Category: Seasonal

International Women’s Day: The 4 female lawyers who changed history

Posted on March 8, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Seasonal, Uncategorised

When we think about International Women’s Day, we think about important topics in relation to gender, equality and social justice. It’s all about creating visibility and giving women a voice about issues that they may not have felt they were able to speak up about in the past. The same way that it is important to consider men’s mental health and how we break toxic stereotypes of masculinity, it’s important that we address women’s issues with patience, understanding and an open mind.

Here at Gowing Law, we believe in equality for all. We will provide justice and legal advice to anyone who asks for it. Previously on our blog, we have already discussed a number of social issues for International Men’s Day and within our BAME diversity blog series. That’s why we have been having a hard think about how we can do something similar for International’s Women’s Day. We want to discuss some of the biggest adversities that women have faced and overcome when it comes to the legal world. To do this, we are going to look back deep into history and focus on four amazing individuals who paved the way for so many female law experts in the future. These women are Carrie Morrison, Mary Elizabeth Pickup, Maud Crofts and Mary Elaine Sykes.

Before we jump straight into the content, don’t forget that Gowing Law Solicitors is here to help you with any sort of personal injury or tax claim. For expert legal advice, contact us today at 0800 041 8350 or use our claim’s checker below:

UK Law History & International Women’s Day: A little context

Before we jump into the actual history of our aforementioned female legal experts in relation to International Women’s Day, let’s have a look at life in 1920’s Britain. That way we can understand the trials that women faced during the “Roaring Twenties”. Before the 1920’s, life was rather difficult for women. An article by The Mirror captures the sentiment perfectly of the time through their headline:

“No vote, poor pay, little help”

Before the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act came into play in 1919, women were practically seen as second-class citizens. Not only did they not have the vote, but they were greatly encouraged to maintain the household as a full-time mother. This came with the mentality that their main purpose was to serve their husbands and to raise their children. If they did get an education, their lessons mainly focused on domestic subjects (i.e. needlework, childcare and house-management skills.) rather than pragmatic skills that could get them work. That was why a lot of lower-class women ended up as domestic servants in an upper-class household.

Here is a list of some professions that women would be found in during the early 1900s:

International Women’s Day: Myths of 1900s Family Life

Due to their lack of independence, including financial independence, it was unlikely that a wife would be able to leave her husband in the early 1900’s. One of the overarching “myths” of the time was that there was a great importance placed on the family unit. If a woman did end up getting divorced from her husband, it would be very likely that she would be shunned from her society and become an outcome. Overall, this meant that they would become outcasts in their own community. Therefore, even if they were unhappy in their marriages, they could not leave their situation.

Suffragettes and Suffragists

This was where the suffragettes and suffragists came in. You will notice that all of the female lawyers we speak of were disgusted by the conditions of the lives of working-class women. One of the biggest speakers of this time was Emmeline Pankhurst, the founder of the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU). One of her main beliefs was that the inability to vote was one of the main reasons women were classified as inferior. In particular, she believed that women:

“would remain a servant class until they lifted themselves out of it.”

With these words in mind, let’s move onto the four women who brought such a significant change to the world of law by becoming the first female solicitors in the UK. It was thanks to them that women today now have the opportunity to engage in the world of law.

International Women’s Day: Carrie Morrison

“Men say the law is too rough and tumble for women”

Carrie Morrison is known as the first women in the UK to become a legal solicitor. She achieved this status in December 1922. This was after she had tried out many different types of careers and found that none of them actually suited her. In an interview with the Dundee Evening Telegraph, on the 31st October 1922, she stated:

”I dropped into the work by accident; I had tried teaching but hated it, and that was bad for the children I had to teach. Then I took a secretarial course, hoping to get a job as a political secretary… When I returned, the Women’s Sex Disqualification Bill had been passed and Mr Baker agreed to waive a premium to give me a salary for my work as solicitor’s clerk.”

Not only did she have her education at Girton College in Cambridge, she was known for entering legal articles in “The Strand” whilst she was trying out various career paths. One of the most interesting things about Carrie Morrison was her opinion on equal treatment of genders. She is known for working as a Poor Man’s lawyer for those who could not afford legal assistance. This included prostitutes whilst she was a solicitor in the Women and Children’s Protection Society. However, she also defended men who she believed were being taken advantage of by their wives. She even tried to shield her 17-year-old male clerk from reading and seeing the brutal details of her cases. This shows how she had empathy for both genders. She also believed in equal treatment in the justice system for men and women alike.

Carrie Morrison & Divorce Reforms

Morrison also had strong opinions when it came to divorce reform. In 1931, she actually became the first women to speak at the Law Society’s yearly provincial meeting. She spoke about there being a need for an institution to help with family and marital problems known as a “Courts of Domestic Relations”. It would also help to settle divorces and make sure that both parties would receive an outcome that they were happy with.

Although Morrison did go through a divorce herself, she actually stayed on good terms with her husband. They together to improve the legal UK divorce process. They were both actually involved in the Married Women’s Association, with her husband as the chairman. Morrison worked hard to ensure that both women and men were respectfully treated within the court system and is known as a ”trailblazer”. She was seen as such an inspiration that after her death in 1950, the Association of Women Solicitors held a minute’s silence to commemorate her achievements in the field of law. It is clear that she paved the way for many, many women to come. After all, by 1967, around 2.7% of lawyers in the UK were women!

International Women’s Day: Mary Elizabeth Pickup

“There is a field open to women solicitors to do certain types of work”

Just like Carrie Morrison, Mary Elizabeth Pickup was one of the first female lawyers to operate in the UK. Similarly, she believed that legal advice was a human right, therefore it should be available to all who needed it.

Pickup was born in 1881 into a prosperous household and was able to benefit from the social mobility of the time. Her father, Joseph McRoberts Snoddy, believed in education and send his daughter to the University of Wales to receive a BA degree. She ended up working in the office of Thomas William Pickup, her future husband, and after 1919 (when the Sex Disqualification (Removal) act came into play), she became articled to the Birmingham firm. This made her the first female solicitor in Birmingham, as well as one of the first four women in England to become a lawyer.

Balancing Life Commitments

Not only did Pickup relish being a full-time mother, but she took on the challenge of juggling her private life with her public ambitions. This included studying for legal examinations and carrying out volunteer work. Normally, Pickup would go to literary societies and women’s meetings to speak about equality and how they could work together to improve the lives of women and men around the country and overseas. Pickup even became the President of the Birmingham Soroptimist Society!

Pickup was an inspiration to those around her. Perhaps if she had been given more opportunities then she would have been able to achieve more in her life before she sadly passed away in 1938 at 57 years old. This is why it is so important to give people in the present equal opportunities to see how they could make the world better for everyone, regardless of gender, race or sexuality.

International Women’s Day: Maud Crofts

“We women want not privileges but equality. We do not want to be treated as children, and we are willing to take the responsibility if we get the privileges.”

Out of the first four women who qualified as solicitors in the UK, Maud Crofts was one of the most vocal and most intelligent. She was born in 1889 and was one of 12 children fathered by Thomas Lewis Ingram, a Middle Temple Barrister. Crofts believed that the best way for women to attain equality to men was through education and was constantly seen reading. In particular, she was interested in legal documents, so much so that her parents gave her a copy of the legal documents of her home. It was through this that she began to understand the importance and power of the law.

Overcoming the odds

As she grew older, she began to understand the bias against her due to her gender. She saw herself as an educated woman, yet she was unable to vote. She often used the example that her father’s gardener was allowed to vote on UK decisions, yet she was not. That led her to become a suffragist and use her voice to speak on behalf of all women. However, she did seem to harbour a slight disdain for suffragettes, believing that they would not present their cause in the best light by ” by chucking themselves in front of race horses or tying themselves to railings…” instead ”it had all to be done in a legal way”

During her time at Cambridge University, she overcame many adversities. One of these was in 1913 where she was refused by the Law Society in her request to undertake a preliminary examination. However, this did not stop her. She had completed her studies in History and Law and instead joined the Committee for the Opening of the Legal Profession to Women. It was this committee of activists that assisted in the passing of the Sex Disqualification (Removal) act by December 1919. This is what allowed women to take their first steps into the world of law, as well as Crofts herself.

Women’s Suffrage and Legal Rights

Crofts is known as an advocate of women’s suffrage and rights in the workplace. Eventually, she married John Crofts and opened up an office together at 5 New Square alongside her brother, Robert Ingram. She became an expert in family law, deciding to use her new status as a solicitor to work for charities and people in need. This included the Six Point Group and The National Council for the Unmarried Mother and her Child. Her specialities included divorce, custody of children and marriage decisions. During her work as a solicitor, she also wrote a book in 1925 known as “Women under English Law”. It contained a defined description of law in relation to women’s rights and their legal status. This was the first of its kind, as it was actually written by female lawyer and contained detailed discussions about a woman’s place in society.

One of the major things that has stood out in Crofts life was her ability to juggle her professional and private life. She actually continued being a lawyer until she was around 66 years old. Her own daughter, Rosemary, and her grand-daughter, Mary, actually both became lawyers themselves! This meant that her family actually became in the first in England to have three generations of female lawyers.

International Women’s Day: Mary Elaine Sykes

”The Wise Little Owl”

Out of the four women who first qualified as solicitors, Mary Elaine Sykes was known as one of the most intelligent. Not only was she a polymath but she was able to speak several languages. She also had quite an impish sense of humour about her and enjoyed using Shakespearean quotes in her conversation.

Family Encouragement

Sykes was born in 1896 and was able to pass her final exams in the Law Society in 1922. Living in Huddersfield with a solicitor father, James Sykes, the day that the Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act was put into the place, he rushed his daughter onto the train so she could register her articles with the Law Society. That way she would be the first woman in the UK to do so. Unfortunately, she was beaten by another girl, Katharine Elizabeth Chambers, the daughter of a London lawyer who got there first.

Sadly, Syke’s father died in 1921 and never got to see his daughter flourish in the field of law. She was able to become a solicitor in 1923 and worked for his own law firm. This was up until 1930 where she decided to set up her own firm. This firm was known as “Mary Sykes & Co.” Many people described Sykes as a person with an “acute legal mind” and ended up being able to split her life between legal matters and local politics. She was a natural problem-solver and actually started off her political career by becoming a Labour Party stalwart member. In 1937, she became the first female alderman and then the Lord Mayor of Huddersfield. As you can see, she managed secure a number of “firsts” under her belt. This was whilst being able to balance all of her duties effectively.

Politics and the legal world

Syke’s actively encouraged women to get involved in politics. She trained at least four women as solicitors, including Dora Atkinson who came into her partnership. Although she was quite a quiet woman, she was not afraid to stand up for what she believed in. This included women’s rights. The cases she took on were incredibly diverse as she aimed to help as many people as possible. For instance, not only did she argue for municipal laundries in council homes to be open to make it easier for ladies to work, but she even took on private murder cases in post-war Germany.

If there was anyone who was truly passionate about her work, it was Sykes. She carried on her law work and position as a solicitor up into her seventies. Sykes passed away in 1981, but still stands as a role model to young women who wish to learn more about the field of law and the career of a solicitor.

The Importance of International Women’s Day

Here at Gowing Law Solicitors, we aim to get justice for all of our clients. We believe in equality. No matter your gender, our solicitors will be there to give you personalized legal advice. That way they can get you through this difficult time. International Women’s Day is about empowering young women to follow their dreams and ambitions. However, it is also a day to reflect on the lives of those who have paved the way for the next generation. We celebrate this day in their memory. It’s our hope we can keep inspiring young women around the world to move forward with their goals.

Gowing Law Solicitors is a firm that supports change and equality between all people. That’s why we have also set up our own charity “Together in Football Foundation”. We want to bring all children together from a range of different backgrounds to enjoy a game of football. We even have Michael Owen as our brand ambassador! For more information about our charity, click the link below:

Don’t forget about our International Women’s Day Competition!

Don’t forget that Gowing Law Solicitors is also hosting a giveaway to celebrate this important day! The deadline is at the end of the day to get involved, but you could win a “Soap & Glory Mini Tin Set” for yourself or someone close to you. It’s really simple to get involved. All you have to do is:

Leave an answer to the question “What does International Women’s Day mean to you?” in the comments of our social post
Like and share the post

We will then pick a random winner through a raffle! You have until the 12 am to get involved. So make sure to click the links below to visit our Twitter and Facebook posts for more information. That way you can find out more about our International Women’s Day giveaway.

Don’t forget that Gowing Law Solicitors can help with your personal injury claims!

Don’t forget that Gowing Law Solicitors is here to help you if you have suffered from a personal injury. Our specialist solicitors can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. Our solicitors can offer you their services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will always come out on top and will not need to pay any hidden fees.

Contact us today by calling 0161 464 4444, email info@gowinglaw.co.uk or visit our claims checker to get started. One of our lawyers will then be in touch to discuss your questions and claim.

We look forward to helping you soon.

World Book Day 2021: What’s on Gowing Law’s favourite reading list?

Posted on March 4, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Seasonal, Uncategorised

Can you believe that World Book Day 2021 is today? Normally, this holiday would be celebrated throughout the UK by dressing up as a character from a story or novel. That way we can encourage people young and old to keep on reading or even start to consider writing their own stories.

Nothing can match settling down with a good book, especially on World Book Day 2021. It’s a day to share stories and indulge in the realms of the imagination. Even lawyers are allowed to indulge in some reading! After all, once all the paperwork is said and done, and they have won you the compensation that you deserve, even they deserve to settle down with a good book and allow themselves a moment’s rest.

This year, World Book Day 2021 is going to be a bit different. You may be working remotely, therefore, there’s no way that you could go into work dressed up as your favourite character. But worry not! There are still ways that you could get involved to raise awareness of this fantastic holiday.

For Gowing Law, we have decided to raise awareness of World Book Day by finding out some of the favourite reads of our staff. As a law firm, we have many different players involved in making sure that our company is the best of the best. That’s why we have gone round some of our different departments to see exactly what they (and even some of their families!) have on their book lists.

Before we jump into Gowing Law’s reading list, we would just like to remind our clients that if they do have an upcoming personal injury claim, we can help you! Call us on 01614644444 or use our claim’s checker below to get started:

Why is World Book Day 2021 so important?

Reading plays a huge part in developing us into the people we are today. Through reading, we find out the genres we like and uncover stories that are close to our heart. No matter what genre we pick, be it fiction or non-fiction, it’s very likely that in your job as an adult, your reading skills are going to be needed to make sure that you are the best that you can be. That’s why we are determined to help spread the word about World Book Day 2021. Reading shaped the world when we were younger and it still has its place today to inspire the younger generation.

It’s amazing that with all of the technology around us today, we can still look at a piece of paper and create a whole world in our minds. We can see characters and learn from their mistakes. Our book allows us the opportunity to learn from moral dilemmas that each character faces. A book can break our hearts and show us the reality of the world that we live in today. We want our children to enjoy this world as much as we did when we were younger. So, why not donate to the World Book Day 2021 fundraiser above?

You can make an impact on the lives of children from a range of different backgrounds and give them a chance to develop a love of reading!

World Book Day 2021: Gowing Law’s Favourite Books!

Now that we have talked a little more about the importance of World Book Day 2021, let’s move forward onto the actual book choices from our staff. We will also include a few links so if you want to read the choices for yourself, you will find them below!

With that said, let’s get started with our staff’s favourite books and why they enjoy them so much. If you have a favourite book, why not let us know on our social media? We would love to know what our clients love to read in order to relax! Whether you prefer fiction or non-fiction, let us know via our Facebook or Twitter.

Here are our staff’s literary picks for World Book Day 2021:

Smart, Strong and Sexy at 100

For Ady, “Smart, Strong and Sexy at 100” is a fantastic read that is full of the science of longevity but it is delivered in layman’s terms. That makes it accessible and easy to digest!

If you want to read a book that can help you improve your life whilst keeping things simple, this is the book for you. It’s easily accessible on Amazon and is the perfect thing to indulge in during the lockdown.

The Color Purple

According to James, “The Color Purple” is a fantastic read and he has found the book extremely eye-opening and humbling. He originally read it after he saw the film! So make sure to give both a try. Then you can compare and contrast the differences between the two.

This is a Pulitzer Prize winning novel, so it is certainly worth spending an afternoon reading it with a nice drink and a few biscuits to indulge yourself!

The Great Gatsby

When we asked Hannah about her favourite novel, she seemed to be torn between two. The first she told us she enjoyed was “A Series of Unfortunate Events” as the style was different to anything she had ever seen before. It was nonsensical but made sense at the same time, as you did not need to understand the full plot in order to empathise with the characters and also get involved in the mystery of the sugar bowl.

However, if she was to go with a single book she enjoyed, she would say that “The Great Gatsby” is near and dear to her heart. It is tragic, romantic and toxic all at the same time. The character of Gatsby plays on an imitation of what the ultimate 1920s man should be: Rich, influential, materialistic and romantic. Yet it proves that this type of behaviour is unhealthy and cannot be sustained, even in the face of pure love. There are simply too many factors at play that tear Gatsby apart. It is what makes it truly tragic.

You can find this classic novella in any book store or library. So make sure to give it a read!

Hyperion Cantos

Now, John is an avid reader and had many books to share when it came to World Book Day 2021! His favourite genre is Sci-Fi and he hopes that others will find these books equally as interesting. Overall, he would say the Hyperion Cantos series by Dan Simmons is his favourite, but there are many others that have peaked his interest. For a sub-genre of Sci-Fi, he would recommend Peter F Hamilton and Alistair Reynolds. In particular, make sure to take a look at The Night’s Dawn Trilogy and the Revelation Space series.

Here are some additional reads that he would highly recommend to any avid Sci-Fi lover:

Dune- Frank Herbet
Man in the high castle- Philip K. Dick
Player of Games- Ian M Banks
The City and the City- China Meiville

If you are interested in alternative history, then John would also recommend Fatherland by Robert Harris. Make sure to fill up your reading lists with these suggestions. They are sure to give you hours of entertainment on a rainy day.

Paths of Glory

From speaking with Camilla, it is clear that she is an avid reader and has many books she would love to share with the world! Her favourite book is Paths of Glory by Jeffrey Archer. It is actually based on a true story about George Mallory who climbed Mt Everest. Unfortunately, he died up the mountain, so no one is truly sure if he ever actually reached the summit. This happened back in 1921 and to this day no one has been able to solve the mystery!

This book has actually made her want to climb Everest herself, especially after watching the film. However, to escape from the cold chills of this mountain, she has decided to set her sights on climbing the three highest mountain peaks in Britain. We wish her the best of luck!

Some additional authors she would suggest include Enid Blyton and M.C Beaton, author of the Agatha Raisin books. They are the perfect read to keep you entertained throughout the lockdown when you are staying safe and sound at home.

Harry Potter

Describing herself as a “massive Harry Potter geek”, Paris has always been enthralled by the Harry Potter series, so much so that she simply couldn’t put them down!

Whether you are feeling nostalgic about when this series first hit Waterstones, or perhaps you are ready to pass down the magic of the Wizarding World to your children, the Harry Potter series is a classic story that will enchant and delight you. Not only that but you can also enjoy the movies and compare the differences between them! Relax and enjoy with this magical narrative.

The Smeds and the Smoos

Right now, David’s favourite book is one that he can read to his 5 year old daughter before bed! The Smeds and the Smoo’s is the perfect book to enjoy with your children in the evening time in order to relax and unwind from a busy day. David has said that this book has some fantastic rhymes in it. It also has a wonderful message about different people coming together and making friends. It’s the perfect thing to put on your child’s reading list.

The Wonky Donkey

As the mother of a young son, Elaine has told us that her little boy loves this book! Not only is it filled with hilarious drawings, but it has a wonderful message that can put a smile on anyone’s face. It’s the perfect read for any child between 2-6 years old!

For her own reading enjoyment, there are a few additional books she would suggest. Of course, The Twilight Series is a classic for anyone who wants to indulge in a good love story. But if you are after a tearjerker, she would highly recommend PS. I love you. Give them both a try and see what you think!

Catch 22

Emma is a massive fan of Harry Potter, however personally she does enjoy her classic novels and novellas. She finds classic novels gripping and loves books that are set in a different period/world/time. It presents a proper escape into the imagination!

Her favourite story is Catch 22, however she would also recommend Great Expectations and Jane Eyre. If you are after a bigger read full of symbolism and the importance of social status, these are the books for you!

World Book Day 2021: What are your favourite reads?

Now that we have shared our favourite books with you, why not do the same on our social media? This is a day for sharing our favourite stories and to pass on the literary passion to the younger generation. Make sure to get involved and spread the love of literature. That way we can make sure that our children all get an equal chance to enjoy the books that we enjoyed when we were younger, and even now as adults.

Happy World Book Day 2021!

Want to read more?

We understand that the topic of law can be seen as quite dry for some. But it’s the topic that we are passionate about. That way we can help our clients get the legal assistance that they need during this difficult time. We can offer legal advice about personal injury claims, tax claims, financial mis-handling claims and will-writing. Our blog contains information all about these claims and much, much more. We write about our latest holiday giveaways and events. So, if you want to get involved with them, keep an eye on our latest updates. You can also learn more from our social media accounts.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog and, for one last time in this blog, Happy World Book Day 2021!

World Day of Social Justice: Human Right Visas

Posted on February 19, 2021 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Immigration, Seasonal, Uncategorised

World Day of Social Justice is a day where we consider some of the biggest issues that require solutions and support to be made right. This includes the inequalities between genders, races and those with and without disabilities. For us, we have always sought to get our clients the justice that they deserve. Whether this is from a work accident as a result of a negligent employer or a business interruption insurance claim from an insurer that is refusing your claim during the pandemic, we will always be there to ensure that you get a proper pay-out. We believe in equality. That’s why we want to make sure that all of our clients are able to speak out about the issues they are facing.

When we think about World Day of Social Justice, one the biggest topics that comes up for our solicitors is in relation to our immigration department. We have helped many families around the UK achieve the right to remain in the country. This is through the Human Rights Act!

If you want to find out more about Human Rights Visas, why not get in contact with our immigration team to learn more? You can click the link below or call 0161 8080 060 to get started.

The Basics of Visas

As everyone knows, now that the pandemic has caused a nationwide lockdown, there are procedures in place in order to stem immigration as a way to decrease the spread of the virus. This includes staying in a quarantine hotel if you come into the country. Keep in mind that Covid-19 could cause delays with your claim. If you believe that you are experiencing any discrimination with your Visa application, it’s important that you let your solicitor know as soon as possible so they can help you fight your case.

With that said, let’s have a little bit of a chat about different Visas before we jump into social justice. If you want to live in the UK, there are many different Visas to choose from. You will need to pick a Visa in order to travel to different countries (outside of your home country) and become a resident. Take a look at the infographic below to get an idea of the type of Visa that would best suit your own situation:

If you believe that you would benefit most in a different Visa, it’s important that you speak to your solicitor. For instance, if you believe that you could actually be eligible for a human rights visa, you could appeal to be allowed to stay in the UK if you believe that your human rights will be breached. It could be unlawful for you to be forced out of the country, therefore you need to have the right law firm protecting you and your rights. This will be social justice at its best.

Social Justice, Human Right Visas and Deportation

Now that we have discussed the basics of Visas, it’s important we talk about unlawful deportation from the UK as it is World Day of Social Justice. According to the Human Rights Act of 1998, if the Home Office acts inconsistently with the European Convention on Human Rights, this could act as a means for it to be condemned as unlawful.

No matter who you are, you will be eligible for this protection if you are living in the UK. It also applies if you are currently under the authority of the UK’s immigration authorities. You can enact Article 8 from the European Convention if it is suspected that you have come to the UK illegally or if you have over-stayed your Visa. Under paragraph 276 ADE of the EU’s Immigration Rules, your human rights will need to be considered in relation to a compassionate or exceptional circumstance.

There are some additional criteria that you will need to fulfil if you are going to make a Discretionary Leave Application:

Another way you could be eligible to make a discretionary leave application is through your family life. Everyone has the right to a public and private family. You are allowed to make an application against deportation on the grounds of a compassionate and compelling argument. You will also need to be able to gain a passing mark against a points-based system.

What is the points-based system?

There is one thing that you do need to understand if you are going to make any sort of Visa application. That iss the points-based system. This system separates migrants into different categories, such as work, investments or training. Each category will have different requirements to be fulfilled in order to have a successful application:

Age
English Language
Qualifications
Earnings
Experience of the UK
Sponsorship Certificate

Make sure to speak carefully to your solicitor about which tier you will be in. They will carefully direct you and help you figure out what qualifications you need. If you are worried that you may lack certain skills (i.e. a strong grasp of the English language), our lawyers can direct you towards specialists that can help you improve. Feel free to speak to them about any help that you will need. Our lawyers will be here to support you throughout your claim.

What can I do if I am destitute and cannot afford a Visa?

One of the things you need to consider when you are going to claim a Visa is how you are going to pay for it. We like to think that everyone is born with the same opportunities as other people, sadly socio-economic status says otherwise. In some cases, you may struggle to afford a Visa. If you have been left destitute and cannot afford the fees that come along with the Visa, you could be eligible for a “fee waiver.” You solicitor can help you make an application. This can be sent to the Home Office to get your fee waiver sorted. However, you will need to provide evidence that you cannot pay. The questions you may be asked include:

Can you meet your essential needs?
Do you have accommodation in the UK?
Are you able to pay for the fee right now?
Could you pay for the fee/ have a change in financial circumstance in the next 12 months?
Will you be able to borrow the fees from your family or close friends?

You will also be asked to provide evidence about this type of claim. Here are some examples of the evidence that you can use to prove your case:

World Day of Social Justice: Illegal Deportation and Human Rights

Deportation is known as the forced expulsion of an individual from one country to their original country of birth. Although in some cases, it may seem logical, it’s important that we consider any political and socio-economic statuses that could affect a person’s right to stay. In some cases, discrimination may actually play a part in the outcome of a visa application. Over the last year, it has been estimated that 3,900 people have actually been detained. Quite a number of them have come from the EU. This has grown since 2010 where only 973 EU citizens were detained. Unfortunately, there is actually very little legal support for people who have been unfairly detained. Issues that can arise include:

How long a person can be detained for
What circumstances can be used as a cause of detainment
When a detainment may see a judge about their case

As a specialist law firm, we endeavor to provide all of our clients with as much support as possible. However, we do understand that the injustice of detained immigrants is a huge cause for concern. No one wants to see another Windrush Scandal. Already, it has become clear that new problems have emerged with the treatment of EU citizens and their right to remain. Thousands of people who have lived here for generations are now at risk. This is why it is more essential than ever for legal experts to support those in need during this difficult transition, especially those who are being discriminated against and have very little access to legal assistance.

Racism in the Criminal Justice System

Right now, it’s important that we look at the injustice that many citizens in the UK have suffered from, and bring any hidden discrimination to the surface. The very fact that many migrants suffer from these “policies” illegally shows a hidden systemic racism that needs to be addressed. A lot of detainees describe the process of being detained as being stuck in ”limbo”. This feeling is often endless and can leave severe emotional trauma on the victim.

It’s important that we refrain from labelling anyone as “good” and “bad”, because honestly it depends on the individual’s circumstances. However, we should also use this as an opportunity to explore the human impact of these issues. By classifying someone as “bad”, it ignites fear. That means it presents them as a type of “alien” figure that can turn people against them. In any sort of immigration case, it is important to view it with an open mind. It is sad that as we are currently in a pandemic, there are still deportations that are still going ahead despite the fact that there is a travel ban.

Here at Gowing Law, we will always do our best to put the needs of our clients first. If they are vulnerable and need legal help, we will be there to help them. Learn more about how we can assist you with asylum and humanitarian protection by clicking the link below:

What can you do to help your solicitor with a claim?

Quite honestly, the best thing you do to help your solicitor with any type of claim is to provide them with evidence. We understand any type of immigration Visa request or deportation order can be extremely stressful. But it’s important that you remain as calm as possible. Providing your solicitor with the evidence needed for your claim can put it in safe hands. They can make sure to work with you to ensure you have a strong case. If you believe that you are a victim of discrimination then they can help you get the justice that you deserve. They can also help you with a repeal if you believe that you have been treated unfairly.

It’s important to not speak about the details of your case publically, after all this could be taken badly if you are trying to make a claim. However, we should bring light to World Day of Social Justice! If you feel strongly about human rights, especially in relation to deportation and racial equality, talk to your friends, family and whoever will listen. The more you bring light to a topic, the more likely that people will take notice of the problems that tend to be hidden.

Gowing Law Solicitors is here to help you with your claim

No matter who you are, Gowing Law’s expert solicitors are here to help you with any of your law claims. We can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to work with your claims experts, we can work with you on a “no win- no fee” basis. We will never ask you to pay any hidden fees. Instead, you will only need to pay our lawyers if they win your case for you. That means you will always come out on top!

Contact us today by phoning 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claims checker. One of our lawyers will then be in contact to help you move forward and answer all of your questions. That’s why you should get in contact with us today. Make sure to also do your bit for the World Day of Social Justice. That way you can talk about a social problem close to your heart.

Learn more about legal claims!

If you’re interested in learning more about immigration or legal claims, why not visit our blog? We update our blog every week with brand new content. That way you can learn all about legal claims before you even make a claim! We write about law topics, seasonal events and the latest updates with Gowing Law. If you have a topic that you would like us to cover, why not let us know about it? We would be more than happy to write about your suggestions. Send in your suggestions to info@gowinglaw.co.uk.

You can also follow our social media to see our latest informative videos and giveaways! Click the links below to visit our Twitter and Facebook to get started.

We look forward to helping you with your claim soon!

Work Accident Compensation & Christmas Claims

Posted on December 30, 2020 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Seasonal, Uncategorised, Work Place Accidents

Work Accident Claims: What do you need to know?

Work accident compensation claims are more common than you think. Now, it’s probably the last thing you’re thinking about at Christmas time, but if you have been hurt before you went on your Christmas holidays, you may find that you are injured during one of the happiest times of the year. No one deserves to be injured before Christmas. If you have been working remotely because of the pandemic, it’s very likely that you have not been hurt. But even then you could suffer from repetitive strain disorder! Either way, if your employers do not take your safety seriously, then you could be owed compensation for your injuries.

If you have suffered from an injury at work, Gowing Law Solicitors will make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve. Our specialist can give you advice that you need to get started. Click the link below to find out more information.

What is a Work Accident Compensation Claim?

If you have recently got hurt due to negligence from your boss or manager, whilst you are in the work place, then you could be owed compensation for your injuries. Normally, when we got to work, we expect to be kept safe so that we can do our jobs efficiently without there being any potential problems. However, if you are

Forced to do a task outside of your skill set
Made to do repetitive tasks that could cause nerve damage
Forced to interact with a violent customer
Injured due to a dangerous/ untidy work environment
Expected to do your job efficiently without any safety training

This could make you more vulnerable to getting hurt. If you suffer from an injury, this could cost you and your firm. Not only could you be forced to stay off in order to recover, you will not be paid your full wage. It does not matter how bad your injuries are, if an unsafe work environment or negligent staff put you at risk, and you end up getting hurt, you could claim compensation.

What sort of work accident compensation claims are there?

The most common accident claims come from physical injuries in an unsafe work environment. However, you can also suffer from emotional damages, financial damages and equipment breakages. In terms of the physical injuries that you could suffer from, these include:

Of course, you could get hurt in other ways, depending on the type of work that you have. For instance, for builders, they may be exposed to dangerous faulty equipment or fumes. However, for an office worker then they may be more at risk of exposed wires or repetitive strain injury.

If you have sustained injuries from an accident at work that was not your fault, you will be able to claim compensation from the other party. Your manager owes you a duty of care, aka. Needs to care about your safety. Therefore, they should be doing everything reasonably possible to ensure that they can to make sure that you can do your job without feeling threatened. If they do not do their best to risk assess your position and keep you safe, getting hurt means that you could be owed compensation for your injuries.

What will happen if more than one person gets hurt in the same accident?

If more than one person gets hurt in a work accident, you may find that people get paid different amounts from their settlement agreements. Now, if you have noticed that one person has been paid a different amount to someone else, don’t worry. The amount of compensation that you get will depend on the injuries you have suffered from. For instance, if someone has suffered from a broken toe, whilst another has suffered paralysis to both the legs, the person with paralysis is going to get a bigger pay-out. This is because their damages are greater. Not only have they suffered from a life-changing experience, but they may have also experienced greater financial damages. Keep this in mind when you go to speak to a solicitor about work accident compensation.

Can I only claim for physical damages when I’ve been injured in a work accident?

When you make a work accident claim, the biggest mistake that most of our clients make are that they only claim for physical injuries. This means they only get a smaller amount of the compensation that they are owed. If you have been hurt whilst in the work place, you could also claim for:

Emotional Damages
Financial Damages
Equipment Damages

That’s why it’s crucial that you take a look at your injuries and the type of things you have lost because of the accident. For instance, if you have lost out on your wage or were forced to pay for physical rehabilitation, you could get that returned to you. Write out your damages and then talk about them with your solicitor. That way you know exactly what you could be owed for your losses. They can come up with an estimated settlement agreement that can cover your damages.

What should I do if I have been involved in a work accident?

The first thing you should do is alert your manager or fellow workers about your work accident. That way it can be put in the work accident book and can be used as evidence. You should prioritize your health and safety above anything else. Make sure to phone an ambulance or the police if there is someone who is getting violent. If you are healthy enough to collect evidence then you can do that. You will want to consider the following evidence:

Photographs
Videos/CCTV
Witness Statements
Diary Entries
Medical Reports
Police Reports

Once you have collected your evidence, you can bring it to your solicitor to get your case started. Let them know if you have any questions.

Contact Gowing Law to help with your Work Accident Compensation Claim!

If you have recently been hurt in a work accident, Gowing Law can help you with your claim! Come to us for free advice and consultations. We can offer our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will not need to pay any hidden fees and will always come out on top.

Contact us today by phoning 0800 041 8350, email info@gowinglaw.co.uk or use our claims checker. One of specialists will then be available to talk you through your claim.

Public Accident Compensation & Christmas Claims

Posted on December 21, 2020 by Hannah Fletcher - Accidents in Public, Blog, Seasonal, Uncategorised

Public Accident Claims & Christmas

Public Accident Compensation Claims can be made any time of the year! It’s the same way that public accidents can happen at any time. Now, depending on what Covid tier you are in, you may be going out less. Public accident claims usually refer to someone getting hurt in a public place, such as a retail store, a restaurants, a park or any other place that is owned by local government or a business. However, if these places are closed or are implementing strict Covid-19 procedures, however there is still the chance that you could be the victim of an unfortunate accident that was not your fault.

If you have been hurt in a public accident, you could claim compensation with the help of a Gowing Law solicitor. Get in contact through our claims checker or on our public accident claims page below:

Are you going out for some Christmas shopping?

One of the most common ways that you could get hurt from a public accident is through an incident in a public retail store. This year, not only do you need to worry about social distancing and keeping out of the way of the public, but if a store does not have a Covid policy in place, you may find that stores get crowded and you get hurt. However, the same thing could happen in any sort of public environment. Here are some examples of accidents that could happen whilst you are going out and about:

As you can see, these are only just a few ways that you could hurt if you get hurt in a shopping centre or some sort of public environment. However, there are many other ways that you could hurt whilst you are out and about. The main thing that you should be concerned about is social distancing. Covid-19 compensation is still fairly new, therefore if you get sick then you will need a lot of evidence to prove that you only caught the disease because of the irresponsibility of the public venue you visited. For more information about Covid-19 and the compensation claims, you can speak to one of our solicitors through our LiveChat.

What sort of injuries could I sustain from a public accident?

Depending on how severe the accident was, and where the accident took place, you could sustain some severe injuries. As it is winter, you may encounter slippy and wintery surfaces, and if these surfaces have not been salted in public places, you may find that walkways become very difficult to manoeuvre and you end up getting hurt due to the negligence of your local council. A few examples of some injuries could include:

Head trauma
Broken bones
Internal/external bleeding
Loss of hearing/eyesight
Loss of limb
Fractures and sprains

Now, if you have recently had an accident, an important thing that you need to know is that the amount of public accident compensation will change depending on how bad your damages are. For instance, if you have sprained your ankle, you are going to get less compensation than you would if you had experienced severe damage to your legs and would need extensive help to recover. You will also be able to claim for the following damages:

What should I do if I have been injured in a public accident?

If you have been hurt due to an accident in a public place, and are looking to get public accident compensation, you need to have the evidence to back it up. To start with, if you have been hurt, make sure that you inform staff members about your injuries. That way they can write it down in their accident work book. You are entitled to a copy of your accident’s report. If you are badly hurt, you should also make sure that you call for help. This includes the police (especially if someone is violent) or an ambulance. You should prioritize your health above anything else.

You should also consider looking for evidence:

Photographs of your injuries and the scene of the accident
Video evidence of your injuries or the accident (including CCTV)
Witness statements
Diary entries
Financial receipts (i.e. travel fees and reduced wages)
Police reports
Medical reports

How long will it take me to make a successful public accident compensation claim?

This is a common questions that solicitors tend to get from the clients. But honestly, the length of your case will depend on the extent of your injuries and the complexity of your case. For instance, if your case is complicated and the person responsible refuses to accept your settlement agreement, you will find that it will take longer to get your compensation. Working with our solicitors, a timeline can be discussed and they will always let you know where your case is in terms of completion.

How much could I claim for my public accident compensation claim?

Again, this depends on how bad your injuries are. You could be owed thousands in compensation. You just have to be patient with your case. Your solicitor can give you a rough estimate about how much you could be owed. Keep in mind it may take some time to get your pay-out because of the current delays in the UK court system.

Don’t forget about Gowing Law’s Christmas Competition!

To celebrate the Christmas holidays, Gowing Law is hosting a competition that could win our clients a £40 Hotel Chocolat wreath. All you need to do is send in a picture of your Christmas decorations on our social media with the tags @GowingLaw and @GowingLawUK. The competition will end on the 24th December at 12 am. So, make sure to send your entries into our social media. You can find links to our social media channels below:

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors to help with your public accident compensation claim!

Gowing Law will always be here to help you with your claim! No matter what sort of personal injury and tax claims you have, our experienced solicitors will be here to give you the advice you need to get started. We can offer you free consultations and help. If you want to work with us, we can help you on a “no win-no fee basis”. That means you will always come out on top and will never need to pay any hidden fees.

Contact us today by calling 0800 041 8350, email info@gowinglaw.co.uk or use our claims checker. We will then be in contact with you to discuss how we can move forward.

Gowing Law’s Advertisements: PPI Tax and Marriage Tax

Posted on December 17, 2020 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Gowing Law Updates, marriage tax, PPI Tax refunds, Seasonal, Uncategorised

Lights, Camera, Action: Gowing Law’s Advertisements

Gowing Law’s advertisements are coming to you from SKY, MadeTV, Imagine FM and Silk Group. We’ve created some brand new commercials and radio adverts that are set to go out over the New Year.

Here’s a sneak preview so you can be the first to get help from our UK law firm on your PPI Tax and Marriage Tax Claims.

PPI Tax Claims: Gowing Law’s Advertisements

So far, Gowing Law has managed to help get around £10,000 in PPI Tax rebates for our clients in the UK. You could be owed £100’s in unpaid PPI Tax! This is where our law firm can step in to get you the pay-out that you deserve.

Gowing Law has simplified the PPI Tax process by creating a self-assessment claim’s form that only takes a few minutes to fill out! We can work with HMRC on your behalf to get you your money back, even if you have already been rejected for a claim. Our tax specialists will ensure you have a valid claim. It will then only take around 6-8 weeks to get your money back in your pocket.

Make sure to listen to both our radio and TV adverts to learn more! To get started, text “PPI” to “80818”. It’s that simple to get the legal advice you need to move forward with your PPI Tax Claim.

Marriage Tax Claims: Gowing Law’s Advertisements

Around 50% of married UK couples do not realize that they could be eligible for a Marriage Tax Claim! That’s why Gowing Law is ready to help them get the tax break that they deserve.

Gowing Law can help you understand whether or not you could be eligible for a tax break. Here is the criteria you need to fill to have a valid marriage tax claim:

You are married or in a civil partnership.
Your partner or you must earn between £12,500 – £50,000 and pay basic tax.
You or your partner must earn under £12,000 and not pay tax.

Our self-assessment claims form only takes 30 seconds to fill out! But you can also text “Tax” to “80818” to begin your own claim with our experienced solicitors. Make sure to keep an eye out for our radio and TV advertisements to learn more!

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors today!

We hope that you have enjoyed seeing our adverts! Don’t forget that if you need help from a tax specialist or a personal injury solicitor, Gowing Law Solicitors will be here to help! Start off with our free advice and consultations. If you’re happy to work with us, we can offer our services on a “no win-no fee basis”. That means you will always end up on top and there will be no hidden fees to pay.

Use our contact details below or use our claims checker to start your journey with Gowing Law Solicitors.

Get ready for Gowing Law’s Advertisement!

Posted on December 15, 2020 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Gowing Law Updates, Seasonal, Uncategorised

Gowing Law’s advertisement is going ahead in the New Year thanks to our collaboration with Sky! For Gowing Law, this is one of the best Christmas presents that we could get over the holiday season. Now, if you have been keeping updated about Gowing Law, you will see that we have sponsored TV programmes before and have created radio commercials. We are proud of our advertisements and can’t wait for you to see our latest creation. From everyone here at Gowing Law, we thoroughly hope you enjoy watching it.

Remember, if you have a PPI tax claim or Marriage tax claim, you should get in contact with Gowing Law ASAP. We are aiming to help as many people as possible over the Christmas season so they can get a pay-out in the New Year. Use our claims checker below to get started!

Keep an eye out for Gowing Law’s Advertisement

Gowing Law’s advertisement is going to be finalized in the middle of December. However, the best time that you are going to be able to see it via Sky is in January. Don’t worry! We’ll give you a reminder about when you can see our commercial. That way you won’t miss it.

Remember, you can still check out our previous commercials that we created back in 2018 with Michael Owen! Check them out below:

Our Radio Campaign with Michael Owen

Another project we worked on this year was with our very own charity’s brand ambassador: Michael Owen! Not only did we work on an extensive amount of football blogs about his life and famous matches, but we have produced two radio adverts that played on Gold. Hopefully you heard them whilst they were on the air. If not you can still find them on our YouTube. We had a great time creating them with the help of our star ambassador. Therefore, we are certain that you will also enjoy them as well. You will also see that the Michael Owen blogs are still on our website. So make sure to take a look at them. You will find that they are linked below:

Gowing Law sponsors Botched!

Another project that we have used to advertise our firm is through sponsoring the programme “Botched!” As we are a professional law firm that deals with medical negligence claims, we wanted to spread our message around the UK that we can help with personal injuries and get our clients the compensation that they deserve.

We are still handling personal injury claims now over the Christmas period. However, our main focus is now on PPI tax claims and marriage tax claims. We want to get you a pay-out in a timely manner and are endeavouring to get as many claims as possible so we can get our clients what they are owed just after Christmas. That way you have something to look forward to in the New Year.

Click the links below to find out more information about PPI Tax and Marriage Tax:

Don’t forget about our charity!

Remember, if you want to support a good cause over the Christmas period, Gowing Law has created a charity known as the “Together in Football Foundation”. With Michael Owen as our brand ambassador, we are determined to help the children of different communities get together in order to enjoy a game of football. Although things may be a little different due to the pandemic, you can still find out ways to get involved by contacting us. Visit our charity page to learn more or get in contact directly. We can let you know the latest works of our charity and how you can help us!

The Christmas Decorations Competition Giveaway

As you wait to see our advertisement, don’t forget that Gowing Law is currently hosting a Christmas Competition! If you take part then you could win a Hotel Chocolat Christmas Wreath that is worth around £40! All you need to do is send in a picture of your Christmas Decorations to Gowing Law’s socials. Then you just have to tag us @GowingLaw! The best decorations will win the prize, but we may also be willing to hand out a few runners up prizes as well. So, keep an eye on our socials to see who the winner is! The deadline for this competition will be the 24th December at 12 am.

We would be grateful if you could give us a like and share on our social media posts. You can even follow us if you want to keep an eye out for our latest content, giveaways and videos. Click the links below to visit our pages!

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors today to help with your claim!

Here at Gowing Law, we are ready to make sure you get the pay-out that you deserve! Right now, we want to make sure that you get your compensation after Christmas. That way you can have an extra present from HMRC to brighten up the New Year. We can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. If you are happy to work with us, our solicitors can work with you on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will always come out on top and will never have to pay any fees. We will always be upfront about the cost of our lawyers.

Call us today at 0800 041 8350, email us at info@gowinglaw.co.uk or you can use our LiveChat on our contact page. Make sure to also keep an eye out for our advertisement in 2021!

Gowing Law’s Christmas Holidays Decoration Competition

Posted on December 9, 2020 by Hannah Fletcher - Blog, Gowing Law Updates, Seasonal, Uncategorised

What are you going to do for the Christmas Holidays?

Christmas holidays are a time for people to be together. It’s a special time of the year where we can all be with our families and enjoy a much needed break after a stressful year. Now, 2020 has not really been a good year for anyone around the world. The UK is now in its social distancing tiers, that means for some of us it is going to be very difficult to see our loved ones during December. Compared to our previous Christmases, it is very likely that our celebrations are going to be much smaller. It’s going to be more difficult to get gifts if you are not shopping online, and you may end up simply having a smaller celebration.

Gowing Law intends to liven up the Christmas holidays with a competition! That way we can bring a little joy and laughter into your household. Not only that, but our focus for the next month is on your PPI tax and marriage tax claims! That way you can get a little extra gift from HMRC just in time for Christmas. Click on our claims checker to get in contact with Gowing Law today to learn how we can help you get the compensation that you deserve:

What is Gowing Law doing for the Christmas holidays?

Here at Gowing Law, we always enjoy celebrating the holiday season! We went full out for Halloween this year to make sure our clients still had a lot of fun despite the lockdown. That’s why we are ready to do the same thing over Christmas as well.

We are going to be extremely busy over the Christmas period. Not only are we putting together some brand new advertisements to spread the word about PPI tax and Marriage tax claims, but we have decided that we are going to host a giveaway in order to raise the spirits of our clients. This giveaway comes with an exciting prize that can tickle the senses and put you in the mood to enjoy the Christmas holidays to the fullest. You can find out more information about the competition below.

Gowing Law’s Christmas Decorations Competition

For our big competition, you could win a Hotel Chocolat wreath worth around £40! To take part in this competition, all you need to do is go to Gowing Law’s social media and send us a picture of your Christmas decorations! This year, the lockdown has made things very different, therefore we want to see what you have done to put some creativity into your Christmas décor!

If you want to win this amazing prize, send your picture into our social media by tagging us @GowingLaw. You can also like and share our post to get your friends involved in our competition. That way we can spread the Christmas spirit around the UK. We want to get as many people involved as possible in order to make the Christmas holidays a little brighter. So, make sure to get involved by sending in your picture when you finally get your decorations up. Who knows? You could win an amazing prize if your decorations are the best.

The deadline for this competition will be on the 24th December at 12 am. So make sure to get your entries in as quickly as possible.

Christmas Holidays: Blogs and Videos

Here at Gowing Law, we want to make sure that you keep completely entertained during the Christmas holidays. That way our solicitors can focus on your compensation claims whilst you can relax and enjoy yourself during the holiday season.

For the next month, we are going to create a number of blogs of videos that are dedicated to personal injury and the Christmas period, as well as PPI tax claims and Marriage Tax claims. Make sure to keep out for Gowing Law’s advert in the New Year on Sky. That way you can see how busy we’ve been and how you can get in contact with us to help with you any of your compensation claims. Click the buttons below to find out more about PPI tax claims and Marriage tax claims!

PPI Tax Claims and Marriage Tax Claims: Let Gowing Law help!

The links above will take you to our main pages that discuss how our solicitors can help you with your Marriage Tax claim or your PPI Tax Claim. Just remember that our lawyers will always be here over the Christmas holidays to help you figure out how much compensation you could be owed and how you could get it. Keep in mind that these types of claims may take around 6-8 weeks. This time may be exasperated by the current pandemic and court backlog.

Our lawyers are extremely experienced with these types of claims and can contact HMRC on your behalf. That way no mistakes will be made that could invalidate your claim. We will make sure to go over all the details with you and keep you up-to-date on how your claim is progressing. Let us know if you have any questions and we will make sure to get back to you as quickly as possible.

Gowing Law hopes you have a very Merry Christmas!

Here at Gowing Law, we will always be here to give you advice on your claim over Christmas. No matter what type of injuries you have, our solicitors can offer you free advice and consultations to get started. Our lawyers can offer their services on a ”no win-no fee” basis. That means you will never need to pay any hidden fees. Instead, we will always be upfront about our costs and make sure that you will always come out on top.

Contact Gowing Law today to find out more about your compensation claims. Call 0800 041 8350, email info@gowinglaw.co.uk or speak to use via LiveChat on our contact page. We will then get in contact with as quickly as possible.

Road Traffic Accidents: Are you travelling this Christmas?

Posted on December 1, 2020 by Hannah Fletcher - Accidents in Public, Blog, Seasonal, Traffic Accidents, Uncategorised

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) can happen at any time and in any place, but did you know that there are more RTAs in December than in any other month? The amount of accidents increase by around 30% for women and 9% for men. This time of year, not only are the roads slippery and hazardous, especially if they are covered in snow, but you can encounter extremely aggressive drivers who just want to get home for Christmas. That’s why it’s extremely important that you keep your distance and make sure you are as safe as you can when you are out on the road.

This year, Christmas is going to be very different. With the second lockdown in place, Christmas with family is going to be reserved for the 23rd- 27th December. For these are the dates you are allowed to travel between tiers to create a Christmas bubble. That means on the 23rd December, there are going to be a lot of drivers on the road, or people trying to crowd onto public transport. That’s why we want to give our advice on how you can travel safely to get home to your loved ones without experiencing an accident.

However, if you have recently been involved in a traffic collision due to bad winter weather or aggressive driving, you could be owed compensation. Gowing Law Solicitors will be here to get you the compensation that you deserve. Get in contact with our law firm via the link below. We would be more than happy to help!

The Lockdown Update: Christmas & Road Safety

Now, before we move onto road safety and road traffic accidents, it’s important that we chat about the current pandemic and what it means for the Christmas holidays. For the last 8 months we have been in a mix of lockdown, tiered restrictions and Covid-19 based cautions. Right now, you may feel the urge to try and get on the roads as early as possible in order to get to your family quickly. The roads may be quieter, but you may be breaking your local lockdown rules.

Unless you are a student that has been allowed to be tested and travel back to their families, it’s better to look up your local lockdown rules and plan your journey accordingly. The tier system will finally be put in place after the 2nd December, therefore it is up to you to look things up about meeting people, restaurants and where you go for the Christmas holidays. We would suggest that you make your plans with caution. Whilst it may be difficult to not go all out for Christmas, you may want to create a minimalistic affair. That way you can protect your loved ones.

Weather Warnings & Christmas Driving

During that small time period where the tiered system is lifted for around 3-4 days, you may try to plan your journey up to see your loved ones. The weather is getting colder and you may find that the weather conditions of the road make it easier for you to get into an accident. Blustery winds, snow, rain, ice, and most dangerous of all, black ice, may become environmental hazards that could pull your vehicle from the road.

Unsafe road conditions could cause you to have an accident. Not every road is going to be kept in great condition. Roads that are constantly being used by oncoming traffic, or perhaps have been in a state of disrepair for quite a long time, may have potholes, cracks and uneven paving. This can only get worse in the winter when ice may expand and contract the road. If something is in disrepair, wintery conditions will only make it worse.

Before you go out onto the road, the best way to avoid road traffic accidents is to plan your route carefully. You can use Google Maps to what the roads look like and also see if there are any faster ways you could travel. You can use public transport if you desire, but keep in mind that it’s highly likely that these are going to suffer from cramped conditions, even if there is a travel tsar monitoring the conditions of trains.

It’s also important to consider going out on the road when there are quieter hours. Keep in mind that for some people this may mean leaving at night. But if this happens, you will also have to worry about the darkness, tiredness and any car light glare due to the reflection on the road.

Road Traffic Accidents & Road Rage

Another thing you need to watch out for when you’re on the road are other drivers. Both you and other drivers have a responsibility to keep each other safe through your actions. This is known as a duty of care. You need to respect this by making sure you obey the rules of the road. Unfortunately, not all drivers act kindly towards other people. Instead, during the Christmas season, their main objective is to go present shopping or get home after they have booked in their work holidays. That means they’re liking going to be rushing or even speeding on the road. Sometimes they may even break the speed limit or try to overtake you on the road. This can cause road traffic accidents that were not your fault.

If you end up being on the road with an impatient or angry driver, the best thing that you can do is try to give them space and overtake you. In some cases, you may find they get aggressive towards you directly by shouting insults or beeping their horn inappropriately. Try to relax and ignore them. Simply let them go ahead and try to ignore the things they say. If all else fails, and they are following you and acting dangerously, you can call the appropriate authorities to try and diffuse the situation.

Here are some pointers to help diffuse an angry driver situation:

Road Traffic Accidents & Injuries

Unfortunately, not everyone is going to be as careful as you when you go out driving on the road. We understand that under the current circumstances, people will want to try and get back to their loved ones as quickly as possible. When the 23rd December rolls around, it will not be a surprise if the roads become crammed full of people trying to see their family for Christmas. That’s why it is more likely that if people set off on longer journeys, they may end up in an accident due to bad weather conditions, traffic jams or impatient drivers. Not only that, but with the shops opening for 24 hours a day, you may find that impatient or tired shoppers may end up getting into a road traffic accident.

We stated before, each driver of a vehicle has a responsibility to those they meet on the road. This includes pedestrians and smaller vehicle operators. That means if you get hurt due to someone else’s negligent behaviour, you could claim compensation from them. Negligence can come in many forms when it comes to road traffic accidents. It includes:

Drunk driving
Distracted driving
Eating/drinking/smoking whilst driving
Not watching the road
Taking a phone call
Becoming the aggressor on the road

The end result will always be the same if you are negligent driver. You will cause someone to suffer from road-related injuries. The severity of your injuries may range from minor whiplash to crushed limbs. Either way, you will need medical attention make sure you are okay!

What should I do if I am involved in a road traffic accident?

Now that you are aware of the dangers of driving on the road during winter, it’s time to learn what you should do if you are involved in a RTA. Traffic accidents are all different and some people may have worse injuries than other. That’s why we want to make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve.

If you have been hurt, the first thing you should do is get medical attention. Call an ambulance and make sure there are police on the scene of the accident. That way you have police report made about the incident. You should also get the insurance details and licence plate of the other person involved in the accident.

Make sure to also take some time to look for evidence about the accident. You need to prove that you were not responsible for the accident. Instead, you were a victim of the other person’s negligence. Therefore, you should consider the following evidence to prove your case:

Photographs of your injuries, your vehicle and the environment
Video footage, dash-cam or CCTV footage
Witness statements
Police reports
Medical reports
Diary entries
Receipts

How much could I get from a successful road traffic accident claim?

Quite honestly, the amount of compensation you get from your claim depends on the extent of your injuries and how bad your damages are. That’s why it’s very important that you actually speak to your solicitor about what you have suffered from. You will also want to give them as much evidence as possible to back up your case. The more evidence you have, the more likely that you will be able to get the highest amount of compensation possible. You will also be able to prove that you are not responsible for the accident. Instead, you were a victim of the accident.

Your solicitor can help you estimate how much of a pay-out you can receive. Make sure to work with them to ensure that you can figure out your settlement agreement together.

How long will it take to make a claim?

With the current pandemic and delays of the UK court system, it may take a little longer than anticipated to have a successful RTA claim. So, be patient with your solicitor. They can help you plan out a timeline for how long the claim will take. Make sure to ask them about any questions that come to mind. Your lawyer can also let you know if there are any potential problems that could slow down your claim. You may also want to prepare for any type of remote hearings on your computer.

What else is Gowing Law Solicitors doing for Christmas?

Right now, Gowing Law is focusing on PPI tax claims and Marriage tax Claims to make sure our clients get their pay-outs during the Christmas period. However, we are also preparing to host a few giveaways and competitions to get you into the Christmas spirit. Those combined with Christmas themed blogs, videos and newsletter should ensure that you feel the Christmas spirit all the way through December.

Keep an eye on our social media to learn more about what we are giving away!

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors about your road traffic accident claim

Here at Gowing Law, we are ready to help you make a successful compensation claim for a road traffic accident. For starters, our solicitors can give you free advice and consultations. If you are happy to work with us, we can offer our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will always come out on top and you will never need to pay any hidden fees. We will always be upfront about our costs if we have a successful case.

Contact us today by phoning 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw.co.uk or by using our claims checker. Some of our specialists will then reach out to help you with your questions.

UK Disability History Month: Personal Injuries & Disabilities

Posted on November 27, 2020 by Hannah Fletcher - Accidents in Public, Blog, Seasonal, Uncategorised, Work Place Accidents

UK Disability History Month is an important time where we improve our understanding of those who suffer from disabilities. This includes learning about their struggles of life and their rights for access. It is essential that we find ways to help disabled people in the UK become independent and live their lives to the fullest. If a service or product is accessible to the UK public, it should also be accessible to those who are living with disabilities.

Now, for Gowing Law, as we are a legal firm, we focus on personal injuries from the perspective of a solicitor. That’s why we want to use this blog to talk about the history of disability & UK law, as well as the impact that disability can have on a personal injury claim.

Before we jump into the meat of this blog, we would just want to remind you that if you have suffered from a personal injury that was not your fault, whether it be due to a traffic accident in the winter weather or a beauty treatment gone wrong, Gowing Law will be here to help you. Find out more about your own personal injury claim by using Gowing Law’s claims checker by clicking the button below:

UK Disability History Month: The History of UK Law & Disabilities

As you can see from our video, the UK has gone on a long journey to ensure that people with disabilities are treated equally. For this month, it is important that we take the time to consider how far we have come. In the 1700’s disabled people were not treated fairly. That’s why it’s important nowadays to learn from our mistakes and make sure we understand how our actions can impact the needs of others.

According to the government, it is important to:

“enable persons with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life, States parties shall take appropriate measures to ensure to persons with disabilities access, on an equal basis with others…”

Remember, it is up to all of us to shape the world so that we can make it better for each other. Universal access is essential to make sure that we all have the same rights. Keep this in mind as you think about how far we have come. If you are in a position of authority, make sure also to express this to your employees and others. Just keep in mind, physical and mental disability can require certain additional types of support. That’s why transformation is needed to ensure that everyone is safe and given the chance they need to prosper.

UK Disability History Month: Personal Injuries & Disabilities

Personal injury claims can get complicated. Not only do you have to consider how much you could claim for your injuries, but if the other party refuses to pay a settlement agreement then you may find that you have to go to UK court to get it sorted out.

Now, letting your solicitor know that you suffer from a disability could have an impact on the total damages you are owed. Not informing your lawyer about your disabilities could mean that you are under-compensated for the injuries you suffered from.

The first thing you need to consider is the actual definition of a disability. You can be classified as disabled if:

How can I prove that I have a disability?

It’s very likely that if you suffer from a disability, and are involved in an accident that was not your fault, that you could claim a higher amount of compensation. Think about it this way, you may have medical needs that are worsened due to the impact of the accident. Someone with a physical disability, such as spinal injuries, multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy may end up suffering more if they are hit by a falling object or are the victim of criminal injuries. At the same time, someone with a mental disability may be more vulnerable and therefore be owed greater compensation if specific measures were not taken to ensure that they were safeguarded from risk.

You will need to prove that you have a disability during your case. This means supplying evidence. The best thing you can do is have medical evidence to back it up. For instance, get a doctor’s note or ask them to write up a letter to say that you have been in contact with them about your disabilities. Your evidence will need to prove each of the definitions of a disability. The court will then decide on whether or not you’re disabled. If it is affirmed that you suffer from a disability, it is likely that the amount of compensation that you are owed will increase.

UK Disability History Month: Work Accidents & Discrimination

Another thing that you should consider, if you do have an injury, is what you should do if you are involved in a workplace accident. Now, in most cases, you may have simply got hurt out of bad luck. You may have been doing your every duties and unfortunately, you were in the wrong place at the wrong time. However, in other cases, you may have been put in a vulnerable position through mismanagement.

Disability discrimination can come in many different forms, both indirectly and directly. For instance, if it was direct discrimination then you may experience name-calling or teasing related to your condition. If it was indirect discrimination, you may find that if you were someone with a learning difficulty, a safety manual was produced that was too complicated for you to understand. Even if it was not meant to be taken as discrimination, the result can still make your life harder and can sometimes even lead to accidents.

Unfortunately, people do get hurt in the office, even when it is not their fault. You may have been put in a vulnerable situation due to mis-management. It does not matter if you have physical or mental disabilities, your manager should be making appropriate changes to your working environment to suit your particular needs. If this does not happen, you could get hurt.

Make sure to seek medical assistance as quickly as possible if you are in a work-place accident. You should alert your manager and colleagues. That way it can be recorded in your work place-accident book. You are entitled to a copy of the accident report.

Do I need evidence to prove that I was hurt?

If you can prove that appropriate changes were not made to help with your disabilities, this may add to the amount you are owed in compensation in your claim. That’s why it is essential that you have evidence to back up your claim. You need to show why your injury was not your fault. Instead you suffered due to the negligence (and potential discrimination) of your employer.

Your evidence may include:

Accident reports
Photographs
Videos/CCTV
Witness Statements
Medical Reports
Police Reports
Receipts (i.e. for costs)
Loss of opportunity statements (i.e. wages & promotions)
Diary entries

Remember, you are not only claiming for your physical damages, but also your emotional and financial damages as well. This means evidence may need to be collected as soon as possible after the accident has taken place.

What will happen if I am claiming for benefits during my compensation claim?

If you make a compensation claim for a personal injury, your benefits may be changed depending on the outcome of the case. If your household assets are more than £6,000, you may not be eligible to claim state benefits. So if you have a successful injury claim, and you end up receiving a “lump sum”, you may end up getting a reduced amount of benefits. It’s important that you talk about these problems with your solicitor. After all, we do not want to affect your future benefits. The benefits that could be changed may include:

Income support
Jobseeker’s allowance
Universal credit
Council tax support
Housing benefits
Pension credits
Medical benefits

What should I do if I am discriminated in the workplace?

If you have a disability, you should not be discriminated against in the workplace because of it. You are entitled to fair treatment whilst you are at work. If you notice that you are being mistreated because of your disability, you should bring it up with your manager as quickly as possible. If nothing happens to resolve it, it is your right to escalate it to the UK courts. You also have the right to claim legal protection for you and your witnesses during the tribunal.

Before you start your claim, it is always important that you start a line of communication about the discrimination with those responsible for your wellbeing. That way you can prove that you did your best to sort the problem out before it went too far. You can keep any emails as evidence. Make sure to also make notes about any meetings you have with management or colleagues and ensure that you can keep a timeline of events.

If nothing happens to resolve your issues, you can use this evidence to plead your case that you were discriminated against in your work place, due to your disabilities.

UK Disability History Month: Why is it so important?

In order to understand how we can better the present, it is important that we look to the past. That way we will know how we can improve ourselves and make life easier for the people around us. Universal access and equality are essential for making sure people feel like they are getting the justice they deserve. Whilst Gowing Law mainly focuses on getting people the compensation they deserve in the present, we understand that there is still a lot of work to be done in order to make sure everyone is treated fairly.

Make sure to do your part for UK Disability History Month and have a look at the website to see how you can spread the word. It can be something as simple as talking about it, but you may also want to consider putting on your own event as well!

Gowing Law Solicitors can help you with your claim!

Here at Gowing Law, we want to make sure that all of our clients get the compensation that they deserve. That’s why we are ready to help you with your compensation claim! No matter what sort of personal injury you have suffered from, if it is not your fault then we will make sure you get the pay-out that you deserve.

We can offer you free advice and consultations to get you started. They can advise you on how much you could be owed. It’s also so we can figure out the best way to get the highest amount of compensation possible. If you are happy to work with our experienced solicitors, we can offer our services on a “no win-no fee” basis. That means you will always come out on top, even if your case is not won. You will not need to pay any hidden fees and we will always be upfront with you about the costs of legal representation in your personal injury claims case.

Contact us today by calling 0800 041 8350, emailing info@gowinglaw or by using our claims checker. From there one of our solicitors will guide you through the claims process. Feel free to ask them any questions that may be on your mind. They would be more than happy to help you.

Want to read more?

Here at Gowing Law, we will always do our best to keep you entertained through our different blogs. If you want to learn more about seasonal events, the basics of personal injury claims or perhaps the most recent legal news, our blog page is the place to be! We update our blog with new content every week, so make sure to check back to learn more. You may also want to consider signing to our newsletter:

Make sure to also keep an eye on our social media to learn about our competitions, giveaways and updates.

We look forward to seeing you in our next blog!

Fill out the form to start your claim today!

UK Law History & International Women’s Day: A little context

International Women’s Day: Myths of 1900s Family Life

Suffragettes and Suffragists

International Women’s Day: Carrie Morrison

Carrie Morrison & Divorce Reforms

International Women’s Day: Mary Elizabeth Pickup

Balancing Life Commitments

International Women’s Day: Maud Crofts

Overcoming the odds

Women’s Suffrage and Legal Rights

International Women’s Day: Mary Elaine Sykes

Family Encouragement

Politics and the legal world

The Importance of International Women’s Day

Don’t forget about our International Women’s Day Competition!

Don’t forget that Gowing Law Solicitors can help with your personal injury claims!

Read more on our blog!

Why is World Book Day 2021 so important?

World Book Day 2021: Gowing Law’s Favourite Books!

World Book Day 2021: What are your favourite reads?

Want to read more?

The Basics of Visas

Social Justice, Human Right Visas and Deportation

What is the points-based system?

What can I do if I am destitute and cannot afford a Visa?

World Day of Social Justice: Illegal Deportation and Human Rights

Racism in the Criminal Justice System

What can you do to help your solicitor with a claim?

Gowing Law Solicitors is here to help you with your claim

Learn more about legal claims!

Work Accident Claims: What do you need to know?

What is a Work Accident Compensation Claim?

What sort of work accident compensation claims are there?

What will happen if more than one person gets hurt in the same accident?

Can I only claim for physical damages when I’ve been injured in a work accident?

What should I do if I have been involved in a work accident?

Contact Gowing Law to help with your Work Accident Compensation Claim!

Read more about our blogs!

Public Accident Claims & Christmas

Are you going out for some Christmas shopping?

What sort of injuries could I sustain from a public accident?

What should I do if I have been injured in a public accident?

How long will it take me to make a successful public accident compensation claim?

How much could I claim for my public accident compensation claim?

Don’t forget about Gowing Law’s Christmas Competition!

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors to help with your public accident compensation claim!

Read more in our blog!

Lights, Camera, Action: Gowing Law’s Advertisements

PPI Tax Claims: Gowing Law’s Advertisements

Marriage Tax Claims: Gowing Law’s Advertisements

Read more about PPI Tax & Marriage Tax Claims

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors today!

Keep an eye out for Gowing Law’s Advertisement

Our Radio Campaign with Michael Owen

Gowing Law sponsors Botched!

Don’t forget about our charity!

The Christmas Decorations Competition Giveaway

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors today to help with your claim!

Read more blogs from Gowing Law

What are you going to do for the Christmas Holidays?

What is Gowing Law doing for the Christmas holidays?

Gowing Law’s Christmas Decorations Competition

Christmas Holidays: Blogs and Videos

PPI Tax Claims and Marriage Tax Claims: Let Gowing Law help!

Gowing Law hopes you have a very Merry Christmas!

Read more articles on our blog page!

The Lockdown Update: Christmas & Road Safety

Weather Warnings & Christmas Driving

Road Traffic Accidents & Road Rage

Road Traffic Accidents & Injuries

What should I do if I am involved in a road traffic accident?

How much could I get from a successful road traffic accident claim?

How long will it take to make a claim?

What else is Gowing Law Solicitors doing for Christmas?

Contact Gowing Law Solicitors about your road traffic accident claim

Read more about road traffic accident claims

UK Disability History Month: The History of UK Law & Disabilities

UK Disability History Month: Personal Injuries & Disabilities

How can I prove that I have a disability?