Darren Sheppard
This review was submitted by a verified client of RWK Goodman LLP.
5 Star Lawyers - Highly Recommended
I would sincerely like to thank RWK Goodman for all of their hard work over the past three and a half years. In particular, I would like to recognise the exceptional support provided by Roisin O’Dubhlaoidh throughout my claim. From the outset, Roisin was dedicated, professional and incredibly easy to communicate with. She was always approachable, took the time to explain the legal process clearly, and made herself available whenever I needed clarification or reassurance. The incident happened on 10 February 2023, when a large Alsatian dog attacked me, causing me to fall backwards onto the road. As a result, I suffered a shattered L4 vertebra and a serious shoulder injury. The claim was far from straightforward, as the defendant initially denied the incident. The early stages of the case involved gathering evidence and locating witnesses to the incident. As I am self-employed, my injuries impacted my ability to carry out business tasks. It was therefore essential to have a solicitor who took the time to understand not only my injuries but also how they affected my livelihood and income. Roisin did exactly that. Once liability was eventually admitted, she remained focused on ensuring the claim properly reflected the impact the injuries had on both my personal and professional life. Roisin also arranged consultations with the appropriate medical specialists, ensuring appointments were within a reasonable travelling distance from my home, which made the process much easier to manage while I was recovering. Over the course of more than three years, the defendant changed legal representatives several times, and there were occasions when it felt as though they were using delaying tactics and wasting time to try and wear us down. Their tactics felt underhand and I imagine would have been successful in exhausting some less well supported claimants. Throughout it all, Roisin provided consistency, continuity and unwavering professionalism. I always felt confident that my case was progressing as effectively as possible despite the obstacles. The defendant’s initial settlement offers were extremely low and appeared to be an attempt to resolve the claim quickly for far less than it was worth. Roisin remained focused on the evidence and the true value of the claim, providing honest advice at every stage. We stayed in regular contact by email and video calls, and I always felt informed and involved as things progressed. As the case moved closer to trial, Roisin recommended instructing James Marwick of St John’s Chambers in Bristol as counsel. This proved to be an excellent decision. Following service of the Schedule of Loss and several months of negotiations, we ultimately reached a settlement in June 2026 that reflected the strength of the case, whilst simultaneously avoiding the need for a trial. I would wholeheartedly recommend Roisin O’Dubhlaoidh to anyone seeking a personal injury solicitor. Her expertise, commitment and genuine care made an enormous difference throughout what was an incredibly difficult period of my life. I honestly do not know where I would be today without her guidance and support. Although this review highlights Roisin’s contribution, I would also like to thank the wider team at RWK Goodman for their support throughout the claim. Mark Hambleton and Caroline Johnson were always available to support if Roisin was on leave or otherwise unavailable, and I was impressed with their knowledge of the claim’s progress, despite not being the primary contacts for my claim. Above all, I always felt that the team at RWK Goodman genuinely cared not only about achieving the right outcome but also about my wellbeing during some very challenging times, and that meant a great deal to me. Thank you again.
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from RWK Goodman LLP
Thank you so much for sharing your journey, Darren. It is fantastic to hear that the whole RWK Goodman team kept you feeling backed up and listened to every step of the way. Enjoy this incredibly well-deserved closure and all the very best to you!