CMS is best known for representing some of the insurance market’s biggest brokers and insurers on professional negligence matters. The Bristol-based team fields a deep senior bench, with a trio of partners comprising Cheryl Gibson, who specialises in handling cases against construction professionals; Zoe Burge, who typically defends claims against solicitors and insurance intermediaries; and Robert Jones, who is known for acting on behalf of surveyors and insurance brokers, leading on the key mandates. Practitioners on the ground work closely with the London office.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team showed a great understanding of our business sector and was able to articulate a vision in how the defence would be structured despite challenging circumstances. They were able to adapt to the changing circumstances to great effect.’
‘Zoe Burge and Joanna Owens were exceptional to work with, showing a strong mix of commercial awareness with clear insight which was based upon an exceptional knowledge of our business sector. They were easy to communicate with showing both empathy and commercial awareness which helped us asses the situation throughout.’
‘Robert Jones is always approachable and is happy to answer any questions or queries. He's always very responsive and responds promptly. His soft skills matched with expertise make him great to work with.’
Key clients
- Acapella Syndicate 2014
- AXIS
- Channel Syndicate
- CNA Hardy
- Liberty
- MS Amlin
- AEGIS Managing Agency Limited
- Neon
- QBE
- W R Berkley Insurance (Europe) Limited
Work highlights
- Represented AE Insurance Brokers Limited and its insurers in a £2.65m professional negligence dispute in relation to alleged failure of insurance cover.
- Acted for the insurers in the defence of £16m proceedings arising from theft of client money by a UK solicitor.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Cheryl Gibson
Practice head
Cheryl Gibson
Other key lawyers
Zoe Burge; Robert Jones; John Enoch; Caroline Hall; Joanna Owens