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.

With me: Martin’s story.