“Tom Fletcher is nationally respected for the way he combines legal excellence with genuine compassion, supporting survivors through some of the most sensitive and complex abuse and medical negligence claims in the UK. Clients trust him not only for his results, but for his calm, human approach and his unwavering commitment to being heard, believed, and protected at every stage of their case.”

Fantastic Lawyers® Editorial, 2026

Tom Fletcher is a Partner and Head of Abuse at Irwin Mitchell, where he also leads the Birmingham Abuse Team. With over 15 years’ experience, Tom represents survivors in some of the most sensitive and complex abuse and neglect claims in the UK.

What He Does

Tom specialises in civil claims arising from sexual, physical and institutional abuse. He regularly brings cases against schools, religious organisations, NHS Trusts, the Ministry of Defence and local authorities, as well as claims against individual perpetrators.

He is instructed on cases of the highest severity and has successfully pursued claims involving historic abuse dating back more than 35 years, overcoming significant limitation challenges. Tom is one of a small number of lawyers in the UK to have settled a single sexual abuse claim for over £1 million.

Alongside his abuse practice, Tom is also a Partner in the Medical Negligence team. His work includes brain injury, birth injury, fatal claims, failures to diagnose serious conditions, negligent surgery, and cases involving avoidable suicide or attempted suicide where mental health care fell below acceptable standards. He also supports families through the Coroner’s Court and inquest process.

Why He’s Different

Clients consistently describe Tom as calm, compassionate and an exceptional listener. He is often the first professional who has truly listened to a client’s concerns after they have felt unheard by institutions and complaint processes. His approach is survivor-focused, plain-spoken and relentlessly committed to achieving accountability and meaningful outcomes.

Tom is an APIL Senior Litigator and a member of the Association of Child Abuse Lawyers. He is a nationally recognised expert in abuse litigation and has been featured in The Times for his work in this field.

Trust & Recognition

• Legal 500 – Next Generation Partner (2021, 2023, 2024, 2025)
• Legal 500 UK – Leading Individual (2022)
• Described as “excellent”, “a rising star”, and praised for his thorough understanding of abuse law and his manner with clients
• Multiple 5-star Trustpilot reviews highlighting his sensitivity, clarity, and commitment to clients

“Tom was caring, professional and full of compassion. I always felt like I was his priority.”

Client review, Trustpilot

“Tom Fletcher is excellent. He has a thorough understanding of the law in this area.”

Legal 500

Beyond the Case

Tom continues to work closely with survivor organisations and charities, providing pro bono advice and training. He has been with Irwin Mitchell since joining as a trainee in 2010, having studied law at Cardiff University and completed his Legal Practice Course in Birmingham.

Outside work, Tom is a father of two, a keen singer and performer, a guitarist and songwriter, and an avid supporter of Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Location: Birmingham
Contact: +44 (0)370 1500 100