Biography
I am a Solicitor in the Serious Injury department at Irwin Mitchell’s Newcastle office. I specialise in helping children and adults who have sustained catastrophic injuries, including brain injuries, spinal injuries and serious orthopaedic injuries. As a team, we work closely with family members and professionals including Case Managers, Support Workers and treating Therapists to provide our clients with essential support as soon as possible.
I began my training contract in August 2023, undertaking seats in Serious Injury, Medical Negligence and Court of Protection before qualifying in Serious Injury in March 2025.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
I work in a really supportive team of lovely people, who all work together to achieve the best result for our clients.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
The clients I work with have suffered life changing injuries, which impacts both the client and their families for the rest of their lives. Being able to help and support clients and their families through such a difficult time is a huge privilege. I enjoy witnessing clients' growth throughout the lifetime of the case, and seeing the positive impact our team can make to a client’s life.
What do you do away from the office?
When I'm not at work, you'll usually find me either walking my crazy Dalmatian and English Pointer or ideally lying in the sun somewhere!
Testimonials
"Whilst out cycling one sunny afternoon I was hit by a car at speed, almost died and was left with life-changing injuries. Following surgery and discharge from the major trauma unit in hospital, Laura Mcilduff and her outstanding legal team including Claire Jowett, Emma Jolly, Bethany Pearson and Harriet Blayney, helped guide my rehabilitation which changed my life.
"They instructed a first-class group of rehabilitation experts, consisting of a case manager, physiotherapist, neuropsychologist and occupational therapist. Over a four-year period (and ongoing) the care I received without a doubt changed my outcome following the accident.
"In addition, my legal team helped me receive compensation for all of my losses including an inability to return to work. I will be forever grateful for the expertise, reassurance and professional support my family and I received throughout the most challenging time of my life. Thank you." - 5* Trustpilot review
"I contacted Irwin Mitchell after suffering life changing injuries in a road traffic accident. My case was immediately assigned to Laura Mcilduff and her team Claire Jowett, Emma Jolly and more recently Bethany Pearson and Harriet Blayney.
"Making a legal claim is a long and daunting process but Laura and her team worked tirelessly, always explaining each stage clearly and keeping me up to date with developments. They managed to secure a personal injury settlement which has provided me with a comprehensive rehabilitation programme and will fund the equipment and adaptations I need now and in the future.
"They are professional yet friendly and despite my unfortunate circumstances I knew I was not alone, and Laura and her team ensured that I had access to everything I will need to still live a meaningful and fulfilling life." - 5* Trustpilot review
