Robert Francis QC is top-ranked in clinical negligence by the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners. He is also recommended by Chambers & Partners for professional discipline.

Robert Francis QC benefits from tremendous experience of medical law. He is praised for his "gentle touch in the courtroom" and his "measured and dependable approach to complex cases." Chambers and Partners 2010

Robert Francis QC is 'one of the most high-profile names in the sector. "A silky-smooth and highly effective advocate," he “brings experience, savvy, and an ability to think round corners” to each case he handles.' Chambers and Partners 2010

Robert Francis QC is "outstanding in his grasp of the law"  Legal 500 2009

 "...in great demand for his intellectual approach and client manner..." Legal 500 2008

"Robert Francis QC's “understated, easy style slips down nicely.” Francis garners praise for his “fine analytic mind” and his “circumspect but powerfully effective approach in the courtroom.” Chambers & Partners 2008

"The “smooth and unflappable” Robert Francis QC has an outstanding reputation in medical disciplinary cases. Clients and peers affirm that he has the “fair and impartial” touch needed when chairing disciplinary meetings. However, this “classy operator” also regularly represents doctors and dentists in the GMC and GDC and sits as legal assessor to the professional disciplinary committees of the General Optical Council (GOC) and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP)." Chambers & Partners 2008

"Robert Francis QC... acted on the 2006 Broadmoor and Stone inquiries, demonstrating the ability to deal with controversial cases with sureness and aplomb.” Legal 500 2007

Specialises in medical law; undertakes medical negligence actions, and has considerable experience in medical treatment inquiries and disciplinary matters. He frequently appears in cases raising mental health issues. Practice also encompasses medically related employment, public and criminal law, and general professional liability work.

Rabone v Pennine Care NHS Trust [2009; Simon J; judgment awaited] (Article 2; suicide of voluntary mental patient)

Col Munjaz & Merseyside Care NHS Trust v Airedale NHS Trust  [2003] EWCA 1036 (CA)

Masterman-Lister v Brutton & Co and Jewell  [2003] PIQR P310 (CA)

In re S (Hospital Patient: Court`s Jurisdiction)   [1995] Fam 26 (CA)

R v Wilson & Managers of Winterton Hospital ex parte W   QBD [3/95] (unreported)

B v Croydon Health Authority [  1995] Fam 26 (CA)

Airedale NHS Trust v. Bland   [1993] AC 789 (HL)

F v. Berkshire Health Authority & another (Mental Health Act Commission intervening)  [1990] AC 1 (HL)

Inquiries

Independent inquiry into the care and treatment of Glaister Earl Butler

Independent inquiry into the care and treatment of Peter Bryan and Richard Loudwell [chairman]

Independent inquiry into the care and treatment of Michael Stone [chairman]