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Why local solicitors could be the better choice for personal injury claims

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As the number of personal injury law firms falls across the UK, choosing a local solicitor over national panel firms could lead to better outcomes for injury claims, say local solicitors.

Why it matters: When making a personal injury claim, your choice of solicitor can significantly impact both the process and outcome. While insurance companies often push claimants towards national panel firms, local solicitors say they offer distinct advantages.

The big picture: The number of law firms handling personal injury cases has dropped by 4.3% since 2021, with just 3,637 firms now undertaking this work. Despite this shrinking market, local law firm Ellisons Solicitors  argues that local firms can provide benefits that larger national practices struggle to match.

A man being lowered from a building on a stretcher
Whether it was an accident at work, public property or business premises, using a local solicitor can offer several benefitsStephen BarnesGetty Images

Key advantages of local solicitors:

  • Face-to-face consultations and direct access to your solicitor, rather than dealing with call centres

  • Better understanding of local courts and judicial systems

  • Ability to visit accident sites quickly and gather crucial evidence

  • More personalised service and closer involvement in case management

  • Greater focus on fair compensation over quick settlements

What they're saying: "Choosing a local solicitor often means more direct engagement with your case. You're not just a file number; you're a client whose situation is fully understood," says Stevan Stratton , Head of Injury Services at Ellisons Solicitors .

The other side: Insurance companies require claimants to use their national panel firms, which can handle high volumes of cases efficiently. However, according to a 2023 report by the Personal Injury Lawyers Association, these firms sometimes prioritise quick settlements over fair compensation.

"We are regularly contacted people who are unhappy with the service they’ve received from national panel firms, feeling either that their claims have been undervalued or that their case has been unfairly abandoned," Stratton notes. "We can focus solely on achieving the best outcome for each client."

Bottom line: For individuals considering a personal injury claim, legal experts advise reaching out to a local personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Early intervention allows solicitors to assess the case thoroughly, identify key evidence and start building a case strategy.

“Timeliness can greatly impact the outcome of a claim,” says Stratton. “The earlier we can begin gathering evidence and assessing damages, the better positioned we are to secure the best possible outcome."

Ellisons Solicitors

Established for 260 years, Ellisons is a top 200 UK law firm and one of the region’s oldest, most established and fastest growing firms.

Ellisons' new premises at Connexions on Princes Street, Ipswich
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Man charged after St Helen's Street assault leaves victim in hospital

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An argument in Ipswich town centre escalated into an assault that left one man in hospital on Tuesday. Police are now seeking dashcam footage as they build their case.

Why it matters: The incident occurred in a busy area of Ipswich's town centre, with police now seeking public assistance to gather additional evidence as they build their case.

The details: Keith McKenzie, 48, of Bond Street, has been charged with assault causing grievous bodily harm.

  • The assault took place at approximately 21:45 on Tuesday near the junction of St Helen's Street and Bond Street

  • A man in his 30s sustained arm injuries following an argument with an unknown assailant

  • The victim walked to Tavern Street to seek help before being taken to hospital

  • He has since been discharged

What's next: McKenzie appeared at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Thursday, 6 February and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, 6 March.

How to help: Detectives want to hear from anyone who was driving in the area between 21:35 and 21:50 on Tuesday with dashcam footage that might have captured the altercation.

The bottom line: Anyone with information should contact South CID at Suffolk Police, quoting reference 37/6562/25, via:

  • Website: suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

  • Phone: 101

  • Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (anonymously)

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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