Biography
I have practiced medical negligence since 2011 and I deal with a range of cases across the full spectrum of medical negligence. I particularly focus on high value, complex cases. My experience includes advising on cases involving: delay in diagnosis of cancer, orthopaedic and limb amputation, gynaecological negligence, diabetes related illness, sepsis and fatal cases.
I have a particular interest in representing patients who have stomas. As an ostomate myself, I offer a unique understanding of what my clients have been through and their rehabilitation and support needs during their recovery and beyond.
I’m also passionate in pursuing cerebral palsy cases, assisting Guy Forster and Justine Spencer on their maximum severity birth injury claims. Being based in Wales, I’m well acquainted with NHS Redress and I regularly advise on the scheme.
What inspired you to get into law?
It’s a privilege to be entrusted with the responsibility of recovering compensation for injured people during the most difficult chapter of their lives. I’m motivated by my clients who often come to me feeling extremely vulnerable and traumatised.
A big part of my job is to provide a support and understanding of their individual experiences and objectives, which are different in every case. I do my job because I’m so inspired and motivated by each of my clients and it’s a pleasure to work with them and listen to their courageous stories.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
The most rewarding part of my job is securing much needed settlements for my clients, to help them rebuild their lives. At Irwin Mitchell we have an impressive range of support for clients who’ve been injured and need rehabilitation to aid their recovery and live as independently as possible.
There’s no feeling like securing my client a settlement that opens doors for them. I love seeing clients make huge strides forward in their recovery as a result. I’m also given support in working with local charities as well as in my work to improve disability inclusion in the legal sector. These are both real passions of mine.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
Irwin Mitchell is extremely well regarded in medical negligence, which means we have very good quality work. We can offer a full service to our clients by working with our other departments as our clients’ needs evolve during the claims process. It’s also really important for me to work for an employer that places disability inclusion at the top of its agenda.
What do you do away from the office?
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and spending my weekends with my husband and two ragdoll cats. I spend a lot of time with family in my home town, Tenby, in Pembrokeshire. I love to try new restaurants and particularly love a taster menu...my go to for special occasions!
Testimonials
“Many thanks to Rhian. Such a caring and understanding person, don’t think there is anyone else I could have dealt with.” - Mr H, client.
“I was well informed all the way through the different aspects of the claim and was involved in conferences with the appointed barrister for the case. My solicitor Rhian gave me regular updates from the start of the process, up to the date of that we were successful. Clear communication was very helpful and I was advised of all possible outcomes that may have arisen during the claim. The service provided was first class.” - Ms T, client.
“Thank you very much for everything you have done. I have been very happy with the service and could not think of anything you could have done better. You have kept me updated all of the way through and managed to get me double what the health board offered initially.” - Mrs B, client.
“Very professional, extremely understanding and caring.” - Mr V, client.
“I’m going to miss you when this process is all over, I know some might say you are just doing your job, but you have done it with a degree of humanity and kindness which has been much appreciated by me.” - Mrs H, client.
Publications
‘Disabled but not dis-abled’ – Law Gazette
