Major Developments in Asbestos Law: New Appointments and Loss

News Summary

Thompsons Solicitors appoints Amanda Jones as Head of Asbestos, bringing 25 years of experience to advocate for victims of asbestos-related diseases. Tragically, the legal community mourns the loss of Emily Thornton-Sandy, a young solicitor known for her dedication. Meanwhile, JNP Legal strengthens its team with new hires Maria Cosslett and Mark Church, adding 62 years of experience in various legal fields.

Major Developments in Asbestos Law with New Appointments and Tragic Loss

The legal landscape is undergoing notable changes, particularly in the field of asbestos-related litigation. National law firm Thompsons Solicitors has appointed Amanda Jones as the new Head of Asbestos. With over 25 years of experience in handling asbestos claims, Amanda is set to lead the nationwide asbestos strategy while maintaining the highest legal practice standards in these challenging cases.

Amanda’s journey into asbestos litigation is deeply personal; she lost her uncle to mesothelioma, a devastating disease caused by asbestos exposure. This personal loss has fueled her commitment to fighting for justice on behalf of victims and their families. Her qualifications as a solicitor, which she obtained in 1997, focus on ensuring that those affected by asbestos-related illnesses receive the compensation they deserve.

Championing Victims and Advocating for Change

Throughout her impressive career, Amanda has secured numerous life-changing settlements for patients suffering from asbestos-related diseases. One of her most notable victories includes winning the first case in Wales, enabling a mesothelioma patient to receive life-extending treatment in the comfort of their rural home. Her exceptional work has earned her a reputation as a leader in industrial disease litigation, and she is recognized as a leading expert in both The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners.

Amanda is also heavily involved in advocacy and community engagement. She acts as a trustee of Mesothelioma UK and is a proactive member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL). Her collaboration with trade unions, asbestos support groups, and charities underscores her dedication to improving safety standards related to asbestos. Last year, she made headlines after speaking at the House of Commons, emphasizing the urgent need for the safe removal of asbestos from public buildings.

In her new role, Amanda is committed to ensuring that every client receives expert legal support and is advocating for nationwide preventative measures regarding asbestos safety. She intends to refine and update the existing Trade Union asbestos registers, which currently list thousands of entries related to asbestos locations and sources.

Clare Mellor, Chief Executive of Thompsons Solicitors, has expressed her unwavering support for Amanda’s appointment, highlighting the firm’s commitment to fighting for asbestos victims. Under Amanda’s leadership, the firm aims to advance the fight for safer environments, especially in key areas like schools and hospitals.

Tragic Loss: Remembering Emily Thornton-Sandy

Emily Thornton-Sandy, a 30-year-old solicitor from Pontarddulais. Emily tragically lost her life in a road accident on November 5, along with her beloved dog, Scout. She succumbed to her injuries after six days in the hospital, shocking both her family and colleagues.

Emily was not just a solicitor but a passionate advocate for those affected by industrial diseases, particularly in asbestos litigation. Her work focused on helping clients navigate the complexities of their circumstances, showcasing her intelligence and kindness. The profound loss felt by her family, friends, and the legal community serves as a reminder of the fragility of life.

Emily’s parents have expressed their devastation at the loss of their only child, cherishing the pride they felt in her many accomplishments during her short but impactful life. The sentiment echoed within Thompsons Solicitors, where Emily was treasured for her empathy and dedication.

New Faces at JNP Legal

Meanwhile, JNP Legal, a South Wales law firm, has welcomed new talent with the appointment of Maria Cosslett as Senior Associate in the Lifetime Planning Department and Mark Church as Solicitor in the Civil Litigation Department. Together, they bring a formidable 62 years of legal experience to the firm.

Maria Cosslett, boasting over 30 years in private client work, is an experienced Chartered Legal Executive with expertise in Wills, Powers of Attorney, Estate Administration, and Trusts. Mark Church complements the team with his 32 years of post-qualification experience in personal injury, clinical negligence, and contested probate, among other areas.

With their extensive backgrounds, both Maria and Mark are expected to offer tremendous value to the firm’s clientele, reflecting the ongoing commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy.

As the landscape of legal practice evolves with significant appointments and tragic losses, the essence of compassion and commitment to justice remains at the forefront of the profession.