Introduction
Prior to joining chambers Benjamin Clayton worked for a national advocacy firm having cross-qualified as a solicitor advocate and now specialises in all areas of personal injury law.
Benjamin has extensive litigation experience, having attended in excess of 5000 hearings including applications, directions hearings, costs and case management conferences and trials up to and including matters allocated to the multi-track.
This vast experience has given him a solid grounding in civil litigation and enabled him to develop into a robust advocate, who is able to analyse key issues in an efficient and effective manner.
Representing both Claimants and Defendants provides him with a balanced view of litigation and a deeper understanding of the wider picture.
He has a further specialism in legal research, having been previously employed by LexisNexis to train other legal professionals.
This assists him in respect of his busy paper practice, which includes the drafting of pleadings and providing advice on liability, quantum and evidential matters.
Benjamin prides himself on his approachable and client-focused style, as well as meticulous preparation.
Away from the Bar, when Benjamin is not spending time with his young family, he will usually be found cooking, planning his next travels or with his head in a good book.
Personal Injury
Benjamin has represented both Claimants and Defendants in small claims, fast-track trials, interim applications as well as costs and case management hearings. He has further represented Claimants in Criminal Injuries Compensation Appeals.
Benjamin regularly provides advice and representation across a wide variety of personal injury matters including:
Road traffic accidents
Benjamin has extensive experience in respect of liability disputes on the small claims and fast track, dealing with issues of causation, quantum and costs. Having dealt with claims both within and outside of the portal, he has a good working knowledge of the relevant procedure and appropriate costs regimes.
Credit Hire
Benjamin has a vast amount of experience dealing with claims involving credit hire and is consequently well versed in this dynamic and complex area of law. He has represented both claimants and defendants at both disposal hearings and trials. He takes a pragmatic and commercially sensitive approach to ensure that a good outcome is achieved.
Travel litigation
Benjamin has advised and represented both Claimants and holiday companies in respect of flight delay claims, claims under the Package Travel Regulations, misrepresentation and breach of contract claims, holiday sickness claims (including allegations of fundamental dishonesty).
He is further developing a strong practice in respect of:
- Tripping claims;
- Claims under the Highways Act 1980;
- Occupiers liability claims;
- Employers’ liability claims;
- Fatal accident claims;
- Claims involving psychiatric injury;
- Medical negligence.
Benjamin is able to provide written advice and pleadings as required. He is prepared to accept instructions on a CFA where appropriate.
Education
Bar Vocational Course – Very Competent
Law & Psychology BSc (QLD) – 2:1
Appointments and Memberships
The Honourable Society of Middle Temple
Personal Injury Bar Association
