Biography
I joined Irwin Mitchell in 1997 having previously worked for a few months with a large firm in my hometown of Leeds. Having qualified as a solicitor in 1999, I initially worked in a number of different teams including group litigation, product liability and clinical negligence. I began dealing with claims arising from workplace accidents in January 2003 and became an Associate at Irwin Mitchell in 2004.
I work exclusively with people who have serious injury cases arising from accidents in the workplace. My clients include those who have suffered injuries including upper and lower limb amputations of varying degrees, crush injuries including severe hand injuries, multiple orthopaedic injuries and back injuries, as well as PTSD and other psychological conditions. I also assist families of workers who have suffered fatal accidents.
Publications
- Featured in 2010 on BBC One's Panorama episode investigating the history of PTSD compensation claims, including those from battlefield trauma in England and Wales.
- Article "Reflections on Psychiatric Injury” Personal Injury Compensation March 2008
- Article "Injured at Work?" Web Express Guide July 2005
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
From the age of about 14 I knew I was heading for a career in the legal profession. With a family keen on all things motor sport/fast I had originally wanted to be a pilot but after a year or so of the physics GCSE course I had soon changed my aspirations! I was good with people and wanted to pursue a career where I would have plenty of human contact, plenty of variety and where I would be able to help people. Law seemed like a good way to do that and the lawyers on LA Law seemed to have some great 80s shoulder pads!
What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?
I am always pleased when I can guide someone through a system that they are usually encountering for the first time. Many people are sometimes apprehensive of everything associated with law and the legal system so I am hopefully a friendly presence and help them understand legal concepts that they weren't familiar with before coming to us.
What Do You Like About Working At Irwin Mitchell?
At Irwin Mitchell I am able to work in a specialist team within personal injury which means that I am able to spend plenty of time looking at the law and regulations applicable to my area, and get a more detailed knowledge than if I had to cover a number of different areas. The more people I act for the more I get to know about all sorts of different jobs in all walks of life, so my work is always interesting.
What Do You Do Away From The Office?
Having spent most of my childhood in stockcar stadiums, and some of it driving one, I remain keen on motor sport enjoying Grand Prix and other formulas. I also spend a lot of my time running my boy around various parties, playcentres and football venues (thankfully indoor mostly, at least for now)! I enjoy walking as long as it's not too strenuous and involves refreshment stops.
Testimonials
"I couldn't believe how helpful and reassuring Lisa was. It must have been difficult doing everything by Email and phone all the extra work but she was brilliant. I was kept up to date all through the process. I even had her call me in the evening if there was something that she needed to speak to me about.
"I couldn't have asked for anyone better and she got my case sorted really quickly which was good and the results I was pleased with. Thank you Lisa you're a star. She even sorted me some counselling and physio out to help me get back on my feet so I could get on with my life. If I ever needed a solicitor or any one I know I would definitely recommend Irwin Mitchell. Your guaranteed good and efficient service. Thank you" - 5* Trustpilot review
"After an accident at work I contacted Irwin Mitchell at the Sheffield branch. Lisa Fairclough was assigned to my case. She has been extremely thorough and helpful throughout the full process of dealing with my case. She has kept me informed and assisted me in any queries I have had. She has been very professional and friendly. I would recommend her highly." - 5* Trustpilot review
"Absolutely thrilled with the outcome of my claim. Friendly and understanding, thorough and patient. Always kept me informed every step of the way. I would highly recommend to anyone seeking legal advice!" - 5* Trustpilot review
“Can’t recommend highly enough. Lisa has kept us informed at every step of the process. She has made it easier to understand the legal aspects more clearly and has been friendly, supportive and caring at difficult times. We have trusted her professional advice and reached a satisfactory conclusion to the claim.” - 5* Trustpilot review