Biography
I am an Associate Solicitor in the Medical Negligence team in Sheffield and I've worked at Irwin Mitchell since 2011. I also supervise first year trainee solicitors who join our team in Sheffield.
I act exclusively for clients who have suffered an injury or deterioration in their health due to sub-standard care by hospitals, GPs and other healthcare providers. I have experience of dealing with a wide range of cases including negligent surgery, failures to diagnose and treat, injuries caused to mother and baby during birth, spinal injuries, fatal claims, delay in diagnosis of cancer and mental health claims.
I have a particular interest in cases where suicide and injuries arising from attempted suicide could have been avoided with appropriate care. I act for families whose loved one has died as a result of medical negligence and help families through the inquest process at the Coroner’s Court. I am also a solicitor advocate having passed the Higher Rights of Audience Qualification, which gives me the same rights as a barrister in court.
Charity and community work is also very important to me. I am a Trustee at Sheffield Mind, a charity that offers a range of services and support to people who have suffered from a mental health problem, enabling them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. I am also passionate about pro bono work and increasing access to legal advice. I take a lead role in the Sheffield’s Pro Bono Committee where we provide free legal advice and representation to individuals and community groups who can not pay and where public funding is not available.
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
I wanted to enter a profession that involved helping people. I studied law at college and from that came my fascination with how the law can help others and change for future generations.
What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?
I’m driven by helping and supporting my clients throughout the course of their case. I often meet individuals at very difficult and distressing times in their lives, whether because of a life changing injury, or the loss of a loved one. I am passionate about achieving the best result for all of my clients whether that be much needed answers or recovering compensation so that people can have proper rehabilitation.
What Do You Like About Working At Irwin Mitchell?
I work with some of the best clinical negligence lawyers in the country, who are dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for their clients. I’m also proud to work for an organisation that supports local charities to make a real difference to people’s lives. Most of these charities have assisted my clients in the past so I know first-hand the amazing support they provide.
What Do You Do Away From The Office?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, particularly my two young girls so our weekends are usually spent outdoors jumping in muddy puddles!
Client Testimonials
“Absolute outstanding service from Irwin Mitchell’s and particularly Sinead Rollinson-Hayes. Throughout my four years dealing with Sinead, she has been nothing short of amazing. Her professionalism, patience, care and compassion has been exceptional over this exceedingly difficult period of my life. Sinead has always been available by phone or email if I had any questions or concerns. The last four years has led to a successful settlement following a week at trial. Sinead always ensured that I was fully prepared and understood the processes, especially leading up to trial, for which I was very grateful. I will always think of Sinead fondly, I wouldn’t be where I am without her help. She is an absolute credit to both her profession and Irwin Mitchell’s. Thanks so much Sinead.” Diane, former client
'Irwin Mitchell have provided the ultimate service throughout what has been a difficult time for all of us. I speak for everyone in our family. Sinéad Rollinson Hayes has been First class from start to finish and could not have been any better. I hopefully won’t need Irwin Mitchell’s services again in this capacity but if I do I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.' Leigh, former client
"We are still very grateful to you and think of you very fondly – you are a credit to your profession and your organisation." David, former client.
"We would like to thank you all very much indeed for all your hard work over the past 5 years. It was your firm’s foresight and determination to proceed which brought about this outcome, and for that we are extremely grateful." William, former client.
"A fantastic service provided by Sinead Rollinson-Hayes and her team at Irwin Mitchell. At my first appointment with Sinead, she was very understanding of my situation and whilst showing care and compassion, she remained professional throughout. I received documents in a professional and timely manner, always with a thorough explanation of the current stage of my case and Sinead was always available via email or phone if I had any concerns or needed clarification on any issues. I would recommend Sinead and Irwin Mitchell to any individual who is looking to seek representation for something sensitive and personal. Thank you Sinead." Denise, former client.
"Irwin Mitchell were excellent. They helped my Mum (Marjorie) with her claim every step of the way. Nothing was too much trouble for them. My mum would like to especially thank Sinead Rollinson-Hayes who was always there at the end of the phone when she needed someone." relative of former client.
"We have found Irwin Mitchell to be friendly and efficient. Sinead Rollinson-Hayes is extremely helpful and understanding at this very difficult time." Shirley, client.
“A very special thank you to Sinead Rollinson-Hayes for her professional handling of my case. She helped and guided me through every stage of the process and I cannot recommend her highly enough.” - 5* Trustpilot review
Publications
Solicitors Journal, 16 May 2017: 'Pro Bono vs Legal Aid'
The Justice Gap, January 2017: 'Review of Ongoing Cuts to Legal Aid'
Notable Cases
-
Successfully secured a £132,000 settlement for an adult who had suffered from a severe pressure sore which led to a permanent chronic pain syndrome. This significantly impacted on the client’s daily lifestyle, and they struggled to return to their previous employment.
- Heavily involved in a case where the individual had suffered from an Erb’s Palsy injury due to a traumatic birth. This led to permanent damage and limited function in the arm and shoulder. We received an admission of liability from the Defendant NHS Trust and an award of £575,000 for the client.
- Successfully secured a £115,000 settlement at a mediation for our client. The case involved a delay in diagnosing a heart condition which sadly wasn’t picked up until after the individual’s death. The NHS Trust admitted liability and we were able to progress to mediation to reach a resolution for the family involved.
- Heavily involved in a case in which our client had suffered from a spinal cord injury, leading to paraplegia. The case settled for a lump sum award of £1.7m and annual periodical payments. We also secured a Provisional Damages Order, entitling our client to return to Court at a later date in the event of a serious deterioration in her condition.
