At Ashtons Legal, insurance is a key pillar of the firm's offering, and it continues to operate one of the largest injury services practices in the region. The partners are 'clear-sighted and clear-headed, and able to manage and organise complex cases'. Richard Foyster in Ipswich and Michael Wangermann in Bury St Edmunds (who 'ensures clients get access to early rehabilitation after their injuries') are the lead partners for PI, while Bury-based Sharon Allison is head of the medical negligence practice. In Bury, partners Sandra Patton and Tom Ranson are highly rated for clinical negligence and PI respectively. Senior associate Mick Upton handles claims involving fatal accidents, brain and spinal injuries, and serious orthopaedic injuries. The 'kind and courteous' Ben Ward in Norwich leads on catastrophic injury claims. 'Their client care is second to none', remarks one client.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Amanda Cavanagh is a pleasure to work with. She is reliable and responsive when it comes to matters related with the client, their case histories and the experts.’
'Ben Ward is an excellent young partner. Clear and excellent understanding of medical conditions and meticulous detail with medical records and excellent with experts.'
‘Mick Upton - a very good eye for detail. Keen to secure the best possible result for the client.’
‘Richard Foyster is hugely respected and provides excellent service to his clients.'
'Michael Wangermann is a very experienced personal injury lawyer and ensures that his clients get access to early rehabilitation after their injuries.'
‘Sharon Allison is always on hand to answer any concerns or issues I have as a case manager. Always accessible and willing to look at practical solutions, working towards the client's best interests.’
'Penny Tilmouth is excellent - very good attention to detail, good communication with counsel and experts and empathetic client care skills.'
Tom West is young but he is already a good lawyer and will do well. He is careful and diligent and very quick to assist. A pleasure to work with.'
Work highlights
- Obtaining a settlement of £1.95 million in 2023 for a man who suffered brain injury when the car in which he was travelling was involved in a head-on collision. He also suffered craniofacial injuries leaving severe facial scarring and ocular issues, psychological injuries, and some smaller fractures.
- Acting on many cerebral palsy claims, some of which are currently valued in excess of £10 million due to the requirement for permanent 24/7 care and potential longevity of the clients.
- Continuing to represent those affected by asbestos-related diseases including this year successfully obtaining a mesothelioma settlement during the client’s life time against an unincorporated Defendant firm where both partners were deceased.
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.
Tom Ranson
Ben Ward
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Richard Foyster; Sharon Allison; Michael Wangermann
Other key lawyers
Ben Ward; Mick Upton; Tom Ranson; Sandra Patton; Amanda Cavanagh; Penny Tilmouth; Andrew Wilson; Tom West; Roger Loomes; Graham Heywood