UK Guide 2026 : Northern Ireland
Ranked Individuals
Provided by Carson McDowell
We are by far the largest team of lawyers in Northern Ireland specialising exclusively in the defence of professional negligence claims.
We act for a wide range of professional indemnity insurers both directly and via major law firms in England and the Republic of Ireland.
Our team of professional indemnity specialists offers true depth of experience, with highly experienced lawyers not just at partner level but also at associate and assistant level.
Due to the significant volume of professional indemnity work we handle, we have developed expertise in defence of claims across the professional indemnity spectrum, including claims against solicitors, architects, engineers, surveyors, accountants and financial advisers.
We regularly advise insurers on coverage and policy issues.
Our team is recognised as an authority in the area of professional indemnity and we are regularly approached to provide presentations on risk management and claims to professional bodies including the Law Society of Northern Ireland, to final year architecture students at Queen’s University and to construction industry bodies such as RICS, ACE and ICE.
Provided by Chambers
Carson McDowell has an exceptional practice that advises on all aspects of professional negligence, with regular work relating to solicitors' negligence. The firm is highlighted for its ability to handle complex mediations between multiple parties and is active in handling high-value claims against surveyors and architects, with clients including a wide range of market-leading insurers.
Provided by Chambers
Carson McDowell have a wealth of experience in their field and fully understand the nuances of the profession.
The team have a wealth of experience and a personal approach that makes you feel you are working in partnership.
Carson McDowell are very well resourced.
They stand out for their attention to detail, creative solutions and responsiveness.
Provided by Chambers
Hugh McGrattan continues to be highly respected for his longstanding experience in professional negligence matters. He acts for clients in a wide range of sectors, including the construction and legal industries.
Hugh McGrattan is outstanding in his field and is an industry leader.
Hugh McGrattan is a seasoned litigator and a great lawyer.
Hugh knows exactly what he's doing all of the time.
Hugh McGrattan is an excellent litigator.
With Hugh, it’s a collaboration and you know you are in safe hands and that he will get the job done.
Declan is an experienced litigator.
Declan is an excellent lawyer who always delivers a good result.
He is great with clients.
Timothy Cockram is a partner in the litigation and dispute resolution team at Carson McDowell. He specialises in professional indemnity and provides advice to a range of professionals including solicitors, engineers, consultants, surveyors and architects.
He is a very good up-and-coming lawyer.
Tim is a very good lawyer with a great eye for detail.
Timothy is well experienced.
Head of Professional Negligence
Professional Negligence
Professional Negligence
Provided by Carson McDowell
Timothy Cockram
View profile of Timothy CockramDeclan Magee
View profile of Declan Magee
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