Weightmans LLP

Local government and police.

Partner specialising in defending Social Care and Safeguarding. Defending claims, in particular against local authorities, education providers, sports clubs and sports governing bodies. Often these claims are high profile, and of great sensitivity to all parties involved. Particular expertise in issues relating to duty of care, vicarious liability, human rights, mental health, data protection, defamation and judicial review. Particular sectoral expertise in the legacy insurance market. Also provide advice on Safeguarding governance and regulation, and in relation to public inquiries, with extensive involvement in IICSA (Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse). Clients include Zurich Insurance, Municipal Mutual Insurance, AIG, Travelers, Gallagher Bassett, QBE, Barnardo’s, and many local authorities and local authority consortia. Notable cases: North Wales Children’s Homes Group Action; South Wales Children’s Homes Group Action; Staffordshire Children’s Homes Group Action; NA v Nottinghamshire County Council; JB v Leicestershire County Council.

Dawson & Co – September 1989 to April 1993 – Articled Clark and Solicitor; Osborne Clarke – April 1993 to April 1996 – Solicitor; Browne Jacobson – April 1996 to April 2015 – Solicitor; Associate; Partner; Weightmans – May 2015 to date – Partner.

Member of the FOIL Public Sector and Blue Light sector focus team.

St Georges College, Weybridge; University College, Durham (1988 BA (Hons) Law, 2(:1)).

Running, golf, table tennis, watching rugby.