With more than three decades of experience in the field, Jonathan Ray-Smith leads the professional negligence practice at Fieldfisher. Ray-Smith has a broad range of expertise advising on claims against lawyers, financial advisors, and surveyors. Donna Goldsworthy regularly handles professional liability matters arising out of the financial services sector. Matthew Sharp is also noted for his skills in advising on claims relating to taxes. Owen Talfan Davies left the firm in June 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Fieldfisher distinguishes itself in the UK legal market through the exceptional commerciality of its partners. They continually demonstrate deep market insight and take a business-oriented approach throughout their work.'

  • 'Donna Goldsworthy continually stands out as a dynamic, insightful, and pragmatic partner. She instills confidence at every step. Donna's proactive communication and commitment to her client's success makes her an invaluable partner.'

  • ‘The team as a whole has a great deal of experience in high-value cases. They are known for taking meticulous care of their cases and getting good outcomes.’

  • 'Jonathan Ray-Smith is an astute practitioner with excellent client handling skills.'

  • 'Matthew Sharp is highly intelligent. He is a star in the making.'

  • ‘Matthew Sharp is an exceptionally intelligent, focused, and thorough solicitor. Jonathan Ray-Smith is considered, balanced, and strategic.’

  • 'Suzanne Loding is very motivated, highly professional, and experienced. She has a great grasp of her field and vast international experience.’

  • 'A claimant team which meets on equal terms the specialist defence lawyers on insurers' panels.'

Key clients

  • Hoegh Capital Partners
  • Mirza Law Limited & Ors
  • Reaction Engines Limited
  • Liquidators of The Wine Enterprise Investment Scheme Limited
  • White Hall Lending Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advised Hoegh Capital Partners on a high-value claim against accountants and a law firm concerning alleged failures to provide adequate tax advice in the context of tax compliance and restructuring.
  • Advised a group of day nurseries on pursuing a claim against their insurance broker for professional negligence after their claims for business interruption as a result of the coronavirus lockdown were rejected.
  • Advised claimants on a seven-party litigation relating to an alleged breach of trust, breach of fiduciary duties, and negligence arising from the sale of two high-value pieces of land.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Jonathan Ray-Smith

Other key lawyers

Donna Goldsworthy, Matthew Sharp, Suzanne Loding