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The clinical negligence department at Exchange Chambers is frequently instructed by both a broad range of claimants as well as defendants including hospitals and NHS organisations, medical defence organisations and other insurers. Gerard Martin KC specialises in brain and spinal cord injury clinical negligence cases, in addition to amputation-related claims, while David Knifton KC acts predominantly for claimants in cases surrounding obstetric injuries, delays in diagnosis, and consent issues. Of recent note, he acted for the claimant in Brown v Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, a clinical negligence claim arising from the failure to investigate and treat major falls in blood pressure in a diabetic woman who went on to suffer from strokes. Christopher Barnes KC and Bill Braithwaite KC are also notable members of the set. Turning to the juniors, Kevin Naylor is a key name, having previously practised as a doctor, and Matthew Stockwell has significant experience in handling cases arising from brain, spinal, and life-changing injuries.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Very efficient and this is from the most senior to the most junior. Rachel Williams particularly impresses.'
- 'The service provided by Exchange Chambers and the clerk's room is exceptional. They deliver to a very high standard. The clerks are professional, helpful, and friendly. Rachel Williams and Sarah Rotherham are consummate professionals - they are reliable and always willing to help.'
- 'Neil Wright should be singled out. He is a problem solver and someone who is more than willing to go above and beyond. He carries out his job gracefully and effectively without any fuss.'
- 'Brilliant support from the clerks. Of note, Leigh Daniels is extremely helpful and will always provide support and assistance. Olivia Cleere is a great support as well.'
- 'Brilliant clerks and service. Jonathan I'Anson is a highly effective leader and great communicator. He finds the time to communicate with instructing solicitors. Sarah Rotherham is incredible. Always available, friendly, and helpful, going the extra mile.'
- 'Leigh Daniels is a very approachable and accommodating clerk. Sarah Rotherham is a true asset to chambers. She is fully committed to strengthening the chamber’s reputation and enthusiastically engaging in networking events.'
- 'The clerks are efficient and very helpful. Always happy to speak to you and to assist with enquiries, particularly Megan Hawke and Leigh Daniels.'
- 'The clerks are some of the best in the business! Nothing is too much trouble and an instruction is never declined for want of availability. Special mention to Sarah Rotherham and Nick Buckley, who's individual profiles are a draw to chambers.'
Silks
Leading Silks
KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.
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David Knifton KC
Exchange Chambers ‘David is a magnificent leader and true heavyweight silk on the northern circuit. An exceptionally talented tactician and strategist, he is dazzling; clients trust in him completely and he will fight tooth and nail to get the best result possible.’
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Gerard Martin KC
Exchange Chambers ‘Gerard is able to identify the salient issues almost from day one, and within that helps to manage risk as well as being able to maximise the end result for the client. Not only does he have cutting edge knowledge, which is continuously being updated, but he also has a very personable manner with the clients.'
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Christopher Barnes KC
Exchange Chambers ‘Christopher is the very definition of the ideal barrister. He is approachable, makes himself available and has the ability to simplify the most complex matter, which is an essential skill when trying to negotiate a highly complex clinical negligence claim.'
Juniors
Leading Juniors
Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.
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Chris Gutteridge
Exchange Chambers ‘Chris is an utterly fabulous junior who quickly gets to the heart of a claim to bring matters to a swift and effective resolution. A fantastic understanding of difficult claims, providing clear and eloquent advice with practical solutions.'
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Matthew Stockwell
Exchange Chambers ‘Matthew has a strategic brain better than many silks. He combines his knowledge of the law and procedure with practical thinking to get strong results for claimants, and he is also very approachable.'
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Kevin Naylor
Exchange Chambers ‘Kevin practised medicine before being called to the Bar and there are very few counsel who can offer such a unique perspective on complex clinical negligence cases. His advice is always definitive and clear, which again is welcomed when the issues are so complicated.’
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Sara Sutherland
Exchange Chambers ‘Sara is a truly outstanding barrister. She has an excellent knowledge of all areas of the law relating to clinical negligence, and she has first-rate analytical and interpersonal skills.'
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Christian Taylor
Exchange Chambers ‘Christian can grasp and analyse complex issues arising in clinical negligence claims. He provides balanced, thoughtful, yet definite advice without delay, and he will readily engage in discussions with instructing solicitors around strategy.'