Sara Burns

I've represented families in some of the most complex and high-value medical negligence claims, including birth injury cases involving cerebral palsy, catastrophic neurological injuries and fatal accident claims. The cases I'm proudest of are those where we've been able to secure lifelong support and opportunities for a child and their family, helping to make a meaningful difference to their future.

In O'Reggio v The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, I acted for a child with cerebral palsy caused by inadequate obstetric management. Liability was disputed but ultimately resolved at 80%, and the claim settled for £2.45 million, together with periodical payments of £100,000 per year until age 19 and £160,000 per year thereafter. Interim funding helped the family to purchase and adapt a suitable property and establish a care regime long before final settlement.

In Spencer v Worcester Acute Hospital NHS Trust, I represented a child with cerebral palsy and secured judgment with liability admitted at 75%, allowing damages to be assessed.

In Nixon v Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, a cerebral palsy claim, liability was established at 85% and the claim settled with a £2 million capital payment alongside substantial lifelong periodical payments.

In Canning-Kishver v City Hospital NHS Trust, I successfully pursued a neonatal brain injury claim, achieving success at a trial on liability and securing a settlement comprising a £1.8 million capital sum together with annual periodical payments for life.

In Khairule v North West SHA, I secured a £2 million settlement in a cerebral palsy claim following a successful trial on limitation.

I've represented many children who have suffered a severe Erb's palsy injury following negligent management of shoulder dystocia during delivery. Following admissions of liability, I establish my clients' future losses to secure settlements that recognise the significant impact the injury will have on their future independence and employment opportunities.

In another birth injury case against the Ministry of Defence, I acted for a child who suffered brain damage following a negligent assisted delivery. Following extensive expert evidence and negotiations, liability was resolved on a 75% basis, and interim payments were secured to fund rehabilitation while the value of the claim was being assessed.

I have also successfully represented adults who have suffered catastrophic neurological injuries. For example, in Christopher Bowen v The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, I secured a settlement of £2.5 million for a client who suffered a spinal cord injury following a delayed diagnosis and treatment of spinal cord compression.

I take the time to understand what matters most to each client and their family. Working with leading experts and specialist advisers, I build the strongest possible case while also looking for opportunities to secure practical support at an early stage. My aim is not only to obtain compensation but to help clients achieve the best possible quality of life and future outcomes.

My priority is to listen to you. I’ll take the time to understand what has happened, how it has affected you and your family, and what concerns you have about the future.

I'll explain the legal process in straightforward language, answer any questions honestly and help you understand your options, so you can make informed decisions about the next steps.

Our first meeting can take place wherever and however is most convenient for you. This could be at home or in hospital, in our office, or remotely through a telephone or video call. My aim is to make sure you feel comfortable and confident with the process from the get-go.