Claire Hodgson joins BHP Law
16th Feb 2010
A leading solicitor with more than 20 years experience in helping clients suffering from industrial diseases has joined North East legal firm BHP Law (formerly Blackett, Hart and Pratt)
Claire Hodgson specialises in cases of hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS, typically known as vibration white finger), noise induced hearing loss, asbestosis, mesothelioma and other conditions caused at work.
She has joined a busy department at BHP Law’s office at Belmont, Durham, as a consultant, while continuing her own specialist practice, CMH Solicitors, in West Rainton. Claire worked for two major law firms in the North East before setting up her own practice in 2008.
Claire said: “I am delighted to be joining BHP as they have an established reputation that attracts both businesses and private individuals. They have an excellent group of experienced lawyers and differentiate their services by offering a very personal service.”
She continued,”Noise induced hearing loss, which happens in many industries where noisy machinery is in use as well as in music venues where loud music is playing, is an ongoing problem.
“With all the regulations and precautionary measures that employers must take we might expect the number of cases to be falling, but that’s not the case. Ensuring protection is effective and enforced is equally as important as taking the precautions in the first place.”
She also jointly runs the HAVS Symposium, which hosts national training conferences to keep solicitors specialising in hand arm vibration syndrome up to date with changes and to share best practice.
Claire added that many cases of industrial disease can take years to become clear as symptoms deteriorate and sufferers acknowledge their conditions.
She added: “The cases are complex and involve diligent research to trace defendants, witnesses, and defendants’ insurers. It also helps to have historic knowledge of companies, especially those that no longer exist in their previous form, and insolvency law, as well as having some understanding of medical assessments and knowledge of the benefits system.
“Anyone who considers that their careers many have impacted on their health should first see a doctor. We can then advise on any legal action they may wish to explore.”
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