Slater and Gordon > London, England > Firm Profile

Slater and Gordon
90 High Holborn
LONDON
WC1V 6LJ
England

Employment > Employees/unions Tier 2

Praised for its ‘compassion and dedication’, Slater and Gordon is well-placed to assist its sector spanning clients with the the array of complex claims. Experienced practitioner Edward Cooper represents private and public sector employees further to his trade union work, with particular expertise in handling whistleblowing matters. Race discrimination matters are a key aspect of the team’s workload and an area of expertise for Laura Thompson, whose practice also includes assisting clients with sexual harassment, conduct dismissal, and TUPE matters. Private employment specialist Doreen Reeves is well-regarded for her ‘unwavering commitment’. 

Practice head(s):

Edward Cooper; Doreen Reeves; Laura Thompson

Testimonials

‘The team not only had a deep understanding of employment law but also approached my case with compassion and dedication. Throughout the process, they provided clear guidance, ensuring I was informed and empowered at every step. Their expertise and relentless advocacy resulted in a successful resolution and I would recommend their services wholeheartedly.’

‘I must highlight the exceptional support and guidance provided by Doreen Reeves throughout my challenging case. Beyond her legal expertise, Doreen went above and beyond to offer invaluable advice and emotional support. She fought tirelessly on my behalf but also became a trusted confidante.’

‘Doreen Reeves’ compassionate approach and unwavering dedication were instrumental in navigating the complexities of my case.’

‘They are particularly good at handling very sensitive individual clients with mental health problems arising out of discrimination and or whistleblowing experiences.’

‘Edward Cooper has standout diplomatic skills in the context of exceptionally difficult client handling situations. The individuals who work for the firm have a real commitment to advising their clients, whilst maintaining objectivity. They support vulnerable clients exceptionally well.’

‘Laura Thompson offers sound practical and realistic advice, and gets results for her clients.’

‘The people I have worked with from the firm care about their union clients and are keen to make sure their clients feel well-supported as well as trying to get the best result they can for them.’

‘Edward Cooper is an experienced trade union lawyer who ensures that the employment advice provided to clients is of the highest quality.’

Key clients

Fire Officers Association

Police Federation

Employment > Employment: employee/union firms Tier 2

The  Manchester-based employment team at Slater and Gordon is praised by clients as a ‘professional leader in representing employees and trade union members which harbours an almost unparalleled level of knowledge and expertise’. A key practitioner is Sadiq Vohra, who is ‘an exceptional lawyer' handling a variety of claimant employment and civil work for clients such as the Police Federation and trade unions, and has expertise in discrimination matters and group litigation. The ‘very knowledgeable' Karen Murray is sought after for the full spectrum of employment law, including whistleblowing and discrimination cases, and she is also experienced with group litigation claims. The team also includes Victoria Schofield, whose ‘client care is second-to-none; she primarily advises trade union members and handles employment litigation relating to discrimination.

Practice head(s):

Edward Cooper; Sadiq Vohra; Karen Murray

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team is highly engaged with my case, responding quickly to any changes and developments. They have been incredibly helpful and thorough.’

‘Each individual is incredibly supportive. They are not just managing my case, but actively seeking the best possible outcome at all times.’

‘Karen Murray was very knowledgeable and certainly did not give me false expectations as to my case. She produced the case so accurately and clearly.’

‘Professional leader in representing employees and trade union members which harbours an almost unparalleled level of knowledge and expertise.’

‘Victoria Schofield is a deeply committed and passionate case handler wither masterful technical ability. Sadiq Vohra is an exceptional lawyer too.’

‘Individuals within the team have a really good knowledge of employment work and how it applies to the policing environment.’

‘They are more than just competent lawyers. They care about the work they do and about getting results for their clients. Instructions to counsel are clear and cases are well prepared for trial.’

‘Victoria Schofield’s client care is second-to-none. She is passionate about her clients and their cases. Her tactical advice is sound and her cases are well prepared.’

Key clients

Lindsay Gordon

Police Dog Handlers

Acting for an Ex-Police Officer

Police Officer

60 Debenhams Employees

James Mullen

Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant Tier 2

Slater and Gordon houses a broad team known for assisting clients with a vast array of matters, from claims involving stillbirth and injuries, to fatal cases as a result of overdose. Ben Gent jointly leads the practice alongside the ‘highly intelligent‘ John Doyle from Manchester and Liverpool respectively. Gent routinely handles cases involving severe orthopaedic injuries, and missed meningitis diagnoses, while Doyle is noted for his expansive experience in cases where there have been fatal accidents, and delayed diagnoses of cancer or fractures. Helen Lewis routinely handles severe brain injury cases, the ‘approachable and intelligent‘ Rosalyn Steeple is well-versed in cerebral palsy claims, and Victoria Beel is an expert in representing clients in Article 2 inquests and claims arising from failures in risk management.

Practice head(s):

Ben Gent; John Doyle

Testimonials

‘Good quality work.’

‘Helen Lewis is an excellent solicitor. She has great attention to detail, a keen eye for the heart of issues, and a readiness to leave no stone unturned in the promotion of her clients’ interests.’

‘Rosalyn Steeple – Very experienced, approachable and intelligent. A pleasure to work with.’

‘John Doyle is a really excellent litigator. He is a brilliant strategist, and handles high value litigation with gusto. He is highly intelligent, but straightforward and down to earth. Clients love him.’

‘Victoria Beel is a solicitor who clients love. She fights with every fibre of her being to get a good outcome. She is a tenacious litigator, particularly when it comes to costs.’

‘Excellent firm with solid reputation for managing complex clinical negligence claims.’

‘Rosalyn Steeple – excellent solicitor who has negotiated some fantastic results for her clients. ’

Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant Tier 2

Led by the 'outstanding' Yvonne Agnew , the 'very diligent, thoughtful and hardworking' team at Slater and Gordon provides 'professional and efficient' advice to privately and publicly-funded clients across an eclectic mix of often high-value and complex cases, where they also benefit from access to complementary services including Court of Protection and trusts services, if required. Combining 'a keen desire to promote her clients' interests with an excellent judgement of litigation risk and difficulty', senior associate Lara Bennett provides a pragmatic and 'very clear-sighted assessment of the likely outcome', ensuring that claimants are well very effectively represented in often complex cases involving, inter alia, birth injuries, anaesthetic injury, nerve damage, oncology and gynaecology. Other key practitioners include the 'exceptional' Kelly Lloyd-Davies and Megan Cavanagh, who has 'sound commercial sense and never loses sight of the bigger picture'. 

Practice head(s):

Yvonne Agnew

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They are very diligent, thoughtful and hardworking.’

‘They have a human touch and interact tactfully, sensitively and empathetically with their clients.’

‘The outstanding Yvonne Agnew displays great client care and technical ability.’

‘Lara Bennett combines a keen desire to promote her clients’ interests with an excellent judgement of litigation risk and difficulty. She will pursue every possible angle in a case but combines this with very clear-sighted assessment of the likely outcome, and has an ability to communicate this sensitively to clients.’

‘The exceptional Kelly Lloyd Davies is both experienced and passionate about the people they represent.’

‘Megan Cavanagh has an in-depth of knowledge.’

‘Megan Cavanagh shows real insight and wisdom. She has sound commercial sense and never loses sight of the bigger picture.’

Work highlights

Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant Tier 3

The clinical negligence department at Slater and Gordon fields a ‘professional, responsive’ team of practitioners covering a host of specialisms. In addition to serious birth injuries, the team advises on claims pertaining to delayed diagnosis of novel issues, catastrophic surgical injuries and errors, and complex cognitive matters. Practice head Emma Doughty is highlighted for litigating ‘very effectively’ in high-value birth injury and cancer claims. The ‘supportive and efficient’ Madeline Seibert is a key port of call for clinical negligence mandates encompassing severe cognitive injuries and serious injuries in children. Nisha Sharma is an active litigator in claims regarding surgical errors and injuries.

Practice head(s):

Emma Doughty

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘I have not used any other firm but could not fault Slater and Gordon.All members of the team were approachable efficient and kind.’

‘Madeline Seibert was kind, supportive and efficient and always seemed to have our best interests at the heart of what she did. I could not have wished for any one better.’

‘I have found the team to be professional, responsive, and always keen to ensure that I am fully aware of the latest status, the process and the costs. I highly recommend the team.’

‘We have felt well supported by all areas of the team, including media (we felt we needed to speak out about our case and the media team handled that for us).’

‘We have primarily worked with Nisha Sharma, who has been brilliantly supportive and compassionate in dealing with our case and its complexities.’

‘They are an absolutely outstanding team – highly knowledgeable, hugely dedicated and hard-working and with superb interpersonal skills. They go the extra mile to get the best possible outcomes for their clients.’

‘Emma Doughty leads an excellent team and has handled very effectively hundreds of claims arising out of negligent medical treatment.’

‘Diverse and knowledgeable team with real experience in individual cases in this area as well as larger ‘group’ actions which have been of significant wider importance.’

Key clients

The Ian Paterson Litigation Fund

Multiple clients v Tavistock and Sandyford Gender Identity Clinics

Work highlights

Insurance > Personal injury: claimant Tier 3

Headed up by Tracey Benson, Slater and Gordon's personal injury practice is praised by clients for its ‘excellent personnel and resources’. The department’s expertise encompasses catastrophic injuries, including cognitive, spinal cord, amputation, and psychiatric claims, but is additionally capable in fatal inquests and inquiries, and high-profile group claims. Department head Benson is commended for her ‘hard work, industry and persistence’. She often works in conjunction with Will Cornwell, a ‘knowledgeable and experienced litigator' noted for his experience regarding catastrophic work and traffic injuries. Lisa Fountain holds over 20 years of experience in chronic pain and orthopaedic injury claims, while Simon Mason is a port of call for catastrophic cognitive injuries, polytrauma and fatal claims.

Practice head(s):

Tracey Benson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Will Cornwell is a first class Claimant personal injury lawyer. I have worked as counsel with Will in a small number of high value (7 figure) claims. An injured claimant could not ask for a more sympathetic, knowledgeable and experienced litigator.’

‘An excellent well organised team with many impressive individuals.’

‘Tracey Benson has years of experience. She is a bright and very capable lawyer. A real fighter for her clients, unafraid of trial and determined to deliver the best results through hard work, industry and persistence, as well as bags of tactical nous.’

‘Slater & Gordon are a first-rate outfit. Their profile in the last 12-24 months has increased considerably and the nature of the work we do with them is both high-profile and high-value.’

‘Slater & Gordon are a national firm with excellent personnel and resources. The team is well led by Tracey Benson who conducts cases of the most serious injury in her own right.’

‘Slater & Gordon are a high quality personal injury practice with some excellent fee earners nationwide. The firm’s key strengths are its name and the profile that they have built within the sector – particularly at the sub-catastrophic injury level. They also have exceptional resourcing on their cases, so that everything required is always done and in a timely fashion.’

‘I have had experience of the Personal Injury Team in particular Will Cornwell. The firm’s focus is on obtaining the best possible settlement for their injured client. Their commitment to achieving this with legal acumen and attention to detail is exemplary.’

‘The team is led brilliantly by Tracey Benson. They are liked and trusted by their clients, always fighting hard to get the right result. An excellent firm.’

Key clients

Katrina Karasad

Aine Griffiths

Katie Lancaster

Jeremy French

Steven Gilmore

PIP Group litigation

Grenfell civil litigation

Mr Dumbrava via his LF Ana Dumbrava

Work highlights

Insurance > Medical negligence: pursuer Tier 3

Spearheaded by ‘superb clinical negligence lawyer’ and ‘powerhouse’ Sarah McWhirter, Slater and Gordon’s Edinburgh-based medical negligence team handles a broad range of injuries, including surgical, spinal, and birth mandates. The team also has experience with fatal and catastrophic injuries, and breach of duty matters. Fiona Fowle leads on high-value claims and Joanne Gray further bolsters the team with experience in personal injury cases.

Practice head(s):

Sarah McWhirter

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘This is an excellent firm committed to providing a great service.’

‘Sarah McWhirter is an outstanding lawyer, She works hard and always remains focused.’

‘Fiona Fowle is very organised, switched on and responsive. She has a lovely manner and is kind and supportive with her clients.’

‘Sarah McWhirter is a superb clinical negligence lawyer.’

‘The team have a good breadth of knowledge. Fair in their approach to cases and very good rapport with clients.’

‘The firm impresses as being experienced specialists who are relentless in their drive to prepare cases and obtain the very best results for their clients. They are certainly among the market leaders in Scotland.’

‘Sarah McWhirter is particularly impressive in leading by example. She sets a very high standard for herself which she meets and which encourages all other members of the team, including counsel, to meet. That produces excellent results for clients. There really is no stone unturned.’

‘Excellent communication and a very approachable team.’

Insurance > Personal injury: pursuer Tier 3

Based in Edinburgh, Stuart Cochran leads the personal injury practice at Slater and Gordon, noted for its experience in representing individuals in high-value claims before the Scottish courts. The firm is frequently instructed to handle catastrophic RTA cases, public liability and historic abuse claims. Karyn McPhee assists with industrial disease and asbestos illness mandates.

Practice head(s):

Stuart Cochran

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Stuart Cochran and Karyn McPhee are very experienced and capable, and have a sound grasp of the issues in personal injury cases.’

Employment Tier 3

Led by 'extremely capable and pragmatic' senior associate Sian Clarke, Slater and Gordon's exclusively claimant-focused practice organises itself in two distinct sub-groups, Organisation and Membership Services (OMS) and private client. The OMS offering continues to grow its trade union client base, including handling an increasing amount of national work for members of high-profile organisations including Unite the Union. Appreciated for her ability to remain 'cool under pressure', Clarke has recently obtained favourable results for union members in inducement claims.

Practice head(s):

Sian Clarke

Other key lawyers:

Nayo Kirkpatrick; Sophie George

Testimonials

‘It is a good solid trade union firm providing employment law advice to claimants.’

‘Sian Clarke is an extremely capable and pragmatic lawyer. She offers a sensible, down to earth approach delivered in a friendly manner.’

‘Sian Clarke is very cool under pressure.’

Work highlights

Insurance > Personal injury: claimant Tier 3

While it has a relatively small footprint in Cardiff, the team at Slater and Gordon punches above its weight, in part by virtue of being able to leverage broader capacity across its UK-wide offices, and is consequently able to 'achieve fantastic results' for trade union members and private clients having suffered injuries in various liability situations including at work and in an RTA context. The 'experienced and highly motivated' team head Andrew Owen  is the undoubted star and 'represents seriously injured claimants with a drive and a sensitivity'. 

Practice head(s):

Andrew Owen

Other key lawyers:

Clare Griffiths; Hayley Lynn Jones

Testimonials

‘The team includes a number of experienced and talented individuals. They always go the extra mile and achieve fantastic results.’

‘Andrew Owen is a star of the firm. He is both experienced and highly motivated. He represents seriously injured claimants with a drive and a sensitivity.’

‘Andrew Owen has a great relationship with his clients and deals with high value claims.’

Work highlights

Transport > Travel Tier 4

Private client > Family Tier 4

The ‘fantastic' family group at Slater and Gordon in Manchester has expertise in a broad range of family matters, and the group is particularly experienced in representing clients in high-value financial remedy proceedings and children matters, as well as advising on nuptial agreements. Praised for her ‘knowledge, professionalism and strong capabilities’, practice head Georgina Chase advises on a broad range of family matters, including complex matrimonial finance cases, private children disputes, and cohabitation issues. The ‘standout' Hannah Saxe joined from Irwin Mitchell in September 2023, and is an expert in complex child arrangements, often ones involving an international element, as well as modern family structures such as international adoption and surrogacy. Rebecca Cliff in Liverpool, who is ‘extremely capable and conscientious’, is also a key contact.

Practice head(s):

Georgina Chase

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘A firm that covers the full breadth of family law work. From low-value asset matters to HNW individuals, Slater and Gordon are a fantastic firm that delivers the legal product!’

‘Georgina Chase is sympathetic and understanding to her clients, and fights their corner hard.’

‘A personable and professional team.’

‘Rebecca Cliff is extremely capable and conscientious, giving her client’s exceptional service.’

‘Hannah Saxe is a well-informed, enthusiastic and highly motivated family law specialist.’

‘Georgina Chase is particularly helpful and leading a team of excellent solicitors. I would highly recommend Georgina for her knowledge, professionalism and strong capabilities. She is an excellent asset to the Manchester legal sector.’

‘Hannah Saxe is the standout member of the family team at Slater and Gordon; she excels in dealing with the most complex children law and modern family matters, and she has gained well-deserved recognition for her successful outcomes in complex children cases with international elements.’

‘The team received a huge boost with the arrival of Hannah Saxe as a partner. Her move there was a coup for them given her excellent reputation and stellar legal pedigree in the north west market.’

Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant Tier 1

The serious and specialist personal injury Slater and Gordon has a national focus and is led from London by Tracey Benson, but it has a deep bench of talent in Cambridge, which is a central hub for its complex and high-value work. Paul Tapner (who 'always goes above and beyond'), Angela Beric (who' has an encyclopaedic knowledge of her cases'), and  Richard Gaffney (who is 'very thorough in chasing down points of detail') are the standout partners. Senior associate Crystal Eaton also plays a key role in the firm's key catastrophic injury matters. Tapner recently settled a £15m claim for a catastrophic brain injury during a rugby match.

Practice head(s):

Tracey Benson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘An exceptional team led by Paul Tapner. ’

‘Paul Tapner is an outstanding solicitor who always goes above and beyond.

‘Richard Gaffney, Crystal Eaton, Angela Beric, Manvendar Bhatti are exceptional in terms of attention to detail.’

‘Richard Gaffney is an excellent personal injury solicitor. Very experienced and very thorough in chasing down points of detail.’

‘The team are truly exceptionally devoted to doing the best that is possible for their clients. They go well beyond the norm in ensuring that they are aware of all that is happening in the client’s lives that is relevant to the claim.’

‘Paul Tapner is one of the most experienced and able personal injury lawyers in the country. He is extremely good in dealing with his clients and their families. He has very sound tactical instincts and enormous common sense which he applies to his cases. He will strive hard for and will obtain the best possible result for the client but is not unrealistic about what can be achieved.’

‘Angela Beric is very experienced and capable. She is extremely hardworking and diligent and has an encyclopaedic knowledge of her cases. She deals very well indeed with her clients and their families. She is realistic about her cases and can be relied upon to achieve the best possible result.’

‘Crystal Eaton has an excellent manner with clients, is hugely supportive and willing to fight her corner when necessary.’

Work highlights

Insurance > Personal injury: claimant Tier 1

Noted for its expertise in historic abuse claims and industrial disease cases, Slater and Gordon handles the full spectrum of personal injury issues for claimants. Madelene Holdsworth co-leads the team, utilising her expansive expertise in industrial disease and military injury, often advising on chemical poisoning, asbestos, and noise-induced hearing loss claims, while practice head Jordan Bell specialises in claims concerning both occupational and non-occupational asbestos exposure. Practice co-head Kim Harrison is an expert in abuse, often acting in public inquiries into child sexual abuse, while co-head Richard Scorer‘s primary areas of expertise are church and clerical abuse claims. Industrial disease specialist Pauline Chandler handles a range of bladder and nasal cancer cases, acting for both domestic and overseas clients, and Richard Crabtree is noted for his longstanding expertise in neurological trauma cases. Michael Hardacre has since left the practice.

Practice head(s):

Madelene Holdsworth; Jordan Bell; Kim Harrison; Richard Scorer

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘I worked with Richard Scorer very closely, and his unyielding personal support throughout the claim was some great comfort to me and gave me considerable strength.’

‘Slater and Gordon have a large team, all of whom have considerable expertise and experience in handling child abuse compensation claims.’

‘Kim Harrison has a wonderful manner with vulnerable clients. She has a detailed knowledge of the law and is always abreast of recent developments. Richard Scorer is an industry leader, having been involved in many of the high profile cases in this area.’

‘Kim Harrison is a standout lawyer, with a commitment and passion for her work that is impressive. In disease work, Pauline Chandler has huge experience, and Madelene Holdsworth is very efficient and dedicated to her work.’

‘Strong experience at top of the tree with Richard Crabtree, who is a leader in his field. He has excellent client skills and also manages to maintain very good relationships with insurers and solicitors acting for defendants which is very much in his clients’ interests. He also has very good judgment is approaching tactical and settlement issues.’

‘The team consist of specialist solicitors with substantial experience in catastrophic injury litigation. Through many years of undertaking work in this area they have developed strength in depth and handle cases of the utmost severity with professionalism and care.’

‘Pauline Chandler has no equal. Has been in the job forever and her experience is second to none. Madelene Holdsworth is experienced, careful and takes on difficult cases. Jordan Bell has great experience and manner with clients, he does not back down from a fight.’

‘Very professional. Kept me informed at every stage of claim. Took the time to research information particular to my case. And explained thoroughly everything about my case.’

Insurance > Personal injury: claimant Tier 5

Slater and Gordon fields a team which acts primarily for those who have suffered serious and catastrophic road traffic accidents. It is skilled at advising on cases involving traumatic brain injuries, amputations and other issues such as serious polytrauma claims. However, there have been changes to the team as principal lawyer Tracey Benson, who is based in London, and senior associates Gulderen Horton-Salih and Naheed Akhtar are now at the helm, since Steven Baylis’ departure.

Practice head(s):

Tracey Benson; Gulderen Horton-Salih; Naheed Akhtar

Other key lawyers:

Mark Jackson

Testimonials

‘Slater Gordon are one of the biggest personal injury firms and combine therefore both strength and depth to allow them to properly cater for any issues that their client might have.’

‘Gulderen Salih – I have found her to be an extremely knowledgeable solicitor who always does an excellent job in best putting forward her client’s position whilst also maintaining an independence that allows her to properly advise her client.’

‘Mark Jackson is rapidly growing in experience and is becoming a reliable, diligent case handler with ever increasing specialist knowledge of higher value claim management.’

‘Slater and Gordon provide a national service for personal injury, with great strength in depth and experience for clients.’

‘Gulderen Salih. A very capable lawyer, experienced in handling difficult and complex cases with excellent client care skills. ’

‘Tracey Benson is a superb solicitor with a hefty case load of complex, challenging cases of high value. She is loved by her clients and highly respected by opponents, combining attention to detail with composure and empathy.’

‘Mark Jackson is an outstanding talent with a caseload that includes complex amputee and brain injury cases’.

Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant

Slater and Gordon’s Sheffield team benefitted from the addition of Jodie Cook, who is building the firm’s offering in clinical negligence and is experienced in handling high-profile and complex cases.

East Anglia > Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant

The serious and specialist personal injury Slater and Gordon has a national focus and is led from London by Tracey Benson, but it has a deep bench of talent in Cambridge, which is a central hub for its complex and high-value work. Paul Tapner (who 'always goes above and beyond'), Angela Beric (who' has an encyclopaedic knowledge of her cases'), and  Richard Gaffney (who is 'very thorough in chasing down points of detail') are the standout partners. Senior associate Crystal Eaton also plays a key role in the firm's key catastrophic injury matters. Tapner recently settled a £15m claim for a catastrophic brain injury during a rugby match.

Practice head(s):

Tracey Benson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘An exceptional team led by Paul Tapner. ’

‘Paul Tapner is an outstanding solicitor who always goes above and beyond.

‘Richard Gaffney, Crystal Eaton, Angela Beric, Manvendar Bhatti are exceptional in terms of attention to detail.’

‘Richard Gaffney is an excellent personal injury solicitor. Very experienced and very thorough in chasing down points of detail.’

‘The team are truly exceptionally devoted to doing the best that is possible for their clients. They go well beyond the norm in ensuring that they are aware of all that is happening in the client’s lives that is relevant to the claim.’

‘Paul Tapner is one of the most experienced and able personal injury lawyers in the country. He is extremely good in dealing with his clients and their families. He has very sound tactical instincts and enormous common sense which he applies to his cases. He will strive hard for and will obtain the best possible result for the client but is not unrealistic about what can be achieved.’

‘Angela Beric is very experienced and capable. She is extremely hardworking and diligent and has an encyclopaedic knowledge of her cases. She deals very well indeed with her clients and their families. She is realistic about her cases and can be relied upon to achieve the best possible result.’

‘Crystal Eaton has an excellent manner with clients, is hugely supportive and willing to fight her corner when necessary.’

Work highlights

North West > Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant

Slater and Gordon houses a broad team known for assisting clients with a vast array of matters, from claims involving stillbirth and injuries, to fatal cases as a result of overdose. Ben Gent jointly leads the practice alongside the ‘highly intelligent‘ John Doyle from Manchester and Liverpool respectively. Gent routinely handles cases involving severe orthopaedic injuries, and missed meningitis diagnoses, while Doyle is noted for his expansive experience in cases where there have been fatal accidents, and delayed diagnoses of cancer or fractures. Helen Lewis routinely handles severe brain injury cases, the ‘approachable and intelligent‘ Rosalyn Steeple is well-versed in cerebral palsy claims, and Victoria Beel is an expert in representing clients in Article 2 inquests and claims arising from failures in risk management.

Practice head(s):

Ben Gent; John Doyle

Testimonials

‘Good quality work.’

‘Helen Lewis is an excellent solicitor. She has great attention to detail, a keen eye for the heart of issues, and a readiness to leave no stone unturned in the promotion of her clients’ interests.’

‘Rosalyn Steeple – Very experienced, approachable and intelligent. A pleasure to work with.’

‘John Doyle is a really excellent litigator. He is a brilliant strategist, and handles high value litigation with gusto. He is highly intelligent, but straightforward and down to earth. Clients love him.’

‘Victoria Beel is a solicitor who clients love. She fights with every fibre of her being to get a good outcome. She is a tenacious litigator, particularly when it comes to costs.’

‘Excellent firm with solid reputation for managing complex clinical negligence claims.’

‘Rosalyn Steeple – excellent solicitor who has negotiated some fantastic results for her clients. ’

North West > Private client > Family

The ‘fantastic' family group at Slater and Gordon in Manchester has expertise in a broad range of family matters, and the group is particularly experienced in representing clients in high-value financial remedy proceedings and children matters, as well as advising on nuptial agreements. Praised for her ‘knowledge, professionalism and strong capabilities’, practice head Georgina Chase advises on a broad range of family matters, including complex matrimonial finance cases, private children disputes, and cohabitation issues. The ‘standout' Hannah Saxe joined from Irwin Mitchell in September 2023, and is an expert in complex child arrangements, often ones involving an international element, as well as modern family structures such as international adoption and surrogacy. Rebecca Cliff in Liverpool, who is ‘extremely capable and conscientious’, is also a key contact.

Practice head(s):

Georgina Chase

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘A firm that covers the full breadth of family law work. From low-value asset matters to HNW individuals, Slater and Gordon are a fantastic firm that delivers the legal product!’

‘Georgina Chase is sympathetic and understanding to her clients, and fights their corner hard.’

‘A personable and professional team.’

‘Rebecca Cliff is extremely capable and conscientious, giving her client’s exceptional service.’

‘Hannah Saxe is a well-informed, enthusiastic and highly motivated family law specialist.’

‘Georgina Chase is particularly helpful and leading a team of excellent solicitors. I would highly recommend Georgina for her knowledge, professionalism and strong capabilities. She is an excellent asset to the Manchester legal sector.’

‘Hannah Saxe is the standout member of the family team at Slater and Gordon; she excels in dealing with the most complex children law and modern family matters, and she has gained well-deserved recognition for her successful outcomes in complex children cases with international elements.’

‘The team received a huge boost with the arrival of Hannah Saxe as a partner. Her move there was a coup for them given her excellent reputation and stellar legal pedigree in the north west market.’

West Midlands > Insurance > Personal injury: claimant

Slater and Gordon fields a team which acts primarily for those who have suffered serious and catastrophic road traffic accidents. It is skilled at advising on cases involving traumatic brain injuries, amputations and other issues such as serious polytrauma claims. However, there have been changes to the team as principal lawyer Tracey Benson, who is based in London, and senior associates Gulderen Horton-Salih and Naheed Akhtar are now at the helm, since Steven Baylis’ departure.

Practice head(s):

Tracey Benson; Gulderen Horton-Salih; Naheed Akhtar

Other key lawyers:

Mark Jackson

Testimonials

‘Slater Gordon are one of the biggest personal injury firms and combine therefore both strength and depth to allow them to properly cater for any issues that their client might have.’

‘Gulderen Salih – I have found her to be an extremely knowledgeable solicitor who always does an excellent job in best putting forward her client’s position whilst also maintaining an independence that allows her to properly advise her client.’

‘Mark Jackson is rapidly growing in experience and is becoming a reliable, diligent case handler with ever increasing specialist knowledge of higher value claim management.’

‘Slater and Gordon provide a national service for personal injury, with great strength in depth and experience for clients.’

‘Gulderen Salih. A very capable lawyer, experienced in handling difficult and complex cases with excellent client care skills. ’

‘Tracey Benson is a superb solicitor with a hefty case load of complex, challenging cases of high value. She is loved by her clients and highly respected by opponents, combining attention to detail with composure and empathy.’

‘Mark Jackson is an outstanding talent with a caseload that includes complex amputee and brain injury cases’.

About us: Slater and Gordon is one of the UK’s leading consumer law firms, committed to delivering exceptional, affordable consumer legal. With more than 85 years’ experience, the firm’s reputation is built on the range of expertise offered by its lawyers and staff, and on the scope of their practical experience.

Serious and  specialised personal  injury
Personal injury: Our personal injury specialists are based across the UK and have expertise in all areas of personal injury such as road traffic collisions, accidents at work, cycling and motorcycling accidents, accidents in public places, sporting accidents and military accidents. Our specialists have a vast amount of experience in all types of catastrophic injury caused by these types of personal injury, such as brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputation injuries, orthopaedic injuries and fatal injuries.

Medical negligence: Slater and Gordon has one of the most successful medical negligence teams in the country, with experts who deal with all types of medical negligence claims. With specialist expertise in misdiagnosis and delays in diagnosis, cosmetic surgery, orthopaedic injury, amputation injury, spinal injury, brain injury and birth injury, the department has a formidable reputation.

Industrial disease: Our industrial disease team deal with a full range of industrial disease services. We also have a specialist team of experts who deal solely with asbestos related illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestos related lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural thickening. Its prominence in asbestos litigation results largely from its long experience in the field, having been involved in some of the most important and ground breaking cases in recent years.

Abuse law: Slater and Gordon is recognised throughout the media in respect of high profile abuse cases and has been an instrumental voice for victims of abuse, campaigning for changes in the law and as a result their recommendations regarding mandatory reporting of child abuse were adopted in the final report and the draft Victims’ Law.

Travel litigation: Experiencing an injury or illness whilst abroad can be a traumatic experience. There may be a language barrier causing difficulty in understanding what’s happening, any diagnosis received and any treatment given. Our team have specialised in accidents and illnesses abroad for many years and understand how distressing it can be and have a wealth of knowledge when dealing with claims for accidents and illnesses which have taken place in a different country.

Court of Protection: Our Court of Protection team are extremely experienced in Court of Protection law, acting for the most vulnerable people who lack mental capacity. We are extremely experienced in acting as professional deputy and act for over 300 clients, managing assets exceeding £400m. We also provide specialist advice to lay deputies on their role and responsibilities. We can also provide assistance where there are disputes in the Court of Protection and applying for statutory wills and gifts.

Consumer legal services
Employment law: Our large team of highly experienced and skilled employment lawyers are dedicated to providing prompt, practical and authoritative legal advice on employment law issues – offering immediate legal representation anywhere in the UK. Our award winning employment lawyers are experts in every aspect of employment law and are also specialists within individual practice areas, including individuals who are nationally recognised as leaders in their field.

Family law: The family team offer a range of services covering divorce and separation, prenuptial agreements, financial disputes, children matters, civil partnerships and cohabitation matters. Our award winning family lawyers are highly trained, experienced and knowledgeable professionals – guiding clients through the legal aspects and implications during a difficult time in their lives.

Wills, tax, trusts and probate:  Our award-winning team of WTTP lawyers provide tailored solutions to ensure clients’ assets are protected, in accordance with their wishes. Lawyers provide support for vulnerable individuals, their relatives and carers. The team specialise in all aspects of estate planning, including inheritance tax planning and care home fee planning. The team also consists of dedicated estate administrators who solely deal with probate matters to ensure clients receive the highest quality of service.

Residential conveyancing: Our conveyancing lawyers deal with all aspects of residential freehold and leasehold conveyancing – including re-mortgaging, transfers of equity and equity release schemes. The team provide simple, clear and open communication at every stage of the transaction – ensuring the process runs as smoothly and as stress free as possible.

Dispute resolution: The team specialises in resolving disputes for clients, whether through negotiation, arbitration, mediation or litigation. If a dispute does turn into a litigation case, then our lawyers have specialisms in civil litigation, estate litigation, insurance disputes, landlord and tenant disputes and consumer contract law.

Criminal defence: Our criminal defence lawyers have an excellent record in defending criminal charges, with expertise in road traffic defence, regulatory defence, professional conduct and business crime. Their specialist knowledge and experience enables them to maximise the chances of success in defending proceedings in the Magistrates Court, Crown Court and Court of Appeal. Our lawyers have been involved in many high profile and complex cases, and use that expertise and experience on the behalf of clients.

Class actions and group litigation: The litigation team are recognised as leaders for upholding the legal rights for individuals and has conducted major claims in product liability (including medical devices, pharmaceuticals and defective goods), provision of negligent financial advice, mis-selling and other market abuses, employment rights/pensions, breach of consumer rights and personal injury. The team has experience in leading high profile consumer and civil litigation cases including Thalidomide, interest rate swap mis-selling and currently the VW group emissions scandal.

Department Name Email Telephone
Chief Executive Officer Nils Stoesser
Managing Director Madelene Holdsworth
Chief Operating Officer Lizzy Comley
Photo Name Position Profile
Tracey Benson photo Tracey Benson Tracey is a Principal Lawyer and Head of the Serious Injury department…
Angela Beric photo Angela Beric Angela is a Principal Lawyer at Slater and Gordon in Cambridge. She…
Georgina Chase photo Georgina Chase Georgina is the Head of the Family Practice specialising in all aspects…
Edward Cooper photo Edward Cooper Edward is Head of Practice in the employment department at Slater and…
Will Cornwell photo Will Cornwell Will is a senior associate in our serious personal injury team in…
Peter Daly photo Peter Daly Peter is a Principal Employment Lawyer based in London.  He specialises in…
Emma Doughty photo Emma Doughty Emma is a principal lawyer and was promoted to Joint Head of…
Lisa Fountain photo Lisa Fountain Lisa is a Principal Lawyer in Slater and Gordon’s personal injury team…
Victoria Gofton photo Victoria Gofton Victoria is Joint Head of Medical Negligence for London and Cambridge. She…
Scott Ingram photo Scott Ingram Scott is a Criminal Defence Lawyer based in London, specialising in crime,…
Michael Knott photo Michael Knott Michael is a principal lawyer and leader. He is an experienced in…
John Marshall photo John Marshall Principal lawyer, employment. John’s practice encompasses all aspects of employment law, both…
Laura Preston photo Laura Preston Laura is a senior associate and team leader in the medical negligence…
Doreen Reeves photo Doreen Reeves Doreen is an senior associate solicitor in the employment law department at…
Laura Thompson photo Ms Laura Thompson As a Senior Associate in the employment team at Slater and Gordon…
Edmund Young photo Edmund Young Edmund is a Principal Lawyer specialising as Head of Industrial Disease for…