Focusing on contentious matters, the team at Watkins & Gunn Limited is well-versed in inquests, inquiries, and judicial reviews on behalf of claimants. At the head of the practice, Michael Imperato is an expert in Welsh devolved law matters, representing charities and individuals in public inquiries. Lucy O’Brien left the team in August 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- Michael Imperato is exceptional at identifying both potential unlawful actions by public authorities and the right claimant to bring a challenge.
- Michael Imperato is a standout figure in Welsh public law and is widely recognized as being at the top of the profession. He brings decades of experience across judicial review, inquests, and public inquiries, and has been involved in many of the most significant public law cases in Wales in recent years. What distinguishes Michael is his strategic vision and his ability to see the bigger picture in public law litigation. He is particularly strong in cases involving public consultation and decision-making processes, including challenges under the School Organisation Code. He combines this with a clear commitment to achieving tangible outcomes for clients, often in cases with significant public importance. He is also highly experienced in working with a wide range of clients, from individuals to representative groups, and brings authority and reassurance to complex and high-stakes matters.
- As above, Michael Imperato is a true star and leader in this area. He is a joy to work with and adds real value to cases.
- Michael Imperato, who is the head of public law, is extremely knowledgeable and has vast experience in working with campaigners and bringing challenges to court. He is able to assess, early on, whether a case has legs and is often able to work with public authorities to secure a favorable result without needing to issue.
- This firm provides excellent service in England and Wales, especially in Wales, in respect of constitutional and public law issues that arise as a result of devolution and divergence from legislation in the rest of the UK. They provide a novel and unique service in respect of these matters in Wales.
- The team has experienced leadership with in-depth knowledge of public law, which is supported by a good and eager junior team.
Key clients
- Haemophillia Wales
Work highlights
Acting in the reopened inquest into the deaths of four miners who died whilst working in the Gleision Colliery Mine.
Acted in a judicial review for a young disabled boy from North Wales.
Acting in an application challenging the lawfulness of the NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee’s decision to adopt recommendations which would see changes to the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service, including the permanent closure of Air Ambulance bases in Welshpool and Caernarfon.
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.
Practice head
Michael Imperato