Meet Our Expert Panel

Experience

Andrew qualified as a solicitor and spent many years advising on complex clinical negligence cases, particularly birth injury claims and group actions. His legal practice included landmark cases such as Winterbourne View and Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust, where he led actions on behalf of vulnerable adults.

He now works exclusively as a full-time mediator, drawing on more than 20 years of experience to support resolution in some of the most emotionally charged and medically complex disputes.

Mediation Practice

A Civil Mediation Council Registered Mediator since 2004, Andrew has conducted more than 70 mediations in the last five years alone, achieving a settlement rate of over 80%. His experience ranges from multimillion-pound birth injury cases to modest but deeply significant fatal claims.

He has worked extensively with both claimant and defendant representatives and NHS panel firms. He is particularly skilled in mediating high-emotion cases, group claims, and disputes involving unrepresented parties or mental capacity challenges.

Approach

Andrew is known for his warm, respectful, and pragmatic style. He combines outstanding communication skills with a sensitive, inclusive approach that puts clients at ease, even in highly stressful situations. He facilitates constructive engagement between parties and helps guide them to resolution calmly and efficiently.

Leadership & Affiliations

• Immediate Past Chair, Association of South West Mediators
• Past President, Bristol Medico-Legal Society
• Civil Mediation Council Member
• Chair of Trustees, National Children’s Brain Injury Charity (former)

Testimonials

“Andrew was friendly, approachable, and collaborative… I was very satisfied with his preparation, grasp of the issues, and legal expertise”. Bethan Parry, Graystons Solicitors

“He managed to keep the atmosphere positive and light, while dealing with a difficult and potentially stressful situation”. Helena Wood, Hudgells Solicitors

“If I were ever taken hostage, I know who I would call on to negotiate my release!”.

Experience

Tessa qualified as a solicitor in 1998, training at Irwin Mitchell where she developed significant expertise in brain injury and catastrophic claims for both adults and children. She secured numerous multi-million-pound settlements and was recognised as an APIL Fellow for her excellence in claimant litigation.

Since 2012, she has worked as a non-practising solicitor, supporting firms on complex injury litigation through her consultancy and mediation practice.

Mediation Practice

An accredited mediator since 2014 and a Civil Mediation Council Registered Mediator, Tessa has handled more than 100 mediations including clinical negligence, personal injury, and special educational needs disputes.

She mediates regularly in complex medical cases such as surgical error, delayed diagnosis, neonatal death, psychiatric injury, and fatal claims. She also handles workplace and educational disputes with multiple stakeholders, and is known for her professionalism, patience, and inclusive facilitation.

Approach

Tessa is widely praised for her ability to put clients at ease and guide parties through challenging negotiations with empathy and fairness. She is meticulous in preparation and effective at breaking deadlocks while maintaining a supportive and structured mediation process.

Roles and Membership

• Director, London School of Mediation
• CMC Registered Mediator
• Former APIL Fellow
• Special Educational Needs Accredited Mediator

Testimonials

“Tessa was simply excellent. She prepared well, connected with the Claimant/family immediately and broke the deadlock”.

“Very calm and reassuring… helped us come to a conclusion”.

“An excellent lawyer and a most effective organiser and communicator with first-class interpersonal skills”. GM KC

Experience

Philip qualified as a solicitor in 1991 and spent 17 years specialising in personal injury, industrial disease, and employer liability claims at firms including Thompsons Solicitors and Slater & Gordon. Since becoming a mediator in 2006, he has conducted hundreds of mediations, including high-profile cases involving fatal accidents, oncology negligence, and wrongful birth.

He is an NHS Resolution-approved mediator, a Civil Mediation Council Fellow, and regularly delivers CPD training and peer reviews for other mediators.

Mediation Practice

Philip’s practice focuses on clinical negligence, personal injury, probate and trusts, and stress at work claims. Over 70% of his mediations since 2020 have been conducted online, and he is adept at managing hybrid formats where parties attend both in person and remotely.

He is trusted by solicitors, counsel, NHS Trusts, insurers, and unrepresented claimants alike, offering facilitative or evaluative approaches and often employing mediator proposals to resolve deadlocks. His mediations range from short, time-limited matters to complex, multi-party cases involving up to 20 participants.

Approach

Philip is praised for being professional, down-to-earth, flexible, and client-focused. He manages confidentiality rigorously and sets a collaborative tone from the outset, ensuring that all parties feel heard and supported. His calm, neutral style, strong pre-mediation preparation, and expert grasp of complex issues help him consistently achieve meaningful resolutions.

Membership & Recognition

• NHSR Approved Mediator
• Civil Mediation Council Fellow
• Mediation Achiever of the Year – Personal Injury Awards 2021
• Peer Reviewer and CPD Trainer for mediators
• Former Solicitor (Qualified 1991)

Testimonials

“Phil was brilliant with the Claimant, a litigant in person with Autism… a resolution that I am certain would not have been reached without him“. Bryony Steele, DAC Beechcroft

“Professional, down to earth, friendly, flexible… would always want him as first choice“. Shantala Carr, Girlings Solicitors

“Completely neutral and calm throughout… the best mediation experience I’ve had”. Insurance Client

Experience

Meera qualified as a solicitor in 2010 and has practised in both Tier 1 private practice and as an in-house lawyer at a leading international medical defence organisation. She has handled a wide range of personal injury and clinical negligence claims, including primary care disputes, multi-party litigation, and high-value catastrophic injury cases.

Her clinical litigation experience spans gastroenterology, oncology, renal, neurology, cardiology, trauma and orthopaedics, and GP claims under the ELS scheme. This all-round perspective helps her rapidly gain trust from clinicians, patients, lawyers, and claims professionals.

Mediation Practice

An accredited Civil Mediation Council mediator since 2018 and NHSR panel member, Meera has facilitated successful outcomes in claims ranging from £50,000 to multi-million-pound settlements. She mediates in person, online, and in hybrid formats, and is frequently chosen for emotionally sensitive or high-stakes mediations involving multiple parties.

She is particularly noted for her skill in fertility and surrogacy disputes, delayed diagnosis, surgical error, and wrongful death claims.

Approach

Meera is praised for her calm authority, empathy, and ability to create a safe space for open and honest discussion. She manages personalities with tact, promotes collaborative problem-solving, and helps parties move forward, even in the most fraught or emotional cases. Her high settlement rate reflects her ability to combine legal precision with human insight.

Leadership & Outreach

• Founder, Civil and Commercial Dispute Resolution Consultancy
• Speaker at national healthcare and legal events
• Trainer in conflict resolution and ADR
• Published author and national press contributor on patient safety
• Mentor and advocate for EDI and social mobility
• Former Trustee, Citizens Advice Bureau
• Fluent in multiple languages

Testimonials

“[Meera] handled the Mediation pragmatically and efficiently, steering the parties to the crux of the issues appropriately”.

“Meera’s sympathetic manner took a lot of heat out of a fraught encounter. My client knows they were listened to and treated with respect, and that matters enormously”.

“She made a massive difference to the tone of the negotiation, which was overwhelmingly positive and left a lasting impression”.

“While emotions were running high, Meera’s patient and empathetic manner put the Claimant at ease and brought about a settlement both parties were happy with”.

“Meera did tremendously well to facilitate settlement of a very tricky personal injury claim by a litigant in person. The Defendant and I felt the claim was substantially exaggerated but direct negotiations were fruitless. An in person mediation with a 2 hour time limit was agreed. Despite the very tight and perhaps ambitious timetable for the mediation, we settled for a costs inclusive figure much less than the Claimant’s demand within the 2 hours allowed.

Given the amount of quantum issues in the claim, that was an excellent achievement. The claimant and my client were both very happy with the settlement, and a costly case management conference and potential trial were avoided”. Paul Hughes, Partner, Weightmans LLP

Experience

Victoria was appointed as the youngest High Court Master in 2010, having first served as Deputy Costs Judge and Taxing Master from 2006. She retired from the Bench in 2024, following an influential judicial career marked by landmark rulings and leadership in reforming court approaches to ADR.

She was the first trans person appointed as a Master of the High Court and brought a multidisciplinary perspective to her work, having previously earned a doctorate in visual system science from Oxford and qualified as a chartered psychologist before her legal career.

ADR & Mediation Practice

Victoria is a trusted mediator, evaluator, and expert in early dispute resolution. Her ADR work focuses on clinical negligence, personal injury, professional negligence, and costs. She is frequently called upon for complex or high-profile disputes, including those requiring sensitive handling and discretion.

She is also the founder of the Historic Abuse Lawyers’ Forum (HALF), advocating for more constructive resolution processes in trauma-related litigation. Her recent judicial commentary has affirmed the expectation that parties must engage meaningfully in ADR processes.

Approach

Victoria brings unmatched authority, clarity, and sensitivity to every case. Her combined backgrounds in psychology, law, and judicial decision-making make her especially effective at managing disputes where emotional intensity and complex legal issues intersect. She is direct, fair, and focused on constructive outcomes.

Career & Recognition

• Master of the Queen’s Bench Division (2010–2024)
• Costs Judge / Taxing Master (2006–2024)
• Barrister, Coram Chambers (called 1995)
• Doctorate in Experimental Psychology, Christ Church, Oxford
• Founder, Historic Abuse Lawyers’ Forum (HALF)
• Advocate for justice innovation and trauma-informed legal practice

Quote from Final Judgment

“The parties must engage in ADR… Good reason will need to be shown if the form of that dispute resolution is at any less engaged than mediation via Costs lawyers”. Elpicke v Times Media Ltd [2024] EWHC Civ 2595 (KBD)

Experience

Sir Paul was called to the Bar in 1975 and took silk in 1992. He practised at Falcon Chambers, specialising in property and related areas such as professional negligence and insolvency. He regularly appeared before the Court of Appeal and on six occasions in the House of Lords.

He served as a Deputy High Court Judge from 2001 and was appointed a full-time Judge of the Chancery Division in 2007, where he sat for 14 years. His judicial career spanned the full range of commercial and Chancery work, including company law, trusts, pensions, tax, and intellectual property. He retired in 2021 and now practices as an arbitrator and mediator.

Mediation and Arbitration Practice

Paul is a Civil Mediation Council accredited mediator and brings deep experience to disputes involving commercial, property, trust, and professional negligence issues. His ADR practice is underpinned by his long judicial tenure, during which he handled some of the most significant and high-value cases in the Chancery Division.

He is particularly skilled at managing complex multi-party disputes and providing evaluative input where required. Paul is also a member of the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA), ICCA, ICC, and a panel member for King’s Counsel appointments.

Approach

Paul brings calm, clarity, and intellectual rigour to mediation. His ability to analyse complex legal and factual issues quickly, combined with his reputation for fairness and diligence, makes him a trusted neutral in high-stakes and technical disputes. He is committed to efficiency and maintaining momentum in settlement discussions.

Appointments & Recognition

• High Court Judge, Chancery Division (2007–2021)
• Deputy High Court Judge (2001–2007)
• Chairman, Land Registration Rule Committee (2009–2021)
• Bencher, Lincoln’s Inn (2001)
• Arbitrator, Wilberforce Chambers

Publications

• Joint Editor, Woodfall on Landlord and Tenant
• Joint Editor, Gale on Easements
• Joint Editor, Fisher and Lightwood’s Law of Mortgage

Experience

A former Head of Hailsham Chambers and Treasurer of the Inner Temple (2017), David has spent his legal career at the forefront of complex and high-profile cases. He has practised extensively in clinical negligence, professional discipline, insurance, and catastrophic injury law.

He became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in 1998 and an Accredited Mediator in 2002. Since 2012, he has focused almost exclusively on dispute resolution, building a strong following among both claimant and defendant solicitors.

Mediation Practice

David’s practice now centres on alternative dispute resolution, particularly evaluative mediation and neutral evaluation. His recent mediations include solicitor negligence, serious brain injury RTAs, employer liability, and claims involving breaches of the ECHR and misfeasance in public office.

He is known for his structured, insightful approach and ability to instil confidence in even the most complex and sensitive cases.

Approach

Known for his clarity, realism, and calm authority, Mark is highly effective at steering complex disputes to resolution. His deep insight into both legal frameworks and institutional dynamics allows him to identify creative, pragmatic solutions in even the most sensitive mediations.

Qualifications & Appointments

• KC (appointed 2002)
• Former Junior Counsel to the Crown
• Former Special Advocate in national security matters
• Head of Blackstone Chambers Mediation Group
• Accredited mediator (CEDR)
• Member of Trust Mediation, IPOS, CMC

Awards

• Mediation Achiever of the Year, Personal Injury Awards 2024
• Lifetime Achievement Award, Claims Innovation Awards 2024
• Lifetime Achievement, Modern Claims Awards 2026

Testimonials

“Mark Shaw KC is a tremendous asset”. Chambers UK, 2025

“His style was open and realistic… this was an enormously difficult case and he helped us through it in a subtle and highly skilled way”.

“An exceptional performer who has unparalleled expertise in public sector mediations”.

“She does not give up… the trust she inspires goes a long way to explaining her success rate”.

Experience

Cam brings decades of experience in dispute resolution, alongside a distinguished academic career as a part-time Professor of Law at the University of Sunderland. Prior to requalifying in law, he spent 25 years as an NHS Consultant Surgeon, giving him deep insight into healthcare systems and practitioner behaviour.

He has held roles as tribunal chair, legal evaluator, and decision-maker for healthcare regulators across several jurisdictions including the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. His advisory roles include NHS Resolution (England), Legal and Risk Services (Wales), and international surgical colleges and regulatory bodies.

Mediation Practice

Cam regularly mediates high-value and complex clinical negligence and personal injury claims, including those involving healthcare systems, clinician conduct, and institutional disputes. His cases span from delay in diagnosis to multi-party disputes involving product liability and hospital trust governance.

He is also skilled in commercial and licensing disputes, especially in biotechnology, education, and research partnerships. He frequently works in scenarios involving allegations of professional negligence, disciplinary matters, and regulatory evaluation.

Neutral Evaluation and Arbitration

In addition to mediation, Cam conducts paper- and oral-based neutral evaluations, often in regulatory or clinical contexts. His arbitration work benefits from his Fellowship with the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) and specialist legal training from the University of Aberdeen.

Approach

Known for his calm, open, and inclusive style, Cam ensures that all voices are heard, particularly in disputes with inherent power imbalances. He is praised for his ability to handle emotive topics with sensitivity while remaining analytical and decisive.

Qualifications

• LLM (Master of Laws)
• D.Med.Sc (Doctorate in Medical Science)
• FCIArb (Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators)
• CMC Accredited Mediator
• Professor of Law, University of Sunderland
• Former NHS Consultant Surgeon

Testimonials

“Cam is very bright. He as a ‘laser-like’ focus, quickly determining the issue at hand and making robust decisions which are evidenced and balanced”. Counsel (USA)

“Cam is known for his detailed and analytical approach to every aspect of his practice. His attention to detail and the ability to grasp the key essential aspects of a case are his most attractive skills when dealing with cases of considerable complexity”. Counsel (UK-Bar)

“Cam is known for his detailed and analytical approach to every aspect of his practice. His attention to detail and the ability to grasp the key essential aspects of a case are his most attractive skills when dealing with cases of considerable complexity”. Counsel (UK-Bar)

“Cam is helpful, knowledgeable, and empathetic. He has a great knowledge of process and litigation, especially within healthcare – I would not hesitate to recommend him to any of my colleagues”. Defendant – Negligence

“Cam is quick to grasp the matter. He asks precise and pertinent questions. He is compassionate, but above all, he is fair”. Counsel-Disciplinary Matter

Approach

Known for her warmth, sensitivity, and empathy, Helena brings a supportive, structured presence to mediation. She is especially skilled in emotionally charged environments and is praised for helping parties reach resolution with dignity and care.

Leadership & Memberships

• Associate, Tozers LLP
• Civil Mediation Council Accredited Mediator
• Panel Mediator, Society of Mediators
• Faculty Member & Trainer, Society of Mediators
• Committee Member, Association of South West Mediators
• Former Chair of Trustees, Veterans With Dogs
• Trustee, Lunas Fund (baby loss charity)
• Ambassador & Befriender, Meningitis Research Foundation

Experience

Andrew qualified as a solicitor and spent many years advising on complex clinical negligence cases, particularly birth injury claims and group actions. His legal practice included landmark cases such as Winterbourne View and Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust, where he led actions on behalf of vulnerable adults.

He now works exclusively as a full-time mediator, drawing on more than 20 years of experience to support resolution in some of the most emotionally charged and medically complex disputes.

Mediation Practice

A Civil Mediation Council Registered Mediator since 2004, Andrew has conducted more than 70 mediations in the last five years alone, achieving a settlement rate of over 80%. His experience ranges from multimillion-pound birth injury cases to modest but deeply significant fatal claims.

He has worked extensively with both claimant and defendant representatives and NHS panel firms. He is particularly skilled in mediating high-emotion cases, group claims, and disputes involving unrepresented parties or mental capacity challenges.

Approach

Andrew is known for his warm, respectful, and pragmatic style. He combines outstanding communication skills with a sensitive, inclusive approach that puts clients at ease, even in highly stressful situations. He facilitates constructive engagement between parties and helps guide them to resolution calmly and efficiently.

Leadership & Affiliations

• Immediate Past Chair, Association of South West Mediators
• Past President, Bristol Medico-Legal Society
• Civil Mediation Council Member
• Chair of Trustees, National Children’s Brain Injury Charity (former)

Testimonials

“Andrew was friendly, approachable, and collaborative… I was very satisfied with his preparation, grasp of the issues, and legal expertise”. Bethan Parry, Graystons Solicitors

“He managed to keep the atmosphere positive and light, while dealing with a difficult and potentially stressful situation”. Helena Wood, Hudgells Solicitors

“If I were ever taken hostage, I know who I would call on to negotiate my release!”.

Experience

Tessa qualified as a solicitor in 1998, training at Irwin Mitchell where she developed significant expertise in brain injury and catastrophic claims for both adults and children. She secured numerous multi-million-pound settlements and was recognised as an APIL Fellow for her excellence in claimant litigation.

Since 2012, she has worked as a non-practising solicitor, supporting firms on complex injury litigation through her consultancy and mediation practice.

Mediation Practice

An accredited mediator since 2014 and a Civil Mediation Council Registered Mediator, Tessa has handled more than 100 mediations including clinical negligence, personal injury, and special educational needs disputes.

She mediates regularly in complex medical cases such as surgical error, delayed diagnosis, neonatal death, psychiatric injury, and fatal claims. She also handles workplace and educational disputes with multiple stakeholders, and is known for her professionalism, patience, and inclusive facilitation.

Approach

Tessa is widely praised for her ability to put clients at ease and guide parties through challenging negotiations with empathy and fairness. She is meticulous in preparation and effective at breaking deadlocks while maintaining a supportive and structured mediation process.

Roles and Membership

• Director, London School of Mediation
• CMC Registered Mediator
• Former APIL Fellow
• Special Educational Needs Accredited Mediator

Testimonials

“Tessa was simply excellent. She prepared well, connected with the Claimant/family immediately and broke the deadlock”.

“Very calm and reassuring… helped us come to a conclusion”.

“An excellent lawyer and a most effective organiser and communicator with first-class interpersonal skills”. GM KC

Experience

Philip qualified as a solicitor in 1991 and spent 17 years specialising in personal injury, industrial disease, and employer liability claims at firms including Thompsons Solicitors and Slater & Gordon. Since becoming a mediator in 2006, he has conducted hundreds of mediations, including high-profile cases involving fatal accidents, oncology negligence, and wrongful birth.

He is an NHS Resolution-approved mediator, a Civil Mediation Council Fellow, and regularly delivers CPD training and peer reviews for other mediators.

Mediation Practice

Philip’s practice focuses on clinical negligence, personal injury, probate and trusts, and stress at work claims. Over 70% of his mediations since 2020 have been conducted online, and he is adept at managing hybrid formats where parties attend both in person and remotely.

He is trusted by solicitors, counsel, NHS Trusts, insurers, and unrepresented claimants alike, offering facilitative or evaluative approaches and often employing mediator proposals to resolve deadlocks. His mediations range from short, time-limited matters to complex, multi-party cases involving up to 20 participants.

Approach

Philip is praised for being professional, down-to-earth, flexible, and client-focused. He manages confidentiality rigorously and sets a collaborative tone from the outset, ensuring that all parties feel heard and supported. His calm, neutral style, strong pre-mediation preparation, and expert grasp of complex issues help him consistently achieve meaningful resolutions.

Membership & Recognition

• NHSR Approved Mediator
• Civil Mediation Council Fellow
• Mediation Achiever of the Year – Personal Injury Awards 2021
• Peer Reviewer and CPD Trainer for mediators
• Former Solicitor (Qualified 1991)

Testimonials

“Phil was brilliant with the Claimant, a litigant in person with Autism… a resolution that I am certain would not have been reached without him“. Bryony Steele, DAC Beechcroft

“Professional, down to earth, friendly, flexible… would always want him as first choice“. Shantala Carr, Girlings Solicitors

“Completely neutral and calm throughout… the best mediation experience I’ve had”. Insurance Client

Experience

Judith is a non-practising solicitor with more than two decades of experience in clinical negligence and personal injury litigation. Before law, she served as a Royal Navy officer and electronics engineer. Her legal expertise, combined with technical insight and extensive mediation training, gives her a unique edge in managing high-value and emotionally complex disputes.

She has mediated across a broad range of sectors including clinical negligence, personal injury, costs, professional negligence, property, education, employment, and third sector disputes.

Mediation Practice

An accredited mediator since 2002 and a Civil Mediation Council Fellow, Judith is known for her work in high-stakes, multi-party and highly sensitive disputes. She has mediated cases involving surgical injuries, wrongful death, birth trauma, catastrophic brain and spinal injuries, PTSD, and disputed life expectancy.

She also regularly handles workplace mediations—including harassment, bullying, whistleblowing and boardroom disputes—and has led mediations involving up to 26 participants. Judith is a frequent choice for public sector, academic, and healthcare-related disputes.

Approach

Judith is known for her logical, analytical approach balanced by warmth and empathy. She builds trust quickly with all parties, including unrepresented litigants, and guides complex negotiations with resilience and care. Her ability to handle challenging personalities and entrenched conflict has earned her a reputation as a tenacious yet fair neutral.

Training & Leadership

• Director and Lead Trainer, London School of Mediation
• Expert Witness Trainer in PI and Clinical Negligence
• NHS Mediation and Conflict Resolution Educator
• Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
• Fellow, Civil Mediation Council

Testimonials

“Judith’s professionalism, hard work and tenacity brought about a settlement that felt impossible before. The client is delighted”. Claimant Solicitor

“This was an exceptionally intractable case… Judith and her co-mediator were approachable, sympathetic, and moved matters at a good pace”.

“Judith had a very good touch with our client… I’d definitely recommend her”. Defendant Client

“Judith’s patience, common sense and good humour got us through to a resolution”. Defendant Solicitor

Experience

Meera qualified as a solicitor in 2010 and has practised in both Tier 1 private practice and as an in-house lawyer at a leading international medical defence organisation. She has handled a wide range of personal injury and clinical negligence claims, including primary care disputes, multi-party litigation, and high-value catastrophic injury cases.

Her clinical litigation experience spans gastroenterology, oncology, renal, neurology, cardiology, trauma and orthopaedics, and GP claims under the ELS scheme. This all-round perspective helps her rapidly gain trust from clinicians, patients, lawyers, and claims professionals.

Mediation Practice

An accredited Civil Mediation Council mediator since 2018 and NHSR panel member, Meera has facilitated successful outcomes in claims ranging from £50,000 to multi-million-pound settlements. She mediates in person, online, and in hybrid formats, and is frequently chosen for emotionally sensitive or high-stakes mediations involving multiple parties.

She is particularly noted for her skill in fertility and surrogacy disputes, delayed diagnosis, surgical error, and wrongful death claims.

Approach

Meera is praised for her calm authority, empathy, and ability to create a safe space for open and honest discussion. She manages personalities with tact, promotes collaborative problem-solving, and helps parties move forward, even in the most fraught or emotional cases. Her high settlement rate reflects her ability to combine legal precision with human insight.

Leadership & Outreach

• Founder, Civil and Commercial Dispute Resolution Consultancy
• Speaker at national healthcare and legal events
• Trainer in conflict resolution and ADR
• Published author and national press contributor on patient safety
• Mentor and advocate for EDI and social mobility
• Former Trustee, Citizens Advice Bureau
• Fluent in multiple languages

Testimonials

“[Meera] handled the Mediation pragmatically and efficiently, steering the parties to the crux of the issues appropriately”.

“Meera’s sympathetic manner took a lot of heat out of a fraught encounter. My client knows they were listened to and treated with respect, and that matters enormously”.

“She made a massive difference to the tone of the negotiation, which was overwhelmingly positive and left a lasting impression”.

“While emotions were running high, Meera’s patient and empathetic manner put the Claimant at ease and brought about a settlement both parties were happy with”.

“Meera did tremendously well to facilitate settlement of a very tricky personal injury claim by a litigant in person. The Defendant and I felt the claim was substantially exaggerated but direct negotiations were fruitless. An in person mediation with a 2 hour time limit was agreed. Despite the very tight and perhaps ambitious timetable for the mediation, we settled for a costs inclusive figure much less than the Claimant’s demand within the 2 hours allowed.

Given the amount of quantum issues in the claim, that was an excellent achievement. The claimant and my client were both very happy with the settlement, and a costly case management conference and potential trial were avoided”. Paul Hughes, Partner, Weightmans LLP

Experience

Frances is Senior Partner and Head of Personal Injury at Pattinson & Brewer and a founding member of APIL, where she served as President from 2000–2002. She contributed to Lord Woolf’s Working Party and co-developed the original pre-action protocols, helping to shape modern civil litigation practice.

She has an extensive background in catastrophic injury, industrial disease, employers’ liability, and clinical negligence, and is a published editor and contributor to Personal Injury Law Practice and Precedents. She has played a central role in industry-wide negotiations on legal costs, success fees, and multi-track procedures.

Mediation Practice

A mediator since 2006 and NHSR-approved, Frances is especially skilled in working with lay parties, bereaved families, and unrepresented claimants. Her practice includes clinical negligence, fatal claims, industrial disease, multi-party litigation, and costs disputes.

Her collaborative work with Tim Wallis on mediating industry-wide agreements has set a benchmark for inclusive and effective multi-party dispute resolution. She has conducted mediations in-person, online, and in hybrid settings, using both facilitative and evaluative styles.

Approach

Frances is known for her calm, measured, and empathetic presence. She is deeply trusted by parties on all sides and adept at guiding individuals through sensitive conversations while maintaining fairness, focus, and momentum toward resolution. She is especially skilled at uncovering creative and human-centred solutions—such as bereavement support or memorials—alongside financial settlement.

Professional Contributions

• President, APIL (2000–2002)
• Member, Civil Justice Council
• Chair, International Practice Section of AAJ (formerly ATLA)
• Editor, PI Law Practice and Precedents (Jordans)
• Contributor and lecturer to APIL, FOIL, and national mediation bodies

Testimonials

“Very empathetic, experienced, and professional”.

“Frances’ calm and measured approach, combined with her ability to suggest alternatives at critical points, was instrumental in settling the matter”.

“She does not give up… the trust she inspires goes a long way to explaining her success rate”.

Experience

Suzie qualified as a solicitor in 1996 after working as a clinical pharmacist. She began her legal career in product liability litigation before moving into clinical negligence and healthcare law, with experience at NHSR panel firms and as an in-house lawyer at the Medical Protection Society. She joined Gordons Partnership in 2019, where she is a partner in the Health and Social Care Department.

Her clinical background gives her unique insight into disputes involving medical professionals, and she has worked extensively with clinicians, insurers, and patients in high-stakes, high-sensitivity claims.

Mediation Practice

Suzie is a CEDR-accredited mediator and Civil Mediation Council Registered Mediator. She has conducted numerous mediations, both in person and online, in clinical negligence, personal injury, civil and commercial disputes, and community cases. Her practice includes unrepresented claimants, GPs, hospital trusts, and multi-party claims involving ethical and safeguarding issues.

She also led a pilot programme for the Claims Mediation Service while at the Medical Protection Society, promoting early resolution of clinical disputes across the claims lifecycle.

Approach

Suzie is praised for her clarity, calmness, and ability to create a safe, open environment. Her clinical and legal background allows her to communicate effectively with all parties, including families and clinicians. She is firm yet empathetic, always seeking fair and realistic outcomes while gently testing positions to move negotiations forward.

Leadership & Memberships

• Partner, Gordons Partnership
• Civil Mediation Council Registered Mediator
• Lay Member, Clinical Ethics Committee, London Teaching Hospital
• Safeguarding Governor, State Primary School
• Solicitor (1996)
• BPharm (Hons), MA (Medical Law and Ethics), King’s College London

Testimonials

“You demonstrated a pragmatic and reasoned approach… your collaborative approach helped avoid trial and its stress“. Fletchers Solicitors

“I always felt supported by you… your communication was clear, prompt, and reassuring”. GP Client

Experience

A former Head of Hailsham Chambers and Treasurer of the Inner Temple (2017), David has spent his legal career at the forefront of complex and high-profile cases. He has practised extensively in clinical negligence, professional discipline, insurance, and catastrophic injury law.

He became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in 1998 and an Accredited Mediator in 2002. Since 2012, he has focused almost exclusively on dispute resolution, building a strong following among both claimant and defendant solicitors.

Mediation Practice

David’s practice now centres on alternative dispute resolution, particularly evaluative mediation and neutral evaluation. His recent mediations include solicitor negligence, serious brain injury RTAs, employer liability, and claims involving breaches of the ECHR and misfeasance in public office.

He is known for his structured, insightful approach and ability to instil confidence in even the most complex and sensitive cases.

Approach

Known for his clarity, realism, and calm authority, Mark is highly effective at steering complex disputes to resolution. His deep insight into both legal frameworks and institutional dynamics allows him to identify creative, pragmatic solutions in even the most sensitive mediations.

Qualifications & Appointments

• KC (appointed 2002)
• Former Junior Counsel to the Crown
• Former Special Advocate in national security matters
• Head of Blackstone Chambers Mediation Group
• Accredited mediator (CEDR)
• Member of Trust Mediation, IPOS, CMC

Awards

• Mediation Achiever of the Year, Personal Injury Awards 2024
• Lifetime Achievement Award, Claims Innovation Awards 2024
• Lifetime Achievement, Modern Claims Awards 2026

Testimonials

“Mark Shaw KC is a tremendous asset”. Chambers UK, 2025

“His style was open and realistic… this was an enormously difficult case and he helped us through it in a subtle and highly skilled way”.

“An exceptional performer who has unparalleled expertise in public sector mediations”.

“She does not give up… the trust she inspires goes a long way to explaining her success rate”.

“She does not give up… the trust she inspires goes a long way to explaining her success rate”.

Experience

Cam brings decades of experience in dispute resolution, alongside a distinguished academic career as a part-time Professor of Law at the University of Sunderland. Prior to requalifying in law, he spent 25 years as an NHS Consultant Surgeon, giving him deep insight into healthcare systems and practitioner behaviour.

He has held roles as tribunal chair, legal evaluator, and decision-maker for healthcare regulators across several jurisdictions including the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. His advisory roles include NHS Resolution (England), Legal and Risk Services (Wales), and international surgical colleges and regulatory bodies.

Mediation Practice

Cam regularly mediates high-value and complex clinical negligence and personal injury claims, including those involving healthcare systems, clinician conduct, and institutional disputes. His cases span from delay in diagnosis to multi-party disputes involving product liability and hospital trust governance.

He is also skilled in commercial and licensing disputes, especially in biotechnology, education, and research partnerships. He frequently works in scenarios involving allegations of professional negligence, disciplinary matters, and regulatory evaluation.

Neutral Evaluation and Arbitration

In addition to mediation, Cam conducts paper- and oral-based neutral evaluations, often in regulatory or clinical contexts. His arbitration work benefits from his Fellowship with the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) and specialist legal training from the University of Aberdeen.

Approach

Known for his calm, open, and inclusive style, Cam ensures that all voices are heard, particularly in disputes with inherent power imbalances. He is praised for his ability to handle emotive topics with sensitivity while remaining analytical and decisive.

Qualifications

• LLM (Master of Laws)
• D.Med.Sc (Doctorate in Medical Science)
• FCIArb (Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators)
• CMC Accredited Mediator
• Professor of Law, University of Sunderland
• Former NHS Consultant Surgeon

Testimonials

“Cam is very bright. He as a ‘laser-like’ focus, quickly determining the issue at hand and making robust decisions which are evidenced and balanced”. Counsel (USA)

“Cam is known for his detailed and analytical approach to every aspect of his practice. His attention to detail and the ability to grasp the key essential aspects of a case are his most attractive skills when dealing with cases of considerable complexity”. Counsel (UK-Bar)

“Cam is known for his detailed and analytical approach to every aspect of his practice. His attention to detail and the ability to grasp the key essential aspects of a case are his most attractive skills when dealing with cases of considerable complexity”. Counsel (UK-Bar)

“Cam is helpful, knowledgeable, and empathetic. He has a great knowledge of process and litigation, especially within healthcare – I would not hesitate to recommend him to any of my colleagues”. Defendant – Negligence

“Cam is quick to grasp the matter. He asks precise and pertinent questions. He is compassionate, but above all, he is fair”. Counsel-Disciplinary Matter