Categories
Contesting A Will

Contesting a Will Made Undue Influence

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We are often contacted by people who believe a Will is invalid due to undue influence. Equally, we hear from beneficiaries who argue that a Will is valid and deny that any undue influence took place.

So what does the law actually say?

What Is Undue Influence in a Will?

Undue influence occurs when a Will is made as a result of unlawful pressure being applied to the person making it (the testator).

If a Will is signed because of undue influence, it is void and has no legal effect.

Lawful Persuasion vs Unlawful Pressure

It is important to understand that not all influence is unlawful.

The law recognises that it is perfectly legitimate for someone to try to persuade a testator to leave them a gift. The difficulty lies in identifying where legitimate persuasion ends and undue influence begins.

What the Courts Say

In the 1860s case of Hall v Hall, the court stated that the following are legitimate:

“Persuasion, appeal to affection or ties of kindred, gratitude for past services, or pity for future destitution.”

These types of influence are allowed. Undue influence, however involves pressure that overpowers the testator’s free will.

Why Undue Influence Is Difficult to Prove

There is another significant challenge. Undue influence often takes place behind closed doors, with no witnesses present.

As a result:

  • It is relatively easy to allege undue influence
  • However, it is often very difficult to prove

Each case depends heavily on evidence and circumstances.

Proposed Changes to the Law

The Law Commission is currently considering reforms to better protect vulnerable testators, particularly older people at risk of financial abuse.

Our Head of Department has been working with the Law Commission to help strike the right balance between:

  • Protecting vulnerable individuals
  • Upholding legitimate gifts and testamentary freedom

Why Specialist Legal Advice Is Essential

Undue influence claims are legally complex and evidence-heavy. Because of this, specialist advice is essential from the earliest stage.

Expert Support With Inheritance Disputes

Our team has extensive experience dealing with inheritance and Will disputes, including claims involving undue influence.

We are sympathetic, understanding, and here to guide you every step of the way.

We can get it sorted.
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Categories
Birth Injury

The Long-Term Cost of Birth Injuries

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Birth injuries caused by medical negligence have a profound impact on mothers, babies, the NHS, and society as a whole. As specialist birth injury compensation solicitors, our focus is on securing the rehabilitation care, and financial compensation families need to move forward.

According to NHS Resolution, the body responsible for handling NHS claims, payments for clinical negligence in England rose by 9.5% in 2022/23 to almost £2.7 billion, with maternity negligence accounting for a significant proportion of this cost. These figures highlight the seriousness and prevalence of birth injury claims.

What Is a Birth Injury?

A birth injury is an injury sustained by a mother and/or baby beforeduringor shortly after labour and delivery. While most births result in excellent care, avoidable errors can cause life-changing harm.

Common Birth Injuries Affecting Mothers

Mothers may suffer a range of injuries, including:

  • Perineal trauma
  • Haemorrhage
  • Infection
  • Ruptured uterus
  • Prolapsed uterus
  • Pelvic fractures
  • Pre-eclampsia

Common Injuries Affecting Babies

Babies can also suffer serious injuries, such as:

  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Brachial plexus birth injury (including Erb’s palsy and shoulder dystocia)
  • Oxygen deprivation (hypoxia or anoxia)
  • Brain injury
  • Broken bones
  • Infection
  • Stillbirth

When injuries are caused by negligent maternity care, they can result in long-term physical, psychological, and financial consequences.

The Long-Term Effects of Brachial Plexus Birth Injury

One of the most common birth injuries in infants is brachial plexus birth injury. This occurs when the network of nerves controlling the shoulder, arm, and hand is stretched or damaged during delivery – often due to excessive force applied to the baby’s head and neck.

Shoulder Dystocia and Nerve Damage

Brachial plexus injuries frequently occur in cases of shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulders become stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone after the head has been delivered. Improper management of shoulder dystocia can significantly increase the risk of permanent injury.

Long-Term Outcomes

While many infants recover fully, research published in 2023 found that approximately 30% of children with brachial plexus birth injuries suffer permanent paralysis. Secondary complications may include:

  • Persistent weakness
  • Joint deformity or dislocation
  • Contractures
  • Altered limb growth
  • Chronic pain and reduced range of motion
  • Mental health difficulties
  • Spinal and joint degeneration

A specialist birth injury compensation solicitor will ensure that appropriate medical experts are instructed so the court can fully assess long-term prognosis and award accurate compensation.

The Long-Term Impact of Perineal Tears

For mothers, perineal tears are among the most common birth injuries and vary in severity.

Degrees of Perineal Tears

  • First degree tears: Affect only the skin, often heal quickly
  • Second degree tears: Involve perineal muscles and usually require stitches
  • Third degree tears: Extend into the anal sphincter and require surgical repair
  • Fourth degree tears: The most severe, extending into the rectum and potentially causing long-term complications such as faecal incontinence

Failure to correctly identify or repair third and fourth degree tears can have devastating consequences, affecting a woman’s physical health, sexual wellbeing, and mental health.

birth injury solicitor will investigate risk factors, failures in care, and the long term impact of the injury, supported by expert medical evidence.

Government Inquiry Into Birth Trauma

Birth injuries often coincide with birth trauma. On 9th January 2024, a new All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) was launched to investigate birth trauma in the UK.

Objectives of the Inquiry

The inquiry aims to:

  • Identify maternity care practices contributing to birth trauma
  • Highlight examples of good maternity care and post-birth support
  • Examine the impact of birth trauma on mental health, relationships, bonding, and future reproductive choices

Evidence is expected to be heard between February and March 2024, with findings published in April 2024.

Why Early Legal Advice Matters

Childbirth should be remembered as a joyful and safe experience. When a birth injury or traumatic birth occurs, families can face years of pain, uncertainty, and ongoing medical treatment.

If you or your baby have suffered a birth injury, it is vital to contact a birth injury solicitor as soon as possible. Around 80% of clinical negligence claims settle out of court, meaning most cases are resolved without the stress of a trial.

Early legal advice helps ensure:

  • Evidence is preserved
  • Time limits are met
  • Appropriate rehabilitation and interim payments are secured

Specialist Birth Injury Solicitors You Can Trust

Our team has decades of combined experience representing families in medical negligence and birth injury claims. We are compassionate, understanding, and committed to securing the support and compensation you need to move forward.

Free No-Obligation Consultation

If you believe medical negligence caused a birth injury, contact us today to discuss your situation. We offer a freeno obligation consultation and are available by phone or email to help you take the next step.

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Categories
Contentious Probate

What Are The Most Common Types of Contentious Probate Disputes?

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At NJS Law, our specialist solicitors have extensive experience dealing with Inheritance Disputes of all kinds. We regularly act for clients who are bringing claims as well as those who need to defend claims made against an estate.

Inheritance disputes can be stressful, emotional, and legally complex. Our role is to guide you through the process with clarity, sensitivity, and expert legal advice.

Claims Under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975

The most common type of inheritance dispute is a claim for reasonable financial provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

Who Can Make a Claim?

Claims under the Act may be brought by:

  • A spouse or civil partner
  • A former spouse or former civil partner
  • A cohabiting partner (living together for at least two years)
  • Children (including adult children and those treated as children of the family)
  • Financial dependents

Most people who make a Will provide properly for their loved ones. However, disputes often arise where someone has been deliberately excluded or left with insufficient provision.

Claims by Adult Children

Claims brought by adult children are particularly complex and depend heavily on the individual circumstances. Some claims succeed, while others do not. As a result, many cases are settled through negotiation to minimise risk, costs, and emotional strain for all parties.

Disputes About the Validity of a Will

Challenges to the validity of a Will are another common form of inheritance dispute.

Reasons a Will May Be Invalid

A Will may be declared invalid for several reasons, including:

  • Failure to comply with legal signing and witnessing requirements
  • Lack of mental capacity at the time the Will was made
  • The Will-maker not fully understanding the effect of the Will.
  • Errors or failures by the Will preparer

In some cases, Wills are prepared for individuals with long-term diagnoses such as dementia, without adequate assessment of capacity. These situations frequently result in disputes after death.

Executor and Estate Administration Disputes

We also advise on disputes involving the administration of estates, including disagreements between Executors and concerns about how an estate is being managed.

Common Executor Disputes

These disputes often involve:

  • Executors failing to carry out their duties properly
  • Unreasonable delays in distributing estate assets
  • Disputes between Executors or beneficiaries

Such disputes are becoming increasingly common, and our solicitors are experienced in resolving them efficiently.

Why Choose NJS Law for Inheritance Disputes?

Our team offers:

We are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

Speak to an Inheritance Disputes Solicitor

We are here to help. We can get it sorted. It’s what we do.

Contact NJS Law today for expert advice on inheritance disputes.

It’s free to ask.

Frequently Asked Questions About Inheritance Disputes

What is an inheritance dispute?

An inheritance dispute is a legal disagreement relating to a person’s estate after they have died. This can include disputes about the terms of a Will, claims for financial provision, challenges to the validity of a Will, or issues with how an estate is being administered.

Who can challenge a Will?

A Will may be challenged by individuals with a legal interest in the estate, including beneficiaries, potential beneficiaries, or those who believe the Will is invalid. Common grounds for challenging a Will include lack of mental capacity, improper execution, undue influence, or fraud.

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Categories
Damp & Mould Disrepair

RCP Calls on Government to Take Urgent Action on Damp and Mould

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In January 2023, we published an article examining the action taken by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) to remind social housing providers of their legal obligations to prevent damp and mould in rented homes. This followed the tragic death of two-year old Awaab Ishak, who died from a respiratory condition made worse by prolonged exposure to damp and mould in his family’s social housing property in Rochdale.

Following Awaab’s death, a Senior Coroner stated:

“The tragic death of Awaab will and should be a defining moment for the housing sector in terms of increasing knowledge, increasing awareness and a deepening of understanding surrounding the issue of damp and mould.”

Despite these warnings, damp and mould in social and private rented housing remain widespread in the UK. Over the past year, many tenants have continued to suffer serious and life-threatening health problems linked to poor housing conditions.

In response, the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has issued a further warning to the government, highlighting the ongoing public health risks of mould exposure. This article explores the continuing health impacts of damp and mould in Britain’s rental homes, why conditions show little improvement in 2024, and the RCP’s call for urgent reform.

Tenants Continue to Suffer the Health Impacts of Damp and Mould

Recent research shows that around 88,000 social housing households currently suffer from serious damp and mould problems. These conditions are linked to a range of health issues, including asthma, respiratory infections, allergies and, in severe cases, premature death.

An investigation by The Observer has also revealed that private landlords and housing associations are often not held accountable for failing to resolve mould and damp issues. Of the 2,907 rulings made by the Housing Ombudsman over the past three years, the average financial penalty issued to housing associations was just £445.

Suzanne Muna, a representative of the Social Housing Action Campaign, explained:

“It is obvious that such weak sanctions make little impact, and they certainly don’t drive strategic change.”

These minimal penalties fail to incentivise landlords to address serious property defects, leaving tenants exposed to ongoing health risks.

Real-Life Cases Highlight the Dangers of Mouldy Homes

Over the last year, several high-profile cases have drawn attention to the devastating effects of living with damp and black mould. One such case involved Morgan Sinnott, who lives with a rare genetic condition known as Wolfram Syndrome, making her particularly vulnerable to respiratory illness.

Ms Sinnott was hospitalised in a life-threatening condition after contracting pneumonia for the third time, which was linked to mould exposure in her home. Her experience reflects the fearfrustrationand powerlessness felt by many tenants living in social housing or private rented properties where landlords fail to take action.

These cases underline the serious health consequences of damp and mould, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

RCP Calls on Government to Take Urgent Action on Damp and Mould

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has recently urged Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, to accelerate a promised crackdown on landlords, who fail to remedy mould and damp in rented homes.

The RCP waned that without stronger laws and enforcement, more people will suffer severe illness or die as a result of inhaling fungal toxins released by mould. While the government has previously promised to introduce firm deadlines for landlords to carry out repairs, progress has been slow.

Why Damp and Mould Problems Are Getting Worse

According to Professor Sir Stephen Holgate, Special Adviser on Air Quality to the RCP, urgent reform is needed due to several contributing factors:

  • Poor housing quality across the UK
  • Rising energy costs forcing tenants to keep windows closed
  • Increased indoor moisture and condensation
  • Mould becoming more resistant to treatment

Professor Holgate criticised the slow pace of reform, stating that progress has been delayed by:

“Obfuscation, debate and committees.”

He has called for the UK to adopt a “zero tolerance” approach to damp and mould, similar to policies already in place in Germany.

“We know housing in this country is in a dreadful state. The science of the risks of mould exposure hasn’t been accepted strongly enough by regulators. This passive approach is failing society.”

Landlord Responsibilities and the Need for Stronger Enforcement

Landlords have a legal duty to provide safehabitable homes. This includes taking prompt action to investigate and repair damp and mould. However, without meaningful penalties and strict enforcement, many tenants remain at risk.

The RCP’s warning serves as a stark reminder that damp and mould are not merely housing issues, but a growing public health crisis. Without urgent legislative reform and robust enforcement, the scale of the problem is unlikely to improve in 2024 and beyond.

What Are My Rights If I Have Mould in My Rented Property

If you discover damp and mould in your rented property, you have clear legal rights. While some minor steps can help reduce moisture, landlords are responsible for fixing the underlying causes of mould and damp.

Steps You Can Take to Reduce Damp and Mould

In some cases, simple remedial action may help slow the spread of mould. This can include:

  • Opening windows to improve ventilation
  • Covering pans while cooking
  • Keeping internal doors open where possible
  • Closing the bathroom door when showering
  • Wiping condensation down from windows each morning

You may also find the UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings online tool helpful for additional guidance on managing moisture levels.

However, these steps alone are often not enough to resolve serious damp or mould problems. If mould persists, you must inform your landlord as soon as possible.

Your Landlord's Legal Responsibilities

Once notified, your landlord must inspect the property and identify the cause of the damp and mould. If the issue is serious, they are required to act promptly.

Depending on the cause, your landlord may need to carry out repairs such as:

  • Structural repairs or damp proofing
  • Fixing leaking pipes or faulty plumbing
  • Improving ventilation systems
  • Repairing boilers or heating systems
  • Addressing drainage problems
  • Replacing rotten windows or damaged roof tiles
  • Removing damp wallpaper or repairing internal surfaces

Failing to carry out these repairs may place your landlord in breach of their legal duties.

What to Do If Your Landlord Does Not Act

If your landlord fails to take appropriate action, you should contact your local authority’s Environmental Health department. They have the power to inspect your home and order your landlord to carry out repairs.

Tenants in social housing may also be entitled to an independent inspection by a specialist surveyor. You should receive a copy of any inspection report.

If the problem still remains unresolved, it is important to speak to an experienced Housing Disrepair Solicitor. Legal action can help force repairs and allow you to claim compensation for the period you have lived in unsafe conditions.

Wrapping Up

Despite increased awareness, damp and mould in social housing remain a serious and ongoing issue in the UK. Without stronger enforcement, many tenants continue to live in unhealthy conditions.

If your home is affected by damp and mould, you should not ignore it. Speaking to a Housing Disrepair Solicitor can help protect your health and ensure your landlord meets their obligations. You do not have to deal with damp and mould problems alone.

How NJS Law Can Help With Damp and Mould Repairs

NJS Law is one of the few housing disrepair solicitors in England and Wales with a dedicated team focused on resolving damp and mould claims.

We can help you by:

  • Instructing a fully qualified surveyor to assess the disrepair and provide expert evidence
  • Taking legal action to ensure your council or housing association completes all necessary repairs
  • Claiming compensation for the time your property has been in disrepair

At NJS Law, we are housing disrepair claim experts, acting for tenants nationwide on a No Win No Fee basis. Our aim is to secure repairs quickly wile recovering the compensation you deserve.

With decades of combined experience, our team is supportive, understanding, and committed to guiding you through every step of your claim.

Call or email NJS Law today to discuss your damp and mould housing disrepair claim.

FIND OUT IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO CLAIM FOR REPAIRS AND COMPENSATION

Average Compensation - £1,895
We work on a NO WIN NO FEE basis
to get your home put right and to get you compensated!

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Categories
Contentious Probate

How To Contest a Will After Probate

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It is important to understand what people mean when they ask whether a Will can be contested after a Grant of Probate has been issued, as there are two different legal routes for challenging a Will once probate is involved.

What Is a Grant of Probate?

Grant of Probate is the legal document issued by the Probate Registry that gives Executors authority to:

  • Collect the deceased’s assets
  • Pay outstanding debts and liabilities
  • Distribute the estate to beneficiaries

In cases involving a small estate, a Grant of Probate may not be required. Banks and building societies will sometimes release funds to Executors without a Grant if the sums involved are modest.

However a Grant of Probate will usually be required where the deceased owned:

  • Property or land
  • Shares or investments
  • Premium bonds
  • Significant bank or savings accounts

Contesting a Will on the Grounds of Invalidity

One way to contest a Will is by arguing that it is legally invalid.

Common Grounds for Challenging the Validity of a Will

A Will may be invalid if:

  • It was not properly signed or witnessed
  • The person making the Will lacked testamentary capacity
  • The Will-maker was subjected to undue influence
  • The Will-maker did not know or approve the contents of the Will

It is far easier to challenge a Will before a Grant of Probate is issued, which is why we always advise anyone considering a claim to seek early legal advice.

Contesting a Will Before Probate Is Granted

If a Grant of Probate has not yet been issued, it is relatively straightforward to prevent Executors from obtaining one.

What Is a Caveat?

Caveat can be entered at the Probate Registry to temporarily stop a Grant of Probate from being issued. Without a Grant, Executors are generally unable to collect or distribute most estate assets.

This often forces Executors to engage with the dispute and address the claim.

Contesting a Will After a Grant of Probate Has Been Issued

There is no time limit for challenging a Will on the basis that it is invalid. This means it is still possible to contest a Will after probate has been granted.

However, doing so become more difficult because:

  • Executors already have authority to access estate assets
  • The estate may have been partially or fully distributed
  • Recovering assets from beneficiaries can be complex

Early action is therefore crucial.

Claims Under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975

A second way to “contest” a Will is by making a claim for reasonable financial provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

When Can an Inheritance Act Claim Be Made?

An Inheritance Act claim can be made before or after a Grant of Probate has been issued. However, strict time limits apply.

Time Limit for Inheritance Act Claims

Claims under the Inheritance Act must usually be made within six months of the Grant of Probate being issued.

While the Court has discretion to extend this deadline in limited circumstances, it is unwise to rely on an extension being granted.

In simple terms: delay can mean losing your claim.

Why Early Legal Advice Matters

Inheritance disputes are time-sensitive and legally complex. Acting quickly can:

  • Preserve estate assets
  • Improve prospects of settlement
  • Reduce costs and stress
  • Avoid court proceedings

How NJS Law Can Help

Our specialist inheritance disputes team has extensive experience dealing with:

  • Will validity challenges
  • Claims after a Grant of Probate
  • Inheritance Act claims
  • Contentious probate disputes

We are sympathetic, practical, and focused on achieving the best outcome for you.

Speak to an Inheritance Disputes Solicitor Today

We are here to help.

We can get it sorted. It’s what we do.

Contact NJS Law today – it’s free to ask

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Use our contact form to message us below, or alternatively if you feel more comfortable, you can call us on

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FAQ

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Categories
Estate Administration Disputes

Disputes About The Administration Of Estates

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Disputes about the administration of estates are, unfortunately, becoming increasingly common. At any given time, we are often involved in a number of these claims – either being pursued or defended. Some claims are genuine, but many are brought by overly greedy beneficiaries.

Common Types of Estate Administration Disputes

Disputes about estate administration can arise in several ways:

Disputes Between Beneficiaries and Executors

Sometimes beneficiaries raise concerns about executors, for example:

  • Executors acting too slowly
  • Charging excessive fees for managing the estate
  • Failing to maximise the value of estate assets

In these cases, beneficiaries can hold executors accountable. As a last resort, the court can order executors to take specific actions or even remove and replace them. These disputes are generally straightforward and can often be resolved quickly.

Disputes Between Executors

Internal disputes can also occur between executors themselves. For example:

  • One executor wants to sell a property, while another refuses
  • Disagreements over the sale price of estate assets

While these disputes are usually manageable, executors can sometimes become entrenched, risking poor decisions that affect the estate.

How We Resolve Estate Disputes

At NJS Law, we aim to resolve disputes quickly and effectively, keeping legal proceedings as a last resort. If one party refuses to compromise, we are prepared to take a case to trial to secure the best outcome for our clients.

Our team has extensive experience in inheritance disputes. We provide clear, sympathetic advice and support at every step of the process.

Get Help with Estate Disputes

We are here to help. We can get it sorted – it’s what we do.

Call us today. It’s free to ask.

CONTACT US TODAY

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Categories
Personal Injury

Why Should I Hire A Personal Injury Solicitor?

The Accident at Work Claims Process Explained

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Suffering a personal injury can be a life-changing experience. Whether you were injured in a car accident, a workplace incident, or another type of accident that was not your fault, you may be unsure whether you need a personal injury solicitor.

In most cases, the answer is yes. A specialist solicitor can protect your rights, handle the legal process, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Expertise in Personal Injury Law

Personal injury solicitors specialise in this area of law. As a result, they have a deep understanding of the legal rules, case law, and procedures that apply to personal injury claims.

Because of this expertise, a solicitor can:

  • Identify the strengths of your claim
  • Avoid common mistakes
  • Improve your chances of a successful outcome

Maximising Your Compensation

One of the key reasons to instruct a personal injury solicitor is to maximise your compensation. A solicitor will assess the true value of your claim, not just the immediate costs.

This includes:

  • Medical expenses and rehabilitation
  • Loss of earnings and future income
  • Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
  • Any long-term or future care needs

Without expert advice, you may accept less than you are entitled to.

Guidance Through the Legal Process

Personal injury claims can be complex and time-consuming. They often involve:

  • Detailed paperwork
  • Communication with insurance companies
  • Negotiations or court proceedings

A solicitor will guide you through every stage of the process. Importantly, they will ensure all documents are filed correctly and deadlines are met.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Strong evidence is essential in any personal injury claim. Therefore, your solicitor will carry out a thorough investigation to prove liability.

This may involve:

  • Gathering witness statements
  • Reviewing medical records
  • Obtaining expert medical or accident reports

Together, this evidence helps build a strong and persuasive case.

Skilled Negotiation with Insurers

Insurance companies often try to reduce the amount they pay in compensation. However, personal injury solicitors are experienced negotiators.

They know how to:

  • Challenge low settlement offers
  • Present evidence effectively
  • Push for a fair and reasonable outcome

If necessary, they will also take your case to court.

Experience with All Types of Injuries

Personal injury solicitors handle a wide range of cases, from minor injuries to serious and catastrophic injuries. As a result, they understand the different challenges each case presents and how injuries can affect your future.

Meeting the Time Limit for Claims

In the UK, personal injury claims are usually subject to a three-year time limit. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to compensation.

A solicitor will ensure your claim is started within the correct timeframe and complies with all legal requirements.

Focus on Your Recovery

Finally, dealing with a personal injury can be physically and emotionally demanding. By instructing a solicitor, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal work.

This reduces stress and allows you to prioritise your health and well-being.

How NJS Law Can Help

If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, NJS Law can help you claim the compensation you deserve.

We are personal injury claims specialists, offering:

  • Clear, honest, and practical legal advice
  • A supportive and experienced legal team
  • Guidance throughout the entire claims process

At NJS Law, we make a complex process easier to manage and ensure you are never facing it alone.

Contact NJS Law today to discuss your personal injury claim and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.

CONTACT US

Get in touch using the form below or via the following methods:

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FAQ

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Categories
Personal Injury

What Are The Different Types Of Personal Injury?

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Personal injuries can happen to anyone and at any time. When they do, it is important to understand the different types of personal injury claims and when you may be entitled to compensation.

If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to make a claim. Below, we outline some of the most common personal injury claims in the UK.

Road Traffic and Pedestrian Accident Claims

Road traffic accidents are one of the most common causes of personal injury claims. Whether you were a driver, passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or motorcyclist, you may be able to claim compensation if another road user caused the accident.

These claims can involve:

  • Car accidents
  • Motorcycle and bicycle accidents
  • Pedestrian collisions
  • Accidents on buses or other public transport

Workplace Accident Claims

Workplace accidents are another frequent source of personal injury claims. Employers have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment. When they fail to do so and an employee is injured, a compensation claim may be appropriate.

Common workplace injury claims include:

  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Injuries caused by faulty or unsafe equipment
  • Manual handling injuries
  • Exposure to hazardous substances

Public Liability and Occupiers’ Liability Claims

Public liability claims arise when someone is injured on public or private property due to unsafe conditions. Property owners and occupiers must take reasonable steps to keep visitors safe.

These claims often involve:

  • Slips and trips in shops or supermarkets
  • Accidents in restaurants, pubs, or leisure venues
  • Injuries in public spaces or car parks
  • Accidents on privately owned property

Serious Injury Claims

Serious injury claims involve life-changing injuries that have a long-term impact on a person’s health, independence, and finances.

Examples of serious injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Amputations
  • Multiple or complex fractures

These cases often require specialist legal support due to their complexity and long-term consequences.

Animal Injury Claims

You may also be entitled to compensation if you have been injured by an animal. Most animal injury claims involve:

  • Dog attacks
  • Injuries caused by horses
  • Accidents involving livestock, such as cows

In many cases, the animal owner may be held legally responsible.

Get Expert Legal Advice

Understanding the different types of personal injury claims is essential if you have suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence. Taking early legal advice can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim.

A qualified personal injury solicitor can

  • Assess the strength of your case
  • Explain your legal options
  • Guide you through the claims process

How NJS Law Can Help

If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, NJS Law can help you claim the compensation you deserve.

We are personal injury claims specialists who provide:

  • Clear, honest, and practical advice
  • Support throughout the entire claims process
  • A professional and client-focused service

At NJS Law, we make the process easier to manage, so you can focus on your recovery.

Contact NJS Law today to discuss your personal injury claim and take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.

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Categories
Accident at Work

What Is The Most Common Worksite Personal Injury Claims?

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Workplace safety is a top priority for both employers and employees. However, even with strong safety procedures in place, accidents at work can still happen. When an employee suffers an injury due to employer negligence, they may be entitled to make a workplace personal injury claim.

Below are the most common types of workplace injuries and how a specialist Personal Injury Solicitor can help you secure compensation.

1. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most frequent causes of workplace accidents. These incidents often occur due to:

  • Wet or slippery surfaces
  • Uneven flooring
  • Poor lighting
  • Cluttered walkways
  • Lack of maintenance

Employers must keep work areas hazard-free and implement regular safety checks to reduce these risks.

2. Manual Handling and Lifting Injuries

Many employees suffer manual handling injuries, especially to the back, shoulders, and arms. These injuries typically occur when lifting heavy items without:

  • Proper manual handling training
  • Correct lifting techniques
  • Suitable equipment

Employers must provide both training and equipment to minimise the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

3. Machinery and Equipment Accidents

Accidents involving machinery can cause severe or even life-changing injuries. These incidents often result from:

  • Inadequate training
  • Improper machinery use
  • Faulty or poorly maintained equipment

Employers must ensure machinery is safe, regularly serviced, and used only by trained staff.

4. Falls From Height

Falls from height are common in construction, warehousing, roofing, and other elevated work environments. Serious accidents can occur when employers fail to provide:

  • Guardrails
  • Safety harnesses
  • Secure platforms
  • Proper supervision

Working at height requires strict compliance with safety regulations to prevent catastrophic injuries.

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)

Repetitive Strain Injuries develop from performing the same motion repeatedly over time.

Common RSI’s include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Tendonitis
  • Chronic muscle strain

Employers should implement ergonomic adjustments, regular breaks, and workstation assessments to help prevent to help prevent RSIs

6. Electrical Accidents

Electric shocks, burns, and electrical fires can occur when:

  • Electrical system are poorly maintained
  • Safety procedures are ignored
  • Staff work near live electrical sources without proper training

Electrical work must always comply with industry safety standards.

7. Burns and Chemical Exposure

Employees working with chemicals or flammable materials may suffer:

  • Chemical burns
  • Thermal burns
  • Toxic inhalation
  • Skin irritation or poisoning

Employers must provide PPE, proper ventilation, and clear instructions on handling hazardous substances.

Your Employer's Duty of Care

Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees. If your injury was caused by a failure to follow safety laws or implement proper procedures, you may be entitled to compensation.

How Our Personal Injury Solicitors Can Help

If you have suffered an injury at work, our specialist team can help you:

  • Claim compensation for your pain, suffering, and ongoing symptoms
  • Recover financial losses, including loss of earnings
  • Access rehabilitation and treatment
  • Build a strong case supported by expert medical evidence

With decades of combined experience handling workplace, public liability, and occupiers’ liability claims, we will guide you through every step of the process with care, expertise, and understanding.

Contact us today to discuss your workplace injury claim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Can I claim for a workplace accident?

Yes. If your accident was caused by employer negligence – such as unsafe equipment, lack of training, or poor maintenance – you may be entitled to make a workplace injury compensation claim.

How long do I have to make a workplace injury claim?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start your claim. Exceptions apply.

CONTACT US

Get in touch using the form below or via the following methods:

Ask NJS Law

For fast, friendly affordable legal advice. Contact a member of our team today.

FAQ

For any questions we may be able to answer, discover our FAQ section.