Foreword

I’m immensely proud to be head of a chambers that delivers a thoroughly modern service in a profession that’s steeped in tradition. Our philosophy of evolving to meet changing client needs and closely aligning ourselves with firms and lawyers enables us to foster strong relationships and be regarded as trusted legal advisors and advocates.

In recent years Chambers has experienced a significant period of growth in both barrister and staff numbers, as well as expansion into new areas of specialism. In 2018 we significantly boosted our portfolio of expertise following a rare arrangement that saw 8 specialist and highly regarded Chancery and Commercial barristers and 2 clerks join us from a competing set. This complimented the continued growth of our well-established specialist teams. As a result, Chambers is now home to what we believe is an unrivalled team of specialist barristers on the North Eastern circuit, able to service the legal needs of law firms both regionally and nationally.

Our absolute focus on what’s happening in the legal market, and willingness to make timely and strategic business decisions will enable us to deliver a service that clients both need and value.

Christopher Williams, Head of Chambers

Introduction

Parklane Plowden Chambers is regarded amongst lawyers and legal commentators as the pre-eminent set on the North Eastern Circuit. Described as “Outstanding and by far the best in the North of England” [Chambers & Partners 2018], barristers work in dedicated specialist practice groups to provide a first-rate service in Civil, Family, Employment, Chancery and Commercial law.

Located in Leeds and Newcastle, Chambers is home to around 100 barristers who provide a wide choice of counsel, capable of handling a broad spectrum of work at all levels of complexity. Our barristers and clerks closely align themselves with client firms and their lawyers, enabling us to foster superb client relationships that benefit everyone.

Chambers has a reputation for being a “very forward-thinking set” [Chambers & Partners, 2018] evidenced by its unique structure that embraces modern business practices. Parklane Plowden Facilities Ltd (established in 2015 to manage internal processes) enables chambers to operate efficiently in order to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving legal market, and to deliver a responsive service that exceeds client expectations.

Abuse claims

We have a team of barristers with expertise in, and experience of, representing survivors of “historical” and more recent: sexual, physical and emotional abuse. We understand that these complex, highly-sensitive and emotive cases require skilled and capable barristers who demonstrate empathy and have exceptional client handling abilities.

Our barristers work closely with their instructing solicitors to ensure that clients feel safe, comfortable and supported throughout the legal process.

Our specialists have experience of representing victims of abuse suffered in a variety of settings including: family homes, religious institutions, schools and colleges, children’s homes, foster care, football and other youth clubs. Members of the team also advise and

represent vulnerable adults abused whilst in psychiatric or residential care homes and hospitals.

Barristers who handle abuse claims have an in-depth understanding of limitation, breach of duty, vicarious liability and evidential issues associated with these cases, both at common law and under the Human Rights Act.

Adult abuse claims involving:

physically and/or mentally disabled adultspsychiatric hospitalsresidential care homes

Areas of Expertise

Skilled and capable barristers who demonstrate empathy and equanimity

Child abuse claims involving:

care homeschildren’s homeschurches and other religious institutions‘failure to remove’ from family settingsfootball clubs and coachesfoster carehospital and medical institutionsschools and collegesscouting associations

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Business and Commercial AviationBankingConstructionContractual disputesCompany law

Areas of Expertise

With offices in both Leeds and Newcastle, Chambers is well placed to assist clients utilising the new Business and Property Courts in those cities. Our team of barristers provide expert advice and representation over the full range of disciplines within business and commercial work including work of the utmost complexity.

There is a growing need for the provision of specialist commercial services directly to business people and all forms of corporate entity. Members of the team accept instructions directly from companies, partnerships and local authorities as well as individuals under the public access scheme. The team also includes qualified mediators.They pride themselves on providing commercially astute and client-focused advice backed up by confident and incisive advocacy. They have particular

expertise in relation to contractual, company, partnership, banking, sale of goods, insolvency, intellectual property and technological disputes. As well as providing litigation services, members of the team handle non-contentious commercial and intellectual property work including advisory work and the drafting of complex documentation.

Bespoke solutions to specialist problems

Intellectual property and technological disputesInsolvencyPartnershipsSale of goods

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Civil Fraud Bogus passenger claimsCommittal for contemptEmployers’ liability and Public liability fraudExemplary damages and the tort of deceitHigh value personal injury cases involving exaggeration and fundamental dishonestyHoliday sickness/food poisoning claimsLVI litigation

Policy and coverage disputes concerning indemnity Road Traffic Act and the MIBStaged, contrived and induced accidents TelematicsTheft, arson and dishonest first party fraudUse of similar fact evidence in defeating fraud rings

Areas of Expertise

Forensic and analytical advice

Parklane Plowden is home to a team of barristers who are highly-regarded for civil fraud expertise and with experience that spans decades. Our barristers provide a skilled and personal service to both insurers and individuals in every fraud specialism.

The issue of fraudulent claims is a hot political topic and our barristers are sensitive to the importance and impact that these cases have. With fraud more frequently suspected in cases, our barristers are adept at scrutinising and advising on the range of evidential issues associated with fraud cases. Barristers are alive to the financial implications of fraudulent claims – appreciating the balance to be struck between proving fraud and recovering costs.

Along with fraud, the team is highly acclaimed in the related fields of Personal Injury, Costs and Credit Hire. The specialist fraud counsel at Parklane Plowden integrate their expertise in those fields to ensure that a complete service is offered to every client.

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Clinical Negligence

We have the most extensive clinical negligence team on Circuit and are home to the majority of legal directory ranked barristers in the North East. Our large team of specialist barristers “boast outstanding capabilities in diverse clinical negligence claims” [Chambers & Partners, 2017] and “possess impressive expertise covering core issues” [Chambers & Partners, 2019].

The team undertake a wide range of clinical negligence, regulatory and disciplinary work - offering considerable experience and a proven track record in advocacy, mediation and advisory work.

We work on behalf of private individuals, large corporations, public bodies such as NHS trusts, medical defence organisations and private medical and related institutions.

Skilled barristers in this group undertake all manner of clinical negligence cases as well as regulatory and disciplinary work.

Because of our careful and considered approach to these difficult cases, plus a long-standing reputation for success, we have a loyal and wide pool of instructing solicitors. The client service offered by our clerking team helps to “set chambers apart from its rivals” [Chambers & Partners, 2019].

Birth injury claimsCare and nursing homesCatastrophic injuries: brain, spinal, cerebral palsy and amputationsCosmetic and plastic surgeryDental negligenceGP/Nursing negligence

Medical complicationsMedical product liabilityObstetric and genealogical injuriesOncologyOphthalmic negligence Orthopaedic and general surgerySurgical negligence

Areas of Expertise

“ Unmatched clinical negligence capability in Yorkshire and the North East ” Chambers & Partners, 2019

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Costs and Litigation ATE insurance premiumsBusiness advice and fundingConditional and damaged based agreementsCosts caps and costs estimatesDetailed assessments

Financial remedy proceedingsGroup litigationLitigation funding and non-party costs ordersSolicitor and client disputesTOLATA proceedingsThird party costs orders and wasted costs

Areas of Expertise

When costs matter

Costs law and litigation funding is an area of considerable importance and rapid change for lawyers. Our barristers pride themselves on keeping abreast of the latest legal developments in this ever-evolving area of law to provide unrivalled expert advice.

Chambers has a proven track record representing a broad client base in relation to all aspects of costs and funding, making them a popular choice with both injury and non-injury lawyers alike. They are trusted advisors to litigators and work closely with costs draftsman to provide advice and advocacy in this often complex area of law.

Members have specialist expertise in Conditional Fee Agreements, Damages Based Agreements and in Group Litigation. This includes drafting CFAs, GLOs, costs sharing orders and providing advice on funding combinations.

Representation includes CFAenforcement hearings, cost capping and all aspects of non-party costs orders (typically against insurers or solicitors).

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Court of Protection Applications relating to a protected party’s welfare

residencecontact with othersconsent to marriagecapacity to consent to sexual relationsDeprivation of Liberty proceedings Displacement of nearest relative proceedingsJudicial ReviewInquests

mental disorder at the time of deathlacked capacity at the time of death

Mental Health Tribunals: First-tier and Upper TribunalProperty and affairs applications

opposing the appointment of a Deputydisputing testamentary capacitysettling a Lasting Power of Attorneynegligence or deliberate misuse of a protected party’s financesSerious medical treatment cases

Areas of Expertise

Protecting the most vulnerable in our society

The Court of Protection and Mental Health team practice in all areas of mental capacity and mental health law.

Barristers in the team receive instructions in respect of Property & Affairs (financial) matters as well as Health & Welfare applications. Instructed by some of the region’s leading lawyers in this growing area of law, our barristers represent protected parties (through the Official Solicitor or other Litigation Friend), relatives of the protected party, care providers and public bodies including local authorities, PCTs/CCGs and Hospital Trusts.

For Mental Health Act applications, the team are instructed by Approved Mental Health Professionals, Local Authorities, those that find themselves the subject of proceedings and family members of the patient.

The wide range of expertise and experience means our barristers are regularly asked to provide high-quality training sessions to professionals in mental capacity and mental health law.

This includes delivering seminars to: - local authorities - private practitioners - mental health and mental capacity advocates, and professionals specialising in areas that overlap with mental capacity and mental health law, for example child protection practitioners.

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Employment

Parklane Plowden is the “pre-eminent employment law set” on the North Eastern Circuit [Chambers and Partners]. Members have “extensive experience across a panoply of employment matters” which is why it is the “go-to chambers for employment law” [Legal 500].

Whilst our barristers are based in the North East and the Midlands, the team’s reputation and practice is nationwide. The highly regarded and well-established team headed up by former “Junior Employment Barrister of the Year” Seamus Sweeney routinely advises and represent clients in a wide gamut of employment law cases. From individual to collective disputes in the Employment Tribunal, Employment Appeal Tribunal, County Court and Higher Courts, we offer a broad spectrum of expertise from QC to pupils who handle all levels of work. Having a large team with real strength in depth means that our clerks are almost always able to offer solicitors various options.

Members are routinely involved in complex and high-profile litigation, appearing in leading cases in areas such as whistleblowing, discrimination and equal pay. They are frequently instructed in an advisory capacity, often by large organisations.

We have a reputation for being down to earth and client focused, whilst remaining tactically astute and robust. This combination makes us a popular choice with a wide range of clients, including large and small private sector organisations, NHS Trusts, Local Authorities, Trade Unions and individual employees. Where appropriate, members also undertake direct access work.

Barristers are acutely aware of the need for high standards of client care and are proud to offer a high level of service. The barristers are backed up by a team of “very well organised, proficient and on the ball” clerks, headed up by Employment Practice Director Sharon Robson [Chambers and Partners]. A robust management system ensures that agreed turnaround times are fulfilled.

Collective disputesCompetition and confidentialityData ProtectionEmployment contractsEmployment statusEquality and discriminationEqual Pay

Occupational stress and harassment claimsRedundancyRemuneration, pensions and benefitsRestrictive covenantsTransfer of UndertakingsUnfair and wrongful dismissalWhistleblowing and victimisation

Areas of Expertise

“ Pre-eminent employment law set comprising a number of specialist practitioners active on the North Eastern Circuit.” Chambers and Partners, 2019

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Family: Children

Our team of specialist children law barristers have a long-established reputation for expertise in both Private and Public law proceedings. Members are adept at dealing with the most difficult disputes over children’s welfare and are renowned for their approach in dealing with cases of a sensitive nature.

Experienced, approachable and supported by a highly-regarded clerking team, we are counsel of choice for local authorities, parents and children in the most complex cases. Our members appear at every level of the family courts, including regular appearances in the High Court and Court of Appeal.

With over 20 barristers, including two much sought-after QC’s, our family children law team are regarded as one of the strongest on circuit.

Members routinely appear in significant reported children law cases and several members are recognised by legal directories as leaders in their field.

Both barristers and clerks recognise the pressures that solicitor clients face daily, as well as the emotional pressures experienced by lay clients. Our objective is to ease the burden on both.

AdoptionSpecial guardianship ordersWardship and inherent jurisdiction of the High CourtRepresenting local authorities, parents and children (directly or through their children’s Guardian) and others in applications by local authorities to take children into public careHuman rights claims involving local authorities and other public bodiesAlleged parental injury to children and complex medical evidence

RadicalisationFGMFabricated/induced illnessCases which involve the handling of vulnerable clients and witnessesNon-accidental injuryForced marriageSurrogacySame-sex relationships

Areas of Expertise

“ Offers wide-ranging expertise in private and public children law” Chambers & Partners, 2019

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Family: Property and Finance

Our specialist family property and finance team have a wealth and breadth of experience and expertise in all aspects of the financial consequences of relationship breakdown (whether following marriage, civil partnership or unmarried-cohabitation).

Regarded as hugely knowledgeable and accessible by clients, the team thrive on working collaboratively with instructing solicitors to deliver the best possible results. Exceptional client-handling is one of the stand-out qualities of our barristers working in this sensitive and often highly-charged area of law.

The dedicated team cover:- Matrimonial finance following the breakdown of a marriage or civil partnership- TOLATA claims over property and all other claims arising from unmarried cohabitation- Financial provision for children under Schedule 1- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependants) Act

Matrimonial FinanceMembers of the team are instructed by an impressive client base covering all aspects of Financial Remedies on divorce from high-value cases to needs-based cases made complex by limited assets. The team combine commercial acumen and a strong understanding of

business and finance. This includes having a thorough understanding of the application of the chancery principles in the Family Court.

We advise in writing and in conferences on all aspects of matrimonial property and finance, including on the terms of marital agreements whether pre-nuptial, post-nuptial or separation agreements.We facilitate and host private FDRs and early neutral evaluation: the barrister of your choice to conduct the FDR, at a convenient location and on a date fixed to your availability.

Unmarried-CohabitationDisputes arising from cohabitation are often complex and require specialist counsel: we provide that expertise. We advise and represent in all aspects of complex cohabitation disputes between unmarried couples but particularly claims over property under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act (TOLATA).

The team has significant experience of advising on and obtaining the full range of financial provision for children under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989.

Inheritance ActOur team advise and represent where financial provision is sought under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependants) Act following the death of a family member. Early advice pays dividends in these often-complex applications.

Asset bases comprised of significant Personal Injury awardsAssets held abroad & jurisdiction disputesAnnulment of sham bankruptcies designed to defeat the other spouse’s claimClaims upon death under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependants) ActComplex business arrangements Matrimonial finance following the breakdown of a marriage or the dissolution of a civil partnershipFarms & agricultural assets

Financial provision for children under Schedule 1Inherited wealth & non-matrimonial propertyLarge pension arrangementsTOLATA claims over property and all aspects of disputes arising from unmarried cohabitationTerms of marital agreements whether pre-nuptial (ante-nuptial), post-nuptial or separation agreements.Third parties claiming beneficial interests in matrimonial assetsTrusts

Areas of Expertise

‘ A heavyweight set of family law practitioners’ Legal 500, 2019

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Industrial Disease

The North East has a rich industrial heritage which has given rise to a breadth of industrial disease cases spanning decades. As a result, our industrial disease barristers have developed an inimitable understanding of these often legally and factually complex cases.

Parklane Plowden Chambers is home to a number of highly-regarded practitioners in this field, some of whom have been involved in authority cases including: Ali v Courtaulds [1999] LLR Medical 301; Malone v Reylon Heating Engineering Ltd [2014] EWCA Civ 904 and Cressy v (1) E Timms & Sons Ltd and (2) E Timms & Sons Holdings Ltd [2005] EWCA. Several of our barristers

have been involved in large-scale group litigation, acting for both claimants and defendants. Members of the team also act as independent assessors for mesothelioma compensation schemes.

Working on behalf of both claimants and defendants, the team deliver an effective and robust advice and advocacy service on a range of industrial disease cases.

Asbestos related injuries, including MesotheliomaCarpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)DermatitisHand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)Occupational AsthmasOccupational CancersOccupational Dermatitis

Areas of Expertise

Expertise that spans decades

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Inquests and Fatal Accidents Accidents at work, including industrial disease deathsArticle 2 InquestsCare HomesHealthcare – hospital and GP treatmentHigh profile/public interest casesHuman Rights issuesJury-led inquests

Military personnelPrison, police and immigration custodyPsychiatric issues including those lacking capacity and/or suffering from a mental disorder – occurring both in and outside psychiatric facilitiesRoad Traffic AccidentsSchools and other educational establishments

Areas of Expertise

Chambers of choice for Inquest and Public InquiriesChambers is home to a highly respected team of specialist inquest and public inquiry barristers. Our barristers have a strong working knowledge of coronial law and the ability to give these cases the careful handling they require.

Parklane Plowden barristers have substantial experience of representing a broad range of interested persons at inquests and public inquiries. They have a proven track record of handling complex and high-profile cases concerning deaths arising in a variety of circumstances and settings. From deaths in custody, to those arising in care homes and other institutions, the wealth of expertise available to bereaved families and corporate bodies is second to none.

Feelings are often highly-charged at coroner’s inquests and our barristers are sensitive to the anxiety caused by these proceedings. Outstanding court advocacy skills and sensitive handling of witnesses both in and out of court means that our team are in demand.

Chambers has been involved in many high-profile inquests and we are adept at handling media interest in cases. We offer continuity of representation from inquests through to any civil actions for damages arising post-inquest. This helps foster strong barrister-client relations to ensure the best possible outcome.

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Insurance

Credit hire fraudExaggerated claimsFraud ringsHigh value ‘malingering’ PI cases.Low velocity impactNon-disclosure/misrepresentation issues

Permanent Health Insurance, PPI.Property insurance (from arson to staged burglaries)Staged accidents/RTA fraudTechnical issues concerning the Road Traffic Act and MIB.

Areas of Expertise

“ This set has far-reaching expertise and acts for a number of major insurers.” Legal 500, 2015

We have nationally recognised expertise in all areas of insurance litigation, acting for many leading insurers and law firms in both claimant and defendant roles. Our large specialist team dominate this sector in the North.

Parklane Plowden Chambers is home to an extensive team who are experienced insurance law barristers. Over the past few years Chambers has developed and cemented its reputation and expertise in the insurance law market. Appointments to key insurance panels and contracts with major law firms has propelled Chambers to the very forefront of the insurance law sector.

Our barristers are leaders in this field, working closely with instructing solicitors and insurers on credit hire, fraud rings, the tort of deceit, exemplary damages, and low velocity impact. They are frequently involved in leading Court of Appeal cases, such as the credit hire case of McBride v UK Insurance Ltd (2017, EWCA Civ 144) and fundamental dishonesty case Howlett v Davies and Ageas Insurance (2017, EWCA Civ 1696).

We are adept at dealing with technical legal points and commended by clients for giving objective frank advice when required. However, our primary strength lies with the ability of our barristers to provide advocacy that is both skilled and robust in court.

Following successful competitive tendering over several years, Chambers has contracts with many major national insurers and law firms. In some instances, Chambers is one of only a small number of sets to be appointed to these panels. We provide services to insurers on both a “panel” and “off panel” basis.

You can expect good quality service from our barristers who are backed by a team of experienced clerks. Our clerks understand insurance law issues and a strong working knowledge of the expertise available enbables them to make solid recommendations on who to instruct.

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Military Claims Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS)Armed forces medical negligence claimsHeat injuries (hyperthermia)Larium (Mefloquine) compensation Military hearing loss

Military road traffic accidentsMilitary training injuriesNegligence medical downgrading/failure to downgrade or observe medical limitationPTSD

Areas of Expertise

“ The service provided by the clerks is first-class; they are both professional and pragmatic, and have a can-do attitude.” Legal 500, 2017

Parklane Plowden Chambers has several barristers who are experienced in military compensation claims. Barristers represent serving and former members of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces and Reserves, as well as civilians employed by the Ministry of Defence.

Barristers advise and represent those claiming under The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (military personnel injured on or after 6 April 2005) and civil personal injury law. They provide sensitive and knowledgeable advice on military claims involving a broad range of injuries.

When acting for members of the Armed Forces who have been injured in an accident, whilst these claims can often be against a civilian, it is still very useful to have a barrister who understands military matters, particularly if the case involves discharges; downgrading or loss of promotion in the services.

Two of the team are retired military officers giving them a unique insight when advising on military accident claims and other claims involving military personnel. Barrister Jim Hester was a Major in the Royal Marines Commandos, Steven Friday served as a fast-jet pilot in the Royal Air Force.

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Personal Injury and Fatal Accidents

Parklane Plowden Chambers has the largest group of specialist personal injury barristers of any other chambers on the North Eastern Circuit; providing clients with unrivalled choice of appropriately qualified and experienced barristers who can handle all levels and types of personal injury claims.

Chambers is routinely ranked by the legal directories for our considerable expertise in personal injury law, describing us as the “standout set” whose barristers are “well organised and very professional, yet easy to talk to and very good with clients” [Chambers & Partners, 2019].

We’re home to a “strong set of personal injury counsel” [Legal 500, 2019] many of whom are recognised as leaders in this field. With around 55 barristers to choose from, we are “one of the best sets in the country” [Chambers and Partners, 2019] for personal injury law expertise.

Barristers in the team routinely appear in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court on a broad range of injury law cases. These range from the most complex, high-value claims involving life-changing

injuries, to routine fast-track cases. All cases, irrespective of value or complexity, are given the same level of attention and care by counsel.

The ethos of our barristers and clerks is to forge close working relations with clients to secure the best possible service and case outcomes. This makes us a “favourite set for regional and national law firms, insurers, trade unions and self-insured companies” [Chambers & Partners, 2017].

Chambers has secured over 30 contracts, service level agreements and fee protocols with a broad range of organisations. Our commitment to providing a high-quality service extends to everything we do - from how we handle your call, to how we treat your clients.

The team are members of a variety of professional associations including: PIBA, BNBA, AvMA and APIL. Chambers and its members are also committed to supporting wider industry groups and charities such as Headway, The Spinal Injuries Association and The Child Brain Injury Trust.

Animals and equineCatastrophic injuries

paraplegic and tetraplegicamputationspinal injuriesbrain injuryFatal accidents

inquests complex dependency claims HSE prosecutions

product liability and drug related litigationnHighways Act

slips and tripscrushing accidentsHSE prosecutionsstress at work

Holiday Claims

accidents abroadfatal accidents abroadjurisdictional issuessickness claims

Industrial disease litigation

asbestos related claimsdeafnessHAVSoccupational asthmaWRULDProcedural law

costs limitationservicedisclosuresanctionsfundamental dishonestypre-actionPsychiatric injuries

PTSDprimary and secondary victimsstresspersonality disorders

Road traffic accidents

credit hireMIBfraudMOJ stage 3 hearings, small claims, fast-track and multi-track cases

Areas of Expertise

“ One of the best sets in the country” Chambers & Partners, 2019

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Probate, Inheritance and Trusts Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. Administration of estates and trusts. Contentious Probate and Trust Claims. Non-Contentious Probate and Trust Applications.Court of Protection – financial and welfare issuesDisputes over Lasting and Enduring Powers of Attorney, Deputies and Statutory Wills

Mental CapacityProfessional negligence claims involving wills and estatesProprietary estoppel and constructive trust claimsRectification of willsTrusts of Land disputes and equitable co-ownershipUndue influence claims

Areas of Expertise

Parklane Plowden holds “a strong position in the North Eastern market” Chambers & Partners, 2019

Probate, inheritance and trusts is one of the fastest growing areas of work in the Business & Property Court. In addition, there is a growing need for the provision of specialist advice and drafting services to personal representatives and trustees.

We have one of the largest specialist probate, inheritance and trusts teams outside London. The team are well placed to meet the needs of professionals who expect a truly specialist service and deal with contentious and non-contentious work at all levels of seniority and complexity.

Members of the team also have extensive experience of the use of mediation in this area. Our barristers appreciate and understand that this process involves negotiating skills and a practical approach which is different from the court process. The use of mediation is particularly appropriate in relation to probate, inheritance and trusts disputes and the compromises reached often involve complex drafting and taxation issues.

ProbateMembers regularly deal with disputes relating to the validity of wills, directions applications for or against personal

representatives, the construction and/ or rectification of Wills and claims by and against estates including proprietary estoppel claims.

InheritanceFamily provision claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 often involve complex issues relating to business, agriculture, trusts and tax. The team is skilled at dealing with claims of the utmost complexity. This work is also undertaken by members of the Family: Property and Finance team.

TrustsMembers regularly deal with disputes relating to the validity and construction of settlements, the rectification of trusts and settlements, directions applications for or against trustees, applications under the Variation of Trusts Act 1958 and applications under TOLATA.

Non-contentiousWork undertaken includes the drafting of bespoke wills, trusts and deeds. Members can advise on the variation and termination of trusts, the administration of estates and trusts and the duties and powers of personal representatives and trustees including in relation to litigation.

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Professional Negligence Accountants ArchitectsBanksBarristersEngineersEstate agents

Financial services providersHealth professionalsInsolvency practitionersPlanning professionalsSolicitorsSurveyors

Areas of Expertise

Meticulous in our approach

Professional negligence cases involve serious reputational issues which require skilful legal representation and advocacy. Over many years our barristers have developed a strong regional reputation for their adept handling of this work.

Our barristers who undertake this work act for a wide range of professional bodies and individuals in relation to the professional negligence of solicitors, accountants, financial advisors, construction, property and health professionals.

They are hugely knowledgeable, with exceptional client-handling skills. Whether advising in writing,

in conference or as part of mediation negotiations, our team of barristers provide sound legal advice to deliver the best possible results.

Members appear in the High Court, as well as specialist professional tribunals. In addition to mainstream negligence actions, they provide advice and representation on professional indemnity insurance issues, regulatory and disciplinary proceedings.

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Property Adverse possessionAgricultural landlord and tenantBoundary disputesCo ownershipCommercial landlord and tenantEasements

HighwaysMortgagesRent reviewsResidential landlord and tenantRestrictive covenantsTrespass and nuisance

Areas of Expertise

First-class reputation built on solid foundations

Property rights were the bedrock of the work of the Chancery Courts. Since the opening of the Business & Property Courts, property work remains of central importance to public authorities, businesses and private individuals. With premises in both Leeds and Newcastle, Parklane Plowden’s property team provide services throughout the North of England.

Chambers has a large and experienced property team who undertake work at all levels of seniority and complexity. The team provide a prompt, flexible and cost-effective service which involves employing a realistic and commercial approach to disputes.

The team includes qualified mediators and arbitrators who are experienced in achieving cost effective solutions to property disputes outside the Court process. Members are also able to accept public access instructions and details can be provided on request.

Law of real propertyWork is undertaken in relation to all areas of land law including adverse possession claims, boundary disputes, easement cases, trespass and nuisance claims, proprietary estoppel claims, co-ownership disputes, highway law, mortgage cases and restrictive covenant cases. Members are also experienced in dealing with non-contentious work in these areas including the drafting of bespoke documentation.

Landlord and tenantMembers deal with business, residential and agricultural landlord and tenant cases. Work undertaken includes dilapidation claims, rent review disputes, forfeiture claims, lease renewals, possession actions and proceedings under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Land registrationMembers deal with contentious and non-contentious work relating to registered land. This includes appearing in contested cases before the First-tier Property Tribunal.

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Public and Admin Law Actions against public authoritiesAssaultHistoric sexual abuse claimsClaims against the police, social services, church, prisons, probation and other public authoritiesHuman Rights ActCourt of Protection InquestsMental Health

Data ProtectionDeaths in custodyJudicial ReviewDisputes relating to the provision of care or services under the Care Act 2014, Children Act 1989 and the Mental Health Act 1983Public InquiriesHealth & Social CareSpecial Education Needs and Disability Tribunal.

Areas of Expertise

Combining legal knowledge and client care to deliver an exceptional service

Parklane Plowden’s Public and Administrative Law Team includes specialists from several practice areas and at all levels of call.

The team offers expertise in: Court of Protection* and Mental Health; Inquests*; Judicial Review; Health & Social Care; Special Education Needs and Disability Tribunal; claims against public authorities such as the Police, prisons, probation and social services, including historic abuse claims*; the Human Rights Act and data protection.

Judicial ReviewJudicial review cases can be complex and therefore require expert knowledge and handling. Members of the team regularly provide advice and representation on a range of matters including: the provision of social care needs; disputes in relation to the care or otherwise provided under the Children Act 1989 and the availability of resources for those that lack capacity.

Health & Social CareWe advise and appear on behalf of public authorities and individuals in relation to health and social care disputes. Our team has considerable experience of cases involving disputes relating to the provision of care or services under the Care Act 2014, the Children Act 1989 and the Mental Health Act 1983.

Special Education Needs & Disability TribunalAnother niche area, barristers undertaking this work includes a former Special Educational Needs & Disability Tribunal Recorder. Several barristers have many years’ experience advising and representing Local Authorities and parents in cases before the Tribunal.

* Please refer to the separate sections in this brochure on these areas of expertise.

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Sports Law Agency disputesAnti-doping rules and proceedingsBreach of confidentiality and privacyBribery allegationsContractual disputes

Disciplinary and regulatory proceedingsInsurance disputesSponsorship agreementsSports related personal injury

Areas of Expertise

Technical expertise combined with forceful advocacy

Chambers is in the unique position of being home to a small number of nationally recognised sports law barristers who operate outside London. Our barristers are involved in every type of sports related case; from agency disputes to acting as advisors to sporting governing bodies.

Barristers undertaking this work have a sound appreciation of the wider factors that need to be brought into account when representing high-profile celebrity sporting clients. We have advised and represented premier league and international football players, a former England cricket captain, rugby league international players, as well as darts and cycling professionals.

Members of the team sit on the Footballing Association Appeal Board and advise sports governing bodies on a wide range of issues.

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Mediation/Arbitration

Chambers is home to several barristers who are accredited mediators and arbitrators. They have experience of acting on behalf of parties involved in both mediation and arbitration, as well as acting as the mediator or arbitrator.

ArbitrationArbitration is a means for parties to resolve disputes by the final decision of a private tribunal, either chosen by the parties or chosen by a method to which the parties have agreed.

MediationMediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution in which a neutral mediator assists parties to settle their disputes.

Direct Access

We have barristers in all of our practice areas who are specially qualified to accept Direct Access work (sometimes referred to as Public Access). Barristers are governed by the same rules of professional conduct and their role largely remains the same as when they are instructed by a solicitor, however there are instances where they are prohibited from acting without the involvement of a solicitor.

Our barristers have considerable experience of representing individuals on a direct access basis. Their work includes advising (both in writing and in conference), drafting legal documents, letters of communication and advocacy representation at court or tribunal hearings.

For those wishing to instruct a barrister directly, please visit our website which includes an online portal in to which you can input details of your case. You’ll then be contacted by one of our clerks who will discuss your case in detail and explain your fee options.

We have barristers who are members /accredited by the following:

- ADR-ODR International- Children Arbitrator- Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIARB)- Member of the Institute of Family Law Arbitrators- London School of Mediation- Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) Lead Mediator Panel- Association of Northern Mediators- Association of Midlands Mediators

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About Us

Parklane Plowden was formed on 1st October 2007 following the merger of Park Lane Chambers (Leeds) and Plowden Chambers (Newcastle). With over 100 barristers we are the largest set on the North Eastern circuit with both a regional and national client base.

In 2015, under the leadership of Head of Chambers at the time, Andrew Axon, Chambers underwent a radical restructure that involved creating an Executive Committee (responsible for driving growth) and a Service Company (responsible for internal operations).

The restructure was motivated by a need to ensure that Chambers is positioned to deliver a legal service that is efficient and responsive to the changing legal landscape. This innovative approach to the structure of a Chambers is the first of its kind and represents Chambers’ commitment towards its long-term growth plans and enhanced client-solicitor experience.

Executive Management CommitteeThe Executive Management Committee’s role is to oversee and drive delivery on all aspects of Chambers growth strategy. The committee comprises members of Chambers along with several external consultants who are well recognised within their fields of expertise.

Service CompanyChambers has a separate Service Company charged with managing the internal systems associated with running barristers’ chambers, including finance, building management and HR.

The Service Company is made up of barristers, staff and external consultants whose role it is to oversee all of Chambers internal operations and to ensure the efficient delivery of legal services.

We operate an open communications policy using the latest digital technology. This affords our clients full access to members of chambers.

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Head Clerks

We have a large and highly experienced team of 15 Directors, Practice Managers and Clerks who thrive on fostering superb client relationships that benefit everyone.

They work within specific practice groups which cultivates an in-depth working knowledge of clients and barristers enabling us to deliver a “first-class service” [Chambers & Partners 2019].

Under the leadership of Director of Clerking, Michael Stubbs, the team operate within a culture where effective communication and solution-finding is paramount.

Experienced, approachable and highly responsive, we operate stringent work protocols to ensure delivery of the best possible service.

Michael StubbsDirector of Clerking and Business Developmente: michael.stubbs@parklaneplowden.co.ukt: 0191 211 4082 m: 07808 402 468

“Michael Stubbs helps to set the chambers apart from its rivals. Whatever the problem, Mike will find a workable solution. He’s a pleasure to work with.” Chambers & Partners 2019

Mark WilliamsSenior Practice Director Civil and Familye: mark.williams@parklaneplowden.co.ukt: 0113 228 5043 m: 07791 943 659

“Mark Williams is fantastic!” Legal 500 2017

Sharon RobsonSenior Practice Director Civil and Employmente: sharon.robson@parklaneplowden.co.ukt: 0191 211 4080 m: 07766 401 417

“Brilliant, and always happy to help and very responsive.” Legal 500 2019

Stephen RenderPractice Director Chancery and Commercial e: stephen.render@parklaneplowden.co.ukt: 0113 228 5000 m: 07967 227 407

“Very personable and always accommodating.” Legal 500 2017

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Awards

2019Yorkshire Accountancy AwardsIn-House Finance Team of the YearWinners

Chambers Bar AwardsRegional Set of the YearShortlisted

Legal 500 Bar AwardsRegional Set of the YearShortlisted

2018Yorkshire Legal AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Family Law AwardsFamily Law QC of the Year - Jo Delahunty QCShortlisted

Chambers Bar AwardsPersonal Injury/Clinical Negligence - Junior of the Year- Andrew AxonShortlisted

Legal 500 Bar AwardsRegional Set of the YearShortlisted

Chambers Bar AwardsRegional Set of the YearShortlisted

Personal Injury AwardsBarristers’ Chambers of the YearShortlisted

2017Modern Law AwardsChambers of the YearWinners

Northern Law AwardsLaw Practice Management - Michael StubbsShortlisted

Modern Claims AwardsChambers of the YearWinners

Northern Law AwardsLawyer of the Year - Steven TurnerShortlisted

Claims Management AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Yorkshire Legal AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Personal Injury AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Legal 500 Bar AwardsRegional Set of the YearShortlisted

2016Legal 500 Bar AwardsClerking Practice Management Team Shortlisted

Personal Injury AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Personal Injury AwardsPractice/Operations Manager of the Year - Michael StubbsShortlisted

Chambers Bar AwardsRegional Set of the YearShortlisted

Yorkshire Legal AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Northern Law AwardsLaw Practice Management Team of The YearWinners

2015Modern Law AwardsBarristers Chambers of the YearShortlisted

Personal Injury AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Yorkshire Legal AwardsChambers of the YearWinners

The Lawyer AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Northern Law AwardsLawyer of the Year - Steven TurnerShortlisted

2014Personal Injury AwardsChambers of the YearWinners

Yorkshire Legal AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

2013Family Law AwardsFamily Law QC of the Year - Jo Delahunty QCShortlisted

Chambers Bar AwardsJunior Employment Barrister of the Year - Seamus SweeneyWinners

Personal Injury AwardsChambers of the YearWinners

2010Personal Injury AwardsPractice Manager of the Year - Michael StubbsWinner

Personal Injury AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

2009Best of the BestChambers of the YearShortlisted

Chambers Bar AwardsRegional Set of the YearShortlisted

Personal Injury AwardsChambers of the YearShortlisted

Personal Injury AwardsOutstanding Case of the Year - David Wilby QCWinner

Personal Injury AwardsBarrister of the Year - David Wilby QCShortlisted

2008Personal Injury AwardsChambers of the YearWinner

Law Society Excellence AwardsBarrister of the Year- Howard ElgotShortlisted

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Contact Us

LeedsParklane House19 WestgateLeeds LS1 2RD

T: 0113 228 5000F: 0113 200 1018

DX: 26404 Leeds Park SquareE: clerks@parklaneplowden.co.uk

NewcastleLombard House4-8 Lombard StreetNewcastle upon TyneNE1 3AE

T: 0191 221 2121F: 0191 221 2122

DX: 61062 NewcastleE: clerks@parklaneplowden.co.uk

Our opening hours: Monday to Friday8.30am to 6.00pm

Follow Us: @ParklanePlowden @ParklanePlowdenChambers

For further information, visit:www.parklaneplowden.co.uk

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clerks@parklaneplowden.co.ukparklaneplowden.co.uk

LeedsParklane House19 WestgateLeeds LS1 2RD

t: 0113 228 5000f: 0113 200 1018dx: 26404 Leeds Park Square

NewcastleLombard House4-8 Lombard StreetNewcastle upon TyneNE1 3AE

t: 0191 221 2121f: 0191 221 2122dx: 61062 Newcastle