Blackfords LLP is particularly focused on health and social care-related matters. The team's track record also includes acting for solicitors accused of criminal offences, as well as representing serving police and MoD police personnel in misconduct proceedings. Another growing area is acting for football professionals facing sexual abuse allegations of a historic nature. Gary Rubin, solicitor advocate Jennifer Richardson and senior litigation executive Jo Kaucher 'all produce high-quality work'; Trevor Francis' practice also incorporates professional disciplinary hearings; and Gary Bloxsome's caseload covers disciplinary investigations featuring potential criminal issues. Cardiff-based director Philip Williams is 'a driving force in professional discipline'.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Gary Rubin and Jo Kaucher are extremely knowledgeable and experienced in this area. They both work very hard and are always available to discuss issues.’
‘Gary Rubin and Jo Kaucher are always available to communicate with, and both have a wealth of experience, knowledge and expertise in the field of both criminal and police misconduct. Both are a credit to Blackfords LLP, showing empathy when needed, supporting the needs of clients through difficult times.’
‘Gary Rubin, Jo Kaucher and Jennifer Richardson all produce high-quality work.'
‘Philip Williams is a driving force in professional discipline. A star player.’
- 'They always prepare the cases well, work collaboratively with Counsel, and respond quickly to enquiries.’
'Compared to other firms, Blackfords has an impressive diversity of expertise and relations with specialist barristers, and is in an enviable position to provide clients with advice and assistance across multiple disciplines.’
‘The Blackfords team is one of the best in the industry and always provides a great product.’
‘Gary Bloxsome is widely regarded as one of the best in this area - Jennifer Richardson is also very good.’
Work highlights
- Handling a series of instructions on behalf of clients serving in the Ministry of Defence Police and the Metropolitan Police, which involve gross misconduct allegations.
- Acting on behalf of a paramedic, where concerns had been raised regarding his fitness to practise after he was arrested by the Wiltshire Police on suspicion of two sexual assault allegations against two female service users.
- Acting for various dentists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, in relation to fitness to practise and misconduct allegations.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Gary Rubin