Darren has very keen eye for detail and his pleadings are succinct and robust. He is an excellent advocate and in cross-examination he is thorough.”

The Legal 500 2024, Personal Injury

Darren works in all aspects of public liability. In highways cases he has a loyal following among local authorities ranging from Walsall MBC in the West Midlands to Cornwall County Council in the South West. In occupier’s liability he represents privatised estate owners, charities, housing associations and arm’s-length management organisations.

He has particular experience in cases involving injuries due to snow and ice, as well as claims arising from agricultural/rural settings.

Given his regular instruction on behalf of privatised housing estate operators he frequently deals with arguments concerning the interpretation of complex transfers of land and assets, public rights of way, and liability arising out of an alleged failure to maintain.

Recent work includes:

  • Yew v Gloucestershire County Council LTL 16/7/2014 A S41A – snow and ice case where the Court held that it was reasonable to have a policy of not gritting pavements in a small town when road traffic routes across a vast rural county were by necessity prioritised.
  • Eustace v Worcestershire – there was no liability for repairing a defective highway and not installing drainage channels where rainwater had previously carved out drainage streams.

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Directory Quotes

Darren is a trusted name in costs matters on the Western circuit. Solicitors have the same confidence in entrusting him with work as one would a barrister from a specialist London set. His knowledge is current and broad, his advocacy is sharp and effective, and his advice is to the point.”

The Legal 500 2023, Costs

Darren is a tenacious advocate who presents his clients’ cases with true passion. He is a formidable presence in court; he consistently demonstrates tenacity and rigour and is fearless in cross-examination.”

Legal 500 2023, Personal Injury

Darren is very approachable and always happy to discuss complicated cases in detail. Good written advice on wasted costs arguments.”

Legal 500 2022, Costs

The go-to in the South West on costs issues. Down to earth, commanding presence in court.”

LEGAL 500 2021, COSTS

Darren is an excellent advocate. He responds promptly to written instructions and is well organised. In court, he has a calm but effective approach. He is able to adapt the degree of intensity required on any given case. He communicates well with clients and in my own experience has a proven successful track record at trial.”

Legal 500 2021, Personal Injury

A great trial advocate.”

Legal 500 2020, Personal Injury

  • Qualifications & awards:

    • LLB (Hons) Warwick
    • Duke of Edinburgh Entrance Scholarship (Inner Temple)

  • Professional memberships:

    • Personal Injury Bar Association

  • Darren Lewis is regulated by the Bar Standards Board (BSB) and holds a current practising certificate. If you are not satisfied with the service provided, please read here.