Phil has almost 20 years of experience in civil litigation, having carried out legal aid work for a charitable organisation before qualifying as a solicitor with a reputable firm in Teesside.
Phil joined BHP Law in 2015, initially building an active caseload in high-value personal injury and clinical negligence work. In 2018, he was promoted to team leader of the Dispute Resolution Department and subsequently to Partner, driving the team from strength to strength.
He is recognised for his calming influence on clients, guiding them through challenging times with a firm yet practical approach to litigation. Phil is pleased to provide comprehensive advice on all aspects of civil and commercial litigation, representing the interests of both small and large businesses as well as individuals.
He works closely with the firm’s other teams, particularly our strong Wills, Trusts, and Probate team, addressing all litigious and contentious aspects of their work. He frequently guides clients through disputes involving wills, claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act, and the administration of estates, helping clients through what is always a difficult time with emotions high.
Phil also supports our commercial teams when their matters become contentious, often becoming involved in shareholder and director disputes. He is regularly called upon to negotiate optimal outcomes for clients exiting business relationships and provides detailed advice on all related matters.
Notable cases include six-figure claims, significant reductions in large dilapidation claims, and disputes over sizeable estates. His day-to-day work spans a variety of issues, including disputes between builders and contractors (acting for both claimants and defendants), property ownership disputes between separating couples, general contract disputes, boundary issues, and high-value debt recovery claims.
Qualifications: LLB (Hons) Exempting – University of Northumbria
Year admitted as a solicitor: 2009
Charitable/pro bono work: In his spare time Phil helps to run a clay shoot at Marne Barracks which has raised about £80,000 for charity over the past 10 years, in particular raising money for SSAFA (who assist injured serviceman) as well as various local hospices and cancer organisations. As well as holding regular days that are open to the public, Phil coaches newcomers to the sport as well as organising days when injured soldiers come down to shoot as part of their rehabilitation and seeking to avoid and treat PTSD. Phil has also taken part in a number of charity treks, including climbing a volcano in Iceland and walking a section of the Sahara desert both for Butterwick Hospice and in 2017 he climbed through the rainforest in Borneo for the Willowburn Hospice. He has also been involved in a number of other fund-raising initiatives for Butterwick and Willowburn Hospices and the British Heart Foundation. Phil is also involved in BHP Law’s 5-a-side football team which raises money for the Teenage Cancer Trust.
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