Tereza Fotiadi

I am a solicitor in the medical negligence team in our Birmingham office. I act for individuals and families in medical negligence cases, helping them understand what happened and supporting them through the legal process to seek answers.

My role involves reviewing medical records, working closely with independent medical experts and building evidence to support my clients’ claims. I act for clients in a range of clinical negligence matters against NHS Trusts, private practitioners, and general practitioners (GPs).

I understand that pursuing a medical negligence claim can feel overwhelming, particularly when clients are already dealing with the impact of an injury or loss. I aim to make the process as clear and supportive as possible, taking the time to explain each step and ensure clients feel listened to and supported throughout their case. I work with individuals and families who have been affected by mistakes in medical treatment, helping them understand what happened and supporting them through the legal process.

I am particularly passionate about making the law accessible and ensuring that clients feel supported throughout their claim. For me, clinical negligence work is not only about achieving financial compensation but also about helping clients obtain explanations, improve patient safety, and move forward with their lives.

Key highlights

• Assisting and progressing complex clinical negligence claims involving serious injury
• Supporting clients through the litigation process
• Working closely with counsel and medical experts to build strong cases for clients
• Managing my own caseload while supporting senior solicitors on high-value and complex claims
• Building strong relationships with clients and ensuring they feel supported throughout the legal process.

Awards

Leicestershire Law Society’s Highly Commended Trainee of the Year 2024

What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?

What I value most about working at Irwin Mitchell is the strong focus on both client care and collaboration. The firm brings together highly experienced professionals who are genuinely committed to achieving the best outcomes for clients.

There is also a strong culture of support and learning, which allows junior lawyers to develop their skills while working on complex and meaningful cases. Being part of a team that is driven not only by legal excellence but also by making a positive difference to people’s lives is something I find particularly motivating.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?

The most rewarding aspect of my role is being able to support clients during what is often an extremely difficult time in their lives. Many of the people I work with have experienced serious injuries or have lost loved ones, and being able to guide them through the legal process with clarity and empathy is incredibly important.

Helping clients obtain answers about what went wrong and ensuring their voices are heard can make a significant difference to their recovery and sense of closure. Knowing that our work can also contribute to learning and improvements within healthcare makes the role even more meaningful.

What inspired you to get into law?

I was drawn to law because it combines analytical thinking with the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives. I have always been interested in justice and problem-solving, but what truly motivated me was the ability to support individuals during some of the most difficult moments they experience.

Clinical negligence in particular stood out to me because it sits at the intersection of law, medicine, and human impact. These cases are often deeply personal, and helping clients understand what happened to them and obtain answers can be incredibly meaningful. Knowing that the work we do can also contribute to improving patient safety and preventing similar mistakes in the future makes the role especially rewarding.

What do you do away from the office?

Outside of work, I am actively involved in the legal community. I currently serve as President of the Leicestershire Junior Lawyers Division, where I organise events that bring together junior lawyers, students, and legal professionals to support networking, learning, and career development.

I am also involved in the European Youth Parliament network, where I contribute to training and welfare initiatives for young people participating in international conferences.

Away from professional activities, I enjoy travelling, photography, and exploring new places whenever I have the chance.

Publications

Journal title: Journal of Personal Injury Litigation Citation: J.P.I. Law 2024, 4, 300-306