Charlotte Whitaker’s practice revolves around three interlinking areas – health and safety incident response, inquests and public inquiries. The cases falling within this scope often involve real human suffering. Whitaker’s concern for the wellbeing of others makes it difficult to look at this year’s highlights as achievements. Rather, she sees her cases as opportunities to help those who have endured tragic pain.
This dedication is evident in her role as lead solicitor on two modules of the UK Covid-19 inquiry. She’s taken the charge on investigating the Welsh government’s decision making during the pandemic, as well as its impact on the care sector. She also feels privileged to have been involved in the Croydon tram derailment case – a seven-year effort which came to a close earlier in 2023. Whitaker takes pride in the relationships she’s built, often during the most testing of times.
Despite being promoted to partner just months ago, Whitaker approaches her newfound pastoral duties with great care. She is passionate about increasing the representation of women in law and hopes to encourage them through her involvement with Burges Salmon’s gender-balance network.