Introduction
Steve Gittins began his pupillage in October 2019 under the supervision of Andrew Evans (Personal Injury/Clinical Negligence) and Liz Hodgetts (Employment). He accepts instructions to undertake pleadings, Schedules of Loss, and to advise, as well as to undertake advocacy in the civil courts and Employment Tribunals. He welcomes instructions to provide advocacy in the Welsh courts and Tribunals.
Before coming to the Bar, Steve was a veterinary surgeon in North Wales, owning a large mixed veterinary practice and developing a special interest in working with horses. This professional corporate experience means that he is adept at building relationships with both lay and professional clients and that he brings a wealth of client focused experience with him. Following completion of the Bar Professional Training Course, Steve gained extensive litigation and advocacy experience working for a national advocacy firm. He provided representation in the County Court in over 2000 matters including small claim trials, stage 3 MOJ hearings, applications and various financial and interlocutory hearings matters.
Steven is married with three young sons. Away from work, Steven enjoys watching Liverpool FC and Welsh Rugby Union matches. He appreciates all types of theatre and is an active member of TiC Theatre in the Community. He continues in his attempts to master the Welsh language.
Personal Injury / Clinical Negligence
Steve has a strong interest in these areas of Law. His extensive medical background enables him to understand medical terminology and procedures with ease. He wishes to use the experiences gained from his previous career and apply them within a legal setting. Steve believes that his dual qualification provides him with a distinct advantage in being able to identify and recognise the important points that can be used to either support or defend a claim.
Employment
Prior to commencing pupillage, Steve was appointed as a Director in a veterinary practice. In performing his duties, the role exposed him to many elements of employment law and sparked his interest in this field. During this time, he worked with a national business support company in the Employment Tribunal and the EAT. He has been both an employee and employer and so approaches cases with an insight from both sides to give a balanced and considered view.
Education
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (University of Liverpool)
Graduate Diploma in Law (The University of Law, Chester)
Bar Professional Training Course (MMU)
Appointments and Memberships
Member of The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
