Frances accepts instructions in all areas of Chambers’ practice. She has a particular interest in police law and clinical negligence. Frances read law at the University of Durham.
After graduating, she was employed as a research assistant in the Public Law Team at the Law Commission. In the 2011/2012 judicial year, Frances was appointed as a judicial assistant at the Supreme Court, working principally with Lord Kerr. Frances is assiduous and practical. She can be relied upon to provide clear, timely advice.
She is an effective advocate who enjoys working collaboratively with clients.
EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE
Clinical Negligence: has experience, from preliminary advices, through to pleadings, interim applications and hearings in a wide array of cases. Her practice includes cases concerning secondary victims, stillbirths and cosmetic surgery, as well as Fatal Accidents Act and contribution claims.
Product Liability: she is currently assisting Eloise Power in the JJML Pelvic Organ Prolapse Products Litigation as well as vaginal mesh cases involving other manufacturers. Frances has advised on solicitors’ negligence arising from product liability and clinical negligence claims.
Inquests: represents families, medical clinicians, NHS Trusts and police forces in substantial inquests including those raising Article 2 ECHR and DoLS. Frances acted for a police force at one of the first inquests to go ahead remotely during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Police Civil Actions: misfeasance claims, including Human Rights Act arguments, and judicial review.
Police Misconduct: frequently asked to advise and to represent the AA at misconduct hearings, including those relating to allegations of dishonesty.
Information Retention and Disclosure: principally in police cases, seeking and resisting disclosure in family proceedings, resisting disclosure on grounds of public interest immunity.
Police Operational Advice: on range of matters whilst seconded to two police forces and upon return to practice.