Playing a part in changing lives: the inspirational stories of Martin and MJ
Posted by Tracy Norris-Evans, Partner
One area where we seek to make a difference is in our personal injury and clinical negligence work. We typically meet clients during the bleakest periods of their lives, when either they or a loved one has suffered life changing injuries.
We start by building a team around the client: each client is assigned his/her legal team who take time to know them personally and who guide them through the (often daunting) process of pursuing a legal claim.
Once the claim has concluded however and compensation has been awarded, the relationship does not end there. We are able to assist our clients to set up and administer personal injury trusts and deputyships, as a vehicle to manage the monetary award in order to meet the often complex, lifetime needs of the client. We create a multi-disciplinary team around the client: first, by appointing a specialist professional trustee/deputy. Secondly, by facilitating access to an expert independent financial adviser, who can advise on the best long term investment strategy to optimise the compensation.
Building the multi-disciplinary team also includes the appointment of a case manager, to manage and co-ordinate the care regime, therapeutic and medical input and equipment needs.
At various stages during the lifecycle of the administration of the compensation, we bring in other experts: we appoint specialist architects and occupational therapists to ensure the best design and functional outcome in adapting a home. We communicate closely with the medical team to ensure that the health and welfare needs are met and appropriate equipment is trialled and purchased.
Central to each decision is the client and his/her family. Our aim is to empower the individual so that the compensation is applied to maximise his/her quality of life. Clients have direct access to the decision-maker as we understand the importance of a trusted relationship with the professional trustee/deputy.
Two clients whom we have been working closely with for many years wanted to tell their stories, in the hope that it will inspire others who have suffered life changing injuries.
The stories of MJ and Martin have been captured in two films which relate their incredible journeys. A team of family, friends, charities and professionals were with them along the way and we feel extremely privileged to have been part of the team.
To introduce the films, MJ and Martin have each posted a blog article for our website. We are sure that you will agree that the films demonstrate how much MJ and Martin have achieved in the face of adversity, and that having a team that empowered them were key components in those achievements.
Feet on the ground: MJ’s story.
Find out more about the charities we support by clicking their logos below:
Our credentials
“What the team is known for: Somerset-based practice that comes recommended for its focus on spinal cord and brain injuries. Also offers niche expertise in areas such as fatal accidents and animal cases. Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients): “They are all very approachable and friendly, and I think that’s the culture that exists throughout the firm. They are a close-knit team.” “They have that mentality of looking after the client first as opposed to their own interests. They always do what’s best for the client.” Notable practitioners: Stuart Brazington (Band 1) offers particular expertise in serious spinal cord and brain injury cases. According to one interviewee, he “knows his cases extremely well” and “has good judgement about which points are likely to be important.” Mark Hambleton (Associate to watch) covers a broad range of personal injury matters, including animal cases, sports injuries and motorcycle accidents. Sources describe him as “always very impressive” and note that he’s “very good with clients.”” Chambers 2017 Somerset
“What the team is known for: Outstanding personal injury practice adept at handling an impressive breadth of claims, including equine matters, industrial disease cases and cycling accidents. Notable expertise in chronic pain and fatal accident cases, as well as offering significant experience in catastrophic injury claims. Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients): “They were all empathetic but businesslike, and this formed absolutely the right mixture. Their advice was delivered to me in exactly the right way.” “They were brilliant and supportive.” Work highlights Acted for a professional jockey in a claim arising from a racing accident in Australia that resulted in complete paraplegia. The case was partially tried at the Royal Courts of Justice in London. Advised the widow of a man killed by a bullock, bringing precedent-setting liability claims under the Animals Act. Notable practitioners: Ian Carrier (Band 1) offers extensive expertise in catastrophic injuries, with a particular focus on spinal and brain claims. Impressed clients describe him as “very experienced and knowledgeable,” and note that he “has a genuine interest in you as a person.” He is also praised for his creative approach to complex cases. Tracy Norris-Evans (Band 1) draws on a wealth of experience in severe injury claims, including paediatric cases and those involving complex neurological issues. She frequently acts as a trustee in high-value settlements. According to one impressed source, Helen Childs (Band 2) was “absolutely superb from the outset” and had “phenomenal attention to detail.” She is held in high regard for her focus on major asbestos-related claims.” Chambers 2017 Oxford and Surrounds
“Royds Withy King sits on the panels for the United Kingdom Acquired Brain Injury Forum and Headway. Department head Louise Hart handles amputation, orthopaedic injuries, chronic pain, PTSD and facial injury matters. Stuart Brazington is also recommended.” Legal 500 2016 South West
“Royds Withy King, Tracy Norris-Evans is renowned for brain injury and paediatric work, and ‘shrewd lawyer and tactician’ Richard Brooks specialises in claims involving animals. Also recommended are Ian Carrier, who is adept in spinal injury claims; and Helen Childs, who leads the industrial diseases practice.” Legal 500 2016 South East
