Matthew Westlake

Matthew is a partner in Leigh Day’s medical negligence department and leads the team based in Leeds. He has specialised in clinical negligence since joining the firm in 2012, following the completion of a Neuroscience degree at the University of Bristol and postgraduate legal studies. 

Matthew acts in a broad range of complex and high-value claims, including those involving obstetric, spinal, orthopaedic, ophthalmic, and neurological injuries. He also advises on cases arising from delays in diagnosing cancer and other serious conditions. In addition, he has extensive experience representing bereaved families at inquests where loved ones have died due to negligent medical care. 

Matthew draws on his medical science background and legal training to help clients navigate complex medical negligence claims. He focuses on giving clear, practical advice and works hard to make sure clients feel supported throughout what can be a very difficult process. 

Legal expertise

Matthew qualified as a solicitor in 2016, having trained in both clinical negligence and product liability. He is a member of Action against Medical Accidents (AvMA) and is accredited as a Senior Litigator by the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL). 

Notable Cases 

• £37 million secured for a child who suffered severe brain damage at birth due to oxygen deprivation. The settlement included a lump sum and annual payments to fund lifelong care and support.
• £23 million secured for a child who sustained cerebral palsy and other life-limiting injuries due to delays in performing a caesarean section. The settlement included a lump sum and annual payments to meet lifelong care needs.
• £1.5 million secured in a fatal accident claim following the suicide of a father whose acute mental health crisis was mishandled by local services.
  
• £1 million secured for a client left blind in one eye following negligent maxillofacial treatment.

• £1 million secured for a client who suffered irreversible kidney damage due to negligent post-operative care. The settlement included a provisional damages order to protect against future deterioration. 
  
  
• £1 million secured for a client who suffered a spinal cord injury after collapsing at home, following a failure to appropriately manage atrial fibrillation. The injury resulted in significant mobility issues, chronic pain, and long-term care needs. 
  
  
• £500,000 secured for a client who sustained irreversible neurological damage following a failure by ambulance staff to recognise red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome and arrange hospital transfer. 
  
  
• £500,000 secured in an estate claim following the death of a 34-year-old mother due to a misdiagnosed subarachnoid haemorrhage. 
  
  
• £250,000 secured for a mother who sustained a 3C perineal tear and developed PTSD following a traumatic forceps-assisted delivery.