Richard Locke
Hugh JamesHugh James provides 'sensible, level-headed advice' to clients bringing single and group action claims against solicitors, barristers, accountants and financial advisers. 'An impressive and authoritative litigator', team head Abigail Flanagan has recently handled a number of cases brought against lawyers for the under-settlement of claims for former military personnel (in a personal injury matter and a divorce), where the previous lawyers failed to take into account loss of the client's military pension. Recognised by one barrister as 'the most effective litigator in the commercial professional negligence field outside London', Kevin O’Brien 'displays excellent judgment and steely resolve', including on behalf of financial institutions in claims against solicitors and valuers arising out of defects in security, mortgage fraud and negligent valuations. As part of his broader commercial litigation prowess, Richard Locke also regularly undertakes professional negligence claimant matters where he is noted for his 'outstanding judgement' and skill at handling cross-border matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The strong team provides sensible level-headed advice on professional negligence claims at highly competitive rates.'
- ‘The team is very familiar with the largest claims against prominent defendants in this field. They are among the most experienced group litigation practitioners in the country and demonstrate a profound commitment to the welfare of their clients.’
- ‘Kevin O'Brien is in my view the most effective litigator in the commercial professional negligence field outside London; he has a string of remarkable wins to his name, and displays excellent judgment and steely resolve.’
'Richard Locke is highly commercial and displays outstanding judgement.'
‘Richard Locke has a great feel for cases and is focused on efficient and effective outcomes for clients.'
'Abigail Flanagan is an impressive and authoritative litigator.’
Key clients
- Ceredigion Recycling and Furniture Team (CRAFT)
- Hannah Evans
- Transform Medical Group
- Ironbridge Finance Ltd
Work highlights
- Represented Transform Medical Group- pleaded professional negligence claim, valued in excess of £17m (subsequently settled on confidential terms) against solicitors and counsel concerning the conduct of the defence of a substantial body of product liability claims under a Group Litigation Order.
- Acted for a private individual in a claim against solicitors and counsel for under-settlement of a substantial personal injury claim, in which it is alleged that the client lacked capacity on account of serious brain injuries sustained.
- Advised the estate of a deceased in relation to a professional negligence claim against personal injury solicitors who failed to properly pursue a personal injury claim on behalf of the deceased.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Kevin O'Brien
Hugh JamesNext Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Abigail Flanagan
Hugh JamesPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Abigail Flanagan