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Guildhall Chambers

Professional Negligence

UK Bar Guide 2026 : Western (Bar)

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Guildhall Chambers

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Professional Negligence - Western (Bar)

Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Guildhall Chambers is well regarded for its representation of clients in professional negligence claims involving solicitors, accountants, architects and surveyors. The set's areas of strength include claims arising in the financial services context, including those concerning independent financial advice, and financial product mis-selling. An example of such a matter is KVB Consultants & Others v Jacob Hopkins McKenzie, where members of the set are representing 26 claimant investors seeking damages following failed property collective investment schemes. Guildhall's barristers are also able to advise on insolvency and liquidation matters. One client describes Guildhall as "well ahead of the rest of the Bristol Bar for professional negligence". The bench is regarded as "extremely experienced and talented". The joint senior practice managers are Stephen Arnold and Caroline Evans.

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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The chambers give very good value for money in comparison to other London chambers who specialise in professional negligence. Their clerking team is great to deal with.

    Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

  • The clerking team is really well led and is invariably responsive, commercial and helpful.

    Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Hugh Sims
    Hugh Sims

    Hugh Sims

    Hugh Sims KC is a leading barrister for advising claimants on professional negligence matters against solicitors, surveyors, accountants and construction companies. He receives instructions both locally and nationally.

    • He works tirelessly to get the best result. If Hugh is on your side, you know that you will get the best support.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Hugh adds great value as a leader, working seamlessly with the juniors and adding that layer of confidence and insight which makes all the difference.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Hugh is difficult to give a reference for, as he is without peer on the circuit. He is the best, and as a result he is hard to compare others with.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Hugh is a talented advocate and an impressive academic. He's undoubtably the top KC in the South West.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
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  • James Wibberley
    James Wibberley

    James Wibberley

    James Wibberley offers skilful representation of claimants and defendants in claims involving solicitors, surveyors, financial advisers and insurance brokers.

    • A go-to barrister for our most complex disputes due to his intellect, advocacy and ability to work under pressure.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • James is really good on his feet and has a great advocacy style. He gets to the point and works it.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • James is very approachable, making him good with clients. He is also very astute and is good on his turnaround times.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
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  • Jay Jagasia
    Jay Jagasia

    Jay Jagasia

    Jay Jagasia is increasingly well known for his helpful and thorough advice in professional negligence claims. He has a notable practice generally concerning property matters and taking in claims against solicitors, insurance brokers and surveyors.

    • Jay is very good to work with; he is robust, stick ups for his clients and his paperwork is full of detail. He's a master.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Jay has a dedicated following; he is robust and thorough.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
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  • Holly Doyle
    Holly Doyle

    Holly Doyle

    Holly Doyle has an established practice in professional negligence arising in various circumstances, including financial services mis-selling and insolvency. She has strong knowledge in respect of claims brought against solicitors, accountants and IFAs.

    • Holly is a very well-respected individual who is well known for her work in complex claims.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Holly is able to distil even the most document-heavy cases into practical and helpful advice.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
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  • Oliver Manley
    Oliver Manley

    Oliver Manley

    Oliver Manley has a well-respected professional negligence practice. He has good experience in matters concerning accountants and claims brought against solicitors.

    • Oliver is extremely thorough and is superb on costs; clients really like him.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar

    • Oliver is very approachable and good with clients, providing a steady hand.

      Professional Negligence respondentUK Bar
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Ranked Barristers at Guildhall Chambers (5)

Western (Bar)

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