Department profile
Gatehouse Chambers

Professional Negligence

UK Bar Guide 2026 : London (Bar)

Share profile

Gatehouse Chambers

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Professional Negligence - London (Bar)

Band 4

What the Team is Known For

Gatehouse Chambers is noted for its skilled representation of claimants and defendants in a range of professional negligence disputes. Members are highlighted for their expertise in matters pertaining to legal, financial and construction professionals. They have been active in cases involving Big Four accounting firms and nationwide solicitors' firms. Particular work highlights in this area have arisen from major corporate insolvencies or international investments. A source says: "They have a good range of barristers at different levels of call." Recent work highlights include representing the defendant in UCA v Eversheds Sutherland International, a claim alleging the negligent operation of a break clause which raises specific questions relating to mitigation of loss.

Elliot Langdorf is set's practice director, and the senior practice manager specialising in professional negligence is Patrick Sarson.

View ranking table

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The clerks are brilliantly efficient and attentive, especially with urgent matters.

    Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

  • The clerks at Gatehouse are very responsive.

    Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

  • The clerks are extremely responsive and always quick to respond to emails or phone calls, which makes coordinating logistics and managing timelines much smoother.

    Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • James Hall
    James Hall

    James Hall

    James Hall takes on substantial professional negligence claims relating to surveyors, architects and solicitors. He is able to draw upon his previous experience as an employed barrister in the financial services department of a national law firm.

    • James Hall has real expertise in professional negligence cases, particularly arising out of property transactions. He is very commercially aware and involved in setting the strategy for a case.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • James is sensible, commercial and knowledgeable.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • James Hall has a unique ability to explain complex legal issues in a way that is easily understood by clients and colleagues alike. It's great to work with him, he is consistently dependable.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
    View profile
  • John de Waal
    John de Waal

    John de Waal

    John de Waal KC handles a broad range of professional negligence cases, most often on behalf of defendants, and is particularly well versed in claims concerning solicitors, architects and property developers. He also serves as a mediator.

    • John de Waal KC is good to work with. He is a completely safe pair of hands.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • John de Waal KC is extremely commercially aware, and his advice is always succinct and to the point.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • John de Waal KC is an absolute expert in all things property. A very strong advocate but with excellent client care as well.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
    View profile
  • Daniel Gatty
    Daniel Gatty

    Daniel Gatty

    Daniel Gatty has broad professional negligence experience and is recognised for his versatility. He is particularly well versed in solicitors' negligence cases where they pertain to property disputes including conveyancing issues.

    • Daniel is very good at calming the clients' nerves and reminding them that they have a good case. He's not aggressive, and is more of a facilitator and conciliator; he's quietly effective.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Daniel Gatty provides sound and commercial advice.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Daniel Gatty is a good all-rounder and a go-to counsel for many insurer clients.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
    View profile
  • Nigel Jones
    Nigel Jones

    Nigel Jones

    Nigel Jones KC draws on his extensive experience in commercial litigation and insurance law to bolster his robust professional negligence practice. He is regularly instructed in cases that concern accountants, solicitors and surveyors, among others.

    • Nigel's skeleton was very skilled and clear. His oral advocacy was very good.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
    View profile
  • Sarah McCann
    Sarah McCann

    Sarah McCann

    Sarah McCann focuses her practice on defending liquidators and architects from claims of professional negligence, as well as representing solicitors, insurance brokers and others. She is experienced in advocacy before the appellate courts.

    • Sarah McCann is notable for her knowledge and ability to research complex issues to produce concise advice, along with her attention to detail and commitment to meet demanding deadlines.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Sarah McCann is very user-friendly and is refreshingly down to earth in her manner, delivering clear, precise advice that is both readily digestible and easily relayed to clients.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
    View profile

Ranked Barristers at Gatehouse Chambers (5)

London (Bar)

What success is built on

Chambers is the leading data and intelligence partner for the legal sector.

Explore thought leadership