Next Generation Partners

Leading Associates

Clinical negligence: defendant in South East

DAC Beachcroft LLP

‘With a longstanding foothold in the market’, DAC Beachcroft LLP enjoys a notably strong presence in the healthcare sector. Heather Durston-Hillyer spearheads the clinical negligence team, fielding a varied practice that encompasses catastrophic injury claims and liability issues arising from birth injury and other complex matters. Ciaran Claffey and Bryony Steele are also recommended. Anthea Lane departed to Clyde & Co in 2024.

Responsables de la pratique:

Heather Durston-Hillyer


Autres avocats clés:

Ciaran Claffey; Bryony Steele


Les références

‘Very experienced team which knows the problems which arise in claims.’

‘They are one of the strongest teams, with a longstanding foothold in the market and some top of the tree partners with unsurpassed knowledge of the needs of NHSR and Trust clients. Top notch amongst the panel firms.’

‘Heather Durston-Hillyer is very experienced and responsive, matching the most relevant fee earner to the needs of the issues raised. As such I have experienced a very quick response time.’

Principaux clients

NHS Resolution


Medical Defence Union


University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation trust


Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust


HCA International


Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust


University Hospitals Southampton NHS Foundation Trust


Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS trust


Dorset County Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust


Principaux dossiers


  • Acting on two of the largest class actions against the NHS in the form of vaginal and rectal mesh (the subject of Baroness Cumberledge’s IMMDS review).

Gordons Partnership 2020 Limited

Regarded as a ‘top-notch’ practice, Guildford-based Gordons Partnership 2020 Limited routinely handles cases for its healthcare clients against doctors, surgeons, dentists and various private healthcare bodies, among others. The practice is jointly led by Charles Atkins, who strengthens the practice with his capabilities in spinal and brain injury cases with substantial rehabilitation costs, Iain Pickering, who is regularly engaged by individuals and organisations to assist with a diverse array of claims alongside expertise in multi-party litigation, and Alison Harden, who is particularly well-versed in brain, spinal and neurological injuries. Another key figure is Suzie McCluney, who manages claims for medical professionals and pharma companies. Emma Stockill is another key name to note.

Responsables de la pratique:

Charles Atkins; Iain Pickering; Alison Harden


Autres avocats clés:

Suzie McCluney; Shelley Boyd; Carla Applegate; Emma Stockill


Les références

‘Really top-notch lawyers dealing with clinical negligence defence work.’

‘Charles Atkins has great judgment and knowledge of medical issues. Iain Pickering is very robust with an uncanny ability to win all his cases. Alison Harden is calm, measured and sensible with excellent judgment. Shelley Boyd is a rising star who knows how to take points very effectively.’

‘The healthcare law team manage high value and complex cases excellently. They are always on hand and stand out thanks to their attention to detail and proactive case management.’

Principaux dossiers