Biography
I'm a Senior Associate solicitor in the Asbestos-Related Disease Team in the London office. I've specialised exclusively in these claims for more than 27 years, acting only for claimants and their families. I have acted in many complex and high value claims.
Key Highlights
I represented the claimant in Carder v University of Exeter, which was a test case on the question of the amount of asbestos exposure which was required for a claim for asbestosis to be compensable. The Judgment of the High Court in favour of the claimant was unanimously upheld by the Court of Appeal. I also acted in Goodwin v Cullum Ceilings, in which the judge upheld the Claimant’s right to make his claim under the TUPE Regulations 1981 against his new employer, even though his exposure to asbestos had ended before his employment was transferred to it from his previous employer.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
We are a collaborative team and are always keen to help each other. It's a dynamic place to work and not at all stuffy.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
It's definitely when we succeed in getting much needed compensation for clients at an enormously difficult time in their lives.
What inspired you to get into law?
I was inspired by a 'Who'. He was an American lecturer, who had previously been a lawyer. He illustrated his talks on the history of the United States with cases he'd been involved in. I wanted to do something as worthwhile and challenging as he had done.
What do you do away from the office?
I love watching plays - the smaller the theatre, the better! I try to go running regularly. My most prized possession is my Brentford FC season ticket.
Publications:
I have written a book, 'Asbestos Disease Claims: A Guide for Doctors and Healthcare Professionals' and I contributed to an edition of Macmillan Cancer Support’s patient information booklet, 'Understanding Mesothelioma'.
Testimonials:
'Michael Osborne enjoys a strong reputation for his handling of industrial disease claims and asbestos litigation' and, 'Michael is excellent and hugely experienced.' - Chambers & Partners, 2025 (Ranked Band 2)
