Laura Mcilduff

I regularly act in a number of high-value and complex serious injury claims involving life-changing injuries, often valued at seven figures and including settlements in excess of £20 million, with a focus on ensuring that compensation provides long-term security, access to specialist rehabilitation and meaningful practical support for the client and their family.

I am particularly proud of the relationships I build with clients, which often continue beyond the conclusion of their legal case. That client-centred approach has led to opportunities to support clients in sharing their experiences more widely. This has included working with Shauna Kime on our Imagine campaign, highlighting her life as a mum after spinal cord injury, the impact of specialist rehabilitation and the importance of putting the right support in place for seriously injured clients and their families.

I also supported Monika Lewandowska’s family in connection with the BBC’s The Big Cases series, which featured Monika’s story following her death six years after a road traffic collision and explored the long-term impact of serious injury on day-to-day life, family and recovery.

That commitment to maintaining relationships and creating meaningful support beyond a claim is also reflected in my work co-founding North East-based charity NE Amputee with former client Dr Alison Broadbent. This charity developed from our shared commitment to improving support for amputees and their families across the North East.

Alongside this, I’ve worked on technically significant cases, including claims that have set legal precedents and have been recognised for their importance in legal commentary. My aim in every case is to combine strong technical legal skills with a down-to-earth, trusted relationship that helps clients feel supported throughout and beyond their claim.

I start by listening carefully to what has happened and what matters most to my client and their family. Serious injury claims aren’t just about compensation. They’re about understanding each client’s unique set of circumstances, medical needs, family life, work, independence, home, finances and future goals, and building a case that reflects the full impact of the injury.

Where possible, I look to secure early rehabilitation and interim payments so clients can access treatment, equipment, support workers, therapy and adaptations at the time they need them most. I regularly work with case managers, neuropsychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, education specialists and other professionals to put the right support in place as quickly as possible.

I’m an advocate of a collaborative approach where that’s in my client’s best interests, particularly through the Serious Injury Guide and Rehabilitation Code. However, I’m also prepared to take firm action where needed to protect my client’s position, progress the case and secure the evidence needed to achieve the best possible outcome.

I build each case around the individual client. That means gathering detailed evidence from medical experts, family members, employers, therapists and support networks, and making sure the claim reflects both the immediate impact of the injury and my client’s long-term needs. My aim is for clients to feel supported, informed and confident that their case is being progressed with care, strategy, and determination.

The first meeting is an opportunity for me to build a relationship with you based on trust. I want to understand your priorities, answer your questions, and explain how I can help.

I appreciate that clients and families are often meeting me at one of the most difficult times in their lives, so my priority is to listen, understand what matters most to you and give clear, practical advice at a pace that feels reassuring and easy to follow.

I want clients to feel comfortable speaking openly with me from the outset. I’m down to earth and approachable, but also professional, direct and focused on what needs to be done. I can meet you in whatever way is most appropriate for you, including by telephone or video call, at our Newcastle or Middlesbrough offices, at hospital, at home or another suitable location. Family members, friends or those supporting you can also be involved where helpful.

During the meeting, we’ll usually discuss the circumstances of the incident, the injuries sustained, your current treatment and rehabilitation needs, financial pressures, and the practical support needed for you and your family.

My aim is that clients leave the first meeting feeling listened to, reassured and clear about what will happen next. I want clients to know that they have someone in a specialist team behind them, focused on fighting their corner, and guiding them with care and honesty.