in line with his non-public law practice. Edward is the joint author of the chapter on Human Rights Damages in Injury Claims to be published shortly in Kemp and Kemp. He was counsel involved in the civil claims arising from the Grenfell Fire. Edward founded the Court of Protection team in Chambers which is now thriving. He is one of the few leading barristers to specialise in both civil claims arising out of brain injury and the Court of Protection. In his purist Court of Protection work, he is hugely experienced in acting for public bodies and protected parties in a range of clinical and welfare matters including end of life care, capacity to pursue IVF treatment and care and residence decisions.

Kate Lamont specialises in Family and Civil law with a particular interest and experience in cases involving public law elements arising through child protection or because they involve emanations of the state such as the police. Kate recognises that those involved in these spheres of litigation require legally astute, sensitive and diligent representation and endeavours to always provide this to both professional and lay clients. Before specialising in these areas, Kate had the benefit of accruing a broad base of experience of handling complex medical evidence and vulnerable clients in personal injury and clinical negligence claims. This provides her with a particular understanding of issues of causation of harm, and an ability to navigate complex evidence relating to welfare in a practical and straightforward way. Kate regularly represents Local Authorities, parents and children in care and adoption proceedings, other applications for protective orders and judicial review in the Family Court, High Court and Upper Tribunal. She also represents and advises protected parties and others in the Court of Protection, and advises public bodies and individual claimants in range of proceedings including civil claims, inquests and public inquiries. Kate has contributed articles on civil and family law matters to a number of external journal publications. She also provides professional training to solicitors, social workers and police forces.

Jacob Levy KC is currently the Joint Head of Chambers at Deka Chambers. He has spent his entire professional life at Deka Chambers (formerly at 9 Gough Chambers ). He undertook pupillage with John Foy KC and HH John Reddihough. Jacob’s practice consists wholly of personal injury and clinical negligence work. Whilst Jacob acts mainly for Claimants, he retains a small but purposeful Defence practice. Jacob has acted for all types of injured Claimants over the years; from catastrophically brain injured and spinal compromised clients to victims of clinical negligence resulting from birth accident, other neurological compromise, orthopaedic, internal and other damage. Jacob has been instructed by all the major Trade Unions in personal injury litigation over the years and regularly acts for the most devastatingly injured Claimants. In Silk his work has principally but not exclusively been for those injured through motor accidents most usually with devastating life changing injuries . In his significant clinical negligence practice Jacob acts for victims of medical accident who trust his sympathetic, empathetic manner, his courtesy and good humour in often trying circumstances. He is known for his hard work, diligence and endless efforts on behalf of his clients to bring about the correct result.

As Senior Treasury Counsel, Tom Little KC regularly prosecutes some of the country’s most high-profile cases. This includes the murder of Jo Cox MP, the kidnap, rape and murder of Sarah Everard and the murder of Sir David Amess MP. He has also prosecuted a number of well known individuals for historic sexual offending. They include Max Clifford and Lord Ahmed of Rotherham. In 2021 Tom won Crime Silk of the Year at the Chambers UK Bar Awards. Tom frequently appears in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court in cases of general public importance (such as R v Hunter & others, R v Golds, R (Belhaj) v DPP and FCO, R v Umerji and R v Plaku). Tom has also undertaken a significant amount of work for the Serious Fraud Office and is equally adept prosecuting or defending in such cases. In addition to his heavy criminal and fraud practice Tom undertakes a wide range of civil work. In particular judicial review proceedings both for Defendants and also Claimants as well as Inquests and Inquiries. He is currently Counsel to the Inquest into the death of Yassar Yaqub. He also provides strategic advice to liquidators and creditors on the interplay between civil and criminal proceedings where there is suspected fraud as well as regulatory cases in various tribunals.

Patricia Londono

Called to the Bar in 2008 (LI), Patricia practices in the areas of inquests and inquiries as well as police law, and financial and regulatory crime.

Christopher Lowe

Chris’ practice spans all areas of Chambers’ work, with a particular focus on personal injury, counter fraud, criminal regulatory and public sector matters. Over the years, Chris has had a mixed civil and criminal practice but has concentrated mainly on criminal matters, being a Grade 3 Prosecutor. He rapidly became highly respected for his advocacy and cross-examination skills, which he honed when conducting cases involving serious sexual offences, child abuse, fraud, fatal motoring offences and tax evasion. He joined Ropewalk Chambers in 2014 to concentrate on its core areas, particularly personal injury and those with a criminal element. Chris is committed to providing a service of the highest level to all his clients and, with his previous experience, can bring an additional dimension to cases that need to be fought.

Anirudh Mandagere

Anirudh is building a broad practice in civil and public law. His core practice areas include data protection, human rights and judicial review, police law, inquests, clinical negligence, personal injury (both domestic and cross border) and the court of protection. He is ranked as a “rising star” in the Legal 500 where he is described as “clear, knowledgeable and informative to clients. He also has a kind touch with all clients to give them reassurance and support”. Recent highlights of Anirudh’s practice include the following: Inquests into the death of patients by Ian Paterson. Anirudh is led by Jonathan Jones KC as junior counsel to these inquests. Khera v National Health Service Commissioning Board (ongoing); an appeal concerning the jurisdiction of the court over the General Dental Services Contract. Anirudh was led by Simon Butler in the King’s Bench Division. Roberts v Jones [2024] EWHC 290 (KB) and [2024] EWCA Civ 118; an appeal concerning the proper operation of CPR 71 and the slip rule. Anirudh was led by Simon Butler in the Court of Appeal (Civil Division). Lester Corporation Ltd v Rahim [2023] EWHC 1805 (KB); an appeal concerning a non-party costs order and order for indemnity costs. Anirudh acted as sole counsel in the King’s Bench Division. Prior to the Bar, Anirudh worked as a judicial assistant to Sir Rupert Jackson and Lady Justice Asplin, a stagiaire at the European Court of Justice. He was also appointed as a visiting tutor at the London School of Economics. Away from the Bar, Anirudh enjoys wild swimming, badminton and baking biscuits, cakes and pastries.

Eleanor has built up a successful practice dealing with the highest level of financial crime. She regularly prosecutes and defends in high value cases; often where the defendant is a professional and/or other position of authority. She has been praised for her ability to unpick expert evidence, making it accessible to a jury and her success in cross examining expert-witnesses. Eleanor has considerable experience in the following areas: Bribery and corruption, Fraud (including high value investment fraud, income tax fraud and VAT evasion), Insider dealing/market abuse and other FSMA 2000/FSA 2012 offences. Recent cases: first junior for the SFO in the high-profile corruption case R v GPT Ltd, Cook & Others, R v Rivera (fraud by abuse of position), R v Major and Attra (fraud committed by a solicitor and translator on the Legal Aid Agency), R v Scrafton (Solicitor defrauding a charity) and Das v Asplin (CEO of a company). Eleanor also deals frequently with Proceeds of Crime Act [POCA] matters including confiscation and restraint matters. She regularly appears in high value applications for the detention of cash or freezing of assets/accounts.

Stuart McKechnie KC

Stuart McKechnie KC specialises in the highest value catastrophic injury claims involving complex issues and large numbers of experts. He works for many of the leading personal injury and clinical negligence solicitor firms in the country and all of his practice is in the High Court. He is a past winner of ‘Personal Injury/Clinical Negligence Junior of the Year’ at the Chambers & Partners Bar Awards and Personal Injury Barrister of the Year at the Personal Injury Awards. In 2021/22 Stuart has (conservatively) recovered damages with a combined capital value in excess of £150,000,000 (one hundred and fifty million) on behalf of Claimants. In JDF (a Child) v Hampshire County Council, he settled what at the time was the highest Personal Injury award ever made/approved by a Court in the UK, the equivalent of £28 million capitalised. This case was covered across the national media. More recently, in IXM v Norfolk & Norwich University Hospitals NHS Trust he settled a long running birth brain injury claim for the capital equivalent of £33.2 million. Stuart is also currently instructed on what is likely to be one the largest personal injury claims ever made in Northern Ireland.

Having practised in common law from pupillage onwards, Max now maintains a mixed practice of family and civil work alongside representing Interested Parties at Inquests. Max has appeared twice in the Court of Appeal, both in the Criminal and Family Division. His most recent appearance in Re: B was a case that set an enduring precedent for how family proceedings have taken place at interim hearings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to being called to the Bar he worked as a County Court Advocate, as well as working with Gerard McDermott KC on all aspects of high-value cases of catastrophic personal injury, in particular involving elements of travel law, cross-border or jurisdictional issues.

Oliver Millington

The focus of Oliver’s family practice is on public law proceedings in which he represents local authorities, parents, extended family members and children via their guardians. He is regularly instructed in cases concerning serious inflicted injury, sexual abuse, radicalisation and complex mental health issues. Oliver is used to dealing with international issues concerning jurisdiction and placements abroad. He is regularly instructed in private law disputes, in particular where there are allegations of serious physical or sexual abuse, cases involving intractable hostility and where the children are separately represented. Oliver has a particular interest in the law relating to ‘alternative’ families and surrogacy. Publications: Co-author of The PLO Explained, a practitioners’ handbook to the Public Law Outline published by 9 Gough Square (First and Second editions).

Giles Mooney KC

Giles deals with heavyweight litigation in clinical negligence, professional negligence and personal injury. His personal injury and clinical negligence practice encompasses all aspects of catastrophic injury work, acting mainly, but not exclusively, for claimants. He has extensive experience of birth injury claims, other brain injury claims and spinal injuries. Giles is equally at home dealing with complex liability issues and quantum awards of the highest level. Giles does a wide variety of personal injury. He has particular interests in claims involving animals, having been involved in 4 Court of Appeal cases concerning the Animals Act 1971, and accidents at sea. Giles has a growing professional negligence workload acting in claims against solicitors, financial advisors and vets amongst others. Recent work highlights have included: Croydon Tram Inquest 2021 Ford v Seymour-Williams [2021] EWCA Civ 1848 ST v BAI (t/a Brittany Ferries) [2022] EWCA Civ 1037 Chadwick v RH Ovenden [2022] EWHC 1701 (QB) Parry v Johnson [2022] EWHC 89 (QB) FLR v Chandran [2023] EWHC 1671 (QB)

Gareth prosecutes and defends in relation to sexual offences, general crime and fraud. He is regularly instructed by the DWP, CPS Central Fraud Unit and CPS to prosecute fraud and regulatory matters. Gareth is a grade 3 prosecutor and is on both the fraud and rape list panels. Currently Gareth is leading in the prosecution of a multi-handed fraud committed by an Eastern European Organised Crime Gang and is prosecuting the owners of money transfer bureaus for money laundering offences involving transfers of millions of pounds. Away from fraud Gareth recently prosecuted a multi-handed revenge shooting incident and defended an octogenarian charged with offences of historic sexual abuse. Outside of crime Gareth represents the Met Police, the Home Officer and UKBA before the Magistrates, County, Crown and High Courts in applications for 'Civil' Gang Injunctions, ASBO's, SOPO's, Closure Orders, Football Banning Orders, Foreign Travel Orders, in relation to disclosure applications in child abuse allegations, and for confiscation and cash seizures under POCA.

Gaurang Naik is vastly experienced in personal injury, professional negligence and commercial cases. He is now mostly instructed in complex and high value personal injury and professional negligence, including clinical negligence, cases. He brings a calm and analytical mind dealing with serious cases with sympathy and pragmatism. He has great skill at identifying the important issues in a case and focussing on them. He is a very good advocate and is able to distil the most complex issues and present them in an easily comprehensible and effortless manner before a County Court or a High Court judge. Gaurang is an accredited mediator (London School of Mediation). He undertakes mediation in civil and commercial disputes including partnership disputes, co-ownership disputes, professional negligence including clinical negligence and personal injury. He is on the executive committee of the Professional Negligence Bar Association.

Linda has a specialist clinical negligence, personal injury and costs practice with a growing recognition for her Admiralty work. She is recommended as a leading personal injury junior in the Legal 500 Clients' Guide. Her personal injury and clinical negligence litigation experience includes: High-value/complex RTAs, with particular expertise in issues arising in fraudulent claims. She writes the Low Velocity Collision chapter in Kemp & Kemp's Personal Injury Law, Practice and Procedure and is a contributing author of APIL's "Guide to RTA liability". She was junior counsel in a product liability claim involving a defective tyre causing a fatal and multi-injury crash; Admiralty claims and marine accidents. She co-authored the "Work Accidents at Sea" book and often advises on issues including foreign jurisdiction, limitation and aspects of the Athens Convention and Package Travel Regulations; Aviation / carriage by air and holiday claims, including Montreal Convention claims; Employer's liability, trippers and slippers, animals claims, coroners' inquests and CICAP. She is a contributing author of ‘Clinical Negligence Claims: A Practical Guide’ published by 9 Gough Square(now Deka Chambers) and is a regularly contributes articles to legal publications and speaks at seminars and for webcasts. Linda is regularly instructed for detailed costs assessments, CCMCs and SCCO hearings.

Jennifer Oborne

Jennifer specialises in General Crime, Prison and Police Law and International work. Jennifer is authorised by the Bar Standards Board to take cases on a direct access basis. She is also an approved litigator; enabling her to assist clients with all aspects of their case in a cost effective and flexible manner. Appointments: CPS Level 3 Prosecutor; CPS Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Panel; Grade 3 Specialist Fraud Prosecutor; Level 3 Specialist Crime Group Panel; Member of the list of Specialist Regulatory Advocates in Health and Safety and Environmental Law; Attorney General’s Civil Panel C Counsel;

$Francesca O\'Neill$

Francesca O\'Neill

Francesca O’Neill has a specialist practice encompassing professional and clinical negligence, and the liability of public authorities. She frequently acts for insurers and indemnity organisations in high value and complex claims, appearing as sole Counsel in the High Court on a regular basis. She is recognised as a highly effective and experienced advocate, with particular expertise in trial and at contested hearings. She is frequently instructed in heavy interlocutory applications and has developed a reputation for successfully striking out unmeritorious claims. Francesca has particular interest and experience in professional indemnity work and has advised and acted for both claimants and defendants in professional liability actions involving solicitors, barristers, accountants, surveyors, insurance brokers, and construction professionals. She regularly appears in the High Court as sole Counsel and acts for a range of insurers in the London market including Travelers, AIG, Hiscox, and LawSelect. Francesca is an experienced and effective advocate with a clear interest in clinical negligence claims. She has been instructed by both Claimants and specialist indemnity providers for medical professionals (NHSR, MDU, DDU, MDDUS) to appear at contested hearings in cases worth more than £2 million. She has particular interest and experience in cases involving hospital-acquired infection and surgical mistakes. She has also developed particular expertise in defending claims made against General Practitioners, including contribution claims and those involving issues of service or jurisdiction. Francesca has appeared at Inquests on behalf of NHS Trusts and has expertise in mental health- related deaths. She is instructed by the Ministry of Justice and specialist mental health NHS Trusts in Article 2 Inquests and claims arising from prison deaths. Francesca has represented Local Authorities and Police Forces across the UK in defending claims related to accidents, alleged historic sexual abuse, and data breaches – and especially where the question of tortious liability is legally complex. Francesca has a busy practice encompassing high value and complex brain and spine injuries and occupational stress claims. Her personal injury practice is closely linked to her other work for local authorities and most of these cases are those involving questions of Employer’s Liability, Occupier’s Liability and often those which have overlapping employment and human rights aspects or collateral attacks. Francesca O’Neill is experienced and tenacious in the defence of fraudulent civil claims. Having secured many findings of fundamental dishonesty as sole Counsel, she now has a niche practice in much larger scale suspected fraud rings and credit hire cases.

Tim is a barrister and arbitrator specialising in family and associated civil litigation. He is instructed in care proceedings featuring non-accidental injury, death and sexual abuse, radicalisation, adoption, special guardianship, Human Rights Act claims arising in care proceedings and judicial review of local authority decisions concerning children. In the Court of Protection, he is instructed in both property and welfare decisions. Tim also undertakes financial remedy cases, cohabitee disputes, financial provision for children and family property disputes. Tim is qualified to arbitrate both financial remedy and child disputes. Tim is licensed to accept instructions directly from members of the public. Publications: Editor of "The Revised Public Law Outline" (2015) 2nd Edition, published by 9 Gough Square.

Johnathan Payne

The focus of his practice is multi-track high-value claims either at first instance or appellate level. Johnathan has recently appeared in a number of important decisions in the Court of Appeal (such as Edwards-Tubb v. JD Wetherspoon [2011] 1 W.L.R 1373 and Everett v. Comojo [2011] 4 All ER 315). He is regularly instructed both for (and against) insurers dealing with all manner of issues from policy terms to overall indemnity. Johnathan is alive and susceptible to the needs and requirements of the insurer as against the insured. He has recently been instructed in high profile cases such as the mass explosion which occurred at Marlie Farm (covered by Sky News) and the loss of a £269,000 luxury motor yacht in the Solent (heard in the Technology and Construction Court) and reported variously in the legal publications and the Daily Mail. Johnathan has a particular interest in sports law. Amongst his recent cases he successfully defended the British Cycling Federation (the governing body of cycling in the United Kingdom) in a claim arising out of a professional race. In addition to his work in a contractual/commercial context he also regularly accepts professional negligence instructions dealing with the negligence of various professionals specialising in solicitors and barristers.

Angus Piper’ main practice area is clinical negligence, in which he has more than 20 years’ experience, in the main on behalf of NHS Trusts and other Defendant organisations (notably the MDU). He has acted for clinicians in all fields, including Consultants, Dentists, GPs and Nurses. In addition, he continues to practice personal injury, as he has done for 30 years, mostly acting on behalf of local authorities and insurers, and particularly in high value highways claims and in cases involving persons injured by trees. Angus has conducted hundreds of clinical negligence cases over the years and is regularly engaged against the leading Silks in the field. He is adept at handling clients who may themselves be eminent clinicians in their chosen field, as well as experts who are often at the pinnacle of their profession. He prides himself on being “user-friendly” and realistic in terms of assessing cases, both as regards merits and quantum. He enjoys the cut and thrust of advocacy and (where appropriate) deal making to settle claims on the best possible terms for his client. He has been involved in multiple complex cases involving the whole gamut of medical issues, including surgical complications, cauda equina syndrome, failure to diagnose, failure to refer timeously, wrongful diagnosis and/or treatment, birth difficulties and congenital disabilities (such as undiagnosed hip dysplasia in a toddler).

Helen joined chambers in October 2013 upon completion of her pupillage. She has developed a broad common law practice and accepts instructions in all areas of chambers practice. She appears in court on a regular, often daily, basis in civil, family and criminal hearings in London and further afield. Helen also has a busy paper based practice advising and drafting statements of case in a range of civil areas including personal injury, clinical negligence and employment law. She also advises clients on the telephone and in conference. Helen frequently tackles new areas of work and looks forward to expanding her work into other areas of chambers practice. Helen undertakes work on a CFA basis where appropriate. Helen has experience in delivering seminars and presentations in civil matters and is happy to consider any invitations to do so when appropriate. Helen was responsible for compiling chambers' 2013 personal injury liability and quantum updates and also assisted in updating a key practitioner textbook following the introduction of the new 2012 Criminal Injuries Compensation Board Scheme. Outside of chambers, Helen enjoys cooking, pilates, playing squash and travelling.

Esther has considerable experience in dealing with the whole variety of personal injury claims at both Multi Track and Fast Track level. She deals with employers' liability, highways, road traffic, public liability, fatal accidents and claims involving the MIB. Esther undertakes clinical negligence cases up to Multi Track level and has a particular interest in cases involving Healthcare Associated Infections. Esther's experience extends to inquests particularly those involving asbestos related diseases, the deaths of those under the care of medical practitioners and deaths at work. She also appears before the Criminal Injuries Compensation Appeal Panel.

Sarah Prager KC

Sarah Prager specialises in travel law claims, including claims under the Package Travel Regulations 1992 and 2018, the Athens and Montreal Conventions, and at common law. She also has a particular expertise in all aspects of conflict of law and jurisdiction. Sarah undertakes work in all areas of cross border work, encompassing claims involving issues of private international law, package holidays, international carriage, contractual recovery and cross border clinical negligence, and her caseload reflects this breadth of practice. Together with her colleagues Matthew Chapman and Jack Harding she co-wrote the most recent editions of Saggerson on Travel Law. Sarah also contributes to publications produced internationally by the Estoril Higher Institute for Tourism and Hotel Studies, and most recently contributed chapters to its Collective Commentary on the New Package Travel Directive (ESHTE, 2020, chapters on Article 21 and on transposition into UK law) and to its book Tourism Law in Europe (ESHTE, 2021, chapter on tourism law in the UK). Sarah was invited to join the Consultative Group of Experts to the UNWTO Committee for the Development of an International Code for the Protection of Tourists; the Code has now been adopted by the UNWTO and is being implemented internationally. She has also been co-opted to the Admiralty Court Users’ Committee as a representative of the personal injury Bar.

Bernard Pressman

Bernard is a specialist personal injury and clinical negligence practitioner. He has a considerable amount of experience, having been in court frequently throughout his practice, and having acted for both claimants and defendants at every stage in proceedings, from pre-litigation up to and including appeals. He is a thorough advocate, well-known for his style and effectiveness in cross examination, and prides himself on getting results in the most difficult of cases. Bernard is able to assist with every aspect of drafting, attend court for interlocutory matters, trials, costs matters and appeals.

Simon Readhead KC

Simon Readhead KC has a wide ranging practice for both claimants and defendants in medico-legal law. His work includes clinical liability, professional liability and indemnity claims including claims involving industrial accidents and occupational diseases, health and safety claims and product liability. Simon has a special interest and expertise in catastrophic injury claims including birth trauma, other neurological injuries particularly involving the head and spine and high value and complex quantum claims. Simon is recognised as a Tier / Band 1 King’s Counsel in the current editions of the leading legal directories in the UK. He is also listed in the current edition of The Best Lawyers in the UK and was nominated for King's Counsel of the Year in the Clinical Negligence category of the 2024 Legal 500 Bar awards. Simon is a Master of the Bench of the Middle Temple and is the immediate Past President of the Medico-Legal Society in the UK. Simon is a former Junior of the Midland Circuit and was the founding author of piBlawg, an online clinical liability and personal injury blog. He was also involved in the development of piCalculator which is now the leading online encrypted damages calculation tool. Simon is regularly asked to speak at conferences and seminars both in the UK and abroad, most recently in Hong Kong.

Maurice Rifat is an experienced litigator with particular expertise in wills & probate, trusts, property law, construction, professional negligence and commercial litigation. His practice spans most arears of property law with particular expertise in land registration, disputes arising from the sale of land, restrictive covenants, easements, boundary disputes, access to neighbouring land and landlord and tenant disputes (both residential and commercial). He recently represented the successful defendant in N3 Living Limited -v- Burgess [2020] EWHC 1711 which confirmed that the appointment of a second trustee was a proper and conventional way of overreaching and Form A restriction in order to complete a sale. In the field of professional negligence he particularly specialises in property related negligence including disputes arising from conveyancing. He represented the successful respondent in in the Supreme Court in Stoffel v Grondona [2020] UKSC 42 in the which the court upheld her claim for damages for a negligent conveyance despite her former solicitors alleging illegality against her. Maurice has recently settled a claim for over £600k against solicitors who had negligently dealt with a failed property option agreement and the ensuing litigation. Maurice’s construction practice is made up of adjudications, arbitrations and enforcement of arbitration awards. He also deals with the usual court claims for payment and counterclaims for defects and incomplete works. He represented the successful claimants in various payment claims arising from oral contracts in a large-scale project where the employer gave direct payment assurance to sub-contractors. Maurice specialises in dealing with disputes arising from a broad range of property transactions where there are allegations of fraud, from cases involving mortgages, land registration and conveyancing. He also has a number of ongoing contested probate cases involving allegations of fraud, forgery of wills, duress and undue influence. He is approachable, efficient and technically excellent. He is known for his direct and aggressive approach in court with an established reputation as a successful and sought-after barrister.

Hugh Rimmer’s practice is focussed multi-track clinical negligence and personal injury, as well as costs. He is an experienced practitioner who provides advice and representation at all stages of litigation. In cases involving a fatality he also acts for interested parties at the inquest. His ability to connect with clients and deal with sensitive or difficult issues in cases leads to regular and repeat instructions, His attention to detail and procedural knowledge is also highly regarded by those who instruct him.

Benedict Rodgers

Ben Rodgers is a personal injury and clinical negligence specialist. He has expertise in maritime accidents, insolvent defendants / insurance cover, accidents abroad, companies/insolvency, mental capacity, quantum in serious and fatal injury claims, limitation, assaults, psychiatric injury claims and road traffic insurance.

John Ross KC has a wealth of experience. His specialisms are professional liability and insurance-related claims, contract and commercial, public and regulatory law, PIL/cross-border and personal injury claims. He also has considerable experience in regulatory, commercial arbitration, TCC and construction adjudication hearings. His work also takes him overseas to appear and advise in other jurisdictions, including the Cayman Islands where he has been admitted on an ad hoc basis to address the Court in specific cases. He has been an advocacy trainer at Inner Temple and undertaken advocacy training abroad – Nigeria for University lecturers and Singapore. He has sat as a Recorder from 1990 to 2022 and continues to sit as a Legal Assessor for the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, as he has done since 2006. John Ross KC has a strong and broad Professional Negligence Practice, acting both for claimants and defendants/their insurers. He is instructed in a wide range of actions in this field including claims against solicitors, barristers, architects, valuers, surveyors, accountants and insurance brokers and regularly advises on indemnity policy issues associated with such claims. he has acquired specialist knowledge in personal injury cases involving industrial diseases, acquired brain injuries of the most serious kind, third party Contribution Act claims and those with Private International Law aspects (i.e. extending into injuries sustained abroad & Foreign Travel claims – as to this type of issue he has appeared in four recent lead cases in the field during recent years – 1 in the Supreme Court, 1 in the Court of Appeal and in 2 leading first instance decisions). He has experience of Group Action Litigation and is currently instructed in a series of cases concerning noise induced hearing losses sustained by trainer pilot assigned to work abroad for a foreign State. Recent highlights in his travel law work include a Supreme Court appearance and the ensuing important first instance decision, both of which have made new law in this field and are cited as determinative of many of the jurisdictional issues that arise in cross-border claim; a Court of Appeal hearing on the issue of an employer’s duties when sending an employee to work abroad; and the development of a Reparation Mediation and Arbitral Scheme in Uganda for the adjudication of historic sex abuse claims against a Religious Order.

John is a specialist in complex personal injury work. He appears and advises in actions for personal injury and fatal accidents arising from the negligence of professionals, employers and public authorities. He is regularly involved in the settlement of cases with a six figure value and appears increasingly in the High Court. He combines a detailed grasp of the law with confident advocacy and clear, practical advice. John has been for many years a contributing author to the latest editions of the Road Traffic Accident section of Butterworths Personal Injury Law Service; he is a specialist on liability in this area. John has substantial wider experience, regularly acting and advising in a range of commercial and civil disputes, while also representing local authorities and private clients in family matters involving children and matrimonial finance. He is also experienced in representing families at inquests in a clinical negligence context and has done so through the AvMA pro-bono inquest service. Most recently he has represented a family at a four day jury inquest at the conclusion of which the deceased’s employer were ordered to produce a Prevention of Future Deaths report. John has extensive skill and experience in advocacy (much of this from his early years of practice conducting criminal trials) and as a result has a robust and effective courtroom style. He is a tough but fair negotiator.

Bruce Silvester

Bruce Silvester is an accomplished personal injury, health and safety, and clinical negligence litigation practitioner who is also highly regarded for his practice in travel litigation. He regularly appears for claimants and also sometimes for defendants in the High Court and County Court as well as the Court of Appeal, regularly providing advisory and mediation/settlement services. He has particular expertise in the field of catastrophic injuries including brain, spine, multiple injuries and also group litigation, both led and without a leader.

Dominique Smith

Dominique Smith is an experienced and approachable advocate, who is regularly instructed in complex and high-value injury claims. She acts for both claimants and defendants in a variety of personal injury, clinical negligence, and travel claims. She also has experience of acting in inquests. She has a particular expertise in cross-border clinical negligence claims, deaths abroad, jurisdictional issues, and package travel regulation cases. She also frequently acts in cases involving the Montreal and Athens Conventions. Dominique is often instructed on appeals in cases in which she was not involved at first instance. She is currently being led by John Ross KC in a multi-party noise-induced hearing loss claim. Dominique is a co-author of the leading textbook, Saggerson on Travel Law and Litigation (7th Edition). She has also recently authored ‘A Practical Guide to Cross-Border Clinical Negligence Claims’, due for publication at the end of 2022.

Andrew Spencer’s practice focuses on travel and cross-border claims; professional negligence; and personal injury. Andrew acts for claimants and defendants in claims and group actions relating to accidents, medical negligence, and illness abroad and off-shore Recent examples of Andrew’s work include: Acting for a Claimant who was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident abroad and was rendered paraplegic. Advising and representing the family of a holiday-maker who died when he fell down stairs at an overseas hotel in a claim against the hotel’s insurer. Acting for a Defendant in a case involving an accident on a gangway between a ship and an offshore installation. Andrew’s personal injury practice covers all principle areas of personal injury litigation. Andrew represents claimants and defendants. Examples of Andrew’s current and recent work include:- Acting for and representing the Defendant in a claim brought by a member of the public who fell from a seaside pier and sustained a serious head injury. Andrew, with Edward Faulks KC, represented the Defendant at the liability trial in Spearman v Royal United Bath Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust [2017] EWHC 3027 (QB). Andrew continued to act in relation to quantum thereafter. The case concluded in 2022. Andrew’s professional negligence practice is focused on claims against solicitors, in particular in claims with an underlying background of personal injury. Andrew is a PNBA Adjudicator. Recent examples of Andrew’s work include: Acting for solicitors, a deputy and financial advisors who were defendants to a claim relating to the management of funds by a protected party. Acting for solicitor defendants in a claim about the drafting of an agreement for the merger of 2 companies. Representing the defendants in a claim concerning the scope of solicitors’ duty of care when operating a legal advice helpline.

Paul Stagg has a broad civil practice, based mostly in the areas of personal injury, with an emphasis on claims against public bodies, clinical negligence, police law and public law. He mainly acts for defendants but also accepts instructions on behalf of claimants. He has extensive experience of advocacy in a range of tribunals, in the Coroner’s court and before civil juries as well as litigation heard by judges at all levels from District Judges to the Court of Appeal. He is regularly instructed in high-value and medium-value claims, often involving matters of public controversy and multiple parties. He is equally at home as a sole advocate, being led, or acting as a leading junior. He has been instructed to advise in litigation in Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man and Jersey. Paul has long-standing experience in the field of clinical negligence, acting mainly for defendants on the instructions of NHS Resolution and the Medical Defence Union. He also accepts instructions on behalf of claimants. His work covers the whole range of medical disciplines. Recent work has included cases arising from transplant surgery, spinal surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, cardiology, neurology, colorectal surgery, diabetic podiatry, general practice and mental health care. He is instructed in claims of high and medium value and has a deep knowledge of quantum issues, including fatal accident damages and the complex interaction between public care provision and care and assistance claims. He advises regularly on issues relating to vicarious liability and direct duties of care. Paul’s personal injury practice is defendant-orientated and he acts mainly for public authorities in relation to public liability claims. However, he also regularly receives instructions in relation to employer’s liability claims, particularly involving stress at work. He also has a long-standing seam of work on behalf of claimants suffering from asbestos-related disease. He regularly deals with issues of vicarious liability. Paul continues to act regularly for the Metropolitan Police and local forces across England and Wales in relation to litigation in the Coroner’s Court, the County Court, the High Court and the Administrative Court. He is frequently instructed in litigation alleging police malfeasance arising in particularly controversial circumstances, including deaths in custody and police shootings. He regularly represents the police in relation to allegations of failures to investigate or failure to protect members of the public under the Human Rights Act 1998, and in relation to claims for stress at work brought by officers.

Abigail Stamp specialises in clinical negligence, personal injury and inquests. She represents both Claimants and Defendants. Her work is exclusively Multi-Track or issued in the High Court. Solicitors comment favourably on her pragmatic and client friendly approach together with her attention to detail and ability to understand complex medical issues.

Christopher Stephenson

Personal injury and clinical negligence, exclusively for Claimants, in cases of the utmost severity and complexity. Publications: Contributing editor to Deka Chambers Publication: Guide to Clinical Negligence Claims, chapter author of APIL Guides to RTA Claims and Evidence. Co-Editor of 2nd edition of the leading textbook on claims in the CICA. Author of numerous articles for range of publications.

Gurion has a busy paperwork and court practice in the fields of personal injury and medical negligence. He also undertakes a range of general commercial and property litigation. He is known for providing clear, practical advice coupled with a sympathetic approach to clients. He has substantial experience in trial and procedural advocacy in tribunals ranging from the County Court to the High Court. In court, he has a reputation for making persuasive submissions as well as robust cross-examination of witnesses and experts. At the same time, he is a good negotiator and often undertakes mediations and joint settlement meetings. His personal injury practice is mainly claimant work. He also has developed a significant costs practice arising largely from personal injury and medical negligence work, involving both detailed assessments and discrete costs issues in the SCCO. In his employment work Gurion acts for both employees and employers ranging from local authorities to biotec companies. He has substantial experience of unfair dismissal and discrimination claims at the Tribunal as well as advising in conference and conducting negotiations. In addition, Gurion has always maintained a broad interest in commercial and property work and has particular interest in insolvency and landlord and tenant matters including anti-social behaviour trials.

James Thacker KC

Practice Areas Expertise in financial crime, organised crime, homicide and serious violence, sexual offences and child abuse, and regulatory and professional disciplinary proceedings. Commended for his intellect, judgement and attention to detail he is an exceptional advocate providing the highest level of commitment and service to clients. His cross examination is described as ‘devastating’ and his closing speeches as ‘outstanding’ demonstrating his excellence combined with his natural ability to connect with and persuade juries. James accepts instructions directly or through insurers. Notable cases: Operation Hankcom (Conspiracy to murder); Operation Funsea (Conspiracy to launder ancient art from the Musee des Arts d’Extreme), Operation Widow (people trafficking); Operation Edge (Drug conspiracies involving 23 defendants and EncroChat); R v WT (stranger rape during national lockdown); R v T & F (DEFRA EU fraud); Operations Amaryllis/Ensete (International £7m banking fraud); Operations Veil nos.1&3 (multi-million tax evasion); R v HP et al (attempt to abort foetus); R v SG (death by dangerous driving); Operation Dinghy (investment fraud); R v Cameira (Legal services fraud); Operation Crystal (Access to Work fraud involving 12 deaf defendants); R v Brad (£3m bank fraud); R v Kayode (£4m Education Trust fraud believed to be ‘Britain’s largest Education Fraud’); Operation Glider (HMRC fraud); Operation Evergreen (Insider NHS fraud).

Injury work is David Thomson’s main speciality – he has the advantage of law degrees and having practiced medicine as a junior surgeon and a GP for a number of years before being called to the Bar. Acting for both claimants and defendants he is known for specialist high quantum and causation advice, particularly covering neurological damage. In addition to significant personal injury work, healthcare and clinical negligence, David practices in sports regulation and governance, especially safeguarding. He is an appointed member of the National Safeguarding Panel in sport. Regularly appointed independent Chair of sports disciplinary commissions and appeal boards. Arbitrator and Mediator (on Sports Resolutions specialist legal panel). David has considerable experience of advising in clinical negligence proceedings and trials for both claimants and defendants over 25 years. He is instructed by many listed specialist clinical negligence firms nationally and many mixed local and high street firm seeking specialist advice and pleadings. David is also instructed by NHSR panel firms and the MDU. David has appeared before many coroners in jury and non-jury inquests. David represents families and other interested parties, such as NHS trusts and providers of health services to HMP. David is instructed by many listed specialist personal injury firms nationally and many mixed local and high street firm seeking specialist advice and pleadings. David is also instructed by insurers and local authorities concerning RTCs, employers liability and occupiers liability.

Holly is a clinical negligence and personal injury specialist. She is a respected junior practitioner who acts exclusively in multi-track matters, including those involving life-changing and catastrophic injuries. In her clinical negligence work Holly has gained experience as both sole and junior counsel, including in a current case pleaded at over £20million. She receives instructions across the full range of clinical negligence cases including birth injuries, surgical negligence, consenting issues, and missed and delayed diagnoses. She is instructed in a number of cases involving spinal injuries, including negligent spinal surgery and delayed diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome. Holly also acts in a broad range of personal injury claims, including those involving serious and subtle brain injuries, spinal injuries, complex orthopaedic injuries, serious psychiatric conditions and pain disorders. She is adept at fatal accidents and lost years claims and has experience of the full range of liability issues, including road traffic accidents, employer's liability and public liability claims, and injuries caused by animals.

Imogen accepts instructions across Chambers’ core areas of practice and regularly appears in court. Imogen was taken on by Deka Chambers following her successful completion of pupillage under the supervision of Jeremy Ford (Civil), Tabitha Barran (Family), Giles Bedloe (Crime), and Dominique Smith (Second Six). Imogen is currently a Grade 1 Prosecutor and has experience in a wide range of criminal matters, including account forfeiture, dangerous driving, and coercive and controlling behaviour. She also frequently represents the police in civil proceedings, such as Sexual Risk Orders, Stalking Protection Orders and Anti-Social Behaviour Injunctions. Imogen has a broad civil practice and a strong track record in personal injury, travel claims, stage 3 hearings, infant approval hearings and credit hire litigation. Imogen’s family law practice primarily consists of public law and Court of Protection work. She also has experience in private family matters. Beyond Chambers’ main practice areas, Imogen recently represented the family in a widely publicised inquest. Prior to joining Chambers, Imogen worked as a Senior Tax Associate at PwC in Banking and Capital Markets. Imogen is a certified accountant and holds a LLM in International Tax Law from King’s College London. While at University, Imogen trained as a caseworker for the National Centre for Domestic Violence, and won several moots, both domestically and internationally.

Simon Trigger acts for Claimants and Defendants in high value catastrophic personal injury claims. Simon has experience of claims arising in a road traffic, public liability and employers liability context. Simon has particular experience of cases involving brain injury following accidents. Simon also acts in claims arising as a result of sexual abuse for both Claimants and Defendants. Simon is acutely conscious of the particular difficulties that such cases give rise to and he is able to deal with such cases both sensitively and robustly. Simon is happy to act on a CFA basis when required. In addition to his high value personal injury practice Simon has a busy clinical negligence practice predominantly acting for Claimants. Simon has particular experience in cases arising as a result of brain damage at birth including cerebral palsy either acting in his own right or being led. Simon has acehvied a number of multi million pound settlements. Simon is also one of the leading Counsel for cases involving allegations of fundamental dishonesty and fraud in personal injury litigation. Simon is on the fraud personal injury panel for Aviva, EUI and a number of other major insurers. Simon regularly acts in cases involving allegations of LSI, fraud rings, bogus occupancy and financial exaggeration. Simon has obtained a large number of findings of fundamental dishonesty and has made a number of successful section 57 applications. As a result of his road traffic accident practice Simon has developed significant experience in Credit Hire litigation both where fraud is alleged but also more widely. Simon acts in professional negligence claims primarily in the fields of lawyers and expert witnesses. Simon has particular expertise in cases in which dishonesty was a feature of the underlying litigation.

Specialist in child law, both public and private law and related civil litigation. Care proceedings including those involving allegations of serious injuries to children (physical, sexual and emotional) and often involving complicated medical and causation issues. Cases involving radicalisation of children. Adoption and special guardianship. Human Rights Act claims and Judicial Review. Disclosure applications where Public Interest Immunity arguments apply. Court of Protection. Frequently instructed by local authorities and children’s guardians. Represents all parties. Tara also practises in all aspects of personal injury and clinical negligence. Direct Access instructions accepted. Publications: Co-author of “The Revised Public Law Outline” (2nd edition) published by 9 Gough Square. Co-author of MIB claims Practice and Procedure under the 1999 Agreement, (1st and 2nd editions). Contributing editor of Jordans APIL guide to Road Traffic Accident Liability (1st and 2nd editions).

Andrew Warnock KC

Andrew Warnock KC is a highly experienced advocate with a track record of successfully advocacy in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal the High Court and public inquiries. Andrew regularly represents clients in sensitive, complex and high profile cases. He has a particular expertise in duty of care issues and his practice encompasses personal injury, professional liability, Human Rights Act claims and contractual issues. Andrew has a particular specialism in cases involving duty of care issues. He is regularly instructed in cases which are sensitive, complex and high profile or involve catastrophic injuries. He is regularly instructed in claims involving non-recent child abuse and has represented a range of educational, religious, governmental and commercial organisations, including representing the BBC in the claims arising out of the Jimmy Savile affair. He is often instructed in cases which raise a novel point of law, including in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court in cases in which he was not involved at first instance. Andrew is recognised as one of the leading police silks in the country. He regularly advises police forces in complex and sensitive claims. Recent cases include Tindall v Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police, Archer v Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, Hillsborough Victims Misfeasance Litigation, and James-Bowen v Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis. Andrew has often represented police and local authority clients at inquests. Most recently he has been representing clients at two high profile public inquiries: the Manchester Arena Inquiry and the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Andrew has acted in many cases involving alleged negligence or breach of duty by solicitors, surveyors and construction professionals over the course of his career.

Thomas Yarrow has a broad civil practice, with three core areas of focus: Public Sector and Human Rights litigation (both public and private law); Travel and Cross-border litigation (both personal injury and regulatory/commercial); Clinical Negligence.