Louisa Donaghy

I specialise in representing serving personnel, veterans and their families in complex claims arising from injury, illness and institutional failings during military service.

I’m a Legal Director in Irwin Mitchell’s Military Injury team, where I act for members of the Armed Forces community in cases involving serious injury, illness and exposure-related conditions linked to military service.

I have significant experience representing clients in high-value and life-changing claims, including those involving occupational illness. I have particular expertise in helicopter exhaust exposure litigation and have acted for a number of service personnel and families affected by toxic fumes linked to aircraft including the Sea King, Wessex, Puma and Chinook.

These cases have involved individuals who later developed serious illnesses including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma and other cancers. I’ve supported clients and families in advancing claims relating to these exposures and in securing settlements that provide financial security and recognition of the harm they have suffered.

I understand the unique challenges faced by serving personnel, veterans and their families. My approach is compassionate and practical: I work closely with clients to provide clear advice, straightforward support and strong representation throughout the legal process. At Irwin Mitchell, I remain committed to ensuring that those whose health and futures have been affected by their service receive the specialist advocacy, accountability and outcomes they deserve.

Alongside my aviation-related work, I support clients across a wide range of military claims, including:

• Military injury and illness claims
• Helicopter exhaust exposure litigation
• Non-Freezing Cold Injuries (NFCI)
• Bullying and harassment claims
• Sexual assault and sexual harassment cases
• Training accidents and avoidable injuries
• Occupational illness and toxic exposure claims
• Serious injury and complex claims involving the Ministry of Defence.

Key highlights

Sea King cases

What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?

What I enjoy most about working with Irwin Mitchell is the genuine sense of teamwork and care that runs through everything we do. It’s a place where people truly support one another, look after our clients, and share a commitment to doing the right thing. Being part of a team that values empathy as much as expertise is incredibly motivating

What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?

The most rewarding part of my role is seeing the difference compassionate, well‑considered legal support can make. Being able to bring calm, clarity and reassurance to people during stressful or emotional times is something I never take for granted.

What inspired you to get into law?

I was drawn to a career in law because I’ve always felt a genuine responsibility to support people through difficult and uncertain moments. From early in my career, I realised that the law isn’t just about rules, it’s about helping individuals feel understood, reassured and guided when they need it most. For me, combining clear, analytical thinking with empathy and human connection is at the heart of being an effective lawyer, and it’s what continues to inspire me every day.

What do you do away from the office?

Away from the office, I’m passionate about supporting the ABF charity and smaller charities around the Catterick Garrison and giving back where I can. Much of my life has also been happily spent on the sidelines of a football pitch cheering on my son, which has taught me patience, resilience and the value of a good thermos flask. I love a holiday in the sun, spending time cooking for friends, and heading out on a hike, especially when it involves clear blue skies and a good mountain view.