Mark Thomason
Head of Personal Injury
Mark leads Optimal Solicitors’ Personal Injury department, bringing over 15 years’ litigation experience and a reputation for clear, pragmatic advocacy in high-value, complex claims. He was previously recognised by The Legal 500 as “knowledgeable and articulate”. Mark combines strategic case planning with a calm, client-first approach, making sure people understand the process, feel heard, and see steady progress from day one.
Before joining Optimal, Mark held senior leadership roles overseeing busy clinical negligence and serious injury teams. He managed large-scale projects, redesigned workflows, and mentored solicitors, trainees, and paralegals to deliver consistent, Lexcel-level standards.
Mark’s caseload has spanned catastrophic and life-changing injuries: brain and spinal cord injuries, delayed cancer diagnoses, surgical and emergency care errors, and complex causation disputes. He is known for spotting pivotal evidential issues early, engaging specialist experts, and presenting cases with clarity and momentum, whether negotiating settlement or preparing for trial.
A recognised voice in the profession, Mark was appointed the inaugural Chair of APIL’s Future Leaders Community, reflecting his commitment to the next decade of claimant practice and standards. He holds the Law Society’s Clinical Negligence Accreditation and is an APIL Senior Litigator. These accreditations reflect technical excellence and consistent results for clients.
What drives Mark is simple: helping people rebuild after life has been turned upside down. He believes great litigation blends precision with humanity. He guides clients through difficult months with honesty, care, and a determination to secure the support they need for the future.
Outside work, Mark is a proud dad to two girls and a keen squash player and coach. He enjoys mountain biking, golf, cooking, and the occasional long charity ride. He once cycled 140 miles in a day to raise funds for cancer care.
Accreditations and recognition: Law Society Clinical Negligence Accredited; APIL Senior Litigator; inaugural Chair, APIL Future Leaders Community; recommended by The Legal 500 (2019).
