District Judge Searl and Barrister Exall confirmed as keynote speakers for Costs Law Conference
HIGH-PROFILE Barrister Gordon Exall and District Judge Searl will bring their exceptional insight and expertise to our 2025 Costs Law Conference after agreeing to be the headline speakers at this year’s event.
Appointed to the role in April 2013, DJ Theresa Searl is assigned to the North Eastern Circuit, which is based at Newcastle-upon-Tyne Combined Court Centre. Her long and successful law career first began when admitted as a solicitor in 1998, practising for more than a decade before joining the Ministry of Justice.
Gordon Exall, from King’s Chambers, is a recognised authority in personal injury, fatal accident claims, clinical negligence and costs. With a wealth of experience in many leading cases on procedure and damages assessment, he is a go-to figure for practitioners navigating complex litigation issues.
Equally well known for his must-read ‘Civil Litigation Brief’ blog, Gordon has earned a reputation as the first port of call for lawyers dealing with procedural traps, sanctions or limitation challenges.
His clear, practical insights combined with DJ Searl’s court room experience is sure to prove a large draw when we host our annual Conference at the Common Room, Neville House, in Newcastle, on October 2.
Thrilled to welcome two such highly-regarded guests, Director Lee Carter said: “DJ Searl’s outstanding contributions to the judiciary make her an exceptional choice, and we’re honoured to welcome her to our flagship event of the year.
“Her expertise in Costs and Costs Litigation, promises to offer thought-provoking insights that will no doubt spark some lively discussion.
“Gordon is also an outstanding addition to the line-up. His unrivalled knowledge of civil procedure and practical litigation guidance will bring immense value to delegates as they try to navigate the post-reform landscape.
“We’re anticipating another packed audience, and I have no doubt that both of their impressive backgrounds will be a major attraction for Costs professionals from across the UK.”
To complement DJ Searl and Exall, our own Costs Law experts will be on hand to discuss the latest issues affecting Clinical Negligence and high-value Personal Injury claims.
Nick Northrop, the highly-experienced Costs specialist who leads our South of England office in Devon, will discuss how to simplify the process of recovering solicitor-own-client Protected Party Costs.
Sean Linley will also provide insight on the ever-changing costs landscape and discuss the latest developments in costs law, focusing in particular on Cost Budgeting and Fixed Recoverable Costs.
2025 Costs Conference Overview
Where: Common Room, Neville House, Newcastle, NE1 1SE
When: Thursday, 2nd October 2025
Start: Arrival drinks from 2pm – speakers finish around 5pm for post Conference drinks
How to book your place
All our existing clients will receive free tickets and priority booking. Official invites are set to be sent out over the next few weeks.
If you would like to secure your place in advance, please email laura@carterburnett.co.uk with your attendee details. Remaining tickets will be issued on a first come, first served basis.
