Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP handles a select range of high-stakes, reputationally sensitive personal injury matters, with a particular focus on fatal accidents, stress-at-work and bullying claims, historic group litigation, and legacy liability. The team operates as part of the firm’s wider disputes and contentious insurance offering and is distinct in its ability to manage both civil claims and associated criminal or regulatory proceedings. David Bennett leads the practice and is routinely instructed by major corporates in the finance, energy, and consumer sectors, often in matters involving complex causation, multiple jurisdictions, or significant media interest. The firm offers in-depth, partner-led representation on a lean caseload, including direct drafting of pleadings and counter-schedules.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'David Bennett is a knowledgeable operator with real commercial sensibilities.'
- 'Impressive team support.'
Key clients
- Diageo
- Chevron
- BAE
- BP
- TXU
- Post Office
- Arup
Work highlights
Acting for Diageo in relation to claims for injuries arising from the alleged ingestion of thalidomide in the late 1950s/ early 1960s.
Acted for Chevron following the explosion at their refinery on 2 June 2011 which resulted in four fatalities, a serious personal injury, and a number of stress and related claims.
Acting for Post Office in relation to personal injury issues raised by former sub-postmasters and post-mistresses who are bringing claims against Post Office in connection with their internal computer system.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
David Bennett