David Withers

Throughout my career, I have been involved in a wide range of complex serious injury claims.

I have also contributed to a number of reported cases, including:

• Clements-Siddall v Dunbobbin Hotels Ltd [2023] EWCA Civ 1300, where I supervised the case and contributed to the legal arguments considered by the Court of Appeal
• Revill v Damiani [2017] EWHC 2630 (QB), a case involving an insurer's attempt to withdraw from a settlement agreement
• Ayres v Odedra [2013] EWHC 40 (QB), a High Court liability dispute arising from a serious injury claim.

However, many of the cases that have had the greatest impact on my clients' lives aren’t publicly reported. Due to the severity of the injuries involved and the vulnerability of those affected, a lot have been subject to anonymity orders. These cases often involve children, individuals with acquired brain injuries, those who lack capacity, or families facing profoundly life-changing circumstances.

The cases I’m most proud of aren’t necessarily those that result in reported judgments or the largest settlements. They’re the cases where the outcome transforms what’s possible for my client and their family. That may involve securing rehabilitation, care, accommodation, therapies, specialist equipment, support with returning to voluntary work or education, or the financial security needed to plan for the future with confidence.

For me, success is measured not only by the legal result achieved, but by the difference that result makes to a person's life.

I believe the best outcomes are achieved when the focus remains firmly on the person rather than simply the legal claim. I work to build a strategy that addresses both my clients’ immediate needs and long-term future.

Where possible, I seek to secure early rehabilitation, interim payments and practical support so that clients can begin accessing treatment, therapies, care and assistance without waiting for their claim to settle.

I also take a strategic approach to litigation. Every client and family is different, and I believe solutions should be tailored to their individual circumstances. Having represented many vulnerable clients, including those protected by anonymity orders, I understand the importance of balancing legal strategy with dignity, privacy and long-term wellbeing.

I have a longstanding interest in funding, insurance and access to justice, and I recognise the importance of ensuring that injured people can access specialist advice and support when they need it most.

Ultimately, the best result isn’t simply the highest compensation figure. It’s an outcome that works in practice and gives security, choice, and opportunity for years to come.

The first meeting is an opportunity for me to understand your circumstances and discuss how I may be able to help you.

You don’t need to arrive with all the answers or have everything organised in advance. Many clients and families contact me when they’re still coming to terms with what has happened and are dealing with treatment, rehabilitation, financial concerns and uncertainty about the future.

My priority is to listen and understand what matters most to you. We’ll discuss what happened, the injuries you sustained, the impact on day-to-day life, and what your biggest concerns are.

I’ll explain the legal process clearly and without unnecessary jargon. We’ll discuss the support that may be available, the options open to you, and the practical steps that can be taken immediately.

Most importantly, I want you to leave the meeting with greater clarity and reassurance about your situation. You should have hope about the future again.

Clients often tell me that one of the most valuable aspects of the first meeting is simply having someone who understands not only the legal process, but the wider challenges that serious injuries create for individuals and families. My aim is to provide clear advice, realistic expectations, and a practical plan for moving forward.