Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP‘s product liability and insurance practice, which sits within the umbrella of the firm’s disputes practice, is heavily involved in large-scale product liability class action litigation, in addition to regularly assisting clients with multinational products recalls for clients hailing from the pharmaceutical, automotive and technology sectors, among others. David Bennett, who leads the team, is adept in such multi-jurisdictional recalls, in which the team is able to advise on regulatory compliance of cutting-edge technology products and product safety issues. Large manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, which the team continued to represent in ’Dieselgate’ scandal in 2025, are among the group’s varied client base. Howard Watson retired in April 2024 and Philip Pfeffer left the firm in April 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Key clients
- Mercedes-Benz
- Diageo
- BAT
- Associated British Foods
- Volvo Trucks
- General Mills
- Eat Just
Work highlights
Acted for Diageo in the global coordination of legal and commercial issues arising from its distribution of thalidomide in the late 1950s/early 1960s.
Represented Mercedes-Benz and several dozen independent franchise dealerships in a major class action being pursued by more than 350,000 vehicle owners arising from the so-called “dieselgate” litigation involving allegations concerning nitrous oxide emissions.
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