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Lessons from Smith v UK Insurance Company Ltd [2026] SC GLA 80: a reminder that liability does not equal recovery of damages
Insurance
Partner & Director of Advocacy
Laura McMillan
Laura is a multi-disciplinary lawyer with a wealth of experience across a number of fields covering personal injury claims defence, health & safety and insurance (including subrogated recoveries and indemnity disputes).
As a Solicitor Advocate, she regularly represents clients in the Court of Session (Scotland's highest civil court) and Sheriff Courts across Scotland. Her broad experience enables her to give proactive advice and training to businesses and organisations on reducing the risk of incidents happening in the first place. When incidents do arise, she is able to provide comprehensive support on risk and reputation management, as well as developing strategies to minimise the business impact. She has worked with many insurance providers and, along with her team, is skilled at adhering to robust service level agreements, delivering on objectives and producing comprehensive management information.
Living Brodies' values
Laura cares about understanding her clients' needs and objectives, so that she can provide practical, clear and tailored legal advice – and, where needed, strong representation in court.
Highlights
- President of the Society of Solicitor Advocates.
- Active member of the firm's charity committee.
- Solicitor Advocate since 2011.
‘Laura McMillan is very grounded and ensures everyone she is involved with in the company at all levels is treated with respect - she is so knowledgeable and personable.'
Legal 500 UK 2026
'Laura McMillan - Excellent case analysis and cuts through complex issues. Makes it easy for clients to make decisions on cases to move them forward.'
Legal 500 UK 2026
'Laura’s representation of her client’s interests was… exemplary. She knows when to cross examine, and more crucially, when not to. She did an excellent job taking evidence from those witnesses from the company she was representing. She clearly had the ear of the court and the interaction between herself and the judge was indicative of the regard and respect that he had for her abilities. Her written submissions were forensic and addressed every issue comprehensively.'
Peer testimonial
