With a focus on construction-related work, such as cladding claims and defects claims, as well as asbestos-related matters, Weightmans’ team in Newcastle handles a range of advice. The department is led by Richard Palmer, and Anne-Marie Knight is a key contact for advising both insurers and insured professional clients, including contractors, heritage consultants and approved inspectors. Amy Nesbitt regularly acts in the defence of professional negligence matters, and Tom Thurlow. who ‘has great expertise in the construction industry and a calm approach to difficult issues’, was promoted to partner in May 2023. Other key members of the team are Katy Ames and Joseph Walton.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The team are fantastic, they provide support and their knowledge of our business enables them to give us the correct advice and steer.'
  • 'Tom Thurlow has great expertise in the construction industry and a calm approach to difficult issues.'
  • 'Tom Thurlow and team go above and beyond in their work dealing with us as a client, they have become our go-to advisers on anything we require solicitor guidance, and they also are always on hand when we need them.'
  • 'The practice, though large, is not impersonal. It successfully ensures a consistent relationship is maintained between the client and a dedicated member of the team.'
  • 'Professional negligence cases are highly emotive and can bring into question the very core identity and values of a client. An ability to empathise while also acting with a high level of expertise is highly advantageous in ensuring the experience is not more damaging than it needs be to the client on a personal as well as professional level.'
  • 'Tom Thurlow has an exceptional ability to marry great professional capability and skill with empathy.'
  • 'A very well-run team, who are always willing to listen and to take on board views expressed.'
  • 'Amy Nesbitt has developed an excellent working relationship with all claims handlers by listening to what is needed, and to delivering in line with expectations. Her breadth of knowledge in the Professional Indemnity area is remarkable, and she also has the personality to support the delivery of a quality product.'

Key clients

  • Hiscox Underwriting Limited
  • Hamilton Managing Agency Limited
  • Axis Specialty Europe SE
  • Star Stone Insurance SE
  • CNA Insurance Company Limited
  • Tokio Marine HCC
  • Nexus Claims Management Services Limited
  • Starr Underwriting Agents Limited

Lawyers

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.

Richard Palmer

Other key lawyers

Anne-Marie Knight, Tom Thurlow, Joseph Walton, Amy Nesbitt, Katy Ames