The team at Clarke Willmott LLP is known for its ‘willingness to take on and fight difficult cases', and represents clients with injuries of the utmost severity and in fatal accident claims. The Taunton office fields head of the serious injury team, Lee Hart, a highly-regarded brain injury specialist who is assisted in this type of work by James Edmondson, and is ‘always one step ahead of the game'. Marguarita Tyne, who oversees the wider clinical negligence and serious injury department, lends support from the Bristol office.
Personal injury: claimant in South West
Clarke Willmott LLP
Practice head(s):
Lee Hart; Marguarita Tyne
Other key lawyers:
Philip Edwards; James Edmondson
Testimonials
‘Lee Hart went above and beyond, I felt he had my best interests at heart. I could fully trust Lee and his advice.’
‘The client care is second to none. There is a wealth of experience across all aspects of personal injury work. There is a willingness to take on and fight difficult cases.’
‘Lee Hart is the standout partner. He has an in-depth knowledge and understanding of traumatic brain injury cases. He is proactive and forward thinking in his approach, and cases are prepared meticulously.’
‘Lee Hart is (exceptionally in each case) determined, calm, experienced, empathetic and professional.’
‘They are experts in their field of personal injury cases. Their communication and provision of documents is excellent and efficient.’
‘Lee Hart is a lovely personable individual who gets a balance between being professional and top class whilst still caring about his clients as individuals who are going through life-changing injuries. He will go the extra mile to make sure they get the help and support they need. Working with him is a pleasure and he is very efficient, thoughtful and responsive.’
‘Very experienced in dealing with complex and high-value personal injury claims for claimants.’
‘Lee Hart is tenacious and goes the extra mile for his clients. He is always one step ahead of the game.’
Enable Law
Enable Law’s ‘strength in depth separates it from all but a few competitors’, with a large, specialised team working in tandem across the Bristol, Taunton, Exeter, Plymouth and Truro offices. Huw Ponting, ‘who knows more about serious injury and head injury victims than any other solicitor practising in this field’, heads up the personal injury department. Pamela-Jane Riley has a particular interest in acquired brain injury claims for children, while Sue Upton is well versed in the gamut of brain injury claims affecting both adults and children. Gary Walker oversees the dedicated abuse sub-group.
Practice head(s):
Huw Ponting
Other key lawyers:
Kay McCluskey; Tim Jones; Charlotte Morgan; Pamela-Jane Riley; Gary Walker; Sue Upton; Katherine Moyse; Leigh Woodham
Testimonials
‘Enable’s strength in depth separates it from all but a few competitors. They are certainly one of the key players in the PI market. They have a habit of taking on cases that other firms wouldn’t, taking a risk for their clients and making it pay off through their talent and hard work.’
‘The team at Enable Law comprises a highly-skilled group of lawyers with high-level expertise coupled with a client-centred, empathetic approach to claims for injury and clinical negligence. Due to the specialisms within the team, they have a breadth that enables support for any type of injury and incident circumstances and where needed, a team can be created to provide the very best help for early resolution.’
‘Pamela-Jane Riley has been impressive in her knowledge of working with complex brain injury clients and has extensive knowledge of how to deliver legal information in an accessible manner. In my experience she has gone above and beyond, and has made an extremely positive impact on not only the litigation of this case, but also her input into the multidisciplinary team offering her wealth of knowledge to support treatment sessions and navigation of a complex client’s needs.’
‘Sue Upton and Huw Ponting dealt with my claim. From day one of them being instructed I was met with great personal courtesy and respect which made me feel very secure that I mattered to them as a person and not as simply just a job for them to complete. They were both always directly at hand if I had a query, no matter how little of a query it may have been, which was fantastic at such a confusing time of doubt for me. They both worked so meticulously hard to gain the best possible settlement for me.’
‘A depth of knowledge of the legal and medical issues arising in maximum injury claims. An ability to gain the confidence of clients by reason of a calm and clear explanation of how their claim is going to be handled, regular communications with clients to inform them of the progress of their claim and any difficulties raised.’
‘This PI team is led by the able and experienced Huw Ponting, who knows more about serious injury and head injury victims than any other solicitor practising in this field. The solicitors in his team provide him with full-on support and enthusiasm for the task. All have great client-handling skills and each client is kept fully informed on the issues in their case and the progress of their claim.’
‘The team has excellent strength in depth in all matters of personal injury, with a particular focus on catastrophic personal injury work. They work collaboratively with counsel and achieve excellent results for their clients.’
‘Huw Ponting and Katherine Moyse are a force to be reckoned with in the field of catastrophic personal injury. They are thoroughly committed to their clients, well prepared and a joy to work with.’
Irwin Mitchell
Irwin Mitchell’s Bristol office ‘attracts the biggest and most serious cases’, and is valued by clients for having the ‘specialism and efficiency that comes with a large practice’. James Davies leads the serious injury team, which focuses on maximum severity brain and spinal cord injuries, amputations, and fatal accidents, and also includes the ‘fantastic’ Georgina Moorhead. Virginia Chalmers oversees the workplace illness group, which handles asbestos-related disease cases, as well as occupational lung cancer and silicosis claims, and is capably supported by Isabelle Selley, Rebecca Buxton, Alexandra Lausen.
Practice head(s):
James Davies; Virginia Chalmers
Other key lawyers:
Isabelle Selley; Rebecca Buxton; Alexandra Lausen; Georgina Moorhead
Testimonials
‘Virginia Chalmers and her team were excellent. She led us through the process, kept us informed, was always there when we needed advice nothing was too much trouble. Outstanding.’
‘Specialism and efficiency that comes with a large practice. Their experience with this type of claim was evident. Good national coverage.’
‘Very efficient and empathetic solicitor in Alexandra Lausen. Excellent communicator.’
‘James Davies heads up a superb team, who work together to deliver great service for their clients. They reflect his dedication to the clients’ cases, with strong legal knowledge allied to a full understanding of the commercial realities, enabling them to guide difficult cases through to a successful conclusion.’
‘James Davies is a first class solicitor, and rightly held in high esteem.’
‘Without doubt, the premier PI team in the South West. No other firm comes close to providing the service that IM provide, absolutely first rate. Attracts the biggest and most serious cases and have an exceptional team that is able to deliver excellent results for the most seriously injured victims of accidents.’
‘Georgina Moorhead is fantastic. She works incredibly hard for her clients and is pragmatic, sensible and personable. I would highly recommend her.’
‘Virginia Chalmers – incredibly experienced, a calm presence who gets the best results for her clients.’
RWK Goodman
RWK Goodman’s Bath-based personal injury department is organised into a number of discrete specialist teams, ensuring excellence across the full gamut of areas. Stuart Brazington helms the brain and spinal catastrophic injury group, and is seen as ‘exceptional in his field’. Louise Hart oversees claims relating to chronic and complex regional pain, and amputations. ‘Coolest of heads’ Mark Hambleton takes the lead on equine cases and cycling accidents, as well as regularly acting in fatal claims. Jennifer Seavor heads up the mesothelioma and asbestos disease offering.
Practice head(s):
Louise Hart; Stuart Brazington; Mark Hambleton; Jennifer Seavor
Other key lawyers:
Laura Wilkinson; Charlotte Webb
Testimonials
‘Mark Hambleton is the coolest of heads, and a pleasure to work with. Mark knows his stuff, but wears it lightly. He’s got a great sense for what will work and how, and an unerring talent for finding productive and cooperative working relationships with opponents even in circumstances where everything is set up to prevent it.’
‘Stuart Brazington is exceptional in his field, due to his expertise in the field of brain injury, his comprehensive legal understanding of the relevant issues, and his absolute focus on client care and support.’
‘I have found this team to be experienced and interested in finding the best solution to the client’s problems. There is good collaboration between the team and the client. Good and regular communication is a feature of the each person in the team. They demonstrate commitment to the client’s needs.’
Work highlights
- Instructed to perform a complex quantum assessment for the estate of a mesothelioma sufferer.
Humphreys & Co.
Humphreys & Co. is differentiated by its exclusive focus on handling asbestos-related claims, which it does ‘with much experience and expertise’. Due to its reputation in this niche area, the firm receives instruction from claimants across the globe, including Canada, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, the US, Ireland, France and Spain. Practice head Fabio Seccatore ‘offers a first-class service to his client‘.
Practice head(s):
Fabio Seccatore
Testimonials
‘The practice is completely focused on their clients and communication is first rate.’
‘Amazing personal service. Extremely good with asbestos-related litigation.’
‘Fabio Seccatore offers a first-class service to his clients. Very knowledgeable.’
‘This firm has been wonderful. The care and help we have received could not have been better, and I have no doubts about recommending Humphreys & Co to all future clients.The support I received during the darkest days continues to be invaluable. Thank you all so very much.’
‘Fabio Seccatore is wonderful, always giving the best advice and helping in every aspect of my tough journey. I couldn’t have made it without him. Always willing to talk me through each concern with kindness and the best advice. Thank you Fabio from the bottom of my heart.’
‘We primarily dealt with Fabio Seccatore throughout our case. All I can say is that we were so impressed with his work and the great professional he is! Every conversation we had with Fabio, he was so polite and professional but also informative in a way were everyone involved would understand the the next steps. Fabio went over and above all in what we expected and filled in our gaps through hours of research. The outcome of the case was brilliant for our family and this is down to his amazing work and advice.’
‘Worked solely with Fabio Seccatore who was very patient, friendly and professional at all times, meticulous in his research and concluded a very good settlement. I could not recommend him enough.’
‘Humphreys has a strong asbestos team with much experience and expertise.’
Lester Aldridge LLP
Lester Aldridge LLP runs the gamut of personal injury cases; the Bournemouth-based team has a particular focus on brain and spinal injuries, but also expertly handles fatal claims, amputations, serious fractures and industrial disease work. The ‘incredibly dynamic’ David Healy brings his dual experience as head of both the clinical negligence and personal injury departments to bear on his role. Karen Watts and Fiona Brooke are also noted, and the latter is recommended for her expertise in serious orthopedic injuries.
Practice head(s):
David Healy
Other key lawyers:
Karen Watts; Fiona Brooke
Testimonials
‘David Healy is a highly experienced practitioner in the largest of claims, bringing common sense, preparation, and excellent client care skills to what are often challenging cases.’
‘Karen Watts has long experience across a range of personal injury claims and sound judgement in her approach to resolution of disputes. Fiona Brooke is careful, comprehensive, and detailed in her approach to case preparation, which reaps benefits in early and successful settlement of claims.’
‘David Healy is very experienced, personable and fantastic with clients.’
‘The claimant personal injury team in Southampton are an absolute pleasure to deal with and fight claimant cases hard, taking them to trial where necessary. Their preparation and attention to detail is second to none.’
‘David Healy is massively experienced, incredibly dynamic, gets to the heart of a case and runs it hard.’
‘Fiona Brooke is experienced in personal injury. Loved by clients.’
‘Experienced and professional team.’
‘Karen Watts is an experienced and capable solicitor.’
Lyons Davidson
Emma Saville heads up Lyons Davidson’s personal injury team in Bristol, which houses the serious and catastrophic injury units. The firm fields dedicated specialists focusing on a wide range of matters arising as a result of road traffic accidents; motorcycle, cyclist and pedestrian accidents; and accidents in the workplace. A large proportion of practitioners have expertise in brain injuries, including Katie Charlesworth, Sally Welsh and Laura Merry, who has a niche focus on child brain injury matters. Oliver Marsh oversees the foreign claims group, while Chris Kemp leads the non-motor injuries offering.
Practice head(s):
Emma Saville
Other key lawyers:
Laura Merry; Kerry Dutton; Chris Kemp; Oliver Marsh; Katie Charlesworth; Sally Welsh; Dave Slader; Rachel Green
Testimonials
‘Katie Charlesworth is a very impressive and capable lawyer who achieves excellent results for her clients. Her client care skills are of the highest order. I cannot recommend Katie highly enough.’
‘The quality of work they handle and the quality of service they deliver are both equally impressive.’
‘I have been struck by the professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile for their clients shown by the individuals I have worked with.’
‘Kerry Dutton’s dedication to her client, her ability to form a positive professional relationship with her injured client and her calmness in dealing with other legal professionals and experts has really shone through.’
‘I was very impressed with Sally Welsh’s ability to bring the evidence together so as to be able to present a cogent claim in a short time frame. She has the rare knack of making her clients feel comfortable with her and completely confident in her abilities.’
‘The team was very professional and caring when it came to my claim. They understood the severity of the claim and went through the process sincerely and quickly. They guided us through the process with ease and supported every decision we made and also gave suggestions to get the most out of the situation, which in the end would benefit you more than going the easy route.’
‘Always professional, excellent communication skills, keen to please and help. I think this firm is exceptional and would certainly recommend their services.’
‘The team combines knowledge and competency with a real ability to deal compassionately and personally with a client. These are essential and valuable attributes when assisting clients who have often suffered injury leading to significant life changes.’
Work highlights
- Acted in a claim relating to breach of the Animals Act 1971, which settled pre-action in the net sum of £350,000.
- Represented a claimant in a fatal accident case, for which settlement was reached in the sum of £730,286.
- Representing a claimant following a road traffic accident which resulted in serious lower limb fractures, for which fusion surgery to both feet has been recommended.
Thompsons Solicitors LLP
Thompsons Solicitors LLP continues to stand out as the firm of choice for trade union work, and consequently focuses particularly on workplace accidents and industrial disease cases. Lisa Gunner brings her ‘substantial expertise’ to oversight of the serious injury arm, while Nicholas Seymour leads on asbestos-related claims, noted by a client as ‘an area of law in which he excels’.
Practice head(s):
Nicholas Seymour; Lisa Gunner
Other key lawyers:
Ian Cross
Testimonials
‘The team deals with industrial disease claims all over the South West and has particular experience in relation to asbestos-related injury.’
‘Nicholas Seymour has a wealth of experience as a civil litigator and over the last decade has concentrated on asbestos-related injuries, an area of law in which he excels. Nick has a fantastic manner with clients who find him accessible and approachable. First-rate.’
‘Very strong and highly experienced team dealing with serious personal injury claims.’
‘Lisa Gunner offers substantial expertise in catastrophic matters. Nicholas Seymour is well versed in industrial disease cases and is very approachable.’
‘Thompsons have a clear, concise, supportive and very client focused approach.’
‘Lisa Gunner has been pivotal in key cases that are challenging in nature, and she and her team have been successful in securing great outcomes for clients.’
‘Very good asbestos related team.’
‘Lisa Gunner in the serious injury team is meticulous in her eye for detail, she is tenacious and always gets the best results for her clients. Nicholas Seymour and Ian Cross are also very good and have strong reputations.’
VWV
VWV fields ‘a team of compassionate lawyers motivated to get the best outcome for their clients’, who increasingly include high-profile and high-net-worth individuals, including actors, international sports personalities, and company directors. The ‘clever, practical, realistic and hugely efficient’ Nicola Bickham heads up the practice. Jonathan Peacock brings a wealth of experience conducting serious brain injury cases to the team, while Dan Thompson deals with multi-track claims, including fatal accidents.
Practice head(s):
Nicola Bickham
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Peacock; Dan Thompson
Testimonials
‘Dan Thompson is very efficient at maintaining contact with clients. A strategic and sensible approach to cases. Very personable to deal with.’
‘Nicola Bickham: excellent legal knowledge, good strategist, able to explain difficult points to client in simple terms. Very reliable.’
‘Jonathan Peacock is such a pleasure to work with and is passionate about getting the best possible outcome for his clients. Jonathan is highly intelligent and has an unrivalled knowledge of medical conditions, procedures and rehabilitation as well as litigation. He is thorough, kind and approachable and is able to communicate his knowledge to his clients in an understandable way. He is creative in his thinking and able to handle complex and sophisticated cases.’
Barcan+Kirby LLP
Barcan+Kirby LLP offers clients a ‘personal and local touch with very committed and diligent practitioners’ who expertly handle the gamut of personal injury cases, ranging from fatalities, brain and spinal injuries, to amputation and psychiatric injuries. Practice head Samantha Castle has a particular focus on accidents at work and cycling accidents. Also noted are the ‘very experienced and compassionate’ Myfanwy Buckeridge and Emily Williamson, who ‘showcases exemplary dedication and innovation’.
Practice head(s):
Samantha Castle
Other key lawyers:
Myfanwy Buckeridge; Emily Williamson
Testimonials
‘A personal and local touch with very committed and diligent practitioners who are always willing to go the extra mile.’
‘Emily Williamson is excellent and a pleasure to work with. She is always on top of her cases and clearly works very hard for her clients.’
‘Very impressive team of PI lawyers who take on a range of good quality work. I have been repeatedly impressed with the level of professionalism and the obvious intellectual ability of the team.’
‘Myfanwy Buckeridge, Samantha Castle and Emily Williamson all stand out as first rate lawyers. I have been repeatedly impressed with their client care, work ethic and organisation. First rate.’
‘Myfanwy Buckeridge stands out in particular, as a very experienced and compassionate solicitor.’
‘They retain traditional high street law firm values but have modernised and are forward thinking. They champion injured victims’ rights and have a strong clinical negligence team which compliments the PI arm. They benefit from a diverse team, who can draw from the experience of representing clients over many years from all walks of life and backgrounds.’
‘They are an extremely dedicated team who advocate very effectively for their clients.’
‘Emily Williamson showcases exemplary dedication and innovation that distinctly sets her apart. Her unique approach to legal practice, combining deep legal expertise with a genuine passion for securing justice and understanding for her clients, distinguishes her in the competitive field.’
Slee Blackwell
Slee Blackwell is best known for its stellar track record in niche areas of personal injury, in particular Animals Act, abuse, and criminal injuries compensation authority claims. James McNally is regarded by clients as ‘the ultimate expert in dog bite claims’, while Elizabeth Duncan, leveraging her ability to be ‘excellent with vulnerable clients’, regularly handles historic sexual abuse cases. Jasmine Moxey-Butler is developing a strong reputation for police claims.
Practice head(s):
James McNally
Other key lawyers:
Elizabeth Duncan; Jasmine Moxey-Butler; Carly Sylvester
Testimonials
‘Elizabeth Duncan is a shining star in the PI firmament of lawyers in the South West. Manages a busy workload with grace under pressure.’
‘Excellent with clients. They tread the right line between friendly and professional. Real strength in unusual cases.’
‘Elizabeth Duncan is excellent with vulnerable clients. She builds rapport effortlessly. She hones in on the key issues in cases.’
‘James McNally has been clear and concise in terms of asking for information and providing explanations as to what is actually required. He has kept me informed at the right times and on the odd occasion I have needed to contact him he has always replied swiftly, even if that does mean outside of normal working hours. It also helps he is a great communication and fairly relaxed in his mannerisms, which puts you at ease.’
‘This firm is excellent, experienced and high quality. I received a highly competent, professional and sympathetic service.’
‘The way in which the case was handled with such compassion and care.’
‘Elizabeth Duncan was incredible. Finally gave me closure of something that had been hanging over me for so long.’
‘James McNally is the ultimate expert in dog bite claims, backed up by knowledge and experience in personal injury matters generally. He goes the extra mile to ensure the best possible result for his clients, and is also personable and approachable.’
Work highlights
- Represented a claimant who suffered amputation of eight fingers due to a safety switch failure on machinery at work, settling the case for £4.4m.
- Represented a claimant who was standing behind his HGV and was injured when the defendant’s employee unexpectedly opened the rear doors, causing heavy boxes to fall on him, fracturing his foot and wrist, settling the case for £1.2m.
- Represented a survivor of childhood sexual abuse at a boarding school, pursuing compensation against the school for vicarious liability, and achieving a £150,000 settlement plus costs.
Wards Solicitors LLP
The ‘extremely knowledgeable and experienced team’ at Wards Solicitors LLP takes on the gamut of personal injury cases, and has particular expertise in handling complex cases requiring cross-departmental knowledge of trusts, as well as claims resulting from third-party negligence and accidents at work. Alison Underhill heads up the practice, closely supported by catastrophic injury specialist Helen Boyd and the ‘honest and caring’ Richard Green.
Practice head(s):
Alison Underhill
Other key lawyers:
Helen Boyd; Richard Green
Testimonials
‘This is an extremely knowledgeable and experienced team.’
‘Helen Boyd and Alison Underhill are two of the most dedicated and knowledgeable solicitors in the region. They always have a firm grasp on all of the facets and nuances of their client’s case.’
‘Alison Underhill is a very kind and knowledgeable individual who throughout my entire time during my case continued to keep me informed and up to date on every stage. I was able to email, phone and contact her at any time and she always got back to me at her earliest convenience to answer any questions I had at any stage.’
Coles Miller Solicitors LLP
Adrian Cormack leads the team of ‘great practitioners offering a wide range of services’ at Coles Miller Solicitors LLP; his particular areas of focus are complex brain injury cases and catastrophic injury claims. In June 2023, Jonathan Rich joined the firm from Pardoes Solicitors LLP, and has since been developing the group’s capabilities in the amputations, sexual abuse, asbestos-related diseases, and fatal injuries spheres.
Practice head(s):
Adrian Cormack
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Rich; Brian Parsons
Testimonials
‘Great practitioners offering a wide range of services.’
‘The people who dealt with my claim were helpful and courteous, offering sound advice and facilitating all that I needed for a successful claim.’
‘Coles Miller have helped me with my personal injury claim. Everyone on the team I have spoken to has been helpful and informative. I have felt well supported through this difficult process.’
Work highlights
- Representing a claimant who was involved in a road traffic collision whilst commuting to work and suffered a 3mm parafalcine subdural haematoma causing a severe head injury, specific phobia anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder, a fracture of the left lateral 7th and 6th rib, a fracture of the 6th, 7th and 8th right rib, a comminuted oblique fracture through the left iliac wing and various bruising and abrasions.
- Representing a claimant who suffered a number of life-changing injuries after being struck by a car.
- Representing a claimant who suffered life-changing injuries while tasked with repairing the second defendant’s goods lift.
Coodes Solicitors
Coodes Solicitors continues to enjoy a strong reputation for handling catastrophic injury and complex nerve damage cases, and has recently been developing its expertise in minor traumatic brain injury, large limb amputation and secondary victim claims. Rachel Pearce leads the growing team, which welcomed Demelza Pallant from WSP Solicitors and David Usher from Russell Worth in December 2022, and May 2023, respectively.
Practice head(s):
Rachel Pearce
Other key lawyers:
Demelza Pallant; David Usher
Testimonials
‘They provide great coverage for all PI work in the South West. Plus the work that they do is life changing, whilst always being personable and available.’
‘Demelza Pallant is exceptional. Friendly, extremely knowledgeable and goes above and beyond for her clients.’
‘They have a good level of work and I have been impressed with their pro-active way of advancing their clients’ interests. Hard working and diligent in a tough market.’
‘David Usher is an experienced and well regarded practitioner specialising in personal injury.’
‘David Usher has been extremely helpful. He is polite, respectful and approachable. I have found his attitude has helped deal with the stress of my case and I appreciate his support. He is always quick to respond to queries also.’
‘No-nonsense approach, pragmatic and fully aware of pertinent case law. Speedy outcome. Kept to deadlines and informative.’
‘Coodes have an excellent team of capable lawyers who are experienced in dealing with the whole spectrum of cases. Coodes are very knowledgeable with regard to the unique issues of claims in the South West.’
‘A very effective and experienced PI team that has a very strong SW presence. A caseload of complex and challenging cases. Show great enthusiasm in dealing with each case with enthusiasm and determination. A pleasure to work with.’
Work highlights
- Representing a claimant in a multi-track employers’ liability personal injury claim.
- Representing a claimant in a multi-track pedestrian road traffic accident personal injury claim, where the claimant sustained significant injuries and wounds to her lower body including both legs, knees and ankle.
- Representing a claimant in a multi-track personal injury road traffic accident claim, in which the claimant sustained serious multiple injuries including rotator cuff injury to her shoulder, fracture to her nose, fracture to her coccyx, pain to her lower back, bruising to her ribs, multiple cuts and bruises and PTSD.
GA Solicitors
The ‘thorough and dedicated team’ at GA Solicitors is well versed in a wide range of cases, from acting against the Ministry of Defence, to bringing claims against councils for breaches of duty, to representing employees against negligent employers. Matthew Sheather has an ‘excellent eye for figures’, and heads up both the personal injury and clinical negligence practices. James Walsh, who oversees the industrial disease group, is ‘unmatched locally in his chosen specialism’.
Practice head(s):
Matthew Sheather; James Walsh
Other key lawyers:
Kevin Digby; Harry Smyth
Testimonials
‘The solicitor team were brilliant in everything, they worked together, it’s a really great team, they supported and helped me in everything. They always informed me of what was happening and the various next steps. I have never had any problems because they were always very clear in everything and always with such kindness, professionalism and humanity.’
‘I chose my solicitor because he was immediately an honest person with a big heart and in a moment of so much pain he was sensitive and supported me in my difficulties and helped a lot. Even after many difficulties that arose along the way, he never thought of giving up but always moved forward with new investigations. I felt safe and protected and I never thought I had made a mistake in choosing the solicitor.’
‘If I ever need it again in the future both for myself and for someone I know it will always be GA Solicitors without doubts. Honesty, heart, humanity and professionalism are 10/10, you couldn’t ask for more.’
‘Thorough and dedicated team.’
‘The team at GA bring years of experience in various area of personal injury litigation. Locally the level of expertise is unparalleled and they are growing their team with excellent young prospects.’
‘Matthew Sheather is an excellent lawyer who always goes the extra mile. Excellent eye for figures and obtains exceptional results for clients. James Walsh – someone who is unmatched locally in his chosen specialism.’
‘Kevin Digby is a solicitor with employer liability specialism who really does have the employee at heart.’
‘Harry Smyth has lots of experience and brings a calm and assured manner to the team.’
Hugh James
Hugh James houses a highly-regarded specialist asbestos group, which is headed up nationally by Richard Green from Cardiff. The firm’s offering also includes regularly conducting international litigation in the US and South Africa. ‘Exceptional practitioner’ Andrew Walker is the key name to note in the Plymouth office.
Practice head(s):
Richard Green
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Walker
Testimonials
‘The team at Hugh James consistently go above and beyond in their daily practice, offering a holistic service to clients and their families, ensuring they are kept at the centre of any plans.’
‘They are very responsive and happy to attend clients at very short notice where needed. The team are also very supportive of the clinical team caring for patients damaged by exposure to asbestos and are committed to supporting education and wellbeing across the whole patient pathway.’
‘Andrew Walker is an exceptional practitioner, committed to ensuring the very best for his clients.’
Trowers & Hamlins LLP
Due to its regular co-operation with the firm's travel, tourism and insurance department, the personal injury team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP is expert in dealing with English jurisdiction cases arising out of accidents abroad. Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp and Ian Brown are the key senior contacts. The group is increasingly active in claims following on from leisure activities, agricultural incidents, and encounters involving dogs and horses.
Practice head(s):
Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp; Ian Brown
Other key lawyers:
Tom Sampford
Wolferstans
Under the leadership of Elizabeth Smith, the sizeable team at Wolferstans ‘does not shy away from complex cases’. Paul White is noted for his expertise in fatal accidents, while Linda Woollams has a strong track record of acting for serving personnel and veterans in claims against the Ministry of Defence. For industrial disease work, particularly asbestos-related litigation, Liz Makin is the key name to note.
Practice head(s):
Elizabeth Smith
Other key lawyers:
Linda Woollams; Tracey Barton; Liz Makin; Paul White; Dean Cruickshanks
Testimonials
‘Strengths are communication, inclusiveness, helpfulness, understanding and always respectful.’
‘My case was dealt with by Tracey Barton who always had the time to explain any matter which I was unsure of and it was easy to share any hopes or fears that I had regarding specifics attributed to my particular situation.’
‘The team does not shy away from complex cases. Communication is both effective and timely and case updates arrive regularly. The advice received is realistic and client expectations are appropriately managed.’
‘Dean Cruickshanks responds to all communications in a timely manner and provides sound advice based upon his extensive experience of personal injury claims. Nothing is too much trouble for Dean to both advise upon and respond to.’
‘Very good firm for asbestos-related litigation.’
‘Dean Cruickshanks is very knowledgeable and offers clients a swift and personal service with asbestos-related claims.’
‘Linda Woollams is the best in the business as far as I am concerned. Excellent in the field of claims involving military personnel.’
‘Tracey Barton is highly experienced and tenacious. Delivers excellent results for clients.’
Work highlights
- Representing a claimant following a road traffic accident where serious orthopaedic and psychological injuries were suffered.
- Representing a claimant in a claim against the Ministry of Defence.
- Representing the claimant’s estate in a fatal claim.