Denise Stephens

I’m a Partner and Head of Birth Injury within the medical negligence team at Fletchers Solicitors, based in our Reading office.

I’m proud to be recognised as one of the country’s leading specialist medical negligence solicitors, and I lead a national clinical negligence team based in our Reading office. While I’m based in Reading, I regularly travel across England and Wales to support clients who have suffered catastrophic brain injuries.

More than anything, I’m passionate about securing justice for injured patients and changing lives. It’s why we do what we do.

I’ve previously been described as a “superstar of complex clinical negligence claims” and I’m often praised for innovative, client focused strategies. I’m proud to be widely respected for my tenacity, intellect and exceptional client care.

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I achieved one of the highest court awards for a birth injury claim. I secured the sum of £14.6 million in an 11-day trial for the case of a child who had suffered cerebral palsy at birth.

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A client acquired a brain injury at birth resulting in cerebral palsy and Denise recovered £10.8 million by way of damages.

What sets our team apart is our strong legal expertise and collaborative approach to client care. By working closely together and sharing insight, we ensure every client benefits from the full strength of the team.

My career at Fletchers has been both progressive and deeply fulfilling, giving me the opportunity to combine leadership, technical expertise and purpose-driven work within a supportive and ambitious organisation. What I find most rewarding is the ability to make a meaningful difference to clients and families during some of their most vulnerable moments, particularly in the complex and highly specialised area of birth injury work. I also value the culture of collaboration and shared purpose across the firm, along with the opportunity to lead and develop a specialist team while continuing to grow my own expertise in a dynamic and challenging field.

Outside of work, I really value balance and the small things that make life enjoyable. Family and close relationships are central to me, and I enjoy spending quality time with the people closest to me, whether that’s catching up over a meal or simply enjoying relaxed time together.

In my spare time, I like to stay active, get outdoors and also unwind with a good book or series. Weekends tend to be a mix of seeing friends, exploring new places, and taking time to recharge. I also enjoy learning new things, trying different activities, and pushing myself outside my comfort zone, while making sure I have time to switch off and enjoy some well-earned downtime.