Housing a disputes-only, claimant-led professional negligence practice, FS Litigation is renowned for handling claims arising from negligent tax advice and failed tax mitigation/investment schemes, as well handling negligence disputes against solicitors, accountants and other advisers. The team is co-steered by Kit Sorrell, who has longstanding experience in complex professional negligence cases, alongside co-head Julia Norris, who is sought out by claimants, particularly for cases rooted in failed tax planning/investment schemes and defective transactional advice. Nicola Stanley brings a depth of experience in disputes involving accountants, financial advisers and transactional solicitors, while Christine Newton focuses on multi-defendant disputes against insurer-backed advisers.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • Julia Norris is a dynamic partner whose strategic insight is unrivaled. She really invests in her clients and goes the extra mile for them. Christine Newton is knowledgeable, diligent, and efficient, and Kit Sorrell brings extensive experience to the team.
  • Adept at strategy and well attuned to client needs, FS Litigation fights the client’s corner with gusto. They are a small and dedicated team that has a combined wealth of experience, with a particular specialization in professional negligence claims arising from failed tax avoidance schemes. They have a collaborative approach with counsel, meaning that the client benefits from a unified and consistent team throughout the litigation.
  • Kit Sorrell's experience, coupled with Christine Newton's analysis and efficiency, is a force to be reckoned with.
  • A small, battle-seasoned, specialist team that punches well above its price.
  • Kit Sorrell has seen it all and done it all. He is a formidable commercial negotiator. Christine Newton is always on top of her brief.
  • FS Litigation combines real experience with an agile working practice and real knowledge of the construction profession. Their ability to drive a case to settlement is unmatched.

Key clients

  • Morris Homes Group of Companies
  • Doran Bros (London) Limited and Thomas Doran
  • John Levison
  • Smith and Morris Retail Limited

Work highlights

Acting for 6 nominated Representative Respondents who represent a wider group of 16,741 pension SIPP holders in a matter concerning the collapse of Hartley Pensions Limited (in Administration) and £1.3bn in assets and a £38m - £79m claim.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame

The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

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

Kit Sorrell; Julia Norris

Other key lawyers

Nicola Stanley; Christine Newton