RPC houses a professional negligence team that is considered to be ‘one of the most experienced in the country’. With his extensive experience defending top law firms, Nick Bird heads the team that handles professional liability claims in the legal sector. Tim Bull regularly defends a range of professionals facing allegations of professional negligence, including lawyers, trustees, and insurance brokers. Heading the construction team, Alan Stone is skilled in advising on cases involving architects, engineers, and design and build contractors. Tom Green and Felicity Strong are further recommended members of the team with a focus on claims connected to construction professionals. Richard Breavington advises on matters arising out of cyber breaches, while James Wickes leads the professional and financial risks practice; he regularly handles claims against fund managers and investment advisors. Laura Stocks is also noted for her experience in acting for brokers and accountants. The team has been strengthened with the addition of Tim Shepherd, who joined from Mayer Brown International LLP in April 2024.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘They have quality lawyers at all levels of the team.’

  • 'Alan Stone is remarkable for his deft handling of cases and clients.'

  • 'Laura Stocks is fantastic. She's a fierce advocate for her clients and has a real gift for litigation strategy.'

  • 'RPC is right at the top of the range of London firms dealing with medium and high-value professional negligence claims.'

  • 'Their partners are enormously experienced.'

  • 'Nick Bird is a legendary figure who has scrupulous attention to detail, punctilious courtesy, and an absolute determination to advance his clients' interests.'

  • ‘The RPC professional negligence team is one of the most experienced in the country.’

  • 'Tom Green and Alan Stone are both excellent lawyers. They are very experienced and sensible with sound judgement.'

Key clients

  • Kingsley Napley
  • QBE
  • Travelers
  • Sompo
  • BMIF
  • Liberty
  • AXIS
  • ALAS
  • Argo
  • Allianz
  • AXIS
  • Hiscox
  • AIG
  • QBE
  • Sompo
  • Arch
  • CBRE
  • HDI
  • CNAH
  • Amtrust
  • AXA XL
  • Folgate
  • Markel
  • Liberty

Work highlights

  • Defending Lupton Fawcett LLP in proceedings relating to its role in multiple buyer-funded property development schemes.
  • Defended Lee Baron Ltd and its professional indemnity Insurers in a claim alleging negligent valuation in respect of two properties in London and the South East.
  • Acting for an architect in a claim brought by Balfour Beatty in relation to fire safety and allegedly defective cladding, amongst other defects, at a mixed-use development of student residences in Bethnal Green.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Nick Bird, Alan Stone, James Wickes, Richard Breavington

Other key lawyers

Tom Green, Felicity Strong, Tim Bull, Laura Stocks, Tim Shepherd