Department profile
Mackinnons

Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant

UK Guide 2026 : Scotland


Mackinnons

Rankings

About

Provided by Mackinnons

Mackinnons is one of the leading Scottish firms in Personal Injury (Defender) work. As the most-experienced Marine and Shipping firm in Scotland, Mackinnons has a particular expertise in accidents that occur on fishing vessels and offshore.

Given Mackinnons’ expertise in Marine and Shipping, the firm is closely linked with the Scottish fishing fleet meaning we are well-placed to immediately respond to and investigate accidents on-board as and when they occur. Mackinnons offers a 24/7 Emergency Response for accidents and emergencies.

The firm represents a number of the major UK P&I insurers. Our team is experienced in pursuing cases in the All-Scotland Sheriff Personal Injury Court and the Court of Session. Particular focus is given to the commercial needs of clients and therefore we are able to effectively negotiate a resolution to cases without the need for court action, where appropriate.

In recent years, Mackinnons has been instructed in significant offshore and shipboard accident claims and marine casualties. Given the firm’s depth of knowledge in this area, we are also able to advice on issues such as Fatal Accident Inquiries and Loss of Society claims. 

Within the team, Martin Sinclair is an accredited PI Specialist with the Law Society of Scotland and a Solicitor-Advocate.  

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant - Scotland

Band 3

Band 3


What the Team is Known For

Mackinnons in Aberdeen has an excellent reputation for its work defending personal injury claims arising in the offshore and marine industries. The firm represents clients in cases concerning accidents at sea and on offshore platforms, with regard to injuries ranging from amputations and head injuries through to psychological injury and loss of society claims.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Mackinnons always get things done on time and we have full confidence in their abilities.

    Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK
  • Their expertise in this area and their style of communication has always been top notch for us.

    Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK
  • We appreciate their attention to detail and client commitment; they always respond in a timely fashion and ensure that we are kept updated with key and crucial information.

    Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 2Martin Sinclair
    Band 2Martin Sinclair

    Martin Sinclair

    Martin Sinclair heads the team and has many years' experience in personal injury defence. He represents shipping companies and their insurers in complex claims concerning accidents and fatalities at sea.

    • Martin is very easygoing and has patience and grace in difficult situations.

      Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK
    • Martin has provided us with extensive support. He was very professional, empathetic and understanding of the situation, providing excellent ongoing legal advice.

      Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK
    • Martin is kind, approachable and intuitive. He will always give his time and resource to help go through any challenging queries or concerns, and he treats every matter with professionalism and care.

      Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK
  • Band 4Rachael Bain
    Band 4Rachael Bain

    Rachael Bain

    Rachael Bain has significant experience handling personal injury claims that concern accidents on board marine vessels.

    • Rachael is attentive and supportive. She always takes the time to ensure that we are reassured and educated in our cases.

      Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK
    • It is always a pleasure to work with Rachael.

      Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK
    • When working with Rachael, I definitely felt like I was in good hands. I was updated in a timely manner, and her legal advices were always presented in a professional manner.

      Personal Injury: Mainly Defendant respondentUK

Ranked Individuals at Mackinnons (2)

Scotland

Members

Provided by Mackinnons

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