University of Chester and Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors launch free Personal Injury Legal Clinic

The Clinic will benefit from the expertise of Daniel Denton, Personal Injury Partner at Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors, and will provide free legal advice and assistance to members of the public who are otherwise unable to access justice, whilst giving students key development opportunities. Clients can receive free advice via online Teams meetings.

Daniel has more than two decades of experience in representing clients with significant and often life-changing injuries. He will lead and support University of Chester students in gaining experience in the area of personal injury law. The initiative will enhance the employability of students, by being part of real-life cases whilst having a significant positive impact on the local community by supporting individuals in need.

This innovative partnership between the Pro Bono team at the University of Chester’s School of Law and Social Justice and Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors underscores their combined commitment to social justice and education. It complements the School of Law and Social Justice’s approach to practice-led learning within its undergraduate Law degree, bridging the gap between legal education and practical application, preparing students to enter the legal field as competent, experienced professionals while fulfilling a crucial community service.

Associate Professor Andrea Todd, Director of Pro Bono and Community Engagement at the University of Chester’s School of Law and Social Justice, commented on the collaboration: “We are delighted to partner with Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors to provide much-needed support to members of our local community whilst providing our students with valuable practical experience to enhance both their understanding of the legal process and their skills for future employment.”

Daniel said: “This is a really exciting initiative which will have the combined effect of providing the opportunity for the Law students at Chester to enhance their soft skills which are crucial when entering the legal profession whilst providing a vital service to the local community. I am thrilled to be sharing my knowledge and experience with the students and to be working closely with them. The Clinic will have the added benefit of allowing the local community to gain access to justice irrespective of their financial position.”

University of Chester Law student, Megan Arnold, added: “I am incredibly thankful to both the University of Chester and Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors for this fantastic opportunity. This opportunity provides hands-on experience while also giving back to the community by providing the necessary support where it is most needed. I am looking forward to learning from experienced professionals and expanding my skill set for a future career in law.”

To receive a link to register for an initial appointment, please email: personalinjury@chester.ac.uk

Image: From left to right: University of Chester Law student Megan Arnold; Daniel Denton of Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors, and Associate Professor Andrea Todd from the University of Chester.