Aimee Ratcliffe

I’m an Associate Solicitor focused on high-value serious injury cases, including spinal cord and brain injuries, amputations and complex orthopaedic injuries. I also support clients in fatal accident claims and claims involving the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) and the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), including cases with uninsured or untraced drivers.

I joined Fletchers in 2011 shortly after graduating from university, initially starting out as a paralegal in the Serious Injury Team with little practical experience in personal injury law. From the beginning, I was keen to develop my knowledge and skills, and while working full time, I studied for my Legal Practice Course in the evenings on a part-time basis.

After successfully securing a training contract with the firm, I spent 18 months working closely with the Head of Serious Injury as a Trainee Solicitor before qualifying in 2016.

Since qualifying, I’ve continued to work alongside senior colleagues on some of the firm’s most complex and high-value cases, developing my expertise and gaining experience in handling serious injury claims.

My role is incredibly rewarding, and I’m passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of people who are facing some of their most challenging circumstances.

While the work can be demanding, I find it deeply fulfilling to support clients through complex legal processes and help them access the rehabilitation they need. I take great pride in helping clients rebuild their strength and confidence after serious injury, so they can begin to work towards their goals and regain their independence.

Ultimately, my focus is on securing the compensation my clients need to rebuild their lives following life-changing injuries. This work is particularly close to my heart, as I’ve seen first-hand the impact such injuries can have. When my cousin was just 17, he was involved in a road traffic accident as a pedestrian and suffered a life-changing brain injury. That experience gave me a real understanding of how these injuries affect not only the individual, but their families too.

I’m a good listener and take a down-to-earth, approach with my clients. I often visit clients in hospital or at home, as I believe building a strong relationship early on is key to helping them feel comfortable and supported throughout their case. Meeting face-to-face allows me to really understand each client’s wishes, routines, likes, dislikes and future ambitions, so I can manage their claim in a way that truly reflects their needs and ensures they are fairly compensated.

Where possible, I aim to work collaboratively with the opposing party. While this isn’t always achievable, I believe a cooperative approach can often help move cases forward more effectively. I’m thorough in my investigations and persistent in progressing claims, always focused on achieving the best possible outcome for my clients. When collaboration isn’t possible, I’m confident in being firm and fighting to secure the right result.

I also place great importance on building strong working relationships with barristers, involving them at key stages to ensure my clients benefit from the best possible advice throughout their case.

ANON

I represented a motorcyclist who was involved in a serious collision caused by a driver under the influence of alcohol before fleeing the scene.

My client suffered significant injuries, including multiple fractures, a severe degloving injury and compartment syndrome. He required extensive treatment, including surgery, a skin graft and ongoing rehabilitation. We were able to secure a settlement of over £300,000, which has enabled him to retrain for a new career in mechanics and begin rebuilding important aspects of his life.

ANON

My client sustained a life-changing spinal cord injury following a road traffic accident. We successfully secured a settlement comprising a £5 million lump sum, together with a £125,000 annual Periodical Payment Order (PPO) for life.

This outcome meant my client could purchase a new home and fund the significant adaptations required to support his needs and live as independently as possible. He was also able to build an extension so he could continue living alongside his family, ensuring he has the support and environment he needs to move forward with his life.

ANON

I represented the family of a young father of three who tragically lost his life in a road traffic accident. This was an incredibly difficult and emotional case, and my priority was to support the family with care and understanding throughout the process.

We secured a settlement of £1.25 million, helping to provide the family with some financial security for the future during an unimaginably challenging time.

My team combines strong experience with analytical expertise, always keeping our clients’ needs at the heart of what we do. Led by Julia Eyton, who brings over 25 years’ experience, together, we bring a wide range of strengths – from legal analysis to organisation and client care, ensuring complex, high-value cases are handled efficiently and proactively.

I enjoy building relationships with my clients, and I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some truly inspirational people in my role. Many show remarkable resilience and humility, which makes them all the more admirable.

I’ve also been fortunate to work alongside exceptional colleagues at Fletchers, where I’ve always felt supported and built lasting friendships across different teams. A career highlight includes attending and winning at trial – cases don’t often go to trial but it’s incredibly rewarding when a long legal journey results in a successful outcome for the client.

Above all, nothing compares to seeing a client use their compensation to move forward, such as purchasing and adapting a home that allows them to live more comfortably and independently.

I’m married with two young children who keep me busy outside of work! As soon as the laptop closes, they have my full attention and never fail to make me switch off with their fun and cheeky personalities.

Weekends are filled with football and swimming lessons, along with family time spent outdoors on walks, bike rides, and visits to National Trust sites and local parks. When I do get some time to myself, I enjoy dining out with friends (I’m a big foodie), as well as running, reading and baking.

My ideal evening is relaxing with dinner in front of the TV – usually watching a game show – and I love spending holidays with my family, both in the UK and abroad.