Biography
I joined Irwin Mitchell in 2005 and qualified as a Legal Executive and later as a Solicitor. I have over 15 years of experience of helping clients with asbestos-related disease and workplace illness claims.
I’ve represented clients who have sustained occupational, environmental and also secondary exposure to asbestos. Notably, I successfully acted for the Claimant in “Magill v Panel Systems (DB Limited)” , which involved complex arguments in relation to methodology and medical evidence.
I recover substantial awards for my clients. Recently, I secured a settlement for over £200,000 for a mesothelioma client to cover past immunotherapy treatment costs and a flexible payment solution for future treatment. I also help clients and their families access care packages and rehabilitation treatment to help them stay fit for future treatment after a mesothelioma diagnosis.
I support various charities nationally and regularly raise awareness of cancer and the issues people may face. I often get involved with events such as National Carers Week and Action Mesothelioma Day.
I also lead Irwin Mitchell’s diversity and inclusion group in Leeds, which supports colleagues and highlights the challenges that people and professionals often experience - read a Q&A about my career for Black History Month.
Read my story about working with Bob, a mesothelioma claim client who became a friend.
Testimonials
"I am very happy and pleased with the help and assistance displayed by Nicola Handley my solicitor regarding my Asbestosis case. The caring and understanding she offered throughout the whole process was comforting and caring. I never felt under pressure or concerned during the months of contact with Niccola discussing issues. Nicola Handley is a credit to Irwin Mitchell solicitors." - 5* Trustpilot review
“Irwin Mitchell dealt with my mother’s industrial illness claim regarding my late father. We would like to thank the solicitor, Nicola Handley, for dealing with the case in a professional and sympathetic manner. Throughout the sometimes complex process, Nicola was very knowledgeable and always available to answer any questions and explain procedures we didn't understand. We would highly recommend Nicola and Irwin Mitchell.” – 5* Trustpilot review
"Nicola Handley at the Leeds office has been outstanding from the off... Nicola has guided me expertly through the whole process and has supported me when my illness has made life tough. Her attention to detail, communication, thoroughness and kindness throughout my claim has made the whole process a pleasant experience. Not only did Nicola achieve a substantial sum for me and my family she also negotiated large regular sums to pay for the best private treatment currently available... I would heartily recommend Irwin Mitchell, a large firm with tremendous resources but with a very personal touch." - 5* Trustpilot review
"Nicola Handley was the Irwin Mitchell Solicitor that dealt with my father’s case. From start to finish Nicola has been very professional and thorough. When my father passed away and the case had to be continued it was done so with compassion and empathy but always striving for the best outcome Thank you for making a very difficult situation go smoothly" - 5* Trustpilot review
"As a family, we cannot speak highly enough regarding Nicola Handley and Ian Toft, and the rest of the IM team that looked after us, after the sad passing of our Mother. Right from the start, they dealt with our family incredibly sensitively and professionally, and were always on hand to answer any questions we may have had, throughout some very hard and emotional times..."- Client (read full 5* Trustpilot review)
"After feeling very apprehensive on starting my legal claim, I was introduced to Nicola Handley from Irwin Mitchell solicitors who was appointed my solicitor and assisted me all the way to a successful conclusion. I have been guided with her integrity, professionalism and kindness, her knowledge in this field has made this distressing time much more bearable. I have never had any problems in contacting Nicola or any of the team by phone or email." - 5* Trustpilot review
"Special thanks to Nicola Handley for the compassionate, dedicated and professional way she has dealt with the claim. She has been amazingly relentless and supportive." – Former client
"We engaged Irwin Mitchell to pursue a claim on behalf of my father-in-law, who tragically died from mesothelioma. At all stages of the process the team demonstrated exceptional skills, experience, professionalism and empathy. I would strongly recommend Irwin Mitchell to anyone who is thinking of pursuing a compensation claim for Mesothelioma or any other occupational illness and injury." – Client
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
From the age of 13 I had an interest in law. I enjoyed investigating matters and putting my case forward on any issues that arose at school and at home! Both of my parents worked in the healthcare sector and I naturally developed an empathy for individuals that had sustained an injury. My role at Irwin Mitchell has provided me an invaluable opportunity to combine both of these interests and attributes for the positive outcomes for others.
What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?
I enjoy meeting people and providing support on a daily basis in respect of complex legal issues and sometimes just providing a listening ear. I also only wish to ever achieve the best outcome for my clients.
Working within a firm that’s diverse and inclusive is hugely important to me. I feel that I’m making a change not just for my generation, but for my children’s generation as well.
What Do You Like About Working At Irwin Mitchell?
I have been at the firm for over 13 years. They have supported me in every aspect through education and career progression. Irwin Mitchell continues to strive to achieve the best outcomes for their clients and also look continues to look towards the future and adapt the firm and their working methods accordingly.
What Do You Do Away From The Office?
I enjoy going to a CrossFit Gym, swimming, reading and spending time with my family. I am also actively involved with a number charities across the Yorkshire and Humberside region and I enjoy providing support and assistance in relation to a variety of activities on a regular basis.
