I have been the Managing Partner of Trethowans since April 2015. As the firm has grown so much over the last few years, I now spend much of my time dealing with the management side. This growth was recognised in a report in the Lawyer Magazine in October 2017, which confirmed that Trethowans was “the fastest growing independent firm in the UK” for firms with a turnover of up to £24m.
Trethowans has a set strategy and vision – with the specific aim of continuing to grow and become a £20m turnover firm whilst maintaining a strong financial position and protecting its culture.
In addition to my role as Managing Partner, I still undertake work specialising in catastrophic head and spinal injury cases, as well as birth related injuries of maximum severity. I have been accredited by the Law Society as a member of their specialist personal injury and clinical negligence panels.
I have also been appointed by the Court of Protection to act as a professional deputy to manage the property and financial affairs of vulnerable adults, and also sit as a Deputy District Judge in London.
I am a Recommended Lawyer in the Legal 500 2021 guide which notes: ‘Chris Whiteley is known for his work on catastrophic head and spinal injury cases’.
Very good with clients and supportive, clients have a lot of trust and faith in him, and he sticks by them and does a good job - Chambers and Partners
Areas of Expertise
Case Study
I acted for a Claimant who sustained a head/brain injury during his birth. It was necessary to obtain an interim payment on account of damages to fund the client attending a private specialist school. The claim settled for substantial damages including an annual payment for the rest the client’s life to cover his loss of earnings and care needs.
In another instance, acted for a client who sustained a serious spinal injury as a result of falling through a roof on a building site. The client was unable to return to any form of employment and needed constant care/assistance. I was successful in recovering substantial damages which allowed the client to build his own adapted property and be financially secure.
What others say
Chris has also been ranked in Chambers (2020) as an eminent practitioner in clinical Negligence and Personal Injury. He is noted for his handling of complex negligence issues involving spinal and brain injuries. He also handles Court of Protection work as well as catastrophic injury claims, including brain and spinal injuries and amputation cases.
Legal 500 (2017) state that he is “hugely experienced, very sensible and highly supportive of clients.”
Away from the office
I have two daughters who have finally finished their studies. I also enjoy travel, mountain walking and cycling.
