The ‘approachable and friendly’ Newport-based team at DAC Beachcroft LLP has a market-leading reputation among leading insurers as a result of the ‘sensible and commercially-driven’ advice to solicitors as defendants in professional negligence cases brought by former clients, as well is disciplinary proceedings initiated by the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA). Appreciated for her ‘commitment to building relationships with the insureds’, team head Clare Hughes-Williams provides ‘high-quality advice’ to law firms and individual lawyers in relation to regulatory investigations and disciplinary proceedings, as well as civil litigation. Catrin Davies is also a key member of the team and provides ‘sound, insightful and pragmatic advice’ throughout the disciplinary process, including on cases alleging sexual misconduct and dishonesty, as well as often advising insurers on coverage issues.

Forming a part of the broader financial services disputes and investigations team, which is headed by Gareth Vowles , Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP provides 'knowledgeable and reliable' advice to stakeholders in the sector on both sides of the "v". Much of the claimant work arises primarily from secured commercial and residential lending, with the 'well-resourced'  team - aided by a very effective case management system - excelling in resolving large and small cases with an emphasis on innovative costs solutions (frequently acting on a contingent basis). Recently promoted to partner, the 'very experienced and astute professional negligence specialist' Wayne Davies  specialises in claimant work, regularly bringing claims against solicitors, surveyors and accountants, as well as handling associated title rectification matters. Senior associate James Coleman  excels in handling mortgage fraud cases on the claimant side, while also being very conversant with defendant work - including for banks accused of mis-selling financial products. Leveraging his vast e-discovery expertise, Nick Rundle  is also a key member of the team, particularly in the context of secured recoveries work arising from commercial lending.

 Hugh 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.

The 'hardworking and very able' claimant-focused team at Berry Smith handles 'cases across a broad spectrum of complexity', with sufficient strength-in-depth to allow specialisation against different types of defendant. Leveraging 'exceptional forensic skills and attention to detail', team head Iwan Doull is a 'very persuasive advocate' for clients bringing claims against legal and accounting professionals, including for after-the-even-insurer ARAG in claims brought against solicitors who negligently advised their insureds. Tapping into his exceptional property litigation credentials, the 'very impressive' Simon Care excels in handling claims against property professionals and is a key member of the team that also includes senior associate Harry Moyle, who is particularly skilled at handling construction-related professional negligence claims.

Forming a part of the firm's broader commercial litigation offering, which is led by the 'exceptional' Ben Jenkins, Harding Evans LLP regularly advises clients bringing actions against solicitors and property professionals, where it is recognised for its 'proactive and tenacious' approach. William Watkins 'leaves no stone unturned' in his pursuit of justice, and as well as handling a considerable volume of claimant work has also developed niche expertise representing property professionals on the defence of claims alleging negligence with regard to the recently enacted Renting Homes Act.