Spinal Cord Injuries

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Serious Spinal Cord Injury Claims

If you have suffered a serious spinal cord injury, resulting in tetraplegia (also known as quadriplegia), paraplegia, hemiplegia, diplegia or monoplegia, as a result of a someone else’s negligence, then you will be able to bring a claim.

Other serious spinal injuries can include injury to the brachial plexus (a network of nerves at the bottom of the neck and in the shoulders) and injury to the cauda equina (a sack of nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord).

Injury to the brachial plexus or cauda equina caused by someone else’s negligence can also result in a claim.

The type of claim you bring depends on how the accident happened.

Spinal Cord Injuries Suffered in a Road Accident

If your spinal cord injury was suffered in a motor vehicle accident, car accident, truck accident, motorcycle accident, bus accident or any other accident on the road, then you will need to lodge a CTP claim against the insurer of the at fault vehicle.  This includes pedestrians, cyclists and scooter riders who have suffered spinal cord injuries as a result of a negligent driver.

For more information on CTP claims, click here.

You may also be entitled to lodge a claim through the National Injury Insurance Scheme (Qld). For more information on claims through NIIS and how that scheme interacts with the CTP scheme, click here.

Spinal Cord Injuries Suffered at Work

If your spinal cord injury was suffered at work and you are considered to be a “worker” (which includes some workers operating under an ABN), then you would need to lodge a workers’ compensation claim.

In the event that your injuries were caused or contributed to by the negligence of your employer or a co-worker, then you would also pursue a common law claim for damages once your statutory workers’ compensation claim ceases.

For more information on workers’ compensation claims, click here.

You may also be entitled to lodge a claim through the National Injury Insurance Scheme (Qld). For more information on claims with NIIS and how that scheme interacts with the workers’ compensation scheme, click here.

Spinal Cord Injuries Suffered in a Public Place or on Someone Else’s Property

If you suffered a spinal cord injury in a public place, or on someone else’s property, and the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to bring a public liability claim against that person or company.

The types of accidents and injuries that become public liability claims can include:

  • Injuries suffered on a work site whilst working as an independent contractor / subcontractor
  • Slip, trip and fall accidents in private or public places
  • Injuries caused by defective equipment or faulty products
  • Accidents in private buildings
  • Accidents at private residences or rental premises
  • Boat accidents, jet ski accidents and watersport accidents
  • Accidents at public parks, playgrounds and leisure centres
  • Accidents at school
  • Injuries caused by animals
  • Sporting injuries
  • Accidents at recreational fun and activity venues
  • Accidents at amusement parks and venues
  • Aviation and airline accidents
  • Physical and sexual assaults
  • Psychological injuries suffered as a result of serious injury or death of another

For more information on public liability claims, click here.

Unfortunately, the National Injury Insurance Scheme (Qld) only applies to people who have suffered injuries in a motor vehicle accident or at work (where their claim has been accepted as a workers’ compensation claim). The NIISQ scheme does not apply to people entitled to bring a public liability claim.

If you are between the ages of 7 and 65, however, you may be eligible to make a claim under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). For more information about the NDIS click here.

Spinal Cord Injuries Caused by Medical Negligence

If your spinal cord injury was caused by the negligence of the staff at a hospital and/or a doctor or other health professional, then you may be entitled to bring a medical negligence claim.

A medical negligence claim is brought in largely the same way as a public liability claim, although different time limits apply, so be sure to seek legal advice as early as possible. For more information on medical negligence claims, click here.

Unfortunately, the National Injury Insurance Scheme (Qld) only applies to people who have suffered injuries in a motor vehicle accident or at work (where their claim has been accepted as a workers’ compensation claim). The NIISQ scheme does not apply to people who suffer injury from negligent treatment by a hospital or doctor.

If you are between the ages of 7 and 65, however, you may be eligible to make a claim under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). For more information about the NDIS click here.

What can you claim?

If you have suffered a spinal cord injury you may be able to recover the following, depending on what scheme you are covered by:

NIIS will pay for the following treatment, care and support needs that are considered to be necessary and reasonable:

  • medical or pharmaceutical treatment
  • dental treatment
  • rehabilitation
  • ambulance transportation
  • respite care
  • attendant care and support services
  • aids and appliances (other than ordinary personal or household items)
  • prosthesis
  • education or vocational training
  • home or transport modifications

Depending on which personal injury scheme you are under (eg if you are under the workers’ compensation scheme you are more limited in what you can claim), you may be able to claim some or all of the following:

  • pain and suffering, loss of amenities and loss of enjoyment of life
  • past lost income
  • past out of pocket expenses (eg treatment, rehabilitation, medication, transportation, aids, appliances, prosthesis, home modifications, transport modifications, education and training)
  • past paid services (eg attendant care and support services, cleaning, cooking, gardening, housekeeping, mowing, etc), provided these services were not being provided prior to your injury
  • past gratuitous (unpaid) services provided by family and friends, if those services are provided for at least six (6) hours per week for a minimum of six (6) months, provided those services were not being provided prior to your injury
  • interest on any past lost income, expenses or paid services
  • future potential loss of income/ earning capacity
  • future potential out-of-pocket expenses
  • future potential paid services
  • future potential (unpaid) gratuitous services provided by family and friends
  • daily personal activities needs
  • transport to enable participation in community, social, economic and daily life activities
  • workplace help to allow a participant to successfully get or keep employment in the open or supported labour market
  • therapeutic supports including behaviour support
  • help with household tasks to allow the participant to maintain their home and home environment
  • help to a participant by skilled personnel in aids or equipment assessment, setup and training
  • home modification design and construction
  • mobility equipment
  • vehicle modifications

The NDIS will NOT fund a support that is:

  • the responsibility of another government system or community service (eg something funded by NIISQ)
  • not related to a person’s disability
  • relates to day-to-day living costs that are not related to a participants support needs
  • is likely to cause harm to the participant or pose a risk to others

For more information on the interaction between NIISQ and the various insurance schemes click here.

How can we help?

We will assess the accident that led to your injury and will provide you with our expert opinion as to your prospects of success in relation to your claim. If we consider you to have reasonable prospects of success, then we will agree to act on your behalf on a “no win no fee” basis. Click here for more information on how we charge.

Don’t delay! Very strict time limits apply with respect to personal injury claims. Speak with one of our expert personal injury lawyers today. We offer free initial advice.

FAQs

The short answer is “as soon as possible”. This is so we can:

  • assist you with lodging your claim(s) with NIISQ, the CTP Insurer, WorkCover Queensland (or a workers’ compensation self-insurer) and/or any other insurer;
  • make sure that your version of events surrounding the accident is accurate and comprehensive;
  • give you advice in relation to your rights and obligations;
  • ensure that you are telling the insurers and the doctors the whole story;
  • ensure that your doctors note down in your medical records all injuries that you have suffered, no matter how minor;
  • ensure that the insurer is aware of all the injuries you have sustained;
  • ensure that NIISQ or another insurer is paying for all reasonable and necessary treatment (where possible); and
  • start compiling the evidence we need in order to put an offer of settlement together for you once your injuries are stable and stationary.

There are a number of different procedures for injury claims, depending on how you sustained your injury (eg in a road accident, at work, in a hospital or in a public place).

If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident, click here to find out how to proceed with your claim.

If you were injured at work, click here to find out how to proceed with your claim.

If you were injured in a public place, at someone else’s home, worksite, business or venue, click here to find out how to proceed with your claim.

If you were injured at the hands of a doctor or hospital, click here to find out how to proceed with your claim.

There are different timeframes for personal injury claims, depending on how you sustained your injury (eg in a road accident, at work, in a hospital or in a public place).

If you were injured on the road:

Where the vehicle at fault has been identified (even if it is unregistered):

You have one (1) month from the date you first consult with a lawyer or nine (9) months from the date of accident, whichever is the earlier, to serve a Notice of Accident Claim Form on the CTP Insurer (or, in the case of unregistered vehicles, the Nominal Defendant, a government insurer).

You can still serve a Notice of Accident Claim Form on the CTP Insurer after the nine (9) month timeframe up to three (3) years after the date of accident but you have to provide a reasonable excuse for the delay.

You will not be able to pursue a claim against the CTP Insurer (or Nominal Defendant) if the claim is brought more than three (3) years after the accident. There are some very limited exceptions to the three (3) year rule, so we would recommend you speak with one of our expert personal injury lawyers to discuss your options in that regard, where applicable.

Where the vehicle at fault is unidentified:

You have one (1) month from the date you first consult with a lawyer or three (3) months from the date of accident, whichever is earlier, to serve a Notice of Accident Claim Form on the Nominal Defendant (a government insurer).

You can still serve a Notice of Accident Claim Form on the Nominal Defendant after the three (3) month timeframe up to nine (9) months after the date of accident but you have to provide a reasonable excuse for the delay.

You will not be able to pursue a claim against the Nominal Defendant if the claim is brought more than nine (9) months after the accident.

If you were injured at work:

You only have three (3) years from the date of injury to serve a Notice of Claim for Damages on your employer and WorkCover Queensland and to receive a “compliance” response from WorkCover confirming that you have provided all necessary information.

If steps are not taken within the three (3) year time limit to protect your interests, you could well lose all rights to receive any further compensation/damages. There are some limited exceptions to this rule, however, so you should speak with on our of our expert personal injury lawyers to discuss any options you have in that regard.

If you were injured in a public place:

You have one (1) month from the date you instruct a lawyer to act on your behalf or nine (9) months from the date of accident, whichever is the earlier, to serve a Form 1 Part 1 Notice of Claim on the Respondent (ie the individual or company that caused your injury).

You can still serve a Form 1 Part 1 Notice of Claim on the Respondent after the nine (9) month timeframe up to three (3) years after the date of accident but you have to provide a reasonable excuse for the delay.

You will not be able to pursue a claim against the Respondent if the claim is brought more than three (3) years after the accident. There are some limited exceptions to this rule, however, so you should speak with on our of our expert personal injury lawyers to discuss any options you have in that regard.

If a doctor or hospital caused your injury:

You have one (1) month from the date you instruct a lawyer to act on your behalf or nine (9) months from the date the medical incident happened or the symptoms first became apparent, whichever is the earlier, to serve an Initial Notice on the Respondent(s) (ie the doctor, hospital or other health practitioners that caused your injury).

You can still serve an Initial Notice on the Respondent after the nine (9) month timeframe up to three (3) years after the date the medical incident happened or the symptoms first became apparent but you have to provide a reasonable excuse for the delay.

You then have twelve (12) months from the date you receive all relevant medical notes and information from the Respondent about the medical services to serve a Form 1 Part 1 Notice of Claim and written report from a medical specialist on the Respondent.

You will not be able to pursue a claim against the Respondent if the claim is brought more than three (3) years after the accident. There are some limited exceptions to this rule, however, so you should speak with on our of our expert personal injury lawyers to discuss any options you have in that regard.

Who you make the claim(s) against will depend on how you sustained your injury (eg in a road accident, at work, in a hospital or in a public place).

If you were injured on the road:

Provided the accident was not your own fault, or not entirely your fault, you will be able to make a CTP claim.  You cannot claim if the accident was your fault.

Your claim will be against the CTP insurer of the vehicle that caused or significantly contributed to the accident. Negligence is alleged against the driver of that vehicle but the CTP insurer then takes over the conduct of the matter.

Where the vehicle that caused the accident cannot be identified, the Nominal Defendant (a government insurer) becomes the relevant insurer in relation to your claim.

For “serious personal injuries” sustained in a motor vehicle accident a claim can also be lodged with NIISQ, irrespective of whose fault the accident was.

If you were injured at work:

In a common law claim you are alleging that your employer or a co-worker was negligent in some respect, so the claim is directed at your employer but WorkCover Queensland takes the claim over as your employer’s insurer and handles the claim on their behalf.

For “serious personal injuries” WorkCover Queensland (or the workers’ compensation self-insurer) will ask NIISQ to manage all of your necessary and reasonable treatment, care and support needs on their behalf.

If you were injured in a public place:

Your claim is directed at the individual or company that caused or significantly contributed to the accident but their public liability insurer takes the claim over on their behalf and pays the compensation.

If a doctor or hospital caused your injury:

Your claim is directed at the doctor, hospital or other health professional that caused or significantly contributed to your injury but their public liability insurer takes the claim over on their behalf and pays the compensation.

If you were injured on the road:

Subject to the exceptions set out below, there are simply no adverse consequences to your family member or friend, if they caused the accident, provided their vehicle was registered. They do not even have to pay an excess when you make a claim. The CTP insurer of the vehicle simply takes over the conduct of the matter.

If you were the passenger in a vehicle driven by a family member or friend, you can still make a claim against the CTP insurer of that vehicle (even if it is your own vehicle) and there is no impact upon your family member or friend.

Of course, the CTP insurer will want a statement from your family member or friend about what happened but that would be it. In the unlikely event that the matter was to proceed to trial, they may also be called upon to give evidence if liability is in dispute (ie there is some doubt as to who caused the accident).

Exceptions to the rule:

  1. If your family member or friend was using the vehicle without the owner’s authority or without legal justification or excuse for using the vehicle, then the insurer will have a right of recovery against the driver for some or all of the compensation and costs paid.
  2. If your family member or friend intended to harm you or some other person (resulting in your injury), then the insurer will have a right of recovery against the driver for some or all of the compensation and costs paid.
  3. If your family member or friend was under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs at the time of the accident and their intoxication caused or contributed to the accident, the insurer will have a right of recovery against the driver for some or all of the compensation and costs paid.
  4. If your friend’s vehicle or family member’s vehicle was not registered, then the Nominal Defendant will have a right of recovery against the owner of the vehicle for some or all of the compensation and costs paid.

If you were injured at your friend’s home or property or when using their equipment:

Most homeowners have home and contents insurance, which has public liability insurance attached to that. Most boats, jetskis and the like also have public liability insurance.

Your family member or friend will only have to pay the (usually quite small) excess on their insurance policy and the public liability insurer then takes over the claim. Sometimes no excess at all is payable.

Of course, the public liability insurer will want a statement from your family member or friend about what happened but that would be it. In the unlikely event that the matter was to proceed to trial, they may also be called upon to give evidence if liability is in dispute (ie there is some doubt as to who caused the accident).

Exceptions to the rule:

Your friend’s public liability insurance may not cover them if, for example:

  1. Your family member or friend was using a vehicle, machinery, equipment or property without the owner’s authority or without legal justification or excuse for using it.
  2. Your family member or friend intended to harm you or some other person (resulting in your injury).
  3. Your family member or friend was under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs at the time of the accident and their intoxication caused or contributed to the accident.

A common law claim does not impact upon your co-workers at all. They may be required to provide a statement about what happened but that would be it.  In the unlikely event that the matter was to proceed to trial, they may also be called upon to give evidence.

With respect to your employer, a workers’ compensation common law claim will have some impact upon their future workers’ compensation premiums.

Every case is different and the amount of compensation or damages payable to you will depend on many things, including:

  • How you recover from your injuries
  • Your age
  • The medical evidence
  • Your age
  • What other pre-existing injuries or conditions you had
  • What permanent restrictions you have, particularly with respect to your work capacity
  • What your earning capacity was like prior to the accident, compared to what your earning capacity now looks like
  • How much care and support you have needed in the past and how much you are likely to require in the future
  • How much ongoing treatment and medication you need

Some spinal cord injury claims can resolve for well in excess of one million dollars.

This depends on how much work is done. For more information on how we charge, click here.

Costs are only payable to the insurer if you proceed to trial and lose or receive a judgement for less than what the insurer has previously offered to you.

Less than 2% of claims actually proceed to trial, so there is almost no chance of you having to pay the insurer’s costs.

If you were injured on the road (CTP Claim):

If you have a “serious personal injury” from a motor vehicle accident in Queensland, you will be eligible to receive benefits from the National Injury Insurance Scheme (Queensland) (ie NIISQ).

Once NIISQ accepts that you are eligible to receive benefits, they will take over the management of, and pay for, all the necessary and reasonable treatment, care and support needs that you have.

The CTP Insurer will then manage your CTP claim procedurally but will not be involved with your treatment and rehabilitation, unless you choose to opt out of receiving lifetime treatment, care and support from NIISQ and instead pursue a lump sum for those expenses.

We can advise you on whether you should or should not opt out from NIISQ. For further information on NIIS benefits and how the scheme works with CTP claims, click here.

If you were injured at work:

If you have a “serious personal injury” from a work accident in Queensland, WorkCover will ask NIISQ to manage all necessary and reasonable treatment, care and support needs that you have.

WorkCover will continue to pay your weekly benefits and manage your WorkCover claim but they will not be involved with your treatment and rehabilitation, unless you choose to opt out of receiving lifetime treatment, care and support from NIIS and instead pursue a lump sum for those expenses.

We can advise you on whether you should or should not opt out from NIIS. For further information on NIIS benefits and how the scheme works with WorkCover claims, click here.

In Australia, you are not taxed on any settlement monies that you receive from your personal injury claim. If, however, you invest that money and earn interest or a have a capital gain from that investment, then tax may be payable on that interest or capital gain. You should seek financial and/or accounting advice about this where applicable.

During your free initial consultation, we will:

  • Ascertain what injuries you have sustained;
  • Discuss the circumstances of the accident that led to your injuries;
  • Determine whether another driver caused or significantly contributed to the accident;
  • Provide you with advice on your prospects of success;
  • Explain the process in relation to your claim and what will be required of you;
  • Explain how NIIS and the NDIS (if applicable) works;
  • Work out what immediate treatment and rehabilitation needs you have;
  • Work out what transportation, aids, appliances, prosthesis, home modifications and transport modifications you might need;
  • Work out what care and support services you might need;
  • Discuss how to get all of your needs met as quickly as possible through NIISQ, the NDIS or the insurer;
  • Discuss our costs and how we charge; and
  • Answer any further questions that you might have.

*East Coast Injury Lawyers is led by Accredited Specialists in Personal Injury Law; Sean Delpopolo, Helen Ashton, Prue Prescott.

Our Promise To You:

  • No Win No Fee
  • Free Initial Consultation
  • Home Visits
  • Hospital Visits
  • After Hours Visits
  • 30% cap on professional fees (excl GST)
  • No uplift fees
  • No litigation lending or interest charges on outlays
  • Immediate Assessment of Your Claim

*Strict time limits apply when making a claim. Do not delay.

CALL 1300 720 544 FOR FREE INITIAL ADVICE

Need some advice? Contact us today.

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Legal Practitioner Director

Sean Delpopolo

Sean Delpopolo

Sean is an expert in compensation claims and has been recognised in his field as a Queensland Law Society Accredited Specialist.

He has been running compensation claims in Queensland for over 25 years and specialises in serious and catastrophic claims, work related claims, motor vehicle claims, public liability claims and total and permanent disability claims. He has been voted by his peers to be one of the best compensation lawyers in Queensland.*

Sean started the firm in 2004 and it has gone from strength to strength on the background of outstanding service, incredible results and charging really fair fees.

With an innate sense of fairness and justice, this motivates Sean and his team to do everything they can to ensure that the results they achieve for their clients is something that they can all be proud of. In Sean’s mind, the interests of the firm’s clients come first, before anything else, and this value has flowed on through to the entire team.

As a father of two daughters, Sean understands that his clients’ compensation claims can make a huge difference to their lives and the lives of those around them. This is why he has made it his life’s work to fight for the “little guy” to assist them with obtaining the compensation they deserve.

Legal Practitioner Director

Helen Ashton

Helen Ashton

Helen Ashton is an experienced and skilled lawyer who fights every day to achieve what is right for her clients.

As an accredited specialist, having been awarded the highest achiever award for the course in 2015, Helen has a high level of knowledge and technical expertise.

Admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2001, Helen has extensive experience in running all types of claims.

Helen has a friendly and approachable personality and strives to ensure that her clients are kept well informed and are provided with quality and practical legal advice.

As a mother of three young children, Helen understands the impact events can have on a family unit and works proactively to achieve the right result for her clients in the shortest possible timeframe.

Helen has the ability and the experience to assist clients’ with a wide variety of claims, including claims with a high level of complexity and those that have had catastrophic consequences.

Legal Practitioner Director

Charlotte Evans

Charlotte has practised solely in compensation litigation for over 20 years.

She is committed to fighting for the rights of plaintiffs and helping her clients through the legal maze, to achieve outcomes that put people back in control of their lives. She has had experience in taking a number of matters to Trial and winning hard fought cases for her clients and she does not shy away from a challenge.

Charlotte has a friendly and approachable personality and strives to cut through the legal jargon to make the process understandable for her clients whilst ensuring that her clients are also kept well informed throughout their claim.

Out of the office Charlotte is a busy Mum, who now enjoys the privileges of living in beautiful Queensland and making the most of all it has to offer.

Special Counsel

Prue Prescott

Prue Prescott

Prue has been running compensation claims for nearly 20 years. This has involved acting for claimants in most areas of compensation law including serious and catastrophic claims, work related claims, motor vehicle accident claims, public liability claims and total and permanent disability claims.

Prue enjoys handling complex claims, including those claims involving complex legal principles. Prue seeks to use her masters qualification in writing and literature to tell each and every client’s individual story, ensuring they are treated fairly by insurers and that they obtain the compensation to which they are entitled.

In 2019, Prue was nominated by the Women Lawyers Association of Queensland Inc as an Inspirational Lawyer.

Outside of work, Prue is a busy mum of boys but also tries to find the time to read, write and explore nature.

Special Counsel
PRACTICE LEADER – NORTH LAKES

Craig Oliver

Knowing the law is one thing, being able to apply it to ensure the best possible outcome for your client is another. Craig excels at making the complex simple and making the law work for you.

He is an expert litigation lawyer with over 20 years’ experience and success. Craig trained and worked at some of the best compensation and insurance firms in the UK before coming to Australia in 2011 and continuing to practice exclusively in compensation litigation.

Craig spent a decade in regional Queensland before working as a general manager in Brisbane for a large national firm creating client-focussed, high-performing, and value-driven teams of expert litigators. He knows how to win and deliver outcomes for his clients in all types of claims, including life changing, complex, high-value compensation cases needing early access to the best rehabilitation from the outset. Craig is an expert in motor vehicle, workplace injury, public liability claims, product liability claims, and has particular expertise in claims involving the mining industry. He has an unrivalled understanding of the law, backed by decades of successful outcomes for clients who were facing uncertain futures and long recoveries.

Craig is an expert, fearless and uncompromising in his pursuit of justice and in advocating for his clients. But what does this mean for you? It means exceptional client service. It means the best possible legal representation with legal advice you can understand and trust. It means confidence in the success of your claim. It means maximum compensation for the fairest fees. It means having someone who cares in your corner, making a difference, who is committed to providing you with solutions and hope for the future, irrespective of your current circumstances.

Craig has been recommended by the prestigious Doyles Guide as a leading compensation lawyer. He was also a finalist in the Queensland Law Society’s Regional Lawyer of the Year during his time in Mackay.

Passionate about giving back to his local communities, Craig has also volunteered his time with several organisations in Queensland, from Mackay through to Caboolture and Brisbane. Even in his leisure time, playing golf, he has raised money for local charities, particularly for the local hospital foundation supporting medical research projects.

Special Counsel

Frances Bertram

After beginning her legal career on the Redcliffe peninsula more than 25 years ago, Fran has truly come full circle, returning to serve the North Lakes community and surrounding areas where her professional journey first began.

Drawing on a wealth of experience in compensation law, Fran continues to represent clients with serious compensation claims arising out of incidents that occur in hospitals, at work, in car accidents and other accidents on the road, on private property and in public places. She also acts for clients in public liability claims, product liability claims and total and permanent disability claims.

Fran has previously worked as a defendant lawyer, which gives her a unique insight into how the other side operates and an upper hand when it comes to achieving the best outcome for her clients.

Fran is dedicated to her clients, combining empathy, thoroughness, efficiency and excellence in every aspect of her work. She approaches each claim with genuine understanding and insight, allowing her to connect with clients on a meaningful level and appreciate their individual needs and challenges. Fran’s compassion also ensures that every client feels truly heard, supported and informed throughout their legal journey.

Fran truly loves her work and takes great pride and satisfaction knowing that she can help to make someone’s life just that little bit easier.

Out of the office, Fran is mum of two adult children and two Frenchie’s (who her children will argue are the favourites!) and an advocate for people with disabilities.

Special Counsel

Beverley Evans

Beverley is a Special Counsel with East Coast Injury Lawyers based at our North lakes Office.  With over 30 years’ experience in Personal Injury Law, Beverley has combined her knowledge with compassion and empathy to help everyday people who are injured through no fault of their own.

Beverley practised law for 30 years in the UK, before moving to the warmer Queensland weather.  She obtained her Australian legal qualification and continued her legal advocacy for clients with matters involving:

  • Motor Vehicle Accident Law;
  • Worker’s Compensation Law.
  • Public Liability Law;

Known for her client-first approach, Beverley has received exceptional feedback from clients who appreciate her deep knowledge, guidance and compassionate understanding as they navigate the legal process.

Beverley continues to see it as a privilege to help injured people and work to secure life-changing compensation outcomes.

Beverley has two adult sons and two dogs whom she loves walking.  Her hobbies include reading and Pilates.

Senior Associate

Courtney Jenkins

Courtney is an experienced lawyer who has worked in compensation law for nearly 20 years. She was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2013. 

Courtney is passionate about helping individuals who have experienced trauma access the compensation and entitlements they deserve. With a client-focused approach, she takes the time to truly understand each person’s story and what matters most to them, guiding them through what is often a complex and overwhelming legal process.

Known for her pragmatic style and strong negotiation skills, Courtney is committed to ensuring her clients feel heard, supported and empowered. She takes great care to minimise retraumatisation and explains the relevant legal principles in a clear and accessible way.

Outside of work, Courtney enjoys spending time with her children and extended family. She also loves cooking and sewing in her spare time.

Associate

Danielle Beddoes

Danielle commenced her legal career as a compensation lawyer in a large national law firm where she became familiar with the provisions of several statutory compensation schemes whilst acting on behalf of claimants across various areas of insurance litigation, including matters arising from motor vehicle accidents, workplace incidents and public liability claims. Danielle has developed a particular interest in e-scooter accident claims, bicycle accident claims, motorcycle accident claims and other road related accident claims.

Danielle prides herself on achieving positive outcomes for her clients by understanding what is important to her clients and ensuring that her clients’ matters are brought to a resolution as cost-effectively and expeditiously as possible.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family and friends and is an active member of a number of committees both within the Gold Coast legal industry and broader Gold Coast community.

Graduate Law Clerk

Taylor Delpopolo

Taylor graduated in December 2025 with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) degree from the Queensland University of Technology. Taylor is looking to undertake her practical legal training in 2026 and will become qualified to practice as a Solicitor in late 2026.

Taylor has worked with East Coast Injury Lawyers during her university breaks since 2022 and is now working part-time with our firm permanently, assisting all lawyers in our firm in all areas of compensation law.

Taylor is passionate about helping people and loves being able to apply all the knowledge that she has gained from her university studies as well as through her experience working with our firm to assist with ensuring that our clients achieve great outcomes from their compensation claims.

When Taylor is not studying, completing assignments or working at our firm, she can be found at the gym, playing basketball or enjoying everything outdoors, especially the beach and boating.

Graduate Law Clerk / Technology and AI Innovation Specialist

Caolin Travers

Caolin graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) with Distinction and is currently finalising his Practical Legal Training with the College of Law.

Caolin assists our lawyers across a broad range of compensation matters and is committed to guiding clients throughout the claims process in easy to understand terminology. He has developed a particular interest in psychiatric and psychological injury claims and enjoys working closely with clients to ensure that they feel informed and confident at every stage of their claim.

Outside of work, Caolin enjoys keeping active by training at the gym and getting out for a surf whenever he can.

Law Clerk / Legal Assistant

Grace Cavanagh

Grace is a third-year law student completing a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at Griffith University.

She joined the team in 2024 and works part-time with our firm, assisting both the legal and administrative teams across all areas of compensation law.

With a motivated and passionate approach, Grace is eager to apply her academic knowledge alongside her practical experience at the firm to help achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. Outside of work, Grace enjoys socialising with friends, training at the gym, and making the most of the Gold Coast’s beautiful beaches.

Practice Manager

Denni Close

With over 15 years of experience in compensation law, Denni brings depth and insight to every client’s case she supports. Having worked for both plaintiffs and defendants, she has a well-rounded perspective and strategic edge when navigating complex claims.

Denni is known for her calm professionalism and unwavering commitment to client care. She builds genuine rapport with each client, guiding them through what can often feel like an overwhelming process with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Her meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach ensure matters progress smoothly, helping clients receive the compensation they deserve.

When she’s not at work, Denni’s world revolves around her young son, who keeps her on her toes and fills her days with laughter and energy.

Accounts and Administration Officer

Romy Mccullough

Romy is our Accounts and Administration officer, who has more than six (6) years of bookkeeping, accounts and administration experience. Romy is an integral part of our team ensuring that our office is running smoothly and efficiently.

Outside of work, Romy loves to dine out, visit family and friends and spend quality time with her rescue Bulldog Maggie.

Senior Paralegal

Kym Arrowsmith

Kym is a knowledgeable legal assistant with fifteen years of expertise in the field of compensation claims. She is passionate about supporting clients through the process and obtaining the best possible outcome for them. As a valued member of our team, Kym takes pride in her work and is committed to sharing her extensive experience and knowledge with our other team members.

When Kym is not busy with work, she loves spending time with her family and friends, and enjoys discovering new places, whether it be through the pages of a biography or on her push bike.

Senior Paralegal

Jessica Wills

Jessica is a highly experienced Senior Paralegal with over 14 years of dedicated experience in compensation law. Throughout her career, she has developed extensive knowledge of the legal processes involved in a broad range of compensation matters.

Jessica assists our lawyers with a wide variety of compensation matters and is committed to ensuring every client feels supported and informed throughout the claims process. Her friendly and approachable nature, together with her exceptional attention to detail and understanding of compensation law, enables her to provide clients with practical guidance and reassurance at every stage of their claim.

Jessica is committed to delivering the high standards of service and care that clients have come to expect from East Coast Injury Lawyers.

Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Paralegal

Samantha Bolton

Sam has been working in the legal industry for several years and is passionate about achieving the best possible results for our client’s whilst ensuring they have the support that they need in the process.

When Sam is not at work, she enjoys making the most of the Gold Coast beaches with her family and her Dalmatian, Hondo, and will take any opportunity to enjoy live music.

Paralegal

Rolanda Thiesfield

Ro brings over 20 years of experience as a dedicated paralegal, working across WorkCover, public liability, CTP, and class action claims.

Having worked in both plaintiff and defendant firms, she has gained a comprehensive understanding of the claims process from multiple perspectives, enabling her to provide insightful and effective assistance.

Ro is genuinely passionate about supporting people, guiding them through every step of their claim with care.

Outside the office, she enjoys a swing at the driving range or on the golf course, spending quality time with family and friends, and taking her Italian Greyhound for walks and adventures.

Senior Legal Assistant

Claire Rezny

Claire is one of our hard working and devoted Legal Assistants. With over 25 years’ administrative experience, her attention to detail, willingness to help others, and calm demeanour makes her a real asset to our team.

Claire is well travelled and, during her time in the USA, Claire discovered a newfound love for reading, which led her to become a proofreader for several published novels. Claire also enjoys landscape and wildlife photography and spending time with her family and puppy.

Senior Legal Assistant

Brooke Gribble

Meet Brooke, one of our Legal Assistants. Brooke has over 3 years’ experience in compensation claims and is eager to provide high quality customer service to our clients.

Brooke finds joy in helping others and is extremely hard working making her a real asset to our team.

Out of the office you may find Brooke at a racetrack as she has a passion for fast cars. Brooke also likes spending her time enjoying outdoor activities such as swimming and hiking but will never pass up the opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy.

Legal Assistant

Brittany Costley

Brittany has over four years’ experience in the legal industry and is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients. Her friendly and approachable nature, combined with experience in Motor Vehicle Accident, Workplace Injury, and Medical Negligence matters, ensures she is always prepared to support and communicate clearly with her clients.

Outside of work, Brittany enjoys baking and trying new recipes, and spending quality time with her family. Originally from New Zealand, she values the opportunity to visit when she can.

Legal Assistant / Administration Assistant

Shayla Riley

Shayla joined our team in September 2023, coming from an extensive background in customer service.

Shayla is a law student who is very passionate about compensation claims. With her bubbly personality and can-do attitude this makes her the perfect person for her administration support role.

When Shayla is not in the office you can find her enjoying all things outdoors, getting lost in a good book or spending time with her two rescue dogs Bear and Ella.

Receptionist and Administrative Assistant

Chloe Williams

Chloe joined our team in November 2025 and brings a positive and welcoming presence to her role as Receptionist and Administrative Assistant.

With a background in customer service, she loves helping clients feel comfortable and supporting the legal team to ensure everything runs smoothly. She is passionate about assisting others and is eager to continue building her knowledge as she enters her second year of law at Griffith University.

Outside of the office, Chloe loves exploring the outdoors and spending time at the beach, she’s always up for discovering somewhere new.

Receptionist and Administrative Assistant

Lynda Ratcliffe

Lynda is the welcoming face at our Robina reception. She has a strong background in customer service and enjoys assisting clients with empathy and compassion. Lynda takes pride in keeping things organised and running smoothly.

Outside of work, you’ll find Lynda at the beach or relaxing with a good book.

Law Student

Tom Seton

Tom is a law student commencing his first year of a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at QUT.

He has prior experience in customer service and is passionate about ensuring clients receive fair compensation. He looks forward to applying the knowledge gained from his university studies to a law firm as he progresses through his degree.

Outside of work, Tom enjoys playing and listening to music. He plays the bass guitar across a range of genres, including jazz, funk, and rock.