The Chambers UK 2012 editorials heralded accolades for 19 Westwater Advocates and particular recognition for the Family/Matrimonial and Personal Injury sets:
‘This [Family/Matrimonial] standout set is commended for “providing exceptional expertise in family law and for always going the extra mile.” Offering some of the most highly regarded family barristers in Scotland, it is a go-to stable for all family law concerns.’
‘The stable houses a number of [Personal Injury] practitioners experienced in both smaller and higher value serious injury claims. Poor communication is the bugbear of many a client, which is why they are delighted to find advocates at this stable who “acknowledge communications promptly” and “deal quickly and efficiently with any enquiries.” ‘
Clerk Sheila Westwater said “The latest research by Chambers again highlights the multi-disciplinary excellence that Westwater Advocates has to offer. Our advocates have proven strength and depth in a broad range of specialisms and this recognition is thoroughly well deserved.”
Here is what Chambers said about counsel:
Agricultural & Rural Affairs
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‘Star Individual’ Sir Crispin Agnew QC ‘is unanimously considered to be the leading counsel for agriculture and crofting law in Scotland. In particular, he is known for taking on cases that others dare not and turning them around. His admirers say that “his indefatigability and diligence stand out for all to see.” He has written several authoritative texts on Scottish agricultural law and is developing his expertise in environmental law and renewable energy production. Sources add that he is a “true expert” who shines with his “approachable, client-friendly charm.” ‘
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Gail Joughin ‘is a property advocate with a strong line in agricultural holdings, tenancy and grazing lease disputes. Clients appreciate her experience and understanding of the sector.’
Clinical Negligence
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David Stephenson QC ‘exclusively represents defenders and has considerable nous and experience in medical negligence.’
- Margaret Hodge ‘is lauded for her balances and considered approach: “She is wonderfully diligent and works tirelessly on her cases.” ‘
Commercial Dispute Resolution
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Nick Ellis QC ‘is a significant presence in the market and offers a healthy range of expertise, including the handling of disputes relating to professional negligence and construction.’
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Calum MacNeill QC ‘is admired by market sources for the breadth and depth of his commercial disputes expertise. He attracts instructions relating to professional negligence, construction and employment disputes.’
Employment
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James Peoples QC ‘is a talented advocate with particular expertise in dealing with equal pay disputes.’
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‘Highly rated junior’ Alice Stobart ‘is widely tipped by peers to have a bright future in this area and has particularly impressed with her advocacy.’
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Juliette Casey ‘deservedly enters the rankings this year. She is known for her first-class knowledge of equality law and has been regularly appearing in equal pay disputes in the courts.’
Family/Matrimonial
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Morag Wise QC ‘wins particular recognition for her skill with the “tougher, bigger-money cases.” Offering “the full package, “ she is respected as a “formidable opponent who provides a fresh perspective and a practical approach.” ‘
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Lynda Brabender ‘ “will fight her corner while looking for creative solutions.” Her practice includes high-value divorce actions and public child law. “She heads the field in adoption law and is massively experienced with local authorities,” say instructing solicitors.’
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Ruth Innes ‘garners plaudits for her practice which in the past year has included Hague Convention applications. “Her written work is cogent and well drafted, she is quick to grasp the pertinent issues and she has an impressive depth of knowledge.” ‘
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‘Cohabitation claims are a growing area of interest’ for Robert Hayhow, ‘and he is also active on international child abduction cases. “He is praised for his thorough and tough negotiation skills, and clients feel safe with him on board.” ‘
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Mary Loudon ‘commands respect for her strength in arguing motions. She frequently appears in the Sheriff Courts in childcare cases.’
Health & Safety
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‘“Energetic, smart, clean-cut, first rate advocate.”’ Gavin Anderson ‘has recently “defended numerous health and safety prosecutions involving fatalities and appeared in many fatal accident inquiries. “He’s very effective, shows great attention to detail and is very considered in his pleadings,” say those that use him.’
Personal Injury
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‘Interviewees point to the tremendous value James Campbell QC adds on complex personal injury cases. He was recently involved in Wilson v Excel UK, an attempt to make an employer liable for a workplace assault.’
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Andrew Hajducki QC ‘handled one of the cases arising out of the Nimrod accident in Afghanistan.’
- ‘The hugely experienced Gilmour Ivey QC has a considerable industrial disease practice and is a popular choice in cases where claimants are exposed to asbestos, isocyanate or nitrogen dioxide.’
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‘Preston Lloyd has long experience in personal injury cases, whilst Gordon Lamont has proved himself a popular junior for complex injury claims, especially those arising out of aircraft accidents.’
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