Medical comments

This established set continues to enjoy a spectacular reputation due to its pronounced strength in clinical negligence on both the claimant and defendant sides. Its leading lights include Robert Francis QC, “an extraordinary advocate and a wonderfully clever negotiator, who can be both completely charming and absolutely ruthless.” He deals with numerous complex, high-profile cases and also acts in public enquiries. Handling equally difficult matters, the “top-notch and vastly experienced” John Grace QC is known for being especially strong on the claimant side. Sources note that he “has got it all. He is always unflustered, and is a brilliant tactician and formidable opponent who brings a certain je ne sais quoi to every situation.” He has been involved in the major Thompstone indexation case of late. Adrian Hopkins QC heads the set’s medical team and is a perennial favourite with solicitors. “Low-key and deadly,” he boasts “a clear-thinking, analytical approach,” which he deploys in negligence issues of considerable importance. Adrian Whitfield QC is no stranger to matters of the utmost gravity. “A true doyen,” he is revered by solicitors up and down the country as a “phenomenally intelligent, top-drawer lawyer who is still fascinated by the work he does and whose skill is felt throughout the profession.” Another popular choice as a silk is Angus Moon QC. He has been involved in several cases with mental health or medical ethics dimensions, and is commended as a “hugely talented and conscientious man who is straightforward, good with witnesses and extremely sensitive with clients.” Joint head of chambers James Watson QC has particular experience in birth and brain injury cases. A “measured, lateral thinker,” he is “a highly capable performer who gets right into the detail.” Greatly in demand and a “class apart amongst the juniors,” Christopher Johnston impresses observers as an “incredibly quick, accurate, organised and dedicated individual.” Fellow junior Michael Horne acts in high-value medical and dental cases. He gains positive feedback for his “pragmatic, down-to-earth manner, and strong advice and guidance.” He is but one of a clutch of talented juniors here, such as the “persuasive but fair” George Hugh-Jones, who has a reputation for being “thorough with the detail and not afraid to go to trial and stick his neck out.” Others of note include the “bright, meticulous and forthright” Fiona Neale, and the “confident and steely” Mary O’Rourke, who has taken on a number of cases in Northern Ireland. Valued for his medical background, Richard Partridge is “analytical and unruffled.” He “takes a robust, practical but technically thorough approach” to his cases. Clodagh Bradley wins accolades, meanwhile, as a “diligent, vibrant livewire” who will “roll her sleeves up and get stuck in.” Former doctor Ranald Davidson is another with a strong medical background. “Great on quantum,” he enjoys a strong reputation, as does “clever and experienced all-rounder” Andrew Hockton. A barrister on the rise, Jonathan Holl-Allen is admired by solicitors as an “outstanding, well-prepared and thorough advocate who is reasoned in his analysis and able to wipe the floor with opponents in court.” He is joined in the tables by Gerard Boyle, who stands out for his “clear-thinking, forensic approach and great manner with clients.” He is adept at both regulatory matters and straight negligence work. “Reliable and approachable,” Neil Davy is developing a strong reputation for his clear, practical advice and impressive paperwork, while “star of the future” John de Bono has won some challenging medium and high-value cases. He is admired for his “enthusiastic, pleasant style,” and for his “well-prepared advocacy and sound judgement.” Market sources respect the “bright and thorough” Bridget Dolan for her advocacy skills and background in psychology. Accomplished senior junior Huw Lloyd also enjoys tremendous market backing for his “terrific level of healthcare expertise and his willingness to pitch in when the going gets tough.” Up-and-comer Michael Mylonas joins the tables this year in recognition of his “stunning hard work, technical knowledge and outstanding ability to outthink opponents.” He takes on complex, high-value serious injury cases.