Compass Chambers
Compass Chambers has ‘very good strength in depth for personal injury work’, and the ‘outstanding’ team is equally adept at handling complex clinical negligence cases. The ‘formidable’ Lesley Shand KC has an excellent track record in representing defenders in a wide range of personal injury cases, including catastrophic injuries. Astrid Smart KC is ‘at the top of the field’, and Calum Wilson KC is sought after for his expertise in handling industrial disease claims. Turning to the juniors, the ‘very diligent’ Kate Bennett continues to represent pursuers and defenders in complex personal injury and clinical negligence cases, and Barney Ross‘ ’knowledge in the field of clinical negligence is exceptional‘. Adam Black’s ‘knowledge and understanding of clinical negligence and mental health law is of great benefit to clients’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Lawyers
Leading Silks
KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.
Lesley Shand KC
She has phenomenal advocacy skills and her ability to cross examine a witness is unrivalled. She is always thoroughly well prepared and leaves no stone unturned. She gets to grips quickly with the most complex issues and brings a level of insight into a case which is exceptional.'
Astrid Smart KC
She is a fantastic negotiator and is a very powerful presence to have on your side.'
Amber Galbraith KC
Graeme Middleton KC
Kay Springham KC
Calum Wilson KC
A silk with a great bedside manner with clients.'
Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.
Kate Bennett
Kate is a highly motivated, hard working, intelligent, articulate and able advocate.'
Robin Cleland
An articulate advocate, who is able to quickly identify the subtleties in clinical negligence cases.'
Barney Ross
Barney is a calm and astute advocate. His level of skill and knowledge is on par with what one might expect form a KC. He has a great eye for detail and a wonderful manner with clients.'
Adam Black
Adam has a unique insight into matters of clinical negligence that have a mental health law element. He is pragmatic and calm, a safe pair of hands and clients feel very reassured when discussing their cases with him.'
Clare Connelly
Bruce Langlands
He is very impressive on his feet, reflecting his ability to get straight to the heart of the matter.'
Elaine Russell
A tenacious and very personable junior.'