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Stepping in when a family lost legal representation

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Author

Ben Priestley

Partner & Solicitor

Last Updated

8th July 2026

When a loved one suffers a serious injury, families often rely on the legal process to provide clarity and stability. For our client’s mother, that journey became far more difficult when her son’s previous solicitors withdrew only days before trial – leaving her to manage a challenging claim alone at a time when the defendant was denying liability and the case required firm, experienced handling to avoid significant risk.

Her experience highlights the emotional strain families face when representation falls away at a critical moment, and the importance of calm, specialist support in securing a fair outcome.

 

In this case study we discuss:

  • How the client lost legal representation shortly before trial, leaving his mother to manage the claim alone.
  • The challenges of a pedestrian injury claim involving limited evidence and a denial of liability.
  • How we stepped in at a critical moment to provide reassurance, clarity and direction.
  • The immediate actions we took to review the case, assess the evidence and reduce the risks of trial.
  • How focused negotiations led to a fair settlement without the need for trial.
  • What the settlement meant for the client’s stability and the relief it brought to his mother after months of uncertainty.
  • How specialist solicitors support vulnerable clients and families with calm, compassionate expertise.

Key elements of our client's case

The claim had been started by another well‑known law firm. However, after court proceedings were issued, they withdrew their representation. This left the client’s mother facing a fast‑approaching trial date with no legal support, limited evidence, and a defendant who continued to deny liability.

Without specialist input and proper representation, it faced a real risk at trial and the possibility of being dismissed – leaving the family feeling vulnerable and unsure how to proceed.

Understanding the client’s situation

Our client was struck by a car while crossing a busy road, suffering multiple injuries including a traumatic brain injury (TBI). He was already facing personal challenges, and the accident added further strain to an already difficult period in his life.

His mother stepped in as Litigation Friend, determined to protect him and ensure he received the support he needed. The emotional weight of this responsibility was significant, especially as she tried to navigate a complex claim on his behalf.

How the incident affected our client and his family

The accident left our client with a traumatic brain injury and other injuries. While he has made progress, the experience affected his independence and day‑to‑day stability during the months that followed. His mother carried the emotional burden of supporting him through the aftermath of the accident while managing the uncertainty created by the withdrawal of his previous solicitors.

The family feared that without proper representation, their son’s chance of securing a fair settlement could be put at risk.

Providing clarity and support when it mattered most

We were contacted at a critical moment, with the trial date close and the family feeling overwhelmed. Our first priority was to give them clear guidance and reassurance.

We immediately reviewed the court file, assessed the evidence, and set out the steps needed to strengthen the case. Our guidance was clear and compassionate, focused on reducing risk and protecting the client’s chance of securing a fair settlement, and delivered in a way that helped the family understand their position and how we would move forward. 

Avoiding trial and securing their settlement

Drawing on our experience in similar pedestrian injury claims, we opened negotiations with the defendant. By presenting the strongest elements of the evidence and addressing the disputed issues directly, we secured a fair settlement within a short period – avoiding the need for a trial.

For the client, this meant financial stability at a time when life felt uncertain. For his mother, it brought relief after months of worry and the reassurance that his chance of securing a fair outcome had been protected.

A message from the case handler

“With trial approaching and no representation in place, the family needed clarity and support. We focused on strengthening their position and securing a settlement that brought them much‑needed reassurance.”

Ben Priestley

Partner & Solicitor

A protected future

This case demonstrates how vulnerable families can feel when representation falls away at a crucial moment – and how capable and compassionate legal support can help restore stability.

While the client has made good progress in his recovery, the settlement provides important financial security at a time when life felt uncertain. For his mother, it brings relief after a difficult journey and the reassurance that her son’s case was resolved fairly and with the support she had hoped for.

Reassurance when pursuing a claim

Pursuing a claim can feel daunting, especially when the process becomes complicated. Our team provides clear guidance, practical support and a calm, steady presence throughout your case.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, our dedicated solicitors are here to support you through every stage of the process.

Explore more about pedestrian accident claims or learn how we support families facing traumatic brain injuries.

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