Sarah Jayne McGowan

I am a Solicitor in the Medical Negligence team at Irwin Mitchell, based in our Cardiff office. I have specialised in this area of law since qualifying in September 2023.

I am passionate about helping people and families who have been harmed following medical treatment understand what happened and get the answers they need. My work covers a wide range of claims, including delayed or missed diagnoses, surgical errors, GP care and serious or life changing injuries. I also act for families who have lost a loved one.

I enjoy working closely with my clients throughout their claim, making sure they feel supported and know what to expect at each stage.

What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?

My role is to investigate my client's concerns thoroughly and make sure we have the right evidence to support their claim. Generally, this involves reviewing medical records and obtaining evidence from independent medical experts to consider whether the care provided was appropriate and whether different treatment would have changed the outcome.

As the case develops, I advise my clients on the strengths and weaknesses of their claim, the options available and the best way forward.

Where possible, I will also seek an interim payment before the claim concludes. This is an early payment of part of the compensation, which can help meet immediate needs, such as funding treatment, while the claim is ongoing.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?

I have worked on a wide range of cases, including those involving: 

• General surgery
• Delayed diagnosis of cancer
• GP and care home negligence
• Maternal birth injuries
• Ophthalmology
• Orthopaedic care
• Cardiac care
• Falls in hospital
• Sepsis and other serious infections

Alongside my own caseload, I also assist senior members of the team with complex and high-value claims involving birth injuries and spinal cord injuries. These are areas in which I have a particular interest.

How do you help your clients achieve the best outcome?

Every client's circumstances are different, so I tailor my approach to the individual. Some of my clients are living with the consequences of an injury or illness, while others are grieving the loss of a loved one. Whatever their circumstances, I recognise that clients often come to us at one of the most difficult times of their lives. I take the time to understand not only what happened medically, but also the wider impact it has had on them and their family, and what they hope to achieve by pursuing a claim.

What can I expect from my first meeting with you?

The first meeting is really a chance for us to talk through your concerns and for me to hear what has happened in your own words. We’ll discuss the care you received and the impact your experience has had on you and your family.

I appreciate that talking about your experience can sometimes be difficult or emotional, so we can take things at your pace. You can ask me questions as we go and I will always try to explain things in a clear and straightforward way, without unnecessary legal jargon.

Most importantly, I want you to come away from our conversation feeling that you have been listened to, with a clearer understanding of how we may be able to help and what the next steps might involve.