Arguments and Tactics for Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Claims

Book excerpt: As the name implies, this book is intended to be a practical guide for those lawyers and non-lawyers who require a guide to pursuing (or defending) a claim for damages for personal injuries or clinical negligence. The key to success in all cases is preparation, so this involves knowing or researching the substantive law, knowing the procedure (the Civil Procedure Rules) and how to present cases on paper and orally before a court. The book covers these areas and provides helpful tips and tactics to improve chances of success. Worked examples include drafting interim applications and the evidence necessary, drafting skeleton arguments, making an opening and closing argument and how to appeal if things go wrong. Guidance is given on developing an advocacy style so as to persuade and influence the judge. The book will be useful for those embarking on their legal careers but will also be beneficial for more experienced practitioners who require a condensed summation in this specialist area. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dorian Williams has practised as a solicitor in private practice for over 22 years, acting almost exclusively for claimants in personal injury and clinical negligence claims. Initially he worked for clients referred from a major Trades Union, specialising in industrial disease and employers' liability claims. For the last 17 years, Dorian has received a broad spread of instructions whilst working in a general high street practice, Freeman Johnson. His caseload now mostly comprises clinical negligence cases which he has has been privileged to receive, and thanks all his clients for developing his experience. When Dorian is not at work, he may be found climbing peaks in the Lake District, Peak District, Snowdonia or Majorca.