Sean Linley
Senior Costs Draftsperson
Sean is highly-experienced in civil litigation and has worked on a wide range of matters including clinical negligence, catastrophic injury, professional negligence, contentious probate and other commercial issues.
He started his Legal career at a Yorkshire-based Legal 500 firm before moving to the North East to join a national costs practice. He has acted for FTSE 100 companies, Public Bodies and Individuals. He also worked on the original Costs Budget pilot scheme and is adept at all Budgeting matters.
His comprehensive costs knowledge has seen him build a social media audience of over 17,000 followers and he has featured in the Law Gazette, Solicitor’s Journal, Cilex Journal and Litigation Funding magazine.
He also speaks regularly at conferences and events up and down the country.
What notable cases have you worked on?
AB v Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust [2019] EWHC 1889 (QB) where on appeal it was held that additional liabilities were recoverable following a change from Legal Aid to CFA and there was no Simmons v Castle advice.
Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust v Haywood [2018] UKSC 22, dealing with the costs’ aspect at first instance, on appeal and the Supreme Court.
I am also fortunate to have experienced working on Supreme Court matters, a privilege many costs specialists have not had.
What is your greatest professional achievement to date?
There have been many highlights including the successful strike out of an opposing party’s Costs Budget and running an appeal at the SCCO upon proportionality in Court of Protection matters.
What's the best thing about working at Carter Burnett?
The people, the working culture and the opportunities. There’s a genuine positivity which feeds throughout the team. Everyone is very friendly and extremely knowledgeable.
What are your main interests or hobbies?
I’m a keen hiker and wildlife enthusiast (My partner and I have a pet Spaniel and an aquarium!) and I usually try to combine the two interests.
I’m a member and volunteer for the Natural History Society of Northumbria. I have volunteered with the Save the North Sea Project, RSPB and the Scottish Seabird Centre as part of the SOS Puffin Project.
How would you describe yourself in 5 words?
Motivated, reliable, friendly, dedicated, passionate.
Which smartphone App could you not live without?
WhatsApp – I use it to keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self?
Mistakes and failure allow you to grow and learn. Do not dwell on disappointments, they are opportunities in disguise. Remain calm, keep focused and you will find solutions. Most importantly, do not stress because everything happens for a reason.