Slee Blackwell‘s clinical negligence team combines an ’unwavering commitment to excellence’ with a client-centric approach to represent claimants in the South West and throughout the UK. With offices in Barnstaple and Taunton, the team handles a variety of claims, including birth injury, cosmetic surgery and high-profile mesh litigation. In Barnstaple, Oliver Thorne spearheads the practice, specialising in cases involving baby loss and birth injury, with a particular focus on maternal rights. Working between Barnstaple and Taunton, the ‘exceptional’ Caroline Webber-Brown is highlighted for her expertise in complex mesh litigation and gynaecological negligence, supported by Taunton-based associate Clarissa Ellerington.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Caroline Webber-Brown and her team at Slee Blackwell were exceptional!’
‘I worked Clarissa Ellerington, who was a stalwart throughout an emotive and challenging process. She proved to be an able and empathetic listener but who was always efficient and positive.’
‘Oliver Thorne and his team provided clear understanding of our legal position, but with a compassion and understanding of our emotional state. They were there from the start, through all the legal wrangles, through the inquest and the final claim. Frankly, we were blessed to have them, because although they were always highly professional, they showed real empathy and consideration.’
‘Oliver Thorne gave us a clear understanding of our situation, and provided us with the means to find out the facts from a reluctant hospital and having done so, negotiated our legal claim. He did all of this, whilst displaying compassion and understanding.'
‘Slee Blackwell stands out for its unwavering commitment to excellence, client-centric approach, and forward-thinking innovations. They combine deep legal expertise with a personalised touch, ensuring that every client receives tailored solutions that align with their goals. They prioritise transparency, collaboration, and efficiency—delivering exceptional results without unnecessary complexity.’
‘Oliver Thorne stands out for his sharp legal mind, meticulous preparation, and exceptional collaboration. He combines deep expertise with respect for expert input, making them a trusted advocate. His professionalism and strategic insight set them apart.’
Work highlights
Represented client in cerebral palsy claim where the client's mother was given syntocinon instead of a saline infusion prior to a planned caesarean section. Mother suffered from a placental abruption meaning and emergency caesarean section under general anaesthetic was needed. Client suffered from hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) and went on to develop cerebral palsy.
Investigated a failure to interpret an MRI from 2015, leading to a delayed diagnosis of a meningioma, causing permanent vision loss and severe neurological damage.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Oliver Thorne
Other key lawyers
Caroline Webber-Brown; Clarissa Ellerington