Firms To Watch: Professional negligence

Avi Gordon leads the professional negligence team at Freeman Harris. Described as ‘an exceptional lawyer’, Gordon has experience acting for claimants in complex disputes, especially within the property sector.
The professional negligence offering at Keystone Law has been strengthened with the addition of Jane Howard, who joined from Reed Smith LLP in May 2023. Howard has extensive experience acting for audit and accountancy firms.

Professional negligence in London

Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co covers the full breadth of professional liability matters. Leading the law firm liability practice, Richard Harrison has a wealth of experience defending solicitors and barristers against a variety of allegations. With more than three decades of experience in the field, Sarah Clover is another recommended lawyer for professional liability claims arising out of the legal sector. Having acted on several high-profile disciplinary matters involving solicitors, Fergal Cathie is a further prominent member of the team. Niya Phiri is noted for her experience advising on legal malpractice, dishonesty, and civil fraud. James Roberts spearheads the team that handles professional negligence involving accountants. Tim Crockford is particularly skilled with advising large accountancy and audit firms. Richard Moody retired as head of construction in May 2024; he is succeeded by Jonathan Brown and Bryn Hodges. The construction team regularly represent D&C contractors and major construction companies in complex, multi-party disputes.

Praxisleiter:

Richard Harrison; James Roberts; Jonathan Brown; Bryn Hodges


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Fergal Cathie; Niya Phiri; Tim Crockford; Tom White; Charlotte Davidson; Celia Lewis;  Sarah Clover


Referenzen

‘They are very approachable and have excellent commercial awareness.’

‘Their construction insurance team for professional negligence make them a go-to law firm in this area.’

‘The team are commercially minded and responsive.’

CMS

CMS has experience acting on claims across a range of professions with a particular strength in handling professional liability matters relating to insurance brokers. Alex Denslow and Ed Foss are especially recommended for their skill in defending brokers in complex disputes. Martin Fox has expertise in the construction and engineering sectors; he has experience advising on cases involving architects, valuation surveyors, and design and build contractors. Monica Lesny is another recommended member of the team with extensive experience navigating disputes involving construction professionals. Scarlett West also regularly defends construction professionals with her experience encompassing cladding claims and professional negligence claims connected to large transport infrastructure projects. The team is co-headed by Cheryl Gibson and Simon Garrett.

Praxisleiter:

Cheryl Gibson; Simon Garrett


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Alex Denslow; Ed Foss; Martin Fox; Monica Lesny; Scarlett West; Alaina Wadsworth; Hayley Stevenson


Referenzen

‘They have a commercial focus and take into account the circumstances of the case.’

‘They have deep knowledge and appropriately allocate work to team members according to seniority.’

‘The team is deeply immersed in the London insurance market. They work in brokers and insurers across the market, meaning the CMS network is unrivalled.’

Kernmandanten

Aon


Marsh


Howden


Axis


QBE


Liberty


Markel


Grant Thornton


Mazars


Novia Financial plc


Rathbones


Azets


Mitie


WSP


Mace Group


JRL Group


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for Aon in respect of allegations against it of negligence and breach of contract arising from the air accident on 29th November 2016 of LaMia flight number 2933.
  • Acted for Miller Insurance Services in relation to the very high-profile and ongoing litigation of the unfortunate death of Argentinian international footballer Emiliano Sala in a plane crash in January 2019.
  • Acting as defence counsel for Lonsdale and its insurers in relation to a claim brought by Harwood Capital LLP for failing to procure appropriate insurance for a claim brought against Harwood in the US.

DAC Beachcroft LLP

Liam O’Connell and Patrick Hill co-head the team at DAC Beachcroft LLP. The firm has extensive experience handling high-value professional indemnity cases with particular strength in claims relating to accountants and solicitors. Richard Highley specialises in disputes within the financial sector and is well versed in navigating investigations involving large accountancy firms. Julian Miller focuses on claims within the financial sector, including allegations of professional negligence against fund managers, pensions trustees, and tax advisors, while Cathryn Teverson has notable capabilities advising on multi-jurisdictional coverage disputes. Philip Murrin and Sarah Crowther have broad experience defending claims against accountants, lawyers, and insurance brokers. Praised as ‘a great lawyer’, Parminder Badhan is another integral member of the team.

Praxisleiter:

Liam O’Connell; Patrick Hill


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Richard Highley; Julian Miller; Cathryn Teverson; Philip Murrin; Sarah Crowther; Parminder Badhan


Referenzen

‘DACB is a well-known and well-regarded firm in the insurance industry.’

‘Richard Highley specialises in the accountancy industry. He is excellent with a keen eye for detail.’

‘DACB are one of the strongest firms in London for high-value professional negligence work with a focus on allegations against accountancy firms, particularly audit negligence.’

Kernmandanten

Zurich


QBE


Chubb


Travelers


Munich Re


AIG


AXA XL


Beazley


Tokio Marine HCC


Aviva


Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented solicitors of Shepherd & Wedderburn in the successful defence of a £200m claim brought by former client Cutlers Holdings Limited.
  • Representing a leading and junior counsel in defence of Commercial Court claim by a Dubai-based high-net-worth individual for damages in excess of USD90m following failed litigation in the Grand Court of Cayman Islands.
  • Acted for Haysmacintyre LLP in defence of a c.£68m claim brought by UK subsidiaries of an international media group based in Sweden.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP boasts extensive experience handling complex, high-value professional negligence claims. Considered to be ‘a greatly respected and trusted advisor’, William Glassey co-leads the disputes practice; he is skilled in handling claims arising from finance transactions, pensions, and negligent tax advice. Henry Saunders works closely with Glassey in high-stakes cases defending legal professionals. Leading the team alongside Glassey, Paul Lewis regularly advises on disputes involving solicitors and insurance brokers. Sarah McNally is an expert in navigating difficult insurance issues with specific expertise with handling matters connected to construction. Antonia Pegden is noted for her capabilities with professional liability cases within the pensions sector; she has experience handling disputes involving pension intermediaries as well as advising on major part 8 claims.

Praxisleiter:

William Glassey; Paul Lewis


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Dan Saunders; Henry Saunders; Sarah McNally; Antonia Pegden


Referenzen

‘They are technically excellent, tactically astute, and not afraid to get stuck into the detail. I would highly recommend this team.’

‘William Glassey is a greatly respected and trusted advisor. He is technically excellent and has a wealth of experience to offer. He is very proactive and responsive.’

‘Dan Saunders is a technically brilliant lawyer. He’s not afraid to get stuck into the details. He’s a great support. He is very friendly and approachable.’

Kernmandanten

National Australia Bank


UBS


Highlight-Mandate


  • Representing a tax barrister in the Court of Appeal in a case concerning the circumstances in which lawyers may owe a duty of care to third party recipients of their advice.
  • Acted for National Australia Bank Limited in relation to a group claim brought by over 800 claimants in nine separate claims, alleging fraudulent misrepresentation and deceit.
  • Acted for UBS in respect of a claim brought by a high-net-worth individual and two BVI-registered companies involving allegations of negligent advice and negligent misstatement.

Kennedys

Kennedys advises on a wide range of professional indemnity matters, including claims concerning financial services, construction, legal services, insurance brokers, and property. Heading the team, Jeremy Riley is skilled in handling insurance coverage disputes. Described as ‘a brilliant litigator’, Paul Castellani focuses on defending solicitors, barristers, and surveyors. Christopher Butler is an expert in navigating claims within the construction sector, while Fleur Rochester has extensive experience handling coverage issues connected to pension trustees as well as directors and officers. With more than two decades of experience in the field of professional indemnity, Tim Hague has a broad practice defending a variety of professionals, including those working in the legal and medical sectors. David Robinson is recommended for professional liability matters relating to accountancy firms and solicitor firms. Paul Carter is another key member of the team.

Praxisleiter:

Jeremy Riley


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Paul Castellani; Fleur Rochester; Tim Hague; David Robinson; Paul Carter; Christopher Butler


Referenzen

‘They are knowledgeable and approachable. The written advice is succinct with good strategy recommendations.’

‘Christopher Butler and Paul Carter are first class in terms of their deep knowledge of both construction disputes and the insurance market. They always see the big picture.’

‘Fleur Rochester is a knowledgeable partner with a strong sense of the commercial realities.’

Kernmandanten

AIG


AXA XL


RSA


Bar Mutual Indemnity Fund


Allianz


Arch


Dual Corporate Risks


CNA Hardy


Liberty


WR Berkley


Munich Re


Allied World


Canopius


MS Amlin


Riverstone


IGI


Nexus


Pen


Aqueous


Clegg Construction Limited


Engie


ISG Limited


Kane Group


Prater Limited


Lindner Exterior Holdings Limited


RG Carter


Rodgers Leask


RSK Group


Shearer Property Associates Limited


Terence O’Rourke Limited


Aegis


Aviva


AXAI


QBE


Tokio Marine HCC


DunnettCraven Limited


Atrium Underwriters Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acted for Prater Limited, Lindner Exterior Holdings Limited, and their PI insurers in a claim for the cost of remedial works arising out of the design and construction of Woolwich Central.
  • Defended Irwin Mitchell in a case relating to a personal injury claim, where it was successfully established that no duty of care was owed to the claimant until after formal instructions had been received.
  • Acted for a defendant in a claim by a short-term lender against a firm of surveyors.

RPC

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.

Praxisleiter:

Nick Bird; Alan Stone; James Wickes; Richard Breavington


Weitere Kernanwälte:

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


Referenzen

‘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.’

Kernmandanten

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


Highlight-Mandate


  • 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.

Beale & Co

Considered to be ‘absolute masters in the construction professional negligence arena’, Beale & Co are a go-to firm for fire safety issues and cladding claims. The firm also has a team that advises on non-construction professional liability matters, such as claims relating to accountants, brokers, and directors and officers. Anthony Smith has extensive capabilities resolving construction disputes through a variety of mediums, including litigation, mediation, and arbitration. With more than two decades of experience, Sheena Sood is recommended for claims relating to architects, contractors, and surveyors. Zoe White advises on a broad range of professional negligence cases, including financial risk claims.

Praxisleiter:

Peter Sewell; Ross Baker; Antony Smith; Sheena Sood; Martin Jensen; Nathan Penny-Larter


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Zoe White; Andrew Layton-Morris; Michael O’Brien


Referenzen

‘Beale & Co have a well-established and long-standing reputation for excellence in the area of professional negligence. It has particular expertise in construction professionals.’

‘Martin Jensen is excellent on detail and strategy. He has very good judgment and is very pleasant to work with.’

‘They are absolute masters in the construction professional negligence arena. They are thorough, hard-working, and sensible.’

Kernmandanten

Aviva Insurance UK Ltd


RSA Insurance Group


Chubb Insurance


Hardy Underwriting Asia Pte Ltd


Channel Syndicate


Hamilton Syndicate


Arup Group Ltd


AECOM


Atkins Limited


Kier Group


Ridge & Partners LLP


RSA Insurance Group


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising insurers on coverage and monitoring a claim in bad faith against a large US insurer in a case relating to alleged failures to settle a claim in personal injury following a road traffic accident.
  • Defending a mechanical and electrical engineer client in proceedings issued in the TCC.
  • Advised AECOM on a claim regarding a hospital building, following the discovery of defects in respect of the design and construction, in which the court dismissed the claim against the client.

HFW

HFW regularly acts for insurance and reinsurance brokers, as well as boasting wider experience acting on complex claims against accountants, insolvency practitioners, construction professionals, and financial institutions. Heading the team, Christopher Foster has a broad range of experience acting on professional liability matters; he is especially recommended for broker disputes involving errors and omissions. Rupert Warren is another prominent member of the team who is ‘very experienced in insurance broker professional negligence claims’. The team also has notable capabilities handling cross-border disputes involving jurisdictions such as Australia and USA.

Praxisleiter:

Christopher Foster


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jonathan Bruce; Rupert Warren; Ben Mellors


Referenzen

‘The individuals at HFW are specialists in insurance-related professional negligence. They are able to draw on their extensive insurance industry expertise, which makes them very strong in this area.’

‘Their considerable and wide-ranging insurance industry expertise makes them formidable in this area. They are amongst the best in the market.’

‘Rupert Warren is hard working, thoughtful, and very experienced in insurance broker professional negligence claims. He’s an absolute pleasure to work with. He is very focused on obtaining the best commercial result for the client.’

Hogan Lovells International LLP

The professional negligence practice at Hogan Lovells International LLP is spearheaded by Nicholas Heaton, who is an expert in professional liability matters arising out of pension schemes. The ‘formidable’ Angela Dimsdale-Gill is another recommended lawyer who is especially skilled in handling complex litigation relating to pensions. The team has in-depth experience navigating professional liability cases in this sector, having acted on large claims against lawyers, consultants, and actuaries. Beyond the scope of pensions, Paul Tonkin advises on professional negligence relating to property transactions; he regularly handles cases involving surveyors, solicitors, and valuers.

Praxisleiter:

Nicholas Heaton


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Nathan Sherlock; Angela Dimsdale-Gill; Paul Tonkin


Referenzen

‘They have excellent legal minds, which are able to add value to any challenge or situation.’

‘Angela Dimsdale-Gill is the best in the industry. She has a brilliant mind and a firm grasp of all the actuarial nuance.’

‘Angela Dimsdale-Gill is formidable.’

Kernmandanten

ENRC


BAT Industries


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for ENRC in multi-jurisdictional proceedings against its former solicitors, Dechert LLP, and the UK Serious Fraud Office.
  • Representing BAT in an $800m corporate and commercial audit negligence claims against PwC.
  • Representing the trustee and sponsoring employer of a UK pension scheme in relation to negligence claims against four former professional advisors concerning issues reaching back more than 40 years and with a potential value in excess of £100m.

Mayer Brown International LLP

Mayer Brown International LLP continues to boast a strong construction offering that regularly advises on complex disputes within the sector. The team is co-led by Michael Regan and Sally Davies. Alongside James Morris, Regan is heavily involved in the case of Shepherd Construction v Kingspan & Ors, which concerns a large multi-party cladding claim. Jonathan Stone has extensive experience handling claims relating to architects, contractors, suppliers, and engineers. Robert Hobson is also noted for his capabilities in acting in claims involving defective designs and policy coverage issues. Tim Shepherd departed the firm in April 2024.

Praxisleiter:

Michael Regan; Sally Davies


Weitere Kernanwälte:

James Morris; Jonathan Stone; Robert Hobson; Hannah Cartwright


Referenzen

‘They are able to turn around work at exceptionally short notice with perfect quality.’

‘Sally Davies has a wealth of knowledge and experience. She advises with complete confidence. She has excellent tactical strategy and is quick to identify technical key points.’

‘Mayer Brown has a highly experienced professional negligence team with a sophisticated employment advisory component. Highly recommended.’

Kernmandanten

Standard Life


Shepherd Construction Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising Standard Life on a substantial claim against its professional team and development manager following significant delay and cost overruns during the construction of a retail park in Newbury.
  • Representing a UK-based construction company in a landmark construction and cladding dispute worth almost £70m.

Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons has a strength in professional liability matters relating to the construction sector. The practice has a wealth of experience acting on cases concerning main contractors, structural engineers, architects, and surveyors. Described as ‘one of the most driven partners in the market’, Emily Monastiriotis is a go-to lawyer for cladding disputes. Felix Zimmermann is noted for his skill advising on claims against a range of professionals, including brokers, solicitors, and construction professionals. Jonathan Spencer is another integral part of the team who regularly advises on complex professional indemnity coverage disputes. The practice is led by James Pollock.

Praxisleiter:

James Pollock


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Felix Zimmerman; Jonathan Spencer; Emily Monastiriotis; Michelle Allison; Steve Kaye


Referenzen

‘James Pollock is excellent and very good with clients.’

‘The team has a great blend of experience. They have expertise in insurance and a number of insured sectors, including construction.’

‘Emily Monastiriotis offers immense knowledge, skill, energy, and strategic focus to clients in major projects and disputes. She is dedicated to achieving the best outcome for her clients.’

Kernmandanten

Albemarle Asset Management Limited


CNA Hardy


IGI Insurance


MPB Structures Limited


Albemarle


AIG


Willmott Dixon


Stephenson Harwood

Stephenson Harwood stands out for its ‘excellent experience in accountancy negligence matters’. In addition to acting for major accountancy firms in high-value disputes, the team is also skilled in handling professional negligence claims relating to pensions. Roland Foord and Adam Culy co-lead the practice. Foord has a unique niche within the fine art sector, which involves advising auction houses and dealers on allegations of negligent advice. Culy is an expert in defending claims centred around taxes and audits. The ‘dependable and knowledgeable’ Paul Hollands is also noted for his experience in advising on cases relating to accountants, legal advisors, and insolvency professionals. Kate Cordery has left the firm.

Praxisleiter:

Roland Foord; Adam Culy


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Paul Hollands; Helena Berman; Andrew Myers; Guy Harper


Referenzen

‘They have excellent experience in accountancy negligence matters.’

‘Paul Holland is very dependable and knowledgeable.’

‘Adam Culy is an excellent lawyer who goes the extra mile for his clients. He is strong technically and I would not hesitate to use him again.’

Kernmandanten

KPMG LLP


Deloitte LLP


Mercer Limited


Christie’s


Sedgwick Noble Lowndes Limited


Mark Weiss Limited


BDO LLP


Highlight-Mandate


  • Defending Deloitte in a complex and high-value professional negligence claim for at least £60m brought by a high-profile hedge fund founder relating to tax advice.
  • Defending Mercer Limited and Sedgwick Noble Lowndes Limited in a £110m complex professional negligence claim issued by the employer and trustees of the Honda pension scheme regarding a range of alleged defective amendments to the scheme between 1986 and 1999.
  • Defending an accountancy firm in a multi-defendant High Court professional negligence proceedings claim relating to complex inheritance tax planning for a former client’s £6m estate.

Taylor Wessing LLP

Taylor Wessing LLP continues to be a go-to firm for professional liability claims involving auditors, accountants, and negligent tax advice. Leading the team, Andrew Howell is considered to be ‘a standout partner for high-value cases involving allegations of audit negligence’. With more than three decades of experience in the field, Julian Randall has a focus on resolving disputes within the financial sector, as well as a wealth of experience in claims and investigations involving major accountancy firms. Stuart Broom is another recommended member of the team.

Praxisleiter:

Andrew Howell


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Julian Randall; Stuart Broom; Georgina Jones


Referenzen

‘The Taylor Wessing team are one of the best there is for professional negligence. They have hugely experienced partners and a dedicated team of associates.’

‘Andrew Howell has great experience and is able to keep a cool head at all times. He is also particularly good with clients.’

‘Andrew Howell, Julian Randall, and Stuart Broom have a depth of accounting and auditing knowledge. They regularly represent the big four audit firms for very good reasons.’

Kernmandanten

White Oak


PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


Grant Thornton UK LLP


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for White Oak in High Court proceedings relating to the recovery of over $140m from Marsh Limited for breach of duty.
  • Acting on claims arising from the collapse of JD Classics.

Browne Jacobson LLP

Browne Jacobson LLP advises on a broad range of professional liability matters, including claims against lawyers, insurance brokers, financial institutions, and accountants. Described as ‘an excellent strategist and brilliant lawyer’, Jonathan Newbold leads the team with a focus on claims within the financial services industry; he is especially skilled in handling policy coverage disputes. Ed Anderson regularly handles professional indemnity cases relating to taxes and pensions, while Tim Claremont is noted for his expertise in claims arising from the construction sector.

Praxisleiter:

Jonathan Newbold


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Ed Anderson; Derek Bambury; Tim Claremont; Laura Brown


Referenzen

‘A brilliant team with excellence across the partnership and associate levels.’

‘Jonathan Newbold is an excellent strategist and brilliant lawyer.’

‘Ed Anderson and Derek Bambury are both recognised as formidable opponents.’

Kernmandanten

Hiscox


HDI Global


Pen Underwriting


International General Insurance Company


Arch Australia


Bar Mutual


Zurich


Generali


Channel Syndicate


PAMIA


DUAL


AmTrust Europe


QIC Europe


Great Lakes Insurance


DWF

DWF houses a strong professional liability team that regularly advises on complex, multi-party claims against lawyers, tax advisors, insurance brokers, and construction professionals. Sheona Wood is an expert at advising on insurance coverage issues, while Mark Klimt is skilled in defending architects. Both Lucy Tolond and Harriet Quiney are recommended for cases arising out of the financial sector, including claims against pension professionals and financial advisors. Robert Goodlad is noted for his experience with disputes in the construction sector. John Bennett retired from practice in April 2024.

Praxisleiter:

Harriet Quiney; Lucy Tolond; Sheona Wood; Mark Klimt


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Robert Goodlad; Ian Welland


Referenzen

‘Lucy Tolond is superb. She is a fantastic lawyer. She is great with clients and robust whilst also being realistic about the case.’

‘Ian Welland has a wealth of experience and is universally respected in the sector.’

‘Sheona Wood is one of the leading professional liability lawyers in the market. She has so much wisdom, intellect, experience, and toughness. She has great instincts.’

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP frequently advises on claims and regulatory investigations arising from the financial services sector. Kari McCormick is ‘an exceptional and fearless advocate’ with extensive experience defending auditors and accountancy firms against allegations of professional negligence. McCormick leads the practice alongside Jennifer Miles. Other key members of the team include Simon Brooks and Felicity Rich. Brooks is recommended for his experience handling complex claims involving insurance brokers, while Rich is skilled with disputes relating to pensions and taxes.

Praxisleiter:

Kari McCormick; Jennifer Miles


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Simon Brooks; Felicity Rich


Referenzen

‘The team is efficient. They give clear direction and advice.’

‘Kari Mccormick is extremely experienced in this field. She is clear-thinking and pragmatic.’

‘This is a broad team able to call on quality lawyers to resource a matter quickly.’

Kernmandanten

Aviva Life & Pensions UK Limited


Aon Consulting Limited


Options UK Personal Pensions LLP


Financial Services Compensation Scheme


Keoghs LLP

Keoghs LLP houses an experienced team that regularly handles disputes in the legal and construction sectors. Heading the team, Neil Trayhurn has more than thirty years of experience in the insurance sector, giving him expertise in policy coverage issues. Gary Wicks stands out for his skills with resolving disputes relating to construction professionals, including claims relating to architects, engineers, and design and build contractors.

Praxisleiter:

Neil Trayhurn


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Gary Wicks; Andrew Schutte; Dragos Stoica; Gary Thwaites


Referenzen

‘They have a very good understanding of construction law and takes a realistic approach to claims.’

‘The individuals at Keoghs have excellent experience and knowledge of construction disputes. They keep the client well informed and give clear and timely directions.’

‘The partners are pragmatic, practical, and down-to-earth in approach. Their advice is commercially focused and they are able to explain legal matters to non-legal clients.’

Kernmandanten

Arch Insurance Company


Antares


QIC Global


Argenta Syndicate 2121


Axis


Collegiate Underwriting


Compre


Bothnia


EC Insurance Company part of Markel UK


Everest


Burns & Wilcox


Griffiths & Armour


HDI Global Specialty SE


International General Insurance


LawSelect


MGAM


Nexus Underwriting


Omnyy LLP


Pen Underwriting


QBE


Quest Group


RiverStone Management Ltd


Royal & Sun Alliance


Starr Companies


Strategic Insurance Services


Talbot Underwriting Ltd


Zurich


Mills & Reeve LLP

Neil Davis leads the insurance disputes practice at Mills & Reeve LLP. Davis regularly advises on claims relating to lawyers, construction professionals, and insurance brokers. Lisa Taylor has extensive experience resolving complex professional negligence disputes involving a variety of professions, including financial advisors and surveyors. The team is strengthened by the addition of Alasdair Dick and Neil Shah. Dick joined from Plexus Legal Gateway in August 2023, while Shah joined from Kennedys in November 2023.

Praxisleiter:

Neil Davis


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Lisa Taylor; Alasdair Dick; Neil Shah


Referenzen

‘Strong collaboration between regional offices.’

Norton Rose Fulbright

Described as ‘a highly experienced litigator with excellent judgement’, Michelle George leads the team at Norton Rose Fulbright. George is skilled at navigating high-value disputes and also advises on cases with an international element. Katie Stephen is another standout member of the team with experience navigating professional negligence claims and investigations arising from contentious regulatory matters. Charlie Weston-Simons left the firm in January 2024.

Praxisleiter:

Michelle George


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Katie Stephen


Referenzen

‘This is a team at the very top of its game. They are excellent.’

‘Michelle George is smart, tenacious, and always gets great results for her clients.’

‘They provide first-class legal advice and their disputes team is excellent. As well as being technically sound, they are commercially minded. They look for solutions to difficult problems.’

Kernmandanten

PwC


Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP stands out for its extensive capabilities in handling large class-action professional negligence cases on behalf of claimants. David Niven is recommended for complex, multi-party claims against solicitors, especially concerning litigation arising out of failed investment schemes. Nicole Blakely is ‘a superb lawyer’ with extensive experience advising on group claims. Peter Stockill and Chris Bates are also noted for their skill with claims in the construction sector. The team is led by Kamran Rehman.

Praxisleiter:

Kamran Rehman


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Peter Stockill; Chris Bates; Nicole Blakely; David Niven


Referenzen

‘Kamran Rehman is an incredibly impressive leader. There is good delegation and he has confidence in other members of his team, but he is the ultimate decision maker.’

‘David Niven and his team have dominated the group professional negligence litigation scene for a number of years. They have successfully represented a significant number of people who have lost money by investing in schemes, in which the solicitors did not properly advise them.’

‘The team are extremely experienced from the top through to the junior end.’

Kernmandanten

Hope Capital Limited


John McMonigall


Sheffield United Limited


Mackie Motors Limited


Patrizia Hanover Property Unit Trust


City & Country


Rainham Steel


Zurich Insurance


Beazley Furlonge


Ramboll


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acted for Hope Capital Limited in a valuer negligence claim, which concerned the scope of duty of valuers.
  • Acted for Sheffield United Limited in a £150m negligence claim against Shepherd & Wedderburn.
  • Acted in a group action for various Investors in the Sky Building in ongoing High Court proceedings for 43 claimants.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP houses ‘an excellent pensions professional negligence litigation team’. Isabel Nurse-Marsh and Manchester-based Hayley Goldstone both have extensive experience as pension litigators and regularly handle complex multi-party professional negligence claims arising out of pension schemes. The practice also advises on professional liability matters within the financial sector. Stuart McNeil is recommended for his skill with advising on allegations of negligence and mis-selling claims against financial institutions.

Praxisleiter:

Jim Cormack; Michael Fenn; Hayley Goldstone; Neil Morris


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Isabel Nurse-Marsh; Stuart McNeil; Colin Read


Referenzen

‘This team has very high quality lawyers with experience across a range of areas of professional negligence.’

‘Colin Read is a superstar at the firm. He is incredibly personable, very commercially astute, and has excellent judgement.’

‘They have some very bright, excellent lawyers. They are dedicated, highly professional, very commercial, and always approachable.’

Kernmandanten

Trustees of the Capita Pension and Life Assurance Scheme


Highlight-Mandate


  • Defended a global law firm against a £50m negligence claim against a leading pensions lawyer.

Weightmans LLP

Richard Palmer leads the professional indemnity practice at Weightmans LLP. Quentin Fox is recommended for his skill in resolving disputes against construction professionals such as architects, surveyors, project managers, and engineers. The team has expanded to include Alain Orengo, who joined from Plexus Legal Gateway in October 2023. Orengo has more than two decades of experience defending claims against a variety of professionals, including insurance brokers, accountants, surveyors, and estate agents.

Praxisleiter:

Richard Palmer


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Alain Orengo; Quentin Fox


Referenzen

‘Alain Orengo is a very good lawyer.’

‘They have a good team.’

‘The practice has the necessary expertise in dealing with matters effectively and efficiently.’

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP

Described as ‘an exceptionally skilled insurance litigator’, Sushma MacGeoch heads the insurance disputes team at Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP. In addition to advising on policy coverage issues, Hannah Cane also specialises in complex disputes involving construction and property professionals. Simon Beckwith has a wealth of experience defending pension professionals, investment advisors, and wealth managers. Tim Barr is a further standout member of the team, who regularly handles claims within the legal and financial sectors.

Praxisleiter:

Sushma MacGeoch; Hannah Cane; Robert Holme


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Simon Beckwith; Tim Barr; Beth Caygill


Referenzen

‘Hannah Cane is on top of her game. She is highly commercial and focused on the best outcomes for her clients.’

‘They never lose sight of the client’s commercial aims. They are thorough and meticulous in their approach to cases.’

‘Sushma MacGeoch is an exceptionally skilled insurance litigator with huge gravitas. Sushma combines toughness with a shrewd understanding of how to get the best result for the client. She is fiercely loyal to her team and highly respected within her firm. She’s one of the best!’

Kernmandanten

AIG UK Limited


Solicitors’ Indemnity Fund


Liberty Global Group


Bar Mutual Indemnity Fund


Allianz Global Corporate & Speciality


AmTrust


CNA Hardy


Axis


Axa XL


Arch


Beazley Group Ltd


Generali Group


Markel


QBE


Travelers Insurance Company Ltd


Munich Re Ltd


HDI Global


Berkshire Hathaway


Zurich


Highlight-Mandate


  • Defending a firm of civil and structural engineers in multi-party litigation involving 120 claimants arising out of the collapse of a tower crane in East London.
  • Successfully obtained a reverse summary judgment on a £19m claim made against a KC and junior barrister involving allegations of tortious interference.
  • Advising major London market insurers on complex coverage issues relating to notification and aggregation with a potential value of approximately £80m.

Edwin Coe LLP

Edwin Coe LLP predominately acts for claimants against insurance companies and professional indemnity insurance brokers. Roger Franklin leads the insurance litigation team with experience advising on cross-border claims, including disputes in Europe and the US. Described as ‘a great lawyer’, Nicola Maher represents policy holders across various sectors, such as the retail, hospitality, manufacturing, and real estate industries. Michael Whitton has retired from practice.

Praxisleiter:

Roger Franklin


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Nicola Maher; Kate Dwyer; Oliver Parnell


Referenzen

‘They have good market experience, particularly acting for the claimants.’

‘Kate Dwyer is good with handling clients. Oliver Parnell is smart and considered.’

‘They are always responsive, effective, knowledgeable.’

Kernmandanten

Infinity Reliance Ltd


Delta Portfolio Property LLP


Parker Asset Management LLP


Europa Capital LLP


Fieldfisher

With more than three decades of experience in the field, Jonathan Ray-Smith leads the professional negligence practice at Fieldfisher. Ray-Smith has a broad range of expertise advising on claims against lawyers, financial advisors, and surveyors. Donna Goldsworthy regularly handles professional liability matters arising out of the financial services sector. Matthew Sharp is also noted for his skills in advising on claims relating to taxes. Owen Talfan Davies left the firm in June 2023.

Praxisleiter:

Jonathan Ray-Smith


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Donna Goldsworthy; Matthew Sharp; Suzanne Loding


Referenzen

‘Fieldfisher distinguishes itself in the UK legal market through the exceptional commerciality of its partners. They continually demonstrate deep market insight and take a business-oriented approach throughout their work.’

‘Donna Goldsworthy continually stands out as a dynamic, insightful, and pragmatic partner. She instills confidence at every step. Donna’s proactive communication and commitment to her client’s success makes her an invaluable partner.’

‘The team as a whole has a great deal of experience in high-value cases. They are known for taking meticulous care of their cases and getting good outcomes.’

Kernmandanten

Hoegh Capital Partners


Mirza Law Limited & Ors


Reaction Engines Limited


Liquidators of The Wine Enterprise Investment Scheme Limited


White Hall Lending Ltd


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Hoegh Capital Partners on a high-value claim against accountants and a law firm concerning alleged failures to provide adequate tax advice in the context of tax compliance and restructuring.
  • Advised a group of day nurseries on pursuing a claim against their insurance broker for professional negligence after their claims for business interruption as a result of the coronavirus lockdown were rejected.
  • Advised claimants on a seven-party litigation relating to an alleged breach of trust, breach of fiduciary duties, and negligence arising from the sale of two high-value pieces of land.

Kingsley Napley LLP

The professional negligence practice at Kingsley Napley LLP is led by Ryan Mowat, who regularly handles complex claims against a range of professionals such as lawyers, professional trustees, insurance brokers, and surveyors. Considered to be ‘a very talented litigator’, Mary Young advises on claims involving breach of trust and breach of fiduciary duty. Jemma Brimblecombe is a further standout member of the team with experience resolving professional negligence disputes through litigation, arbitration, and mediation.

Praxisleiter:

Ryan Mowat


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Mary Young; Jemma Brimblecombe; Will Christopher


Referenzen

‘They have extraordinary attention to detail and professionalism. Also, they benefit from having deep knowledge of other relevant fields, namely regulatory and disciplinary matters. The net result is unmatched client care and skill.’

‘Mary Young is an astonishingly gifted practitioner. She is relentlessly professional in all she does. She is proactive, intuitive, and thoughtful.’

‘Mary Young is always one step ahead of the other side. She is charming and has an eye for the client’s commercial needs.’

Reed Smith LLP

Reed Smith LLP is particularly skilled at handling professional liability claims within the financial sector. Praised for his ‘amazing attention to detail and client service’, practice head Charles Hewetson is recommended for his skills in handling highly complex claims involving major accountancy firms. He leads the team alongside Eleanor Chapman. Jane Howard left the firm in May 2023.

Praxisleiter:

Charles Hewetson; Eleanor Chapman


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Ali Ishaq


Referenzen

‘They have a great spread of quality talent across all grades, even the juniors, with strong leadership that sets this team apart.’

‘Charles Hewetson has amazing attention to detail and client service.’

‘Charles Hewetson is an immensely able litigator. Clever and tough, and rightly regarded as go-to for professional negligence litigation.’

Stewarts Law LLP

Stewarts Law LLP houses a team that possesses ‘excellent experience in professional negligence claims concerning tax products’. Practice head David Pickstone is a skilled tax litigator with extensive experience handling associated professional liability claims. Alex Lerner is ‘an outstanding lawyer’ who acts for both claimants and defendants in matters relating to the financial sector. James Le Gallais is another prominent member of the team. Darren Kidd left the firm in July 2023.

Praxisleiter:

David Pickstone


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Alex Lerner; James Le Gallais; Adam Jacobs


Referenzen

‘A great team. They are very commercial, hugely experienced, and smart.’

‘James Le Gallais is thoughtful and commercial. He has a great combination of attention to detail and strategic insight. He’s a smart operator and a pleasure to work with.’

‘Alex Lerner is quick and commercial. He is a very good lawyer.’

Kernmandanten

Premier Engineering Corporation Limited


Super Sew Imports Limited


Royle Recruitment Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for 177 investors in a c.£240m claim involving allegations of professional negligence against HSBC, which arose out of the failure of the Eclipse film finance scheme.
  • Acting for 110 investors in a c.£40m professional negligence claim against a top tax KC advising in relation to a failed investment scheme.
  • Acting for 363 investors in a c.£200m group action which included a number of professional negligence claims against various financial advisors, accountants, and banks.

Withers LLP

The professional negligence practice at Withers LLP has experience representing both claimants and defendants. The team advises on claims against a range of professionals, including investment advisors, solicitors, architects, and accountants. The practice is co-headed by Caroline Thompson and Eleni Polycarpou. Owen Talfan Davies joined the firm in August 2023 from Fieldfisher; he is particularly experienced in handling professional negligence claims within the real estate sector.

Praxisleiter:

Eleni Polycarpou; Caroline Thompson


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Stephen Ross; Joshua Swift; Owen Talfan Davies


Referenzen

‘They are very experienced and great communicators.’

‘Eleni Polycarpou is very experienced and brilliant with clients.’

‘Caroline Thompson and Josh Swift are both excellent and highly effective lawyers, who are also both charming and pleasant to deal with.’

Kernmandanten

Bar Mutual Indemnity Fund


RBC Trust Company


Barrowfen Properties Limited


Ferrybridge Capital Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acted in high-value and complex claims against various of Bar Mutual’s insureds, which have been resolved by way of strike out and/or settlement.
  • Acting for Ferrybridge Capital Limited in claims against firms of solicitors in negligence and breach of trust following a fraudulent property transaction.
  • Acting for an individual in a negligence claim against his former solicitors who did not adequately advise as to the tax liability that would arise on the transfer of trust assets into a new trust.

Edesia Law

Edesia Law is a 'boutique professional indemnity firm' that was established in January 2022. The practice is headed by Damian McPhun, who has more than 30 years of experience defending professional indemnity claims for major insurers. Simon Thomas advises on claims against various professionals, such as lawyers, estate agents, and brokers. The team is strengthened with the addition of Mark Aizlewood, who joined from Carter Perry Bailey LLP in September 2023.

Praxisleiter:

Damian McPhun


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Mark Aizlewood; Simon Thomas


Referenzen

‘Edesia is a boutique professional indemnity firm. This is its sole focus and it has a huge depth of experience.’

‘This is a boutique firm specialising in the defence of professional indemnity claims across all areas. The firm has particular expertise in financial and solicitors claims and the partners have good commercial relationships with the key barristers chambers in the sector.’

‘Damian McPhun has a sharp analytical mind and an extremely commercial, no-nonsense approach.’

Kernmandanten

Accredited Insurance Europe


AmTrust International


Aquilano Insurance


Nexus Underwriting


Casper Speciality


Argenta Syndicate Management


CBL Insurance Europe DAC


Inperio (London) Limited


Kay International Plc


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for a law firm and its insurers in the successful strike out of a £7.5m negligence claim by former clients.
  • Acting for Accredited Insurance Europe in a successful coverage arbitration relating to liability to cover of multiple claims against a firm of solicitors, which totalled several million pounds.
  • Acting for Accredited Insurance Europe in a claim for negligence and breach of warranty of authority against its broker arising from the placement of a reinsurance treaty.

Healys LLP

The professional negligence practice at Healys LLP is spearheaded by Robert Johnson, who specialises in acting for claimants. Johnson is especially skilled in handling claims against lawyers. David Bailey and Ben Parr-Ferris are further standout members of the team. Bailey has experience in bringing claims against financial advisors and accountants, while Parr-Ferris focuses on professional negligence claims relating to conveyancing and will drafting.

Praxisleiter:

Robert Johnson


Weitere Kernanwälte:

David Bailey; Ben Parr-Ferris; Delwar J Hussain


Referenzen

‘Robert Johnson is extremely diligent. He gives ongoing updates and advice.’

‘The firm stands out for its accuracy, excellent communication, and efficiency.’

‘Robert Johnson was incredible. He was confident and extremely knowledgeable. He was also extremely responsive and available at all times.’

Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for a claimant in a claims against firms of solicitors in a case concerning the purchase of a property, which involved elements of identity fraud and lost monies.
  • Acting for a claimant in a claim against surveyors for failing to identify material defects in the property to be purchased.
  • Advising a client on a claim against pronouncement for a will, given the solicitor’s negligent failure to recognise the testator’s lack of understanding of the will’s terms.

Hill Dickinson LLP

Hill Dickinson LLP advises on complex professional liability disputes across a variety and of sectors, including construction, property, and legal services. Based in Liverpool, Fiona Parry regularly handles claims against solicitors. The team has expanded to include Amanda Burge, who joined from Hamlins LLP in July 2023. Burge brings with her a wealth of experience handling professional negligence claims; she leads the London team alongside Raj Pabla.

Praxisleiter:

Fiona Parry; Amanda Burge; Raj Pabla


Referenzen

‘Amanda Burge has joined Hill Dickinson from Hamlins. She has varied experience that makes her a really excellent ‘all round’ lawyer. She works incredibly hard and is very responsive.’

‘Amanda Burge is tactically astute and commercially savvy. She litigates with a controlled focus. She’s a pleasure to work with.’

‘Amanda Burge is very on the ball. She is razor sharp.’

Kernmandanten

Hoare Lea Companies


PBF Investments Ltd


LVN Limited


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for Hoare Lea in the multi-party litigation Shepherd Construction v Kingspan and others, a high-value construction and cladding dispute.
  • Acting for PBF Investment in a professional negligence claim worth approximately £1m against a firm of solicitors in a case arising from negligent advice regarding charges over properties.
  • Acting for LVN Limited in a professional negligence claim worth approximately £2m plus against a firm of solicitors relating to the purchase of a commercial building in central London.

Wordley Partnership

Having been established in 2019, Wordley Partnership houses a professional negligence team that is made up of former lawyers from HFW and Clyde & Co. Paul Wordley is skilled in advising on coverage disputes, as well as error and omission claims. With more than three decades of experience, Simon Schindler is another prominent member of the team who handles claims relating to insurance brokers.

Praxisleiter:

Paul Wordley; Graham Denny; Simon Schindler; Costas Frangeskides; Alison Proctor


Kernmandanten

Few Inns Limited