Parklane Plowden

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Neil Allerton

Neil qualified as a Solicitor in 1982 and worked in private practice until transferring to the Bar in 2016. He began his career specialising initially in Family and Criminal Law. However he quickly focused his practice to work solely in the field of Child Care and Family Law. As a solicitor he was a founding member of the Duty Solicitor Scheme and a member of the Law Society Children Panel from 1990 until 2016. Neil primarily undertakes work in children cases specialising in both Public Law and Private Law work. In Public Law Care Proceedings he frequently represents parents, grandparents and children and has also represented Local Authorities, particularly in the conduct of urgent Applications. He has frequently been instructed as agent by other Solicitors, due to his expertise and ability to analyse detailed information speedily and provide detailed advice to clients.

Sara Anning

Sara Anning is a skilled advocate with considerable and wide-ranging experience acquired over 18 years. She has substantial experience in all courts up to the level of the Court of Appeal, particularly in matters before the High Court and has been against Leading Counsel on a number of occasions. Sara was appointed as a First Tier Tribunal Judge in 2019 and was assigned to the Health, Education and Social Care Chamber, including covering Mental Health jurisdiction.

Hylton Armstrong

Hylton is the Head of the PLP Clinical Negligence Team. Specialising exclusively in personal injury and clinical negligence, Hylton is instructed by Claimants and Defendants. He spends his time advising, drafting, and attending conferences, inquests, interim hearings, joint settlement meetings, and trials. Hylton is recommended by in the leading directories for Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence. He is described as 'approachable', 'thorough', 'brilliant in court', a 'superb advocate', and a 'rising star'. Appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the North Eastern Circuit in March 2019.

Joanne Astbury

She became head of the chambers Family Team in 2010.Joanne has extensive experience in all aspects of Family Law and specialises in Public Law and Care.

Andrew Axon

Andrew is “An intellectual heavyweight” [Legal 500, 2017] specialising in high-value personal injury and clinical negligence cases of the utmost complexity. Described by clients as “my absolute go-to” he is “very polished, very charming and is very well respected by clients” [Chambers & Partners, 2018]. His expertise and quality of practice is reflected by the fact that he is the only Junior Barrister on the North Eastern Circuit who is ranked in Band 1 of Chambers & Partners 2018 for both personal injury and clinical negligence. Andrew is instructed by many of the UK’s leading injury and clinical negligence lawyers, undertaking both Claimant and Defendant work. As one client puts it, “He ticks every box, he really does. If you've got a difficult case, he seems to iron it all out for you. He's phenomenal" [Chambers & Partners 2016]. During his career he has honed his ability to grasp complex issues in the most difficult of cases including those involving serious brain injury; paraplegia; tetraplegia; severe birth trauma; diabetes and bowel injuries. “He is carrying out very senior work and I would consider him for cases where I might otherwise instruct a QC" [Chambers & Partners, 2017]. As Head of Chambers between 2012-2016 Andrew demonstrated his considerable strategic vision and leadership skills by conceiving and overseeing Chambers’ radical and unique business restructure in 2015. This paved the way for Chambers to cement its reputation for commercial awareness and innovative solutions for the delivery of barrister services.

Lucy Bairstow

Lucy became a tenant at Parklane Plowden Chambers in 2008 after successfully completing her pupillage. Lucy practices as a member of the Personal Injury and Insurance groups, undertaking cases for both claimants and defendants. She is also a member of the Employment group and is happy to accept instructions in all areas of employment law. Lucy believes that the range of skills and the experience she has gained in each area of law in which she practises is of benefit to her clients in her other areas of practice.

Dominic Bayne

Emma Bennett

Emma is a highly experienced trial advocate who is instructed nationwide in complex and high value injury litigation by the leading Claimant firms and Defendant insurers. She has been consistently ranked as a leading barrister by Chambers and Partners and Legal 500 over the past 6 years. Recommendations from her peers are testament to her popularity and tenacity in court.

Leila Benyounes

Leila is a specialist Clinical Negligence and Personal Injury barrister. She represents both Claimants and Defendants which include private clients, public authorities and government departments. Leila has a special interest in coronial law and regularly represents interested persons in inquests including Article 2 jury inquests. She has advocacy experience in a wide range of litigation and is happy to accept instructions on a conditional fee basis. Leila is currently the President of the Leeds and District Medico-Legal Society and is appointed to the Attorney General Counsel Regional Panel A.

Maxine Best

Maxine is regularly instructed on behalf of local authorities, parents and children in the High Court, Family Proceedings Court and County Court. Her areas of expertise include: Public Law Children (care proceedings including interim, directions, finding of fact and final hearings) Private Law Children (including Child Arrangements Order and relocation applications) In particular, Maxine receives instructions in cases involving serious child protection issues including non-accidental injury and child sexual abuse. These cases often involve advising on the evidential quality of abuse allegations and performing cross-examination based on ABE interviews of children. Maxine has also recently worked on cases involving child death. Maxine is frequently instructed at the early stage of proceedings in order to advise on case management issues, however she is also capable of quickly getting to grips with a case towards the latter stages of proceedings in preparation for a contested hearing.

Phil Booth

Philip practised as a Solicitor for 16 years before being called to the Bar. He was a Solicitor in London and in West Yorkshire, working both in private practice and in a number of authorities. He has acted as legal advisor to Adoption Panels and has provided legal training for social workers.

Sarah Brewis

Sarah successfully completed her pupillage at Parklane Plowden Chambers and became a tenant in October 2004. In addition to an extensive paperwork practice, Sarah undertakes court work in all Civil, Employment and Education Law matters. Sarah is known for her sound advice and pragmatic approach to litigation. Sarah can be instructed on a direct access basis.

Peter Cherry

Peter is a former solicitor, having been a partner with what is now Addleshaw Goddard in Leeds between 1983 and 2003, specialising in commercial litigation. He deals with commercial disputes with a Chancery bias. He deals with disputes in the financial services and banking sector, acting in particular for a number of life assurance companies in both Scotland and England in connection with contractual and regulatory issues, including pensions advice. In addition, he deals with partnership and LLP disputes, particularly for solicitors, drawing upon his 20 years of experience as a partner in a substantial commercial solicitors' practice. He has recently acted in a substantial breach of trust case against a US bank in the Cayman Islands, being called to the Cayman Bar for that purpose and appearing in interlocutory hearings in the Grand Court in Cayman. Other areas of experience include the tertiary education sector, and defamation and reputation management. Peter is an accredited mediator who has mediated a number of cases and also has extensive experience of representing clients at mediations. He is also a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and has acted as an arbitrator.

Kate Clarkson

Kate specialises in all aspects of family law and has a particular interest in:• Representing parents with learning difficulties.• Representation and cross examination of vulnerable witnesses, including children.• The application of PD12J and evidence in cases with allegations of domestic violence.• Care proceedings involving challenges to medical evidence.

Bryony Clayton

Bryony successfully completed her pupillage in Chambers in October 2009 under the supervision of Philip Kramer (now a full time District Judge and Recorder) and Christopher Williams. Since then she has cultivated a practice in the fields of Employment, Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence accepting instructions locally and in courts and tribunals across the country. Bryony has an extensive paperwork practice and is happy to provide advice or pleadings on an urgent basis. She has been praised by solicitors and clients as being responsive and down to earth.

Roger Cooper

Roger is hard working and committed, combining empathy and understanding of his client’s needs with a mastery of fact and law.

Richard Copnall

Richard is recognised in the guides to the legal profession as a leading junior in his field. He continues to be listed in Chambers and Partners as one of the top 5, and in the Legal 500 as one of the "Leading" juniors in the region. The guides describe him as: "confident, assured and bright"; "very thorough in his approach and one of the best cross-examiners on circuit"; undertaking "erudite analysis of cases"; providing "a high-quality service" and "a no-nonsense barrister who gets on and does the job." They note that he: "takes the burden off the client, always choosing to run with a deal rather than constantly seeking the client's opinion"; "has flair in court" and that solicitors "feel confident on difficult cases when they know that he is on their side". In the earlier part of his career, he was at the forefront of developments in the field of 'six pack' regulations, where he appeared in a number of the leading cases, and was on the Attorney General's panel for 10 years, often instructed in media sensitive inquests. He now specialises in clinical negligence, serious and catastrophic personal injury, inquest and court of protection work. He has a particular niche in claims relating to public authorities (police, probation, prison service, local authorities, armed forces, the NHS etc.), often involving Human Rights and public policy issues and associated "Article 2" inquests. A significant part of his practice draws on his scientific background when dealing with medical, engineering and other technical issues. He continues to edit the APIL Guide to Personal Injury Applications and Pleadings (his 3rd edn to be published this year).

Kerry Cox

Kerry has specialised in Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence since the early 1990's and was a founding member of the Personal Injury Association. She is accredited as a mediator and for direct access. She lives in Central London and predominantly practices in London and the South East.

Justin Crossley

Justin undertakes all stages of clinical negligence work from advising and drafting to trials and settlement meetings. He is particularly adept at claims with difficult issues of causation. Justin undertakes high value personal injury claims for both Claimants and Defendants. He has a particular interest in brain injuries and psychiatric conditions. He undertakes settlement hearings as a junior against leading counsel. He has particular expertise in fatal accident claims.

Andrew Crouch

Andrew, after completing his pupillage in London, joined the North Eastern Circuit practising general common law, including crime, for several years before concentrating on personal injury litigation, commercial work and licensing.

Elizabeth Darlington

Elizabeth specialises in property and family finance cases. Her practice focuses on the financial consequences of relationship breakdown (whether marriage or cohabitation) and property disputes between family members generally. Elizabeth practices in both the chancery and family jurisdictions. She is recognised as an expert in applications involving cohabitees (including under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 and Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989). She regularly appears in both the Business and Property Court and the Family Court. She is the author of a number of highly regarded practioner texts including Cohabitation and Trusts of Land with Laura Heaton and edited by His Honour Judge Wildblood QC, published by Sweet and Maxwell, now in its 3rd edition (2016). It will be available on Westlaw in summer 2019. She is the General Editor of Cohabitation: Law and Precedents, published by Sweet and Maxwell. This publication is up-dated twice a year and includes a number of expert contributors. Elizabeth regularly publishes articles in leading journals on her areas of expertise. Her most recent article: "Challenging a TR1 express declaration of trust: Setting the record straight" co-authored with Chris Bevan, Associate Professor of Property Law at Nottingham University, will be published in Family Law in April 2019. She is regularly invited to speak at both national and regional conferences including the Family Law Bar Association, Resolution, White Paper and in-house for top-tier solicitors' firms. Elizabeth has been consistently recommended in both Chambers and Partners as a leading individual and the Legal 500. Elizabeth is also a Door Tenant at 1 GC Family Law, 10 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London, Chambers of Janet Bazley QC and Charles Geekie QC. Elizabeth accepts instructions through either Parklane Plowden Chambers or 1 GC Family Law (see 1GC.com). She is an approved Pupil Supervisor. Her previous pupils include Elliot Kay and Kelly Cronin who are currently tenants at Zenith Chambers, Leeds. She accepts instructions on a Direct Access basis.

Anna Datta

Anna became a tenant at Parklane Plowden Chambers in October 2010 after successfully completing her specialist personal injury and employment pupillage under the supervision of Corin Furness and Ashley Serr. She also has experience acting as a junior, most recently appearing as junior to Stuart Brown QC in a case involving a surgical error giving rise to major brain damage. Anna prides herself on being approachable and is able to build a good rapport with lay and professional clients. She is keen to give straightforward advice and is willing to assist at all stages of proceedings. Anna aims to return paperwork promptly, whilst giving detailed and focused advice. She is currently Secretary of the Leeds and District Medico-Legal Society and plans and organises events of interest throughout the year.

David de Jéhan

David represents both claimants and defendants in a wide range of claims. David has a wealth of experience and knowledge in a variety of specialisms at the Bar, making him one our most versatile members of the team. He has an excellent eye for detail, clarity of thought and a realistic approach to problem solving for his clients, combined with excellent client skills, making him ideally suited for unusual and difficult cases. He is a robust and highly-respected advocate and negotiator. He is an accredited Mediator. David’s practice remains diversified across his many areas of specialism; his case load includes Clinical negligence claims, Contract and Chancery, Company/Commercial (including Directors’ duties and share-holder rights), Partnership, Intellectual Property rights, complex Family Finance disputes and pre-nuptial agreements, as well as defamation and Human Rights claims. He has considerable expertise in high value and complex claims. He has a particular niche in claims against public authorities, especially in relation to the Use of Force, Clinical Negligence in the secure environment sector, prisons/prisoner claims, IRCs, local authorities, the NHS, often involving Human Rights claims and public policy issues. He has appeared in a large number of inquests before juries arising out of deaths in Hospitals and in public/private sector works. A large part of his practice includes understating technical issues and Expert Witness reports when dealing with medical, engineering and other technical issues. He has been instructed in many H&S prosecutions.

Jo Delahunty KC

Jo specializes in contentious and highly complex cases at High Court level and above involving: • The death of/catastrophic injuries to a child • Non-Accidental Head Injury (NAHI)/ Shaken baby allegations (TRIAD cases) • Vitamin D/Rickets/EDS/ genetic disorders and congenital malformations which can mimic child abuse • Fabricated Induced Illness (FII) allegations • ISIS cases: alleged radicalisation of children/ risk of flight to Syria • Sexual abuse (Intergenerational/ Inter sibling/ maternal rape/ genital mutilation/ internet exploitation) • Ritualized child abuse/cultural practices such as Kndoki • Child protection cases involving concurrent criminal prosecution attempted murder/ child cruelty and neglect/ sex offences • Parent or subject child with disabilities (with a particular interest in Child in Need and the rights of, and services for, a disabled child and /or adult parent within care proceedings) • Cases involving cross examination of a child or vulnerable adult • Re-litigation/challenge to historic findings of abuse based on emerging science/ fresh factual evidence. Complex private law proceedings involving allegations of physical, sexual and emotional abuse and neglect (alcoholism/ psychiatric issues) involving transfer of residence applications and contact disputes are a natural corollary to her practice.

Robert Dunn

Robert became a tenant at Parklane Plowden in 2017, following the successful completion of his pupillage under Mark Thomas and Dominic Bayne. Robert takes instructions in a vast array of personal injury matters, including Small Claims and Fast Track trials, Applications, MOJ Stage 3s, and Approvals, in addition to drafting pleadings and providing advice to solicitors. Robert has also developed a strong credit hire practice, appearing for both Claimants and Defendants at all stages of the litigation process. Moreover, Robert undertakes a large amount of employment law work, from Preliminary to Final Hearings, and also some lower value chancery work. For further details, please see the drop down list below, or contact one of our clerks Before starting pupillage, Robert undertook legal aid work in Kampala, Uganda, advising and drafting court documents for disadvantaged clients. When not at work, Robert can often be found running, playing football, on the terraces of his beloved St. James’ Park, or satisfying his love of non-league football at Hillheads Park.

Paul Edwards

Paul has recently joined chambers after spending over a decade at 37 Park Square Chambers, Leeds. A specialist family practitioner in both finance and children Paul has extensive experience of appearing at all levels of the Family Court.

Howard Elgot

Howard has a large high-profile clinical negligence practice and regularly acts as counsel in cases involving cerebral palsy and other obstetric negligence, other brain and spinal injury cases as well as orthopaedic cases and fatal psychiatric claims. His clinical negligence practice is almost entirely representing claimants.Howard Elgot is one of the very few provincial barristers to have been shortlisted as Barrister of the Year by the Law Society. He has acted in many cases of national importance in the High Court, Court of Appeal and the House of Lords. He previously practised at 3 Paper Buildings, Temple, London. Independent guides refer to Howard as a “well-prepared, fearsome cross-examiner and negotiator", a "marvellously innovative thinker", who is “admired for his client-friendly demeanour and sympathetic attitude." He has often acted as leading counsel in the High Court and the Court of Appeal.

Sophie Firth

Sophie has an increasingly busy employment practice whilst maintaining a keen interest in personal injury and clinical negligence. She also has particular experience of credit hire. As of March 2018, Sophie is the editor of the Parklane Plowden Employment Newsletter. Sophie became a tenant in October 2016. Her pupillage was supervised by James Murphy (personal injury) and Andrew Sugarman (employment and clinical negligence).

Stephen Friday

Stephen is consistently recognised in the independent guides to the legal profession as a leading junior in the fields of clinical negligence and personal injury and he practices exclusively in these areas. The guides describe him as "Excellent in every way”; "Highly intelligent and tactically canny" who is "a good team leader when dealing with multiple expert witnesses” and is "very good both for his courtroom skills and his ability to grasp a number of complex issues in a very short period of time." Stephen previously served as an officer and fast-jet pilot in the Royal Air Force.

Corin Furness

As a personal injury barrister, his practice focuses on serious personal injury claims. Corin represents Claimants and Defendants in these claims across the country. Corin is Head of the Civil Fraud & Credit Hire Team in Chambers. He is an expert civil fraud barrister who is accomplished in defending claims where dishonesty / fraud is alleged or suspected. In 2021, Corin was appointed as a Deputy District Judge, sitting on the North Eastern Circuit.He is experienced in representing clients in the County Court, High Court and the Court of Appeal.

Jonathan Gale

Jonathan appears regularly in the High Court and County Court on a range of commercial and property-related matters. In 2011, he was awarded Oxford University’s prestigious Diploma in Intellectual Property Law, and can advise on all aspects of intellectual property. He has particular expertise in matters to do with online infringement, and advises as to IP in computer software. In 2013 he addressed the Patents County Court (now the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court) on the test for the admission of survey evidence in trade mark cases, as had been recently formulated by the Court of Appeal. More recently he has been involved in more trade mark and passing off cases before IPEC. He is advises and is able to put forward a robust case in negotiation and mediation to achieve very good results. Jonathan teaches intellectual property law to training barristers at BPP in Leeds. Jonathan acts for finance companies, in interlocutory hearings as well as at trial, and has appeared and advised on a wide range of contract disputes, including consumer credit cases and cases on guarantees. Jonathan regularly advises on property, including service charge provisions in commercial leases, disputes regarding rights of way, and trusts of land. He has appeared before the First Tier Tribunal of the Property Chamber, and acted in trials involving allegations of Proprietary Estoppel. He appeared in the Court of Appeal in Whaleys (Bradford) Ltd v Bennett Cubitt [2017] EWCA Civ 2143 [2017] 6 Costs L.R. 1241, where he successfully appealed on the subject of indemnity costs. Jonathan has often appeared in the companies court in Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool and London, and acts in corporate and personal insolvency cases including experience of setting aside statutory demands. He is appreciated by solicitors for his thoroughness and approachability, as well as his intellect. He puts lay clients at ease in conference and in court, whilst always judging the best way to put their case.

Nathaniel Garner

Nathaniel is a popular choice of solicitors in cases involving children. He is reliable, approachable and ‘goes the extra mile’ for his lay and professional clients. In care proceedings, Nathaniel represents parents, local authorities, children and extended family members. He is particularly adept at representing vulnerable clients and has been instructed on numerous occasions through the Official Solicitor. As well as being instructed in interim hearings, finding of fact hearings and final hearings, Nathaniel’s practice also includes applications for secure accommodation orders, applications to discharge care orders and applications for leave to oppose adoption orders. Nathaniel also acts on behalf of children, parents and extended family members in private law proceedings, including complex finding of fact hearings. He is happy to be instructed from the FHDRA hearing through to the DRA and if it proves necessary, the final hearing. Nathaniel accepts instructions in applications under Part IV of the Family Law Act 1996. He appears on behalf of applicants and respondents in applications for non-molestation and/or occupation orders.Property and FinanceIn financial remedy proceedings, Nathaniel is regularly instructed to appear in applications, First Appointments, FDRs, final hearings and appeal hearings.

Clare Garnham

Jonathan Godfrey

Jonathan came to the Bar in 1992 having originally worked as a merchant banker in the City of London. He now specialises almost exclusively in clinical negligence work as his repeated recommendations in the Legal 500 attest. His expertise covers the whole breadth of clinical negligence work from orthopaedic injury to cancer misdiagnosis and cerebral palsy birth injury. Jonathan has considerable and invaluable experience in conducting conferences with medical experts of all disciplines, often on a multi expert basis. Jonathan regularly undertakes JSM’s and in doing so has achieved very favourable and high value settlements.

Katherine Goss

Katherine practises exclusively in Family Law, specialising in Private Law children disputes. She joined chambers over ten years ago having practised previously from chambers in Cambridge. Katherine has extensive experience of appearing at all levels of the Family Court and the Court of Appeal. Katherine understands that many clients are experiencing one of the most stressful times of their lives. She is able to give advice sensitively and to put clients at ease. Education: BA (Hons) University of York; PGDL University of East Anglia; Inns of Court School of Law. Katherine was called to the Bar in 2002 and is a member of Gray’s Inn. She is a member of the Family Law Bar Association and the North Eastern Circuit. Katherine received the William Shaw QC scholarship award from Gray’s Inn. Katherine welcomes instructions in the following areas: Child Arrangement Orders applications Specific Issue Orders Prohibited Steps Orders Relocation cases Removal from the jurisdiction Cases involving domestic abuse

Adam Gould

Adam is a civil practitioner who focuses on commercial, insurance and employment matters. He is regularly instructed in disputes pertaining to consumer credit, general contract and unjust enrichment. Adam is particularly interested in insolvency proceedings, partnership disputes and commercial property. Adam undertakes employment work on behalf of Claimants and Respondents. He has recently acted in a number of county court cases involving covenants in employment contracts. Adam’s court practice is underpinned by his ability to quickly establish rapport with clients and deliver straightforward, robust advice. He is equally capable of providing concise, pragmatic written advice at each stage of proceedings. Prior to joining Chambers, Adam was an Associate Lecturer at the University of Salford. He lectured contract, tort and company law.

Alison Grief KC

Alison has specialised in the law relating to children, Private and Public law for 20 years after a Common Law practice in Crime and housing; the former giving plenty of forensic and cross examination experience and the latter giving her considerable experience in Judicial Review practice and procedure.

Sarah Harrison

Sarah specialises in probate, trusts and associated tax issues as well as dealing with professional negligence relating to those areas of work. She deals with contentious and non-contentious work at all levels of complexity. Sarah is the only barrister recommended in Band 1 for Chancery work in the North East.

Jim Hester

Having served for 10 years in the Royal Marines Commandos, retiring as a Major, Jim joined the Bar and Chambers with a wealth of practical experience which he brings to bear in his practice. He practises in all areas of Personal Injury work, but specialises in the areas of industrial disease, clinical negligence, admiralty court claims and claims involving military personnel. Jim is client-focused, and seeks to engage with his instructing solicitors to ensure the best possible outcome for the mutual client. He acts routinely on the multi-track but also on fast-track cases. Outside of Chambers, Jim is kept busy by a young family and triathlon training. He has recently completed 'IronMan UK' for the third time.

Mike Hill

Mike is a well-established and highly-regarded clinical negligence barrister with "invaluable experience in dental negligence claims." [Chambers & Partners, 2019]. As a former dentist with over 15 years' experience he has a particular focus on dental negligence claims and a unique understanding of clinical negligence issues. He represents both claimants and defendants, and his capabilities in the medical field extend to other areas such as orthopaedic, gynaecological, spinal surgery, knee and hip replacements and anaesthetic negligence. His extensive client base includes leading regional and national law firms as well as insurers. His expertise and quality of practice is reflected by numerous legal directory accolades. "He has a good rapport with clients and is excellent with expert witnesses. He is thorough, has a good understanding of the law and, with his dental background, has strong medical knowledge also." [Chambers & Partners, 2017].

Elizabeth Hodgson

Elizabeth Hodgson has practiced almost exclusively in the field of injury-related litigation since pupillage in 1993. She acts on behalf of both Claimants and Defendants in a wide range of personal injury and clinical negligence cases. She is instructed by many insurance companies, local authorities, the NHSLA, and the major trades unions.

Iain Hutchinson

Iain specialises in all areas of family law.He completed his pupillage in October 2017 under the supervision of Julia Nelson and was exposed to the breadth of Family and Court of Protection litigation.Iain is regularly instructed to act in all areas of Family law and is developing a varied practice including private children, care proceedings, injunctive proceedings, and financial remedies.

John Jackson

John Jackson specialises in children law, both public and private, and has been listed in the Legal 500 for the past four years. He is often involved in cases involving serious allegations of sexual and physical abuse and has particular experience in representing vulnerable parents and parents from different ethnicities. He is a brave and tenacious advocate in all family courts up to and including the Court of Appeal and is "Not afraid of rolling up his sleeves and taking on a job no matter what." Legal 500 2014. John specialises in contentious private law children cases, often with an international factor or issues of ‘control and coercion’ John is also qualified to represent clients under Direct Access. John has presented acclaimed lectures on the importance of recognising control and coercion in considering arrangements for children and also gives advocacy training. John previously practiced as a solicitor across Yorkshire and was a partner in two practices in Leeds. He provided regulatory advice and representation in cases involving Ofsted acting for Ofsted itself, child minders, child day care providers, children’s homes on compliance issues, restrictions and cancelation of provision. John prides himself on being approachable, client-friendly and down to earth.

Michael James

Michael is an experienced commercial and common law practitioner. He undertakes work for both Claimants and Defendants.

Stuart Jamieson

Stuart is a specialist in costs and in high value personal injury, clinical negligence and industrial disease litigation. Stuart undertakes a healthy mixture of Claimant and Defendant work. His industrial disease work includes mesothelioma, noise induced hearing loss and hand arm vibration syndrome claims. He does the full range of personal injury and clinical negligence work including for catastrophic injury, brain injury and with particular specialisms in claims under the Consumer Protection Act 1987, the Animals Act 1971 and in fatal accidents Stuart is recommended for personal injury in Chambers & Partners. Appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the North Eastern Circuit in March 2019.

Elizabeth Jones

Elizabeth successfully completed her pupillage at Park Lane Chambers in 2002. Prior to this she worked "in-house" at a leading firm of solicitors in Manchester undertaking Personal injury work. Elizabeth conducts trials in the County Court nationwide and has developed a particular interest in costs.

Sean Kelly

Sean undertakes a broad range of Chancery and commercial work with emphasis on partnerships, company law, banking, contractual disputes, land law (including land registration), landlord and tenant and administration of estates. Sean has a science background and also deals with engineering and technical disputes.As well as litigation, Sean is experienced in non-contentious drafting and transactional advice particularly with regard to companies and partnerships.Authorised to accept public access work.Sean has been an accredited mediator since 2011.

Natalia Levine

Natalia practises equally out of Leeds and Newcastle. She practises exclusively in Family Law and Court of Protection and has developed a high-profile practice and is noted by solicitors and clients alike for being hardworking and knowledgable and effective in court.

Gemma Lieberman

Gemma specialises exclusively in personal injury and clinical negligence work. She undertakes personal injury work for Claimant and Defendant in all areas, including Occupier's and Public Liability, Employer's liability and Road Traffic. Gemma completed her pupillage and initial practicing years at Kings Chambers before joining Parklane Plowden following a relocation to the North East in 2016. Gemma is particularly interested in Clinical Negligence and undertakes work arising from cases of surgical and pharmaceutical negligence, misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis, inappropriate treatment and lack of consent.

Marisa Lloyd

Marisa has developed a traditional chancery practice which primarily revolves around Wills, probate, trusts and property. She undertakes both contentious and non-contentious work in both areas. Marisa regularly advises and represents clients in relation to the validity/construction of Wills, disputes involving Executors and PR’s, Part 64 applications and on claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 and other related matters. Last year she appeared in the first post Ilott v Blue Cross adult claimant case for financial provision (Nahjec v Fowle [2017] EW Misc 11 CC). Marisa is also instructed regularly in relation to property matters. She frequently advises on issues arising out of Trusts of Land and TOLATA claims, and represents clients in both the High Court and the Property Tribunals. Marisa also deals with all levels of disputes involving easements, boundary disputes, adverse possession and other claims relating to property. Marisa is instructed by solicitors and individuals across the North Eastern, Midland and Wales and Chester Circuits and consequently has appeared in the Business and Property Courts in many regions. Marisa's down to earth approach, direct advice and ability to communicate with clients at any level makes her an ideal choice for litigation in areas where emotions can run high. Marisa is happy to travel for all aspects of her work (usually with no extra charge) and if appropriate can act on a direct access basis.

Louise McCallum

Lynn McFadyen

Prior to joining chambers in 2003, Lynn was a solicitor for 17 years in private practice – specialising in family law; principally in public law care proceedings and adoption.

Hari Menon

Hari's practice is divided between Employment Law and Chancery & Commercial and Common Law. His Employment Law practice covers most subject areas of the field with a particular emphasis on discrimination, whistleblowing and post-termination restraints in employment contracts. In the Employment Tribunal he acts for both employees and employers, including local authorities. He has experience in conducting long and complex cases, particularly involving local authorities and the NHS.Hari advises in and appears for clients in complex commercial litigation, including those with a conflict of laws element. His Chancery practice comprises of trusts, contentious probate, 1975 Inheritance Act claims and most areas relating to real property, such as trusts of land, land covenants, boundaries, easements, conveyancing disputes and matters concerning registration of interests in land. His work also extends to trespass, nuisance and harassment claims and civil restraint orders.Hari undertakes work in professional negligence in all his subject areas.Most of Hari's work is in litigation, but his practice also involves a substantial non-contentious element including advisory work and drafting.The extent of Hari's work and experience is illustrated by some reported examples of the cases he has been involved in:Stockton BC v Aylott [2010] I.C.R. 1278, Court of Appeal (Employment - Disability Discrimination)Beaver Management Services v Acheson EAT/0268/11/CEA, Employment Appeal Tribunal 14.6.12 (Trade Union blacklisting, agency)Ellison v Cleghorn [2013] EWHC 5 (Ch) Chancery Division (Trusts of Land & ApportionmentJopling v Leavesley & Anor [2013] EWCA Civ 1605, Court of Appeal (Costs & CPR Part 36)Barrier v Redhall Marine [2016] EWCA Civ 1605, QBD (Arbitration Clauses and Pre-Action Disclosure)Nahajec v Fowle [2017] AllER (D) 42 (Aug) (1975 Inheritance Act claim by an adult daughter)Hari is registered for Public Access with the Bar Council and is able to accept instructions directly from clients

Gemma Meredith Davies

Gemma became a tenant at Parklane Plowden Chambers after successfully completing her specialist family law pupillage. Before undertaking her pupillage Gemma worked as an in house advocate (family law) for a number of years. Gemma is also a licensed attorney in New York (admitted 2010). In 2013, Gemma was one of two barristers in the UK selected by the Inns of Court to undertake a Pegasus Scholarship in the USA. She spent 8 weeks in Washington DC, Virginia, Philadelphia and Boston where she had the unique opportunity to observe differing aspects of the American legal system. The scholarship included time spent with members of the judiciary and attorneys at the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals for Virginia, the Pentagon and the Senate.

Anna Metcalfe

Anna specialises in probate and trusts litigation and has been recommended as a "star to watch" in Chambers & Partners 2019. She advises and appears in cases challenging validity, Inheritance Act claims, rectification and/or construction claims, inter-vivos gifts, professional negligence claims concerning wills, removing/substituting executors and trustees and Part 64 applications. She also deals with non-contentious matters including advising on administration issues and powers of executors/trustees, cross-border estates, drafting trusts and associated deeds, as well as advising on taxation matters. Anna also has experience in the Court of Protection. Anna also maintains a property litigation practice, and advises on trusts of land and TOLATA claims, adverse possession, estoppel, covenants, nuisance, rights to light and other easements. Anna has a technical approach but prides herself on being able to explain these concepts clearly to clients. She has been noted in Chambers & Partners 2019 for "using plain, user-friendly, client-friendly language in her opinions" Although based in Leeds, Anna is happy to travel for all court, conference and mediation commitments.

Claire Millns

Claire Millns is a specialist personal injury and employment practitioner with over 16 years’ experience. “Claire Millns is a very solid advocate and is robust in cross examination.” (The Legal 500) “Claire Millns was extremely helpful, approachable and responsive throughout the case... the client was delighted with her advocacy style and the successful outcome.” (Instructing solicitor) “Claire’s calm logic and advice kept us both sane during what were some fairly stressful times and I am very grateful for her input and her skilled performance. We will certainly continue to recommend her to all who need employment counsel.” (Lay client) “She has a wonderfully balanced manner when representing our clients in Tribunal, convivial and engaging and not over-bearing or domineering but can quickly become equally robust and incisive with witnesses when required…she is a top-class communicator both with clients in conference and with all parties in Tribunal and we are always happy when we can instruct her knowing our clients are in safe hands.” (HR professional) Claire is qualified to accept instructions on a Direct Access basis. She regularly attends drafting days at solicitors' offices and is happy to provide in house talks and mock tribunal training.

Kristian Mills

Kristian joined Chambers in 2015 having previously practised in a local Chambers based in Newcastle. He has a strong practice working in the fields of Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence.

Craig Moore

Craig is a specialist in all aspects of sports related law. He has advised individuals as well as governing bodies on a diverse range of matters. In addition, he also practices in travel law as well as other areas of personal injury and commercial law.

James Murphy

James is Head of Chambers. He leads a specialist team of 60 barristers with responsibility for team development, standards and client relations. James has practiced exclusively in damages and disease litigation for 25 years and is identified by his peers and the major legal publications as a leading practitioner noted for his client care, negotiation and advocacy skills. He has substantial experience acting on behalf of Claimants and Defendants in claims of maximum severity, having a particular interest in brain, spinal and psychiatric injuries. James was appointed a part-time Judge in 2008 (Recorder-civil).

Rebecca Musgrove

Rebecca is a specialist Family Law and Court of Protection barrister. Rebecca completed her pupillage with Parklane Plowden in September 2017 under the supervision of Sara Anning. Rebecca's practice encompasses all areas of Family Law and has a varied practice encompassing private children, care proceedings and injunctive proceedings. Rebecca has experience of appearing at all levels including the High Court. Rebecca is known for her attention to detail, hard-working nature, and client handling skills. Rebecca has a particular interest in representing vulnerable clients and children and ensuring they are able to fully participate in proceedings. Prior to coming to the Bar, Rebecca worked as a volunteer for the National Centre for Domestic Violence. Rebecca also worked as a member of the Family Justice Young People’s Board (FJYPB), previously the Cafcass Young People’s Board, from 2006 until commencing pupillage in 2016. Rebecca helped to create the FJYPB’s National Charter for Children and Young People and has delivered workshops at the Annual Voice of the Child Conference hosted by the FJYPB. Rebecca has an interest in promoting access and diversity to the legal profession.

Kaiser Nazir

Kaiser specialises in all aspects of personal injury litigation. He is an experienced advocate who is regularly instructed in claims involving allegations of exaggeration and fundamental dishonesty. He is an effective advocate both at trial and on interlocutory matters with extensive experience of conducting settlement meetings. He gives clear and concise advice on issues of liability and quantum as well as aspects of litigation strategy. He is regularly instructed to advise in claims involving issues such as limitation and medical causation (often involving conferences with medical experts). He has a particular interest in limitation issues and has appeared in the Court of Appeal in the significant cases of ALI -V- COURTAULDS [1999] LLR Medical 301 and MALONE -V- RELYON HEATING ENGINEERING LIMITED [2014] EWCA Civ 904. His practice is truly nationwide and he is regularly instructed to attend court/joint settlement meetings/ conferences throughout England and Wales. He is able to take Direct Access instructions (Public Access No. 28282).

Julia Nelson

Julia has specialised in Family Law for 23 years and has vast experience of dealing with a wide range of people and cases. Her practice includes the full range of family finance work and children. In private law disputes she is able to advise and represent clients in both finance and children issues and clients greatly value the continuity of relationship between the two forms of dispute. Julia has a considerable record of success in contested cases and a fearsome reputation for cross-examination and uncovering concealed assets. Julia’s no nonsense approach, enthusiasm and tenacity has earned her an enviable reputation with family solicitors who compete to instruct her on behalf of their clients. Julia has extensive experience of dealing with disputes regarding the welfare of children including numerous applications for leave to remove children from the jurisdiction and internal relocation. Julia’s practice encompasses all forms of family disputes and her extensive court of protection practice means she has also successfully represented clients in divorce and children cases where the client is vulnerable or lacks capacity.

Georgina Nolan

Georgina was called to the bar in 2006 having previously worked as a ministerial press officer in the Cabinet Office and United States House of Representatives. She undertook a common law pupillage at Dere Street Chambers (Newcastle) and in her early years of practice undertook a wide range of crime and prison law as well as family and civil work. Georgina joined Parklane Plowden Chambers in 2011. Since then she has specialised in personal injury, clinical negligence and inquest work, appearing in the County Court, High Court and Court of Appeal. She has considerable trial experience in fast and multi track cases as well as in interlocutory and costs applications, JSMs and judicial mediations. Georgina has extensive experience in preparing pleadings for, advising on and attending at trial in cases where fraud and fundamental dishonesty are alleged. She is often instructed in cases involving low velocity impact collisions and those involving allegations of phantom passengers, and staged, exaggerated and fictitious accidents. She has secured numerous findings of fundamental dishonesty. Georgina has particularly wide ranging experience in claims relating to public authorities and in ‘Article 2’ inquests particularly those inquests involving deaths in custody and deaths arising from medical negligence as well as those where there is significant media attention. She is on the Attorney General’s ‘A Panel’ of Counsel and is regularly instructed to advise and appear on behalf of public bodies particularly at high profile inquests. She is public access qualified. She is accredited by the Honourable Society of Middle Temple as an approved advocacy trainer and is a former Junior of the North Eastern circuit.

Tom Nossiter

Tom is a specialist in personal injury litigation, dealing with all aspects of personal injury claims. He undertakes work for both claimants and defendants, dealing predominantly with multi and fast track work. He welcomes CFA work. Between 2007 and 2011 Tom was appointed by the Attorney General as Junior Counsel to the Crown (Regional Panel), during which time he was instructed by the Treasury Solicitor to undertake civil work for government departments and other publicly funded organisations. Appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the North Eastern Circuit in March 2019.

Elizabeth O’Hare

Elizabeth has extensive experience in representing a wide range of clients in substantial and complex disputes. She acts for insurers, their insured, defence bodies and/or major institutions. Notwithstanding this, she also acts for Claimants, whether as individuals or involved in class actions. She also represents individuals, companies, statutory bodies and professionals at inquests and in health and safety prosecutions. Elizabeth acted on behalf of the Chief Constable of West Yorkshire in the Bradford Fire enquiry, participated in the class actions involving the prescribing of benzodiazepine as well as steroid medication. She has acted in cases involving public law, most particularly in connection with the consequences of failing associated with the negligent provision of IVF treatment. Elizabeth also has had experience of acting in product liability cases involving clinical negligence issues. Her work concentrates on clinical negligence and personal injury. Elizabeth is well known to be a robust and straightforward litigator. As a consequence, both Claimants and Defendants instruct her.

Bryan Patterson-Whitaker

Bryan was called to the Bar in 2013 and completed his pupillage at Parklane Plowden in 2015/2016. Prior to joining Chambers, Bryan was a self-employed property developer of some 20 years standing. His understanding of both the practical and legal aspects of property and finance gives him a particular advantage in this area. Bryan is Public Access qualified and is therefore able to accept instructions directly from members of the public in suitable cases. Bryan practices throughout the county and is happy to travel to accommodate the needs of his clients.

Ian Pennock

Ian left university with not only a 1st Class LLB (Hons) but also with numerous awards and scholarships including an award for the best graduating student in any field of study. Ian started out at a large London set and subsequently returned North where he has practised since 2001. He has a broad range of experience and regularly appears in the higher courts. He is described by his lay and professional clients as a 'fierce and tenacious advocate' who is 'passionately committed to his clients' causes' whose 'down to earth', 'client friendly' and 'approachable manner' make him a popular choice with solicitors. Due to the frequency with which he appears in the High Court and Court of Appeal, Ian has only listed cases officially ‘reported’ in law reports (those which are considered significant by fellow professionals) and space does not permit the recital of the numerous other occasions he has been involved in otherwise high profile matters which have been of National and International T.V. and Newspaper interest. The number and frequency of such ‘reported’ cases speaks for itself and amply demonstrates why Ian is constantly one of the busiest members of Chambers which, in itself, is a continual vote of confidence by those Solicitors who instruct him and says more about his ability than we can.

Nicola Philipson TEP

Daniel Pitt

Daniel Pitt joins Parklane Plowden from Fenners Chambers in Cambridge where he practised exclusively in Family Law from 2000 and was head of the Family Team from 2010-2013. Daniel understands that Family Law cases are emotionally stressful and financially costly. He safeguards his clients’ interests while adopting a sympathetic approach and searching for a solution. Daniel is happy to see clients in conference before a hearing whether at his Chambers or at solicitors’ offices.

Gareth Price

Gareth practises in the fields of personal injury, clinical negligence and employment law. Offering services for both claimants and defendants, he provides an excellent level of service both in an advisory capacity and before courts and tribunals. Gareth has also practised in Toronto, Canada as a member of the Law Society of Ontario and is able to assist in matters touching on that jurisdiction.

Roger Quickfall

An outstanding advocate with a reputation for all-round excellence, Roger has been recognised by the guides to the profession for several years. Popular with clients and respected by judges, his common-sense approach, strategic thinking and dedication to the cause make him a firm favourite with many of the UK’s leading law firms.

Donna Quigley

Donna became a tenant in January 2016 after completing a specialist family law pupillage under the supervision of Alex Taylor. Under the supervision of Alex Taylor, Donna developed an excellent grounding in all areas of family law, particularly in public law proceedings. She also gained experience in financial remedies and Court of Protection during pupillage. Since being on her feet, Donna has been instructed in a wide range of both public and private law cases representing Local Authorities, parents and children.

David Reade KC

David Reade QC is a Door Tenant at Parklane Plowden Chambers.David is recognised as one of the country’s leading silks in commercial litigation and employment law. He has appeared in many leading authorities.His approach to work is reflected by the quotations which appear from his clients in Chambers & Partners and the Legal 500. Chambers & Partners 2013 describe David as a "delightful guy who is very sharp-witted and highly approachable", "imaginative in his thinking" and his "courtroom performances are extremely smooth and authoritative" impressed sources say. In the last two years the directories have quoted clients as saying of David that he was "clear, practical and extremely effective.” "a robust and fearless presence,”, "able to deal with really knotty issues”, "vivacious, bold and brilliant", "pleasingly straightforward” and "helpful in getting you out of a tight spot”. He brings to his work experience across a broad spectrum of legal practice which has refined as his career has developed into his present fields of specialism. In dealing with clients he prides himself on being approachable and providing a service geared to the needs of the client for, as one of his clients said, he is not a 'one size fits all' type of practitioner; he tailors his approach to each client and case with great meticulousness." . He is also an ADR qualified mediator.

Julie Richardson

Following call to the Bar in July 2003 by the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, Julie commenced her career in Crime and Prison Law, representing defendants within the Magistrates court and prisoners at parole hearings and in appealing life sentence tariffs. In 2007 Julie moved into Family Law and has experience in both Private and Public Family Law having worked in private practice and for both South Tyneside Council and Northumberland County Council; her local authority experience has provided her with invaluable exposure and insight into family care cases at all levels. Julie came to Parklane Plowden Chambers in October 2016 and became a tenant in January 2017. Julie now practices exclusively in Family Law and represents parents, grandparents, children and Local Authorities.

Stuart Roberts

Stuart has a strong practice comprising chancery, probate, commercial and employment work. He has a calm, impressive Court presence and is a skilled cross-examiner. He is also very good with solicitors and lay clients, who appreciate his robust but practical approach and no-nonsense advice. He has been recommended in both Chambers & Partners and the Legal 500 for many years as one of the top practitioners in his field in the region. His caseload includes disputed wills and Inheritance Act cases (an area where he has a particular interest); proprietary estoppel; trusts of land/TOLATA; property claims; Court of Protection financial disputes, including statutory wills; partnership disputes; unfair prejudice claims; directors disqualification; guarantee claims; professional negligence (especially solicitors); insurance; restrictive covenants; and general chancery and commercial work. Stuart deals with employment matters of all types in the ET; and with his broad civil expertise, he is perfectly placed to handle the full array of Court cases with an employment aspect, including: wrongful dismissal of senior employees; contract claims brought in Court for notice and bonus payments; claims involving directors including breach of service agreements and breach of fiduciary duty; and claims and injunctions relating to restrictive covenants, garden leave, confidential information, breach of contract and springboard injunctions. He is regularly instructed to act on injunction applications at very short notice.

Amy Rumble

Amy joined chambers in 2018 following successful completion of pupillage under the supervision of Seamus Sweeney and Tim Wilkinson. She is a civil practitioner with a busy employment and personal injury practice. Amy continues to develop her employment practice and enjoys advising and drafting as well as representing clients at preliminary hearings and final hearings. Amy is regularly instructed in all areas of personal injury and undertakes small claims, fast track trials, CMCs and application hearings. Amy will frequently draft advice, pleadings and schedules. Prior to starting pupillage Amy studied Law at Queen Mary University of London and gained First Class awards in Medical Law and Company Law. Amy also competed in advocacy competitions at an international level and enjoyed her time advising on employment law matters at a Legal Advice Centre.

Richard Ryan

Formerly a solicitor for ten years, Richard transferred to the bar in 2014. Recognised by the leading legal directories for a number of years, he "competes at a high level and has a good reputation" (Chambers & Partners) and has developed a busy nationwide practice commensurate with his previous experience and within Chambers’ areas of expertise, but with a particular emphasis on employment law (including regulatory proceedings) and personal injury litigation and the associated areas around these specialisms. Qualifying as a solicitor in 2004 at a large City law firm and then working at various highly rated national and international law firms provided Richard with the foundation to develop a broad civil and commercial practice whilst maintaining his established specialisms; he acts for a wide range of clients, including private individuals, financial institutions, charities, local authorities, NHS Trusts, major companies, SMEs and a number of large insurers. In the context of industrial relations he is highly regarded for his expertise in trade union related matters and collective actions, which is complemented by his civil/personal injury practice. Richard has a pragmatic and robust approach to all disputes but is also aware of the importance of fighting for a point of principle. Richard is qualified to accept instructions under the Bar Council Public Access scheme. To see more details of Richard’s work and recent cases in specific practice areas please click on the appropriate area below.

Paul Sangha

Paul completed his pupillage in September 2013 under the supervision of Seamus Sweeney and Mark Thomas. Before coming to the Bar, Paul gained 3 valuable years experience through working as an assistant at a solicitors’ firm in the practice areas of Employment and Clinical Negligence.

Andrew Scott

Andrew was called to the Bar in 2002, prior to this he worked as a qualified nurse and has also worked as a Regional Official for the National Association of School Masters & Union of Women Teachers. In 2007 and 2012 Andrew was appointed by the Attorney General as Junior Counsel to the Crown (Regional Panel) and undertakes civil work for HMRC, DWP, MOJ, DVLA in areas as diverse as Data Protection, Freedom of Information, Employment Law, Judicial Review, Personal Injury Claims. Andrew presents lectures and training days on Employment Law for Schools and Colleges. Headteachers grade his presentations as “Outstanding”. Andrew speaks German to level B1 under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. He joined Parklane Plowden in 2008 from 37 Park Square (Leeds) and undertook Pupillage at Doughty Street Chambers under Robin Oppenheim QC and Jill Evans.

Jane Semple

Jane's area of practice is family law. She deals with public law cases, including acting for local authorities, private law applications and ancillary relief. She is also involved in injunction and domestic violence cases.

Tom Semple

Tom joined chambers in October 2017 after the successful completion of pupillage, supervised by Corin Furness and Stuart Jamieson. He maintains a broad civil practice, but has a particular interest in clinical negligence, inquests, personal injury, employment, and credit hire work. He also accepts instructions in Court of Protection matters, particularly those relating to health and welfare. Before becoming a member of chambers, Tom had significant experience in clinical negligence and high value personal injury, having worked as a paralegal in healthcare litigation and catastrophic injuries (RTA and EL/PL) for over two years at two national law firms. On the BPTC, Tom was graded ‘Outstanding’ on 8 out of 12 modules, including civil litigation, personal injury & clinical negligence, advocacy, drafting, and conference skills. He came top of his year group in the personal injury & clinical negligence module. Tom is willing to accept instructions on a CFA-basis in appropriate cases.

Giorgia Sessi

Giorgia joined Chambers in October 2018 after successfully completing a specialist family law pupillage under the supervision of Alex Taylor. Giorgia specialises in Family Law and her practice encompasses all aspects of family relationships and their breakdown (including children cases, financial cases and injunctive proceedings). Giorgia is known for her hard-working nature, attention to detail and client handling skills, which she derives from her combined life and professional experience. Prior to coming to the Bar, Giorgia worked as a legal interpreter and translator for 10 years. During her legal training, she volunteered for the Personal Support Unit, assisting Litigants in Person in a range of family and civil proceedings, and IPSEA, supporting parents of children with educational needs.

Deborah Shield

Deborah is highly regarded by Solicitors for her sensitivity, patience and empathy and her determination to achieve the best possible result for her client.

Catherine Souter

Catherine joined Park Lane Chambers in 2002. Since then her expertise in each of her specialist areas of work has flourished. Catherine acts for clients from a wide range of sectors including Local Authorities, Insurers, Multi-National retailers, Engineering and Manufacturing companies as well as smaller, local corporate bodies. She also acts for members of most major Trade Unions including Unison, the Police Federation, the NASUWT, the GMB, the FBU, the RMT and the National Cyclist's Union. She has a dedicated client following and an extremely busy court practice. She drafts pleadings, including schedules and counter schedules and advises on liability, tactics and quantum in cases of all severity. She is regularly instructed in cases worth in excess of £250k and those arising out of fatal accidents. She has conferences with clients and experts in cases involving life changing injuries, chronic pain conditions and significant psychiatric injury. Catherine is endorsed by all of the major legal directories, most recently in Chambers and Partners 2017. The Legal 500 observes that she has the expertise of someone who is many years above her call.

Lucy Sowden

Andrew Sugarman

Andrew has been consistently highly rated by the leading guides to the legal profession. Chambers and Partners identifies him as one of the top three Employment practitioners in the North-East of England and the Legal 500 describes him as a Leading Junior in the field of Employment, who is both "technically and tactically astute, with an engaging personal style". Andrew completed pupillage at Cloisters, London and then worked for 6 months as a Judicial Assistant to the Court of Appeal assigned specifically to Mummery LJ, former President of the EAT, and Arden LJ. Since being called to the Bar in 2001, he has specialised in the field of employment, whilst maintaining a strong clinical negligence and personal injury practice. He is Chambers' Head of Civil Pupillage and sits on Chambers' Executive Committee.

Cait Sweeney

Cait specialises in commercial and chancery litigation. She is often instructed in general commercial and company disputes, both in the High Court and County Court. She also deals with consumer credit, banking and asset finance and is regularly instructed by several banks and finance houses. Cait also has a particular interest in all aspects of property litigation. She accepts instructions in the following areas: - Adverse possession, boundary disputes, easements and covenants as well as disputes concerning co-ownership of land and proprietary estoppel; - Commercial and residential landlord and tenant disputes; - Mortgages and accounts; - Property taxation including non-domestic business rates; - Charging orders and orders for sale.

Farzana Tai

Following her call to the Bar in July 2003 by the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, Farzana was employed as a Legal Advisor in the Magistrates’ Court. Farzana joined Chambers coming from a South Eastern set where she initially had a common law practice that progressed to predominantly family work. Since becoming a member of Parklane Plowden, Farzana has practiced in exclusively family law. Farzana accepts instructions in all aspects of family including public proceedings, private children law, injunctions as well as ancillary relief. Her wide experience has resulted in her being proficient in cases crossing practice areas. Farzana’s experience as a Magistrates Court Legal Adviser provided her with invaluable exposure to and insight of criminal and family cases, and experience of sitting with District Judges. This together with her former experience in practicing criminal law makes Farzana particularly au fait with trial skills, especially cross-examination although her advocacy is experienced at all levels. Farzana has a very approachable and friendly manner and is known for skilfully managing vulnerable and demanding clients and highly emotional situations. Farzana is fluent in Gujerati, and is also able to converse in Urdu, Hindi and basic Punjabi, which assists her in conducting cases for clients with language barriers.

Alex Taylor

Alex joined Chambers in 2011 having spent the previous decade at Park Court Chambers in Leeds. He practices in all areas of family law and has conducted cases in the High Court, Court of Appeal, County Court and Family Proceedings Court.

Abigail Telford

Abigail has a busy personal injury and clinical negligence practice and is regularly instructed both to advise and attend hearings. Abigail also regularly attends inquests involving a broad range of matters and is experienced dealing with the types of issues that arise in such cases. Abigail has been junior in a number of cases. Most recently appearing as junior to Howard Elgot in the Supreme Court case of Barton v Wright Hassall [2018] UKSC 12 a case involving issues regarding compliance with civil procedure rules, service and litigants in person. Abigail became a tenant in chambers in October 2015, having completed pupillage under the supervision of Richard Copnall, Corin Furness and Stuart Jamieson. During pupillage, Abigail was involved in a variety of complex personal injury and clinical negligence cases, and a number of inquests and associated civil actions. Abigail is an active member of the Parklane Plowden Under 10 Years Call Team and regularly gives seminars and talks regarding topics touching on all areas of her practice.

Steven Turner

Steven is Head of of the PLP Personal Injury Team. A nationally recognised practitioner with a deserved reputation for all-round excellence, Steven is regularly instructed in high profile test case litigation (e.g. Irving v Morgan Sindall PLC [2018] EWHC 1147 (QB); McBride v UK Insurance Ltd. [2017] EWCA 144; Stevens v Equity Syndicate Management Ltd. [2015] EWCA Civ 93; Phillips v Willis [2016] EWCA Civ 401; Zurich Insurance v Umerji [2014] EWCA Civ 357) and is frequently asked to advise upon high value cases involving complex points of law. His common sense approach to litigation and ability to understand wider strategic issues have made him a firm favourite with both Claimants and Defendants alike. Although based in Leeds, Steven travels nationwide for the purposes of conferences and court hearings.

Nicola Twine

Nicola joined Parklane Plowden in 2007 from Park Court Chambers (Leeds). She is an established civil junior specialing in both Personal Injury and in Employment Law – finding the Employment work complements her PI practice well.

Tom Vonberg

Tom is instructed nationwide in complex and high value injury litigation by the leading firms of solicitors and insurers in the field. His specialist expertise extends to insurance coverage disputes, products liability and professional negligence. Tom is ranked as a leading barrister in both Chambers and Partners and Legal 500. He has conducted countless final hearings as a junior and worked with leading QC's in cases of importance. Before coming to the independent bar, Tom was an employed barrister in commercial disputes at an offshore law firm. Tom is also a barrister at the top ranked set Devereux Chambers, London.

Andrew Webster

Andrew was appointed Treasury Counsel in November 2015.

Alan Weir

Alan specialises exclusively in personal injury and clinical negligence and is instructed by Claimants and Defendants. Before coming to the Bar he practiced as a Clinical Pharmacist. Alan is able to apply his legal and clinical background when dealing with both personal injury and clinical negligence cases. He has invaluable experience in conducting conferences with medical and other clinical experts. Alan is a safe pair of hands when co-ordinate a case with multiple clinical disciplines. Alan regularly undertakes JSM’s in high value settlements. He has an amicable disposition, is approachable and client focused. Alan is consistently able to grasp complex details within a case and explain the issues in a meaningful way to reassure clients.

David Wilby KC

David Wilby QC's main areas of practice are clinical negligence and personal injury, in particular cases involving birth related injuries, catastrophic injury, severe brain injury, health and safety, industrial disease and associated limitation issuesHe has considerable expertise in high value claims, particularly involving periodic payments and indexation. He is recognised by a number of directories including the Bar as a leading Silk in clinical negligence. He is recognised by Legal 500 2015 and Chambers & Partners 2014 as a leading Silk in Clinical Negligence.The only personal injury Barrister to be listed in The Lawyer Hot 100, 2010, Mr Wilby QC won Outstanding Case of the Year at The Personal Injury Awards 2009 for his work on the landmark birth defects case, Corby. Mr Wilby has had numerous appearances in the National Press and on Television due to the success of the Corby Litigation. Personal accolades identify that it was "his supreme understanding of the expert evidence that was responsible for the Claimants' success". The Lawyer described David Wilby QC as one of the most sought-after Silks at the Bar - renowned in the profession for his efficiency, reliability, conscientiousness and unrivalled grasp of complex expert evidence.He was Runner-up at the Barrister of the Year Lawyer Awards 2010. He was 1 of 3 finalists for Personal Injury Barrister of the Year at the 2009 and 2010 awards.

Charlotte Wilce

Charlotte joined Parklane Plowden in January 2018 having relocated from Regency Chambers in Peterborough where she completed her pupillage and was a tenant specialising in public and private Law children cases. Charlotte is an approachable, thorough and practically-minded advocate who is experienced in navigating clients through highly complex and sensitive matters. Prior to her career at the Bar, Charlotte worked for a publicly funded Legal Advice Centre where she provided free advice at a busy drop-in clinic and within local prisons.

Simon Wilkinson

Simon is a specialist Family law (with an emphasis on children law) and Court of Protection barrister. Simon prides himself on ensuring that he builds a good rapport with clients whilst giving firm and frank advice. He is keen to be approachable to lay and professional clients alike and has established a reputation for his forensic approach - focussing on the key issues in the case in order to achieve the best results possible, whether in advice, negotiations with other parties or presenting a case in court. He is happy to get involved in cases from the outset and advise on case management issues at the start of a case. At final hearings he ensures that he thoroughly prepared with a good grasp of the evidence at his fingertips.

Tom Wilkinson

Tim qualified as a solicitor before joining Parklane Plowden Chambers in 2009. Tim worked for leading firms in London and Yorkshire before practising at the Bar. He now represents clients in courts and tribunals across the country. Tim regularly receives repeat instructions, with solicitors and clients praising his professionalism, determination and client-focused approach. Tim was appointed to the Regional Treasury Panel as junior Counsel to the Crown in 2018.

Christopher Williams

Chris has practised on the North Eastern Circuit since 1983. Initially he practised in all areas of Common law but since the early 1990s he has concentrated in personal injury and professional negligence. His work is predominantly personal injury acting for both Claimants and Defendants in all manner of cases be it accidents at work, Road Traffic Accidents, Fatalities and Industrial Disease. Chris does a considerable volume of employer liability work including disease HAVS/VWF or other upper limb disorders and industrial deafness. As a highly experienced advocate and practitioner, he has conducted a large number of JSMs leading to successful settlement (acting both for Claimant and Defendants). He continues to be instructed in a series of linked claims (some 60 in all) for both industrial deafness and HAVS against the same employer.

England

Barristers