The ‘well-respected and very experienced team’ at RPC handles a range of complex health and safety issues, including serious incidents, gross negligence claims and corporate manslaughter issues. The practice is co-led by the ’brilliant’ Gavin Reese and Fiona Hahlo, who represent clients in investigations and prosecutions for catastrophic injuries and fatal accidents. Senior associates Steven Aitken and Charles Appleby are key contacts in the Bristol office.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'RPC are a premier league health and safety firm. They are beloved by their clients for their commercial and pragmatic approach to cases, where they add huge value to all of their cases with the strength of their team and their huge experience in tackling the most difficult legal problems.'
- 'Gavin Reese is a brilliant lawyer. There is no-one better to have in your corner in a health and safety case.'
- 'Well respected and very experienced team. Sensible and pragmatic in their approach to complex health & safety cases.'
- 'Gavin Rees has substantial experience in the area, listened to by clients and opponents alike.'
- 'Very successful in their collaborative approach with counsel, to ensure the best possible service to the lay client.'
- 'Willing to go the extra mile for the lay client. Willing to put in the extra legwork required to ensure the case is fully prepared, and no stone is left unturned. Excellent rapport with lay client.'
- 'I have been consistently impressed by their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to us as their client. My experience with RPC has always been excellent. I have worked with a number of the solicitors in the firm, and they have always come across highly knowledgeable, providing astute and clear advice.'
- 'RPC have a unique way of dealing with the most complex or sensitive matters with calmness and a confidence approach that leave us as the client feeling like we are in good hands.'
Key clients
- AXA XL
Work highlights
Defending Capital Karts in its prosecution by a local authority following the death of an individual who suffered fatal injuries when her scarf caught in the rear axle of a go-kart on 6 August 2021.
Represented M&M Mobile Crane Hire Ltd in respect of the HSE's prosecution following a death in February 2020.
Represented an individual, who was prosecuted in October 2024 following an incident where his employee suffered life-changing injuries when a tree felled by the client fell in an unexpected direction and struck the employee.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Gavin Reese; Fiona Hahlo
Other key lawyers
Steven Aitken; Charles Appleby