As partners previously at both Clyde & Co and BLM, Rebecca Shafto and Andrew Lawson have more than 30 years’ experience in defendant personal injury claims, having built and led a highly successful practice in Bristol.
Rebecca is ranked as a leading partner in the Southwest of England by the Legal 500, with clients praising her “outstanding client care skills” and “excellent judgement”. She specialises in catastrophic and large loss claims, advising on complex matters from initial investigation through to resolution, and is known for developing high-performing teams and fostering long-term client partnerships.
Andrew Lawson is also recognised by The Legal 500 as a “leading partner” and “enormously well-respected”, with a strong reputation for his commercial approach and client relationships built over more than 25 years. He acts for major insurers and public sector clients on claims typically valued between £3 million and £30 million. He has particular expertise in brain and spinal injury cases, as well as regulatory and local authority claims.
The hires form part of a broader team move, with senior associate Vanessa Brooks and associate Ben Duxbury having also joined. Associate Karen Bentley will join the team in June 2026.
Commenting on the appointments, Claire Bowler, Head of Major Injury and Casualty at DWF, said: "Andrew and Rebecca are exceptional additions to our team, bringing with them a wealth of experience in complex, high-value catastrophic injury work and a proven track record of delivering for insurer and public sector clients. Their reputation in the market, combined with the strength and depth of the wider team joining, represents a significant boost to our Major Injury and Casualty practice. They are key strategic hires for us as we continue to invest in our insurance practice and strengthen our capabilities across the UK."
Michael Renshaw, Managing Partner of DWF in Bristol, added: "The addition of this team marks a major milestone for our Bristol office, significantly strengthening our capability on the ground. Andrew and Rebecca are widely recognised for the quality of their work in catastrophic injury, as well as the longstanding relationships they have built with insurers and public sector clients."
