Elizabeth Maliakal
Two of Hudgell Solicitors’ experienced clinical negligence team have been recognised for their industry-leading expertise with ‘specialist’ accreditations granted by the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL).
Elizabeth Maliakal and Matthew Gascoyne each already had APIL Senior Litigator status, recognising their competence and ability to identify liability, assess and self-manage clinical negligence cases through all stages of litigation, and to lead and supervise the work of other lawyers.
Securing APIL Clinical Negligence ‘Specialist’ accreditation required demonstration of further legal competence in making key decisions, including assessing and accepting cases, evaluating compensation offers and issuing court proceedings.
Assessors considered portfolios of work led by both Matthew and Elizabeth, dating back over a number of years, to consider how well cases had been managed and progressed, to check that high levels of client care were provided and that excellent technical knowledge had been demonstrated.
Both also had to discuss their case portfolios with appointed APIL assessors to discuss their management of cases, with not only excellent knowledge and understanding of clinical negligence law and rules of procedure required, but also of the health, medical and care sectors.
‘Exceptional lawyers reaching the highest standards’
Elizabeth has more than 20 years’ experience and joined Hudgells in 2020, running high-value cases and representing clients who have suffered serious injuries arising from medical accidents.
Her cases are often complex and she has gained a reputation for ensuring detailed and thorough investigations are carried out, helping her clients to understand what happened to them and why.
She is recommended in the leading Legal 500 directory as “a highly-experienced and respected clinical negligence solicitor.”
Matthew Gascoyne
Matthew qualified as a solicitor in 2013 and had worked in the clinical negligence departments at high-profile firms in London, Hampshire and Yorkshire, before joining Hudgells in 2022.
His work focuses on supporting people who have suffered severe and serious injuries due to clinical negligence, leaving them with complex needs. He has particular interest in cases involving acquired brain injuries due to medical accidents, delays in diagnosis of cancer, and surgical errors.
Rachel Di Clemente, chief executive of Hudgell Solicitors, said: “These accreditations for Matthew and Elizabeth are richly deserved. They are both fiercely committed to their work and fantastic mentors to their colleagues.
“Our leadership team places a focus on the continued development of our legal team with mentoring and personal development being a big part of our culture. It is great to see more members of our team being recognised for their ability and commitment.’
Other APIL accredited solicitors at Hudgells include head of travel litigation Paul McClorry, serious injury managers Sarah Patten and Sam McFadyen and clinical negligence solicitor Abigail Frudd, who all have Senior Litigator status.
