Team Profile

Why did you become a solicitor/legal executive?

I began my Law Degree at Newcastle University in 1995 with the intention of training to become a barrister. After a few months I realised that I was most suited to becoming a solicitor as I enjoy contact with clients and discussing what it is that they hope to achieve from bringing their case. I eventually gained a 2:1 degree and then moved to Chester for a year where I completed my professional exams. I joined Fletchers as a trainee solicitor in 1999. Throughout my training contract I dealt primarily with injury claims arising out of road traffic accidents although I did gain experience in other areas of law such as general civil litigation and family law.

What is your area of expertise?

I qualified as a solicitor in September 2001 and realised that my interests lay in personal injury. I continued to deal with Claimant road traffic accident claims and motorcycle claims.

Why did you choose the specific department you work in?

Over the last 2 years I have expanded my interests into other areas of personal injury. I now have a varied case load dealing with all manner of personal injury claims including accidents at work, tripping and slipping claims as well as road traffic claims. I also have experience in dealing with applications to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority for clients who have been injured as a result of an act of violence. I also have experience in dealing with Industrial Disease Claims acting for client's who have developed Hand/Arm Vibration Syndrome or Repetitive Strain Injury or even deafness as a result of their work and I hope to increase my workload into this area.

I have experience of dealing with many types of injuries from whiplash injuries to fractures and even clients suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

I am now the section head of the litigation department which deals primarily with a varied personal injury case load together with housing disrepair claims. I intend to apply to become a member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers this year.

What do you like most about the job?

I enjoy the day to day contact with my clients and enjoy a great deal of satisfaction when I negotiate a generous settlement. I also enjoy valuing claims to advise client's on how much they should receive in damages.

What do you do outside of work to relax?

Outside of the office I enjoy watching Rugby League and am a keen supporter of Wigan Warriors Superleague team. I also enjoy the ballet.