L&M MediLaw Celebrates Triple Win at the Scottish Legal Awards 2025

The team at L&M MediLaw is proud to announce an outstanding evening of success at the Scottish Legal Awards 2025, held in Edinburgh. The event brought together Scotland’s leading legal professionals and firms to recognise excellence, innovation, and dedication across the profession.

L&M Medilaw was recognised in three major categories:

  • Excellence in Client Care

  • Litigation Team of the Year

  • Rising Star of the Year – Nadine Montgomery

These awards represent a significant achievement for our firm and reinforce our commitment to delivering exceptional client service, expert representation, and meaningful results.

Excellence in Client Care

Receiving the award for Excellence in Client Care reflects the very foundation of our practice. At L&M MediLaw, we believe that the best legal outcomes are achieved through empathy, integrity, and consistent communication. This recognition highlights our team’s dedication to supporting every client with clarity and compassion, ensuring they feel informed and confident throughout their legal journey.

Litigation Team of the Year

Being named Litigation Team of the Year is a testament to the skill, collaboration, and perseverance of our litigation specialists. Our team has built a reputation for handling complex and high-profile cases with professionalism and care. This award acknowledges the depth of expertise within our firm and our shared commitment to securing the best possible outcomes for our clients across Scotland.

Rising Star of the Year – Nadine Montgomery

We are also delighted to celebrate Nadine Montgomery, who was named Rising Star of the Year at the Scottish Legal Awards 2025. Nadine’s recognition reflects her exceptional talent, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to client care. Since joining L&M MediLaw, she has demonstrated both legal excellence and a genuine commitment to supporting clients through challenging circumstances — qualities that truly embody the values of our firm.

A Reflection of Our Values

These honours are not only a reflection of our team’s expertise, but also of the trust and confidence our clients place in us. We are deeply grateful for their continued support and for the opportunity to represent them in matters that truly matter.

As one of Scotland’s leading medical law firms, L&M MediLaw remains dedicated to setting the standard for client care and legal excellence. These awards reinforce our mission to combine deep sector knowledge with empathy, ensuring that every client receives both expert guidance and the highest level of service.

L&M MediLaw Strengthens Trauma-Aware Practice with New Certification for Nadine Allam

At L&M MediLaw, we have long believed that the way legal services are delivered can be just as important as the legal outcome itself. For many of our clients, instructing a solicitor in a medical negligence claim is not a routine decision—it comes at a time of deep personal distress, often following life-altering medical harm. That is why we are proud to announce that Nadine Montgomery Allam has been formally awarded Trauma Awareness Certification by the Law Society of Scotland.

This certification recognises Nadine’s commitment to ensuring that every client interaction is conducted in a way that is sensitive to the emotional and psychological impact of trauma. It also marks the continuation of our firm’s journey to embed trauma-aware principles across all areas of our work. Nadine follows in the footsteps of Suzanne Williams, who previously received the same certification, helping establish trauma awareness as a core value at L&M MediLaw.

Why Trauma Awareness Matters in Medical Negligence Law

Trauma is not only the result of the initial medical event—it can be compounded by the process of seeking justice. Clients must often revisit painful memories, recount difficult details, and place their trust in a legal process they may not fully understand. Without a trauma-informed approach, the very act of making a claim can inadvertently re-traumatise those who have already endured so much.

A trauma-aware legal practice recognises:

  • The prevalence of trauma – Medical harm can have lasting emotional and psychological consequences.

  • The impact on engagement – Trauma can affect how clients process information, recall events, and make decisions.

  • The need for safety and trust – A supportive, empathetic approach is essential to building the trust necessary for an effective solicitor-client relationship.

By incorporating these principles, we help our clients feel heard, respected, and in control—while also strengthening the quality and integrity of their case.

Nadine’s Perspective: Lived Experience Meets Legal Expertise

Nadine is no stranger to the profound effects of medical harm. Her own experience as a patient was the catalyst for one of the most significant medical law cases in the UK: Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board, which reshaped the legal standard for informed consent.

Having walked in the shoes of those she now represents, Nadine brings a unique blend of legal skill and lived empathy to her role. The Trauma Awareness Certification builds on that foundation, ensuring that her legal practice is guided by the latest best practices for supporting clients who may be experiencing the ongoing effects of trauma.

Suzanne’s Contribution to a Trauma-Aware Culture

When Suzanne Williams achieved Trauma Awareness Certification, she helped pave the way for a culture shift within L&M MediLaw. Suzanne’s expertise, combined with her compassionate client care, set a standard that the rest of our team continues to follow.

Her certification wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was a statement about the kind of firm we are building: one where clients can expect not only legal excellence but also an understanding, safe, and respectful environment.

Our Commitment Moving Forward

With both Suzanne Williams and Nadine Montgomery Allam now holding Trauma Awareness Certification, L&M MediLaw is one of the few specialist medical negligence firms in Scotland to have multiple certified practitioners. This reinforces our commitment to delivering legal services that are:

  • Client-centred – led by the needs, preferences, and pace of our clients.

  • Compassionate – recognising the human experience at the heart of every case.

  • Informed by best practice – grounded in the latest trauma-aware principles recognised by the Law Society of Scotland.

We understand that no legal process can erase what has happened. But by adopting trauma-aware practices, we can make the journey towards justice less daunting, less isolating, and more empowering.

If You Need Us

If you or a loved one has been affected by medical negligence, our team is here to listen and guide you through the process—safely, sensitively, and with your best interests at heart.

📞 Call us on 0141 471 3078
🔗 Learn more about our approach: Why Trauma Awareness Matters

L&M MediLaw Shortlisted for Three Categories in the Scottish Legal Awards 2025

We are delighted to announce that L&M MediLaw has once again been shortlisted in three categories at the 2025 Scottish Legal Awards: Excellence in Client Care, Litigation Team of the Year, and Rising Star of the Year (for our exceptional colleague, Nadine Montgomery Allam). The winners will be revealed this September, and we couldn’t be more proud of our team’s continued dedication to outstanding service and legal excellence.

A Continuing Legacy of Client-Focused Innovation

Being shortlisted again for Excellence in Client Care highlights our unwavering commitment to ensuring every client feels supported, informed, and genuinely heard. Over the past year, we’ve introduced new digital resources—such as a dedicated client portal and short explainer videos on key milestones of the claims process—that have further enhanced transparency and made it even easier for our clients to track progress every step of the way.

Litigation Team of the Year: Expertise That Makes a Difference

Our nomination for Litigation Team of the Year is a testament to the tireless work of our legal professionals. From complex surgical negligence cases to urgent GP-related claims, our litigation team continues to secure excellent outcomes for those affected by medical errors. In the past 12 months alone, we’ve achieved a record number of seven six-figure settlements, each the result of meticulous preparation, strategic collaboration with medical experts, and a genuine commitment to seeking justice on behalf of our clients.

Rising Star of the Year: Honouring Nadine Montgomery

We are particularly proud that Nadine Montgomery has been shortlisted again for Rising Star of the Year. Since joining L&M MediLaw Nadine has demonstrated remarkable dedication, innovation and advocacy. Nadine’s empathetic approach and her unwavering determination to go the extra mile for every client exemplify why she’s such a standout talent within our firm.

A Message from Our Founder, Elizabeth Rose:

“Being shortlisted again in these three categories is such an honour. It reflects not only the high caliber of legal expertise at L&M MediLaw, but also our collective commitment to putting clients first. We’re dedicated to getting justice for our clients, while making the process more transparent and less stressful. To see that work recognised once more is immensely rewarding. Thank you to every member of our team for their dedication—and to our clients, for trusting us at some of the most difficult times in their lives.”

Every claim we handle represents a person—or a family—tackling a life-altering situation following medical harm. Being shortlisted for the Scottish Legal Awards reaffirms that our efforts to innovate, empathise, and fight for justice are truly making a difference. We are incredibly grateful to see our hard work honoured again and look forward to celebrating with everyone—regardless of the outcome this September.

Stay tuned for updates on the Scottish Legal Awards 2025, and join us in wishing all finalists the best of luck!

Lawyers for Children: New Certification Strengthens Our Child-Centred Legal Care

At L&M Medilaw, we’re always striving to provide our clients with the highest level of expertise, support, and care. That’s why we are so proud of our solicitor, Nadine Montgomery, for completing the Law Society of Scotland’s Lawyers for Children certification course. This is not just an impressive achievement—it strengthens our commitment to ensuring every client, especially vulnerable children, receives the best legal representation.

What is the Lawyers for Children Certification?

The Lawyers for Children certification course is designed for solicitors who want to develop a child-centred approach to their legal practice. This course is invaluable to anyone working with children, regardless of their specific practice area. 

The course is developed in partnership with Clan Childlaw, an organisation dedicated to supporting children’s legal rights. Clan Childlaw has been at the forefront of advocating for children’s legal representation since 2008. Through this course, solicitors like Nadine gain practical tools, knowledge, and strategies to represent children effectively, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.

Why Is This Certification Important?

Children and young people are often the most vulnerable in legal situations. They need solicitors who can approach their cases with understanding, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to their rights. By completing the Lawyers for Children course, Nadine has gained expert knowledge in how to:

Advocate for Children’s Rights: Gaining in-depth understanding of the framework around children’s rights under both international and domestic law. The incorporation of the UNCRC into Scots law means that children have an even stronger foundation to assert their rights, and Nadine’s certification ensures that she can help them do so effectively.

Recognize the Impact of Trauma: Representing children often involves navigating the complexities of trauma and child development. Nadine has gained insights into how these factors influence a child’s experience of the legal process, allowing her to adapt her approach to meet their unique needs.

Develop a Child-Centred Approach: Whether it’s adapting communication methods or developing strategies to ensure children are always at the heart of legal decisions, Nadine’s training means she can offer a child-centred practice tailored specifically to the needs of young clients.

A Commitment to Client-Centred Care

At L&M Medilaw, our ethos revolves around compassion, empathy, and support. This certification exemplifies our team’s commitment to client care and demonstrates our dedication to continually improving our practices for the benefit of those who rely on us. As David McKie, Senior Partner, said, 

“These new certifications exemplify the innovative spirit of our team and our dedication to ensuring every client feels supported, heard, and cared for.”

Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or child who needs legal support, you can trust that Nadine’s certification and expertise will ensure your case is handled with the utmost care, professionalism, and focus on your rights.

If you’re looking for expert legal support from solicitors who understand the unique needs of children and young people, contact L&M Medilaw. We’re here to help, guide, and protect you every step of the way.

 

What is the Legal Test For Medical Negligence in Scotland?

Elizabeth Rose L&M Medi Law

When you or a loved one experiences substandard medical care, it can be deeply distressing. We understand how difficult this time can be, and we’re here to help. If you’re considering a medical negligence claim, understanding the legal process is an important first step. In the video above, Founder of L&M Medilaw, Elizabeth Rose explains what is required to prove medical negligence. 

The Two-Part Test: Negligence and Causation

To bring a successful medical negligence claim, two essential elements must be proven: negligence and causation.

1. Proving Negligence

Negligence occurs when a medical professional—such as a doctor, dentist, or nurse—fails to provide the level of care expected of them. The legal test for negligence involves showing that:

  • There was a usual and accepted practice in the medical field.

  • The professional deviated from this standard.

  • Their chosen course of action was one that no competent professional would have taken if they had been acting with reasonable care.

This is referred to as a Hunter and Hanley test in legal terms.

2. Proving Causation

Causation is about demonstrating that the negligence directly led to an injury. Simply proving that something went wrong is not enough—you must show that the harm would not have occurred if proper care had been provided. In some cases, it must be established that the negligence materially contributed to the injury.

In Scotland, proving negligence alone does not automatically result in compensation. There must be a clear connection between the negligent act and the harm suffered.

The Role of Expert Reports

To support a medical negligence claim, independent expert opinions are essential. These reports come from professionals within the same field as the accused party. For example:

  • If the negligence involves a GP, a GP expert must assess the standard of care provided.

  • If the claim involves causation, an expert in the relevant medical field must confirm whether, on the balance of probabilities, the injury was caused by the negligence.

Most cases require multiple expert reports to establish both negligence and causation.

We’re Here to Support You

We know that facing a medical negligence claim can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way, ensuring you have the clarity and confidence needed to move forward.

If you need confidential advice, please get in touch—whether through our online appointment system, by email, or with a phone call. We’re here to listen and help you find the best path forward. 

Important Eljamel Inquiry Update (October 2024)

We recently attended a pivotal meeting in Dundee regarding the Eljamel Inquiry, marking a significant step forward in pursuing justice for affected patients.

 

Led by Inquiry Chair Lord Robert Weir and senior counsel Jamie Dawson KC, the inquiry aims to ensure that the voices of former patients are central to its proceedings. A virtual event took place on Thursday, October 10, 2024, allowing those who couldn’t attend the in-person meeting to engage and share their views.

 

We have shared Draft Terms of Reference and we encourage all stakeholders to provide their input before the October 25, 2024 submission deadline. You can submit your views directly to the Inquiry Team via the online response form or email at legal@eljamelinquiry.scot.

 

Your experiences and views matter. For more information, visit Draft Terms of Reference.

If you need assistance, our team at L&M Medilaw is here to support you. Feel free to reach out by phone or email.

L&M MediLaw Highly Commended in Litigation Team of the Year Category at Scottish Legal Awards

L&M Medilaw litigation team on stage holdin an award facing to camera

We were Highly Commended at The Scottish Legal Awards 2024 in the Litigation Team of the Year category. This is a testament to our specialist team’s hard work and growth! 

A Skilled and Passionate Litigation Team

Recognition in this category reflects our legal professionals’ exceptional skill and dedication. Our team consistently delivers outstanding outcomes, advocating fiercely for our clients and achieving significant victories in complex medical negligence cases. We are proud of our achievements as a relatively new team, particularly the collective effort, strategic acumen, and relentless pursuit of justice that defines our approach.  

A Message from Our Founder, Elizabeth Rose:

“ We have a particular innovative focus on client care during the claims process, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible support and outcomes. This acknowledgment is a testament to the dedication and passion of every member of our firm.”

What comes next? 

Each case we handle is more than just a legal matter; it is a story of individuals seeking justice and support during some of the most challenging times in their lives. This year, we take on the challenge of representing over 120 patients at the Public Inquiry into the actions of surgeon Professor Sam Eljimel and the work he carried out for NHS Tayside. We will continue to fight for positive outcomes for our clients while upholding exceptional legal care standards. 

Baby Loss Awareness Week: Fundrasing for Pregnancy Counselling and Care Scotland

L&M Medilaw team standing in a row with small tartan scarves

On 15th September, the L&M Medilaw team are taking on the challenge of the Mighty Stride at the Edinburgh Kiltwalk 2024 in aid of Pregnancy Counselling and Care Scotland.

We will be walking 20 miles ( it’s just walking, right ?) in support of Pregnancy Counselling and Care Scotland, a small charity who offer practical and emotional support to anyone struggling due to childcare, pregnancy, miscarriage and infertility. The counselling support they offer provides a lifeline to many who are struggling at an emotionally difficult and distressing time.

At L&M Medilaw, our multidisciplinary team work with clients who have suffered avoidable baby loss or birth trauma and we know first hand the emotional toll this takes and also the desperate need out there for services like this to alleviate distress and start the healing process.

Every step we take is for those who have experienced the heartbreak of traumatic birth, baby loss, or miscarriage. Your donations can help provide the counselling and support these families desperately need. Thank you to those who have donated so far —please consider donating today through the link below. Every contribution makes a difference.

Donate

Celebrating Excellence: L&M MediLaw Shortlisted for Three Categories in the Scottish Legal Awards

We are thrilled to announce that our firm has been shortlisted as a finalist in three prestigious categories at the Scottish Legal Awards. This year, we are proud contenders for Excellence in Client Care, Litigation Team of the Year, and Rising Star of the Year for one of our exceptional employees, Nadine Montgomery Allam. The winners will be revealed at a much-anticipated event this September.

A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Our recognition in these categories is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of medical negligence claims. Last year, we were honoured with awards for Excellence in Client Care and Lawyer of the Year, reinforcing our reputation for outstanding service and legal expertise.

Excellence in Client Care: A Tradition of Putting Clients First

Being shortlisted again for Excellence in Client Care underscores our relentless dedication to our clients. We believe that every client deserves compassionate, personalised service, and we have made it our mission to provide just that. Our innovative approaches ensure that our clients feel valued and understood throughout the claims process.

Litigation Team of the Year: Championing Justice with Expertise

Our nomination for Litigation Team of the Year reflects the exceptional skill and dedication of our legal professionals. Our team consistently delivers outstanding outcomes, advocating fiercely for our clients and achieving significant victories in complex medical negligence cases. This recognition is a testament to the collective effort, strategic acumen, and relentless pursuit of justice that defines our litigation team.

Rising Star of the Year: Celebrating Emerging Talent

We are particularly proud of our finalist in the Rising Star of the Year category, Nadine Montgomery Allam. Nadine has demonstrated remarkable promise and dedication, contributing significantly to our firm’s success. Her innovative thinking, personal commitment and client-focused approach make her stand out every day as a rising star in the legal profession.

A Message from Our Founder, Elizabeth Rose:

“Being shortlisted for these awards is not only an honour but also a recognition of the hard work and client-focused efforts of our entire team. We have a particular innovative focus on client care during the claims process, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible support and outcomes. This acknowledgment is a testament to the dedication and passion of every member of our firm.”

Looking Forward

Each case we handle is more than just a legal matter; it is a story of individuals seeking justice and support during some of the most challenging times in their lives. Thank you for your continued trust and support. Together, we will continue to make a difference.

Stay tuned for updates on the Scottish Legal Awards and join us in celebrating this exciting milestone in our firm’s journey.

Caring for Your Emotional Well-Being During Difficult Times: Advice from Tina Murray

Going through a medical negligence case can significantly impact your emotional health, as can any challenging situation, which is why it is important to find ways of coping with difficult times. 

Tina Murray, a former nurse and now Client Care Consultant at L&M Medilaw, has shared excellent advice for those finding life tougher than usual. 

Tina’s unique background as a psychotherapist and care consultant enables her to provide practical tips for maintaining emotional well-being, especially when faced with life’s hardships. 

1. Acknowledge Your Emotions

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes, and Tina discusses how important it is to acknowledge and validate big emotions. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or sadness, let yourself feel. Recognising these emotions and why you might feel this way is a vital first step in managing your mental health. 

2. Speak to Someone You Trust

Tina stresses that speaking to others is essential for managing difficult emotions, but you must find the right person to confide in. While family and friends may be supportive, they might not always be the right ear for your emotional struggles. If those closest to you can’t help, it may be time to look for someone with professional expertise, such as a counsellor or therapist.

3. Seek Professional Help When Necessary

Tina understands that accessing professional counselling isn’t always easy or affordable for everyone. However, she encourages individuals to explore professional resources whenever possible. Speaking to a trained therapist can provide a safe space to express complex emotions and gain valuable strategies for coping. It’s essential to take steps to find the help you need, even if it requires reaching out to support organisations or exploring digital resources.

4. Available Resources: The Samaritans

One crucial resource Tina points to is The Samaritans, a charity that offers a 24/7 helpline for people facing emotional struggles. The Samaritans are there for you, whether you’re dealing with intense feelings or simply need someone to talk to. In addition to their helpline, they offer a self-help app to help monitor your mood and access anonymous web chat support. Samaritan’s support is strictly confidential and convenient, and it is an accessible way to get the help you need.  

5. Remember, You Don’t Have to Go Through It Alone

One of Tina’s key messages is that you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. Many people and organisations are available to help you through your medical negligence case or other personal crisis. Reaching out can be intimidating, but you deserve to feel supported. 

6. Take Small Steps Towards Healing

Healing your mental health is a gradual process, so think about taking things one step at a time.  Celebrate the small wins – daily actions can greatly impact how you feel in the long run. Tina encourages everyone to take care of themselves and seek support when needed, no matter how small the step may seem.

 

Final Thoughts

Tina’s advice is a timely reminder that your emotional health is as important as your physical well-being, especially during difficult times. At L&M MediLaw, we’re here to help with legal matters and by providing resources to support your emotional journey. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the services available to you. Remember, you don’t have to face challenges alone—help is available.

If you found Tina’s advice helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more valuable insights from the L&M MediLaw team.