Birketts LLP's offering draws on the firm's considerable cross-industry experience in serious health and safety defence, with a strong focus on disasters and multiple fatalities. The practice has a broad client base that includes private companies and local authorities. The team is jointly headed by ‘second-to-none’ duo Matthew Gowen and Julie Gowland, who ’know how the regulatory and enforcement bodies work’. Daniel Irving's practice covers the full spectrum of regulatory work and inquests. Rebecca Utton often assists clients with investigations and prosecutions by the HSE, and Francesca Reason has particular knowledge of construction industry health and safety issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Birketts LLP has an outstanding health and safety team. Their specialist knowledge, expertise and advocacy of environmental and safety legislation, is similarly matched in the exceptional client care, engagement and attention to detail. This is the go to team when you need safety advice.’

  • ‘This expert health and safety team led by Matthew Gowen and Julie Gowland are second to none. They know how the regulatory and enforcement bodies work and how to navigate the complexities of inspections, investigations and enforcement action if the situation demands it.

Key clients

  • South Norfolk District Council
  • Rochford District Council

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

Matthew Gowen; Julie Gowland

Other key lawyers

Daniel Irving; Rebecca Utton; Francesca Reason; Emily Jones