Biography
I am a Senior Associate Solicitor specialising in international personal injury and large-scale illness outbreaks in the UK and abroad. I have worked at Irwin Mitchell since 2012.
I manage a team in the Birmingham office, which primarily acts in group actions against UK based tour operators. We also handle large outbreaks of illness at hotels, restaurants and weddings across the UK.
As a team, we're proud of the work we do in raising awareness of standards in the health and hygiene industry, however our foremost priority is always to make sure that those impacted by personal injury achieve justice, to help change their life for the better.
I have a particular interest in Legionnaires’ disease, successfully securing substantial compensation for individuals facing long-term health challenges, including respiratory and neurological conditions, as a result of contracting the infection.
I have successfully concluded high value claims concerning Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that occurs when the body's immune system attacks the nervous system and can be triggered by a bacterial infection such as Campylobacter. I have also secured settlements in claims involving haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), having acted for the family of a young child who tragically died after being exposed to an E. coli infection which caused severe HUS associated with kidney failure, and with critical neurological damage.
I have worked on high profile outbreaks of illness, including acting for the families at an inquest of two women who tragically died following an outbreak of Mycobacterium Abscessus in the water supply at Royal Papworth Hospital, in Cambridge.
I have been quoted in various national press coverage to help raise awareness of issues, including the Mail on Sunday, The Independent, The Sun and The Mirror, and have conducted TV and radio interviews with BBC Midlands Today, BBC Radio Hereford and Worcester and appeared on BBC Look East.
What inspired you to get into law?
I've always wanted to pursue a career which was both challenging and rewarding, so a career in law was the natural choice.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
Being able to achieve the best possible outcome for an individual, whose life has been adversely affected through no fault of their own, is hugely rewarding. Through our work, it is wonderful to see clients get their lives back on track following a debilitating illness.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
I’m proud to work at a market-leading personal injury firm. We give our clients a holistic service and are committed to getting them the best result, as well as access to rehabilitation and financial support post-settlement. We’re not afraid to take on the most complex of claims and are well-known for raising the bar.
What do you do away from the office?
I have a Golden Retriever, Jessie, who takes up a lot of my time with long walks in the Peak District. In my spare time, I enjoy travelling, exploring new places and trying new foods.
Testimonials
"Had a great service from Irwin Mitchell. They handled my claim from start to finish with professionalism, exceptional customer service and as quickly as they possible could. Jennifer Hodgson in particular is a credit to the organisation and was a delight to speak to every time. She was informative and understanding in every aspect. I couldn't of asked for a better firm to handle this case for me and wouldn't go elsewhere. We have been recommending them on all social media sites and to friends and colleagues alike. Thank you again for everything you have done." - 5* Trustpilot review
"Jennifer Hodgson and others earlier in the dispute who dealt with my case were excellent and kept the communications flowing between myself and Irwin Mitchell, keeping me informed at every stage of how my case was been handled and progressing. Through their knowledge and expertise and friendly nature in handling the case, they were the reason I was successful in my claim. Jennifer thank you again to you and the team." - 5* Trustpilot review
