On Thursday 11 September 2025, Nine Chambers hosted a Q&A seminar at Chambers focusing on the medico-legal issues arising in partial amputation claims.
The event was chaired by Beth Caunce, who was joined by expert panelists Dr Ashraf Azer, Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine, and Colette Shaw, Founder and Prosthetist at STEPS Prosthetics. Together, they shared their insights and experiences on a range of complex and topical issues, including:
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The functional and biomechanical effects of the loss of fingers, toes, or parts of the hands and feet.
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The role of the Rehabilitation Consultant in medico-legal claims.
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How to assess future losses, balancing potential improvements through treatment with the risk of future deterioration.
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The development of emerging technologies, including osseointegration for the fingers.
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The impact of gender, cultural and religious considerations in amputation cases.
The panel discussion provided delegates with valuable perspectives on both the clinical and legal challenges involved in these claims, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary input and awareness of future treatment pathways.
The event concluded with networking drinks, giving attendees the opportunity to continue discussions and exchange professional experiences with colleagues and panelists.
Speaker information:
Beth Caunce – Barrister, Nine Chambers
Beth specialises in Personal Injury litigation and represents both Claimants and Defendants. She has developed a thriving Court practice and regularly appears in multi-track, intermediate track and fast track claims, whilst also managing a busy paperwork practice. Before coming to the Bar Beth worked at leading Personal Injury solicitors firms, developing an insight into both Claimant and Defendant teams which has informed her solicitor-focused approach. Beth has developed a special interest in partial hand and foot loss claims and welcomes instructions in such cases.
Dr Ashraf Azer MB Bch, FRCS – Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine, Wirral University Teaching Hospital
Dr Azer supports patients through all stages of limb loss, with expertise in diabetic dysvascularity, complex stump wounds, and peripheral nerve management to ensure effective prosthetic use.He works in multidisciplinary teams at major tertiary centres, treating both traumatic and congenital limb differences. His rehabilitation approach addresses physical, psychological, and social recovery to support full reintegration. He is also active in teaching and mentoring, remaining at the forefront of amputation rehabilitation developments.
Colette Shaw – Founder & Prosthetist, STEPS Prosthetics Ltd
Colette has over 25 years of experience across NHS clinics, private practice, and product development. She holds a first-class degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics and an MSc in Rehabilitation Studies from the University of Strathclyde. As co-founder of STEPS Prosthetics in Sheffield, she delivers client-focused care and specialises in advanced prosthetic technologies, including powered devices and microprocessor systems. She is trained in the OPRA osseointegration system and maintains high standards through regular CPD and conferences. Colette helped launch leading innovations such as the bebionic hand, Elan foot, and Orion3 knee. She also acts as an expert witness (70:30 Claimant to Defendant ratio) and completed Bond Solon’s Excellence in Report Writing training.
