A Focus on Learning, Insight, and Legal Excellence
On 10th July 2025, the Industrial Disease department (Grace Lenaghan, Felicity Parry and Bronwen Hutchinson) headed down to London to attend the 12KBW Annual Conference, held at the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn. This prestigious event brought together legal professionals from across the country for an afternoon of judicial developments and discussions.
We were fortunate enough to attend a number of expert discussions throughout the day, which offered not only technical depth but also practical guidance, pertinent to our day-to-day work.
Practical Advocacy and Evidential Strategy
The day began with a compelling talk by Andrew Roy KC and Sarah Beslee, titled “Absence of evidence = evidence of anything?”. The session explored how to navigate litigation where adverse inferences may be an obstacle, discussing seminal case law and exploring practical strategies for litigators. It was an insightful reminder of the power of inference in litigation and the importance of building a strong evidential narrative.
Navigating Fundamental Dishonesty
We then moved on to an exciting seminar on Fundamental Dishonesty, delivered by Andrew Ward and Lois Aldred. The seminar effectively asserted the gravity of Fundamental Dishonesty in litigation, highlighting its serious implications for both claimants and legal professionals. Ward and Aldred expertly took what is often a complex and contentious area and distilled it into an easy to follow and punchy presentation. The speakers discussed precedential case law, whilst also sharing practical guidance for recognising, evidencing and defending allegations of dishonesty.
From Coroner’s Court to Compensation
Thea Wilson presented From Coroner’s Court to Compensation, which was a considered and comprehensive discussion on inquests and their beneficial role in personal injury and clinical negligence claims. This session provided tactical considerations for litigators, discussing how we can best approach these sensitive and often emotional inquest hearings to serve our client’s best interests.
Legal Updates and Strategic Thinking
Later in the afternoon, we attended two engaging sessions. First, Charlotte Reynolds and Peter Hale provided a Quantum Update, covering recent judgments and changes in assessing the value of personal injury claims. Their analysis provided valuable guidance in sharpening our approach when quantifying damages and understanding shifting judicial attitudes.
Finally, the plenary session “Deal or No Deal?” featured a dynamic panel including Steven Snowden KC, Stephen Worthington KC, John-Paul Swoboda KC, Angela Frost and Gemma Scott. This was an engaging display of practical expertise and experience, discussing the strategy behind case negotiations, particularly within the context of Joint Settlement Agreements (JSMs). It was refreshing to see a diverse host of barristers discuss the various ways they have done and continue to navigate complex cases.
Continuing Our Commitment to Excellence
The knowledge and practical insights gained at the 12KBW Conference will directly benefit our work here at Oliver & Co Solicitors. By staying up to date with the latest legal developments and strategies, we remain equipped to handle complex cases with confidence and precision. This continued learning reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality, client-focused legal services, and achieving the best possible outcomes for those we represent.
How We Can Help
If you are suffering with an asbestos disease and would like to look into whether you can claim compensation, get in touch with our expert team for a chat. You can call us on 01244 312306 or email law@oliverandco.co.uk.
