JUNIOR PROFILE

Nigel Spencer Ley

UK Bar 2026

Farrar's Building

Ranked in 1 practice area

Clinical Negligence

London (Bar)

6 years ranked

About

Provided by Farrar's Building

Practice Areas

Nigel is a specialist in complex and high value clinical negligence claims. He has a particular interest in claims concerning wrongful birth, cauda equina syndrome and encephalitis. He also has wide experience in cerebral palsy claims, consent cases, haemochromatosis claims, negligence while undertaking spinal surgery, and failure to diagnose cancer (including claims against GPs).

The total value of settlements which he has negotiated over the past two years is in the region of £35 million. In 2017 Nigel secured one of the highest ever UK settlements in a cauda equina claim, with damages agreed at £3.3 million. In 2019 Nigel secured damages of £3.2 million in a sight loss case. In 2024 Nigel settled two wrongful birth claims one for £11 million and one for £22 million.

Nigel is the co-author of the Claims for Wrongful Birth chapter in Kemp & Kemp. He has also written the Clinical Negligence Claims chapter for A Medic’s Guide to Essential Legal Matters, Oxford University Press. He regularly lectures on clinical negligence claims.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

UK Bar

Clinical Negligence - London (Bar)

Band 1

Individual Editorial

Nigel Spencer Ley is a well-regarded clinical negligence barrister, noted for his expertise in cauda equina and encephalitis claims. He is also experienced in the handling of complex cases arising from surgical negligence, dental negligence and the failed diagnosis of cancer. He is regularly instructed in cases involving complex issues around consent.

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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

I have worked with Nigel for many years and have absolute confidence that he will do the best for the client. He is always well organised and his drafting skills are excellent.
Clinical NegligenceUK Bar
He is charming, level-headed and really a fountain of knowledge.
Clinical NegligenceUK Bar
He was very responsive, and a safe pair of hands.
Clinical NegligenceUK Bar
He is consistently excellent. He is able to turn around work quickly, he's very down to earth, practical and easy for clients to relate to. His drafting and attention to details are excellent.
Clinical NegligenceUK Bar
He has specialist knowledge and gives clear advice.
Clinical NegligenceUK Bar