Biography
I'm a Senior Associate in the Newcastle medical negligence team, who joined the IM team in 2022. Although I initially trained with a Claimant firm specialising in medical negligence (as long ago as 2002, ) I've spent a significant proportion of my career (accumulating over 15 years’ experience) working as a defendant solicitor seeing the realities of what is it to work within the NHS. This has given me some really useful insights, and I use my experience to try and work collaboratively with Defendants to get the best solutions for my clients.
What inspired you to get into law?
I find medicine fascinating, but I can’t imagine how hard it must be to bear the burden of so many seemingly routine decisions, that will ultimately have a huge impact on people’s lives. It is extremely rewarding to be able to support people who have questions, and need assistance in facing challenges, which result from those medical decisions. I also really enjoy all technical aspects of the law, and I love having an engaged team of people around me keen to learn.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
The real joy of the job for me comes from meeting people. My work is continually bringing me into contact with clients whose lives have changed beyond all recognition whether because of a misdiagnosis, inappropriate surgery, or poorly managed pregnancy, which has impacted themselves or a family member. Some of these clients are truly inspiring in their approach to life when it doesn’t go to plan!
It’s also amazing to be involved with so many of the wonderful and inspiring charities we have in the North East. I am privileged to encounter lots of support services and take part in volunteering via work schemes. I’m particularly proud to be part of the NECANN (our regional children with additional needs network) it is heart-warming to see how much amazing work goes on to support people in our region every day.
