Clinical Negligence: London

This titan of the Clinical Negligence Bar continues to ride high at the top of the rankings. Commentators note that the set is "just that little cut above other chambers," and attribute its success to its "raft of incredibly impressive juniors and its clutch of superstar silks." It elicited further commendation for the quality of its clerking, which was described as being "head and shoulders above that at other sets."

Known as "the doyen of the Clinical Negligence Claimant Bar" James Badenoch QC is esteemed by his peers, who believe him to be "bright, thorough and extremely good on his feet." He also wins his share of support from solicitors, one of whom described him as "the best leader that I have used in this field." The "highly energetic and absolutely committed" Elizabeth-Anne Gumbel QC is similarly highly regarded by her instructing solicitors. Crediting her with being "ferociously hard-working," sources explain that "she wins by knowing more and being better prepared than everybody else - she will visit clients in their homes if necessary and she has an encyclopaedic medical knowledge."

Philip Havers QC is "an extremely erudite thinker and a skilled advocate." Out of court he is "extremely effective in round-table meetings, as he manages to negotiate a fantastic deal for you without rubbing anybody up the wrong way." The same can be said of the "extremely thorough and detailed" Paul Rees QC. "He is a phenomenal leader and a complete workhorse - I would certainly want him to represent me if I were in that situation," commented one interviewee. Margaret Bowron QC is favoured as an "extremely friendly, hands-on silk who you can rely on to get the job done." She is particularly highly regarded on issues of quantum, although she is also well thought of when it comes to liability. Whilst she handles both claimant and defendant work, the former takes up the greatest proportion of her time.

Continuing the lengthy list of accomplished silks at this set, Stephen Miller QC is highly regarded by his instructing solicitors. They note that "he can bring all the loose strands together and make a fantastic case out of what you give him." Terence Coghlan QC is similarly well thought of. He is best known for his work on behalf of defendants and recently appeared in Karen Brown v Blackpool NHS Trust, a large claim for brain damage. Also well renowned is Kieran Coonan QC, a "highly impressive operator who knows the field back to front and can handle a broad spectrum of issues extremely adeptly." Martin Forde QC is another name on the roster of highly thought-of silks at this set. Solicitors are pleased with his "steadfast defence of their clients' interests." He impresses, as does the "fantastic" David Balcombe QC, whose impeccable case analysis and advocacy skills generated much comment. He is thought to be particularly strong on quantum as he "has an enviable head for figures.”

David Hart QC is recommended as a reliable advocate on high-value catastrophic cases, including cerebral palsy claims. His instructing solicitors believe him to be "phenomenally bright." No less intellectually gifted, the highly respected Robert Seabrook QC continues to be thought of as an exceptionally strong performer in court. Seabrook is highly popular with solicitors, as is the "firm but fair" Sally Smith QC, a barrister noted for being "an extremely good communicator." Credited with having "a brilliant legal mind," William Edis QC is also commended for his "excellent bedside manner with clients." He has been joined in silk by Christina Lambert QC. She was highly sought after as a junior and interviewees believe that she will be similarly successful as a leader. Sources note that "she is fantastic in conferences with clients and is a brilliant advocate who deals with everything with great care and intelligence."

Of the juniors, sources note that John Whitting "has all of the key issues at his fingertips." His current caseload includes a wrongful birth case, as well as a case concerning treatment administered over a protracted period that raised complex arguments on breach and causation. "Always a very safe pair of hands," Angus McCullough is considered to be "extremely impressive, in that he provides heavyweight technical advice and support." He proves invaluable to those instructing him, as he "manages difficult clients with consummate charm." "I think that the absolute best junior is Henry Witcomb," opined one solicitor. He often works with Elizabeth-Anne Gumbel QC and together they are thought to be "beyond compare on difficult cases." He is like many of the 1 Crown Office Row tenants who are praised for their "exceptional client skills." Falling into this same camp, Richard Booth is an accomplished performer who splits his time equally between claimant and defendant work. "He is a joy to work with, proving pleasant, straightforward and extremely able," explained one source. 

In addition to his stellar work on civil claims, David Evans has a much admired regulatory practice and a dedicated following amongst medico-legal solicitors. He has a cast-iron reputation, something that could also be said of Andrew Kennedy. Sources note that "if you have a difficult and complex case you can guarantee that he will get to grips with it." He received particular praise for his "ability to help clients through what is an incredibly scary process for them." Other noted juniors include Philippa Whipple, who splits her time between clinical negligence defence and tax work, and Jeremy Hyam. Solicitors are appreciative of the work Hyam puts into their cases, with one stating: "I find Jeremy to be an invaluable ally on my cases; he is extremely bright and an excellent person to bat ideas off."

Also appreciated, Shaheen Rahman and Sarah Lambert are both highly sought after. Rahman is considered to be "an effective choice for high-risk cases," while Lambert is recognised as being a strong up-and-comer, particularly by claimant solicitors, whose instructions occupy the greater proportion of her time. Finally, Owain Thomas is described by sources as a "rising star who is competent on all fronts." He has been joined in the rankings this year by David Manknell, who has already established a strong following amongst defendant solicitors. His profile in the sector was given a tremendous boost thanks to his participation in the landmark case on the indexation of periodical payments orders, Thompstone v Tameside & Glossop Acute Services NHS Trust.

Whilst a number of commentators noted that the set is fractionally below 1 Crown Office Row in the reputation stakes, "you can't hide from the fact that 3 Serjeants' Inn has many of the best clinical negligence barristers in London." It has in Robert Francis QC one of the most high-profile names in the sector. "A silky-smooth and highly effective advocate," he “brings experience, savvy, and an ability to think round corners” to each case he handles. Adrian Hopkins QC also comes highly recommended by sources, who explain that “he has an amazing ability to make the most document-heavy and complex case seem straightforward and simple.”

The “peerless” John Grace QC is admired for his ability to handle the most difficult cases. As one solicitor noted, “he is absolutely top of the tree.” Instructing solicitors observe that "he is consistent year in and year out, doesn't take any rubbish and is capable of systematically breaking the spirit of the opponent." Stablemate Adrian Whitfield QC occupies a position of seniority within the Clinical Negligence Bar. "Wise and piercingly intelligent," he is “unrivalled in his reputation for fairness and common sense." Similarly intellectually blessed, Angus Moon QC is “a fiercely intelligent thinker.” He is held in high regard by solicitors and the Bar alike and is commended for his “effective client-handling skills." 

James Watson QC's attention to detail was much commented upon. Praised for "picking up on issues that the experts miss," he has a particular aptitude for "handling complex cases where it is appropriate and necessary to take novel and imaginative approaches to achieve the correct result.” New silk Mary O'Rourke QC, meanwhile, is praised for her robust handling of cases. She is extremely popular among solicitors, many of whom believe that "her promotion to silk is much deserved and will be a great success."

Christopher Johnston is widely admired for his user-friendly manner: "He is a joy to work with and clients love him." He is also credited with achieving consistently excellent results, with a number of interviewees commenting that his pleadings are extremely accomplished. Solicitors rely on both him and Michael Horne, “an extremely calm hard worker with an eagle eye for the salient points.” He elicited particular commendation for producing some "fantastic work on quantum." Another key member of the set is George Hugh-Jones. Solicitors appreciate his help in identifying those cases they should settle and those they should fight with determination. Such discernment is also to be found in Fiona Neale, who remains a popular choice for solicitors. She is regularly called upon, as is Richard Partridge, who enjoys a dedicated following that instructs him for both clinical negligence claims and regulatory work. He is "very sharp on the medicine, and possesses strong litigation instincts and an impressive manner in round-table meetings." The “dedicated, efficient and committed” Clodagh Bradley also wins favour, as does the "approachable and able" Ranald Davidson. Davidson is noted as "an academic barrister with excellent client skills, who is capable of providing extremely practical advice." 

Andrew Hockton is a regular feature in doctors and dentists disciplinary proceedings. His recent cases include GMC v Banerjee. He shares a set with Jonathan Holl-Allen, whose "calm and methodical approach lends authority to his advocacy." Solicitors believe that "his judgement in presenting cases both orally and in writing is excellent." Similarly lauded, Gerard Boyle is "a highly effective advocate” who mixes clinical negligence work with a strong disciplinary and police law practice. With her background as a forensic clinical psychologist and "her down-to-earth approach to complex issues," solicitors believe that Bridget Dolan "performs beyond her call." "She is a pleasure to work with and a good choice for particularly sensitive cases." Others that solicitors are anxious to bring on board are John de Bono and Neil Davy, both of whom are considered to be “reliable counsel.” Davy also handles a quota of information work, while de Bono also has a respected police practice. 

The "sharp and forthright" Debra Powell has an enviable reputation for high-quality clinical negligence work. Sources note that she is "excellent at handling experts in conference." Solicitors say Huw Lloyd has “an excellent grasp of medico-legal issues.” In addition to his work on civil claims, he also has a high level of expertise in other areas of health, including in sensitive right-to-life issues. Possessing "a sharp mind," Michael Mylonas is celebrated for being “a tiger in court." He is also praised for being "very strong on the medicine, a fact that helps him to root out issues for cross-examination purposes.” Finally, the “hard-working” Timothy Meakin is noted for possessing “effective negotiation skills which help to bring about the prompt settlement of claims.”

This well-established set continues to impress solicitors, who admire its substantial group of skilled clinical negligence tenants, and appreciate the "superb clerking" which is on offer and which has helped to make it "an easy chambers to work with." In Edward Faulks QC, it has one of the "most stylish advocates" in the field. His performance in court is described as "polished, urbane and intellectually robust," and he receives an abundance of positive feedback for his “impressive legal acuity." He is in understandably high demand among solicitors, as is Simon Readhead QC, whose “user-friendly attitude" is much appreciated by solicitors. Readhead garners praise for his “excellent client skills” and his “fine understanding of quantum.”

The "standout junior at the set," Edward Bishop gets a stellar press from those who instruct him. "Extremely able across the board," he represented the defendant trust in Rabone v Pennine Care NHS Trust. Also popular, David Thomson has a medical background which interviewees believe is of significant use on causation, where he is widely thought to excel. Equally praiseworthy, Sarah Paneth “is excellent on both liability and quantum" and "can be relied on to deliver very sensible and accurate advice." In a similar vein, commentators are impressed with Laura Johnson. “She has demonstrated a maturity beyond her call due to her pragmatism and ability to provide sound advice on quantum,” note sources.

Hailsham Chambers is home to some of the best-known and most highly respected barristers in the field and is considered to be "knocking on the door" of the very best sets. Researchers were overwhelmed with positive feedback for Martin Spencer QC."His technical skills are undoubtedly impressive and he maintains an accessibility and approachability that makes him a user-friendly silk for solicitors," explained one satisfied lawyer. Spencer is consistently successful when handling high-value quantum cases and liability matters, and is endorsed as "combining the gravitas required in the courtroom with the sensitivity that makes him popular with clients." Fellow silk David Pittaway QC also wins much support. He “knows how to navigate a complex case and get straight to the nub of the matter,” according to interviewees.

Of the juniors at the set, Jane Tracy Forster has one of the most formidable reputations amongst her peers at the Bar. Also incredibly popular with instructing solicitors, “she has a human touch and clients absolutely love her.” Tejina Mangat is medically qualified, with interviewees noting that "her medical knowledge is second to none." She received further commendation from solicitors who remarked that she is “bright, conscientious and extremely popular amongst the clients.” Mangat's busy practice is mirrored by that of Jane Mishcon, who is credited for bringing "a supportive and pragmatic approach" when acting for both claimants and defendants. "Polished performer" Andrew Post elicited praise from instructing solicitors, who note that “he has broad medical experience and is tactically astute." Commentators feel that he is "extremely flexible in his approach" as a result of the fact that he works for both claimants and defendants.

Derek Holwill is another junior in demand. An "experienced and highly competent barrister with a detailed and comprehensive knowledge of the law," he is an expert advocate both orally and in writing. A bright future is predicted for both Holwill and Alexander Hutton. Hutton is expected to go from strength to strength, as he is “bright, hard-working and extremely knowledgeable." Sources comment that "with him, a first-class job is guaranteed.” In addition to being known as a strong personal injury practitioner, he is also commended for his costs work. Nicholas Peacock was dubbed “a very switched-on performer” by sources, while "terrier-like" Clare Price also garnered her fair share of praise. Seen as someone who has carved out a decent practice, she impresses clients with her “straight-down-the-line attitude." Also recommended, Matthew Jackson is "a friendly, ebullient individual, who is extremely dogged when the case requires it." One source explained that "he is capable of holding his ground without resorting to aggressiveness or foolish tactics."

This set offers a comprehensive range of services including a prized medical regulatory practice that neatly complements its strength in clinical negligence work. One of its main attractions is David Westcott QC, who has successfully established himself as a leader in the field of quantum, where he elicited particular praise for his contributions to resolving state funding issues. Excellent on the figures, "he is very much at home with a calculator," explained one interviewee. Westcott's practice straddles both claimant and defendant work and is dominated by catastrophic injury cases. Solicitors have a high regard for him as he is "a genius at working his way through a case with the minimum of fuss to the client." The other fine silks here are Christopher Wilson-Smith QC, one of the founding fathers of the practice here and something of an expert on birth injuries, and Andrew Spink QC. Spink elicited glittering feedback from sources, many of whom commented on his "pragmatic and hard-working attitude." Both he and Westcott can rely on a stable of adept juniors.

Charles Foster, for example, is "just the sort of junior that you want with you on a case." Interviewees applauded his judgement and work ethic, both of which are thought to be second to none. They also enthuse over Cara Guthrie, who is the junior of choice for many solicitors. “Incredibly bright, thorough and user-friendly,” she has a busy practice that takes in a large volume of high-value cerebral palsy brain injury cases, which she handles on behalf of both claimants and defendants. Equally fêted is Caroline Hallissey, who is recognised as “an extremely robust advocate, who is nonetheless prepared to be reasonable.” Solicitors note that she has "superb client-handling skills" and that she is often the first choice for sensitive cases. Eliot Woolf brings an "intelligent and pragmatic approach" to his work, while the “redoubtable” Harry Trusted is described as having “a very good knack for grasping the complexities of cases and knowing which bits are important.” Christopher Kemp also enjoys the confidence of the market and is described as "an absolute gentleman who always plays a straight bat in court." Finally, the “first-rate” Rachel Vickers has built a highly successful clinical negligence and personal injury practice.

2 Temple Gardens is home to an impressive number of the most highly thought-of clinical negligence silks. The chambers is particularly highly regarded for its representation of defendants and receives regular instructions from a substantial number of the leading NHSLA firms. Benjamin Browne QC is held in the highest regard by solicitors and fellow barristers alike. He is "enormously impressive in court" and possesses "first-rate cross-examination skills." Michael de Navarro QC is another of the set's top-rated QCs. Described as "a combative terrier of an advocate," interviewees believe that he "is the equal or better of anybody when it comes to litigating on liability." Sarah Vaughan Jones QC enjoys a strong reputation amongst instructing solicitors, one of whom commented that "a first-class job is guaranteed when you instruct her." She has "an excellent grasp of medicine" and is "a fearsome negotiator at round-table meetings, thanks to her robust and straightforward approach."

The "businesslike and highly effective" Martin Porter QC, is establishing a solid reputation as a reliable clinical negligence silk and has built up a loyal following of instructing solicitors. The same can be said of senior junior Bradley Martin. Solicitors enjoy working with him and find him to be "a good team player who works well in conjunction with his instructing solicitors and clients." Caroline Harrison also elicited reams of positive feedback from both defendant and claimant firms of solicitors. She is credited with being "intellectually rigorous" and "incredibly industrious."

Clients continue to go to this set for its expertise in clinical negligence matters. "Both the clerks and the barristers give us a good service and they have always had a good range of counsel," explained one solicitor. The “incredibly charming” Simeon Maskrey QC “makes you feel that you are in the presence of a master,” according to commentators. Peers describe him as a “an extremely effective cross-examiner," while solicitors appreciate his "absolutely marvellous manner with his clients.” Colleague Nigel Godsmark QC is held in high regard by sources, who believe him to be "always very thorough and particularly good at quantum issues.”

Julian Matthews continues to impress as an exceedingly knowledgeable barrister in clinical negligence claims, particularly those involving cerebral palsy. "He vigorously pursues all issues to the benefit of the clients." Jeremy Pendlebury is another junior making a name for himself - "he knows cerebral palsy cases inside out and is a brilliant leading junior on them," explained one source. Credited with "always being absolutely on top of his cases," Adam Korn was commended by both contemporaries and instructing solicitors, who explain that they admire his "impressive advocacy skills" and "prompt, accessible service." Others featured here include Leslie Keegan, who has a brilliant mind for quantum. Solicitors appreciate his "'nothing is too much trouble' attitude." Finally, Peter Ellis is highly recommended for his work on inquests and fatal civil claims. Interviewees explain that "you win cases with him because he helps everyone through the evidence calmly and effectively and makes over-aggressive hired guns seem foolish." 

Concentrating on claimant matters, this set is endorsed both by solicitors and by barristers based at competitor sets. Robin Oppenheim QC continues to win plaudits and to act in some of the most high-profile work in the field. He is considered to be "extremely intelligent, meticulous and analytical in his approach to cases." "Robust in his advice and advocacy," he elicited further praise for his "wonderful manner with clients." Fellow silk Christopher Gibson QC is  "especially client-friendly." Sources explain that "he is extremely bright and yet not at all remote. He is one of the best barristers for turning a complex problem into something that can be understood by everyone."

Amongst the juniors, Christopher Hough is “one of the quickest and most reliable barristers in this sector,” say solicitors. He was further praised for his “outstanding analytical skills and for taking a realistic view of different issues.” Interviewees also admire Paula Sparks' broad medico-legal practice, which encompasses product liability claims, cases with substantial human rights issues and inquests, as well as standard civil claims. Sources appreciate her "depth of experience" and "down-to-earth approach."

This well-known claimants' set boasts numerous clinical negligence tenants including several of the most sought-after advocates in the field. Simon Taylor QC is "a dynamic, modern QC, at the forefront of this area of litigation." Sources note that “he is not afraid to go to trial and he has had some cracking results recently.” Another Cloisters tenant who is recognised as achieving consistently excellent results is the "friendly and accessible" William Latimer-Sayer. He is much in demand from clients anxious to benefit from his "superior knowledge on issues of quantum." Equally busy is senior junior Patricia Hitchcock, who is “highly experienced and a pleasure to work with.” The "exceptionally bright" Lisa Sullivan has impressed sources with her "down-to-earth manner with clients." Likewise, Joel Donovan is highly rated thanks to his "sensible and hard-working approach," and his "experience of high-value cases." "Good all-rounder" Simon Dyer enters the tables this year after receiving recognition for his "practical approach and sensible analysis."

Crown Office Chambers enjoys an "established reputation" in the field of clinical negligence law. Dennis Matthews is thought to be one of the leading senior juniors in the field, with sources noting that "his involvement generally dispenses with the need to instruct a silk." He received a wealth of positive feedback for his excellent medical knowledge as well as his attention to detail and “splendid rapport with lay and insurer clients.” Also recommended is Alexander Antelme, who continues to enjoy the backing of the market. Sources explain that they always find him to be "on the ball." Solicitors approve of the way that he prepares thoroughly for conferences and covers key areas with care. The "bright and personable" Charlotte Jones is credited with being able to "sell an argument extremely persuasively." She received further commendation for her "tactically sound and decisive decision making." Finally, Gordon Catford continues to warrant the respect of the market.

This set acts for both claimants and defendants, although it is perhaps best known for the quality service that it provides to large numbers of NHSLA solicitors. Solicitors instruct the set time and time again, describing its clinical negligence silks as "consistently excellent and devoid of arrogance." Two such are the “utterly charming” Neil Block QC and "ferocious advocate" Susan Rodway QC. Block wins plaudits for his "all-encompassing excellence on both liability and quantum.” He is credited with being an extremely popular leader who has "a level of gravitas which causes a hush to descend on rooms when he is speaking." His workload is dominated by catastrophic cases such as the recent Canning Kishver v Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, which involved allegations of neonatal negligence. Rodway is “a pleasure to work with,” say sources. She is held in high regard for her “bullish defence of her clients.”

This "professional and highly efficient" set enjoys a solid reputation in this sector. Solicitors appreciate the "realistic and proactive approach" its members adopt when handling clinical negligence litigation. Charles Utley is "a thoughtful barrister who is determined to succeed with his claims." "A lawyer who doesn't give up easily," he was also commended for being "excellent at marshalling the issues no matter how complex the case." Clients appreciate Richard Furniss' ability to provide "straightforward advice given in a manner which is readily understandable by those without either legal or medical training." His practice is split between clinical negligence and personal injury and he handles cases on behalf of both claimants and defendants. The "vigorous and enthusiastic" Scott Matthewson is developing a strong following amongst claimant solicitors, who believe him to be a strong choice for high-value cases, including cerebral palsy claims. 

Described as "approachable, professional and efficient," this set maintains a strong standing in the marketplace. Its reputation is enhanced thanks to the presence of Robert Glancy QC, who is "exceptionally effective in this and associated fields thanks to his wealth of experience." “He is very personable and a pleasure to work with, pays great attention to detail and fights hard on the client's behalf,” explained one grateful solicitor. Katharine Gollop enjoys similar levels of popularity. A disquieting opponent, she is described by solicitors as "a dogged fighter, who will fight to the end when she is on your side." Richard Cartwright is considered to be particularly good on quantum. "He is a tough negotiator who always ensures that the client achieves a good settlement." Robert Weir is "dogged and persistent in his handling of cases for claimants." Observers note that "he inspires the confidence of clients in negotiations, as he takes no prisoners." Also here, Robert Sowersby is thought to be particularly good on fatal cases. He was described as having "a good analytical mind and a relaxed manner with clients." He was further commended for the fact that "he fights his corner in court, remaining impressively calm and unflappable at all times."