Weightmans LLP fields an impressive team, which acts for leading insurers. It also acts for dozens of clients from the public sector, and has specialist teams for casualty, disease, motor, public authority and large loss claims. Henry Bermingham is recognised for his work on major social care and abuse/inquiry cases. David Tuck heads the Birmingham disease team. Penelope Marshall is well-regarded for her handling of a wide range of litigation for local government and public sector clients. Marshall is also lauded for her work with private care homes and educational bodies. Bruce Ralston has considerable knowledge of sports liability cases. Chris Webb-Jenkins is another leading member of the department.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘We have always had a good relationship with Weightmans and find their staff friendly and really knowledgeable.’

  • ‘They keep us informed of the work that they are doing, they offer good-quality advice and guidance on the claims. We particularly value the work of Henry Bermingham over many years.'

  • ‘Forward-thinking and proactive, tenacious and good problem solving, values client views. Especially good are Peppy Marshall and Shaheen Akhtar.’

  • ‘I think the communication is superb from Weightmans, frequent updates, sincere advice even if it means that there would be less work for them, they will advise on the best option. We have regular contact and I feel in the know about what the direction of the claim is at all times.’

  • ‘The people at Weightmans are extremely helpful. I can pick up the phone and speak to someone whenever needed. I am given contact of someone with the highest level of knowledge and feel like I am always in safe hands.'

  • 'The relationship between the [client] and the people of Weightmans gets stronger year on year and we always appreciate the help provided.’

Key clients

  • AIG
  • Broadspire
  • Gallagher Bassett
  • MMI
  • Medical Defence Union
  • NHSLA
  • Nottinghamshire County Council
  • Sandwell MBC
  • Topmark Claims
  • Travelers Insurance
  • Warwickshire County Council
  • Worcestershire County Council
  • Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
  • Zurich
  • Esure Insurance
  • Hastings Direct
  • Jaguar Land Rover
  • Gallagher Bassett
  • Hundreds of Local Authorities and Police Authorities

Work highlights

  • Advising in a claim for personal injury after improvement works by a council. It was held that while carrying out improvement works the defendant was under a duty to take reasonable care not to create a danger; this duty did not extend to works that improved safety.
  • Advising the government of the state of Kuwait in a complex claim encompassing unfair dismissal, wrongful dismissal, race discrimination and personal injury.
  • Advising Birmingham Women and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust on several cases.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

David Tuck, Chris Webb-Jenkins, Penelope Marshall, Henry Bermingham, Bruce Ralston

Other key lawyers

Shaheen Akhtar