Since qualifying as a Solicitor in 1991, I have specialised in personal injury and clinical negligence cases (though early in my career I did have some Defendant experience) and bring experience, knowledge and enthusiasm to my work. Having first joined Trethowans in 1997 and rejoined (after a brief spell away) in 2003, I became a Partner in 2007.
I specialise in a wide variety of complex employers’ liability cases and clinical negligence claims, but particularly catastrophic injury cases including brain injury, spinal injury, amputee cases and Claimants suffering multiple fractures. I have a reputation as somebody who will go the extra mile and fight and hard fight on behalf of my clients.
The fact that a large proportion of my cases are referred to me by solicitors from other firms is testament to my knowledge and expertise. I am committed to ensuring maximum compensation and the best rehabilitation possible for my clients, to ensure a good quality of life.
I am a member of the Law Society’s Personal Injury Panel Accreditation Scheme (since 1995), as well as a member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (apil) since 1993, and an apil accredited Senior Litigator.
I have been appointed by the Court of Protection to act as a Professional Deputy to manage the property and financial affairs of vulnerable adults.
I am a Recommended Lawyer in the Legal 500 2021 guide which notes: ‘Gavin Lane is a key name for head and spinal injury cases.’
Very thorough in his understanding of cases and tenacious on behalf of his clients - Chambers and Partners (2020)
Areas of Expertise
Case Study
I secured damages of over £2 million for a man in his 70s who suffered spinal injuries in a road traffic accident. The claim was complicated by the fact that the client moved to Australia during the life of his case so he had to identify suitable Australian experts.
I took a clinical negligence case to trial in 2014. My client suffered a severe injury to her hand because of an operation that had been performed incorrectly. The injury caused her to have to give up work and required a lot of care and attention. Damages of over £500,000 were awarded, which was significantly more than the amount offered by the NHS.
I acted for a young woman who suffered brain injuries of the utmost severity in a road traffic accident when she was in her late teens. The case settled on the door of the Court with approval of the Court. The Claimant was awarded a lump sum of nearly £3 million, but more importantly, periodical payments of nearly £300,000 per annum for the rest of her life for care and therapy.
I acted for a young man, a Sudanese refugee who was knocked off his push bike by a lorry in Portsmouth. The Defendant vigorously defended the case all the way to a Liability Trial and the client was fully successful at a Trial. Subsequently the case settled for over £100,000. The client suffered severe fractures.
What others say
Gavin has been ranked as Band 1 Chambers and Partners (2020) for Personal Injury and described to have ‘extensive experience in personal injury mandates, covering a wide range of claims. He has particular knowledge in orthopaedic injuries.’
Chambers (2020) have also recognised him as Band 2 in Clinical Negligence and describe Gavin to be highly regarded for the depth of his experience in clinical negligence. He focuses his practice on catastrophic events such as spinal, neck and head injuries, amputations and multiple fracture claims. Sources say he is “very thorough in his understanding of cases and tenacious on behalf of his clients“.
‘I would like to thank you for all your help, advice and guidance over the last five years. At times it has been a struggle to continue against a very stubborn, awkward and obstructive County Council but your support encouraged me to continue as you always maintained I had a strong case. I believe it’s been a very informative lesson in life to stick with your instincts and principles and without your positive approach I think I may well have given up on the case.’
‘Gavin Lane is vastly experienced in medical negligence litigation. He knows his onions, is an effective negotiator and works with determination to secure a fair result for his clients.’
‘Gavin Lane is a seasoned campaigner. Dedicated and wily, he puts his client’s interests at the top of his objectives and secured excellent results.’
Away from the office
I am a keen sportsman. I have played for Havant Hockey Club for over 20 years and captained my team at Warsash Tennis Club. I also enjoys golf, skiing, yoga and working out in the gym.
