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Month: October 2025

Interim Payments in Personal Injury Claims – Support After a Serious Injury

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

When someone is seriously injured in a road traffic accident or workplace incident, they may face months – or even years – without being able to work. During this time, bills, mortgage payments and treatment costs continue to build. That’s where ‘interim payments’ come in.

At Lacey Solicitors, with offices in Belfast and Dublin, our personal injury lawyers can clients secure early part-payments of compensation to relieve financial pressure long before their case concludes.

What Is an Interim Payment?

 

An interim payment is an early payment of part of the compensation owed to an injured person before the final settlement or court award. It is not a loan or an advance – it is money paid directly to the plaintiff on account of damages that are certain to be awarded later.

Under Order 29 Rule 12 of the Rules of the Supreme Court (Northern Ireland) 1980, a plaintiff can apply to the court for an interim payment if liability for the accident has already been admitted, either fully or partially.

This mechanism ensures injured victims are not left struggling financially while waiting for a lengthy claims process to conclude.

A Real Case Study: Aisling Creegan’s Recent High Court Success

 

Lacey Solicitors recently acted on behalf of a self-employed individual who suffered life changing spinal fractures following a motorway collision outside Newry. Both defendants admitted full liability.

Our team applied to the High Court of Justice in Northern Ireland under Order 29 Rule 12 seeking two interim payments while proceedings were still ongoing. Both applications were successfully granted and our client received £300,000,00 as an interim payment while the matter was ongoing.

This allowed our client to access essential rehabilitation, private physiotherapy, and cover household expenses during recovery – without waiting years for the case to finish.

Serious Injuries and Rising Rehabilitation Costs

 

For clients who have suffered catastrophic or life-changing injuries, an interim payment can be absolutely vital.

Serious injuries often come with extensive and unexpected expenses – well before a case is ready for final settlement.

Examples include:

  • Amputations, where prosthetic limbs and ongoing physiotherapy can cost tens of thousands of pounds.
  • Spinal injuries, requiring specialist wheelchairs, home adaptations, and long-term care.
  • Severe burns or scarring, which may need multiple reconstructive surgeries and psychological support.
  • Brain injuries, leading to significant rehabilitation, occupational therapy, and support worker costs.

An interim payment can bridge this financial gap – allowing injured individuals to access essential private treatment and equipment immediately, instead of waiting years for compensation.

At Lacey Solicitors, our lawyers prioritise these applications in serious injury cases to ensure our clients’ recovery and dignity are protected throughout the litigation process.

Building a Strong Application: The “Cards on the Table” Approach

 

To strengthen an interim payment application, transparency is key. At Lacey Solicitors, we advocate for a “cards on the table” approach—serving medical evidence, expert reports, and financial documentation as early as possible.

Early disclosure of medical reports:

  • Demonstrates the seriousness of injuries.

  • Supports the claim for immediate financial relief.

  • Allows insures to seek their own medical evidence and assists in dialogue if there is a a dispute.

Because Lacey Solicitors act for both innocent victims and a number of insurers across Ireland, our team understands how each side of a personal injury claim operates. This dual perspective allows us to anticipate potential challenges, streamline communication, and promote a collaborative approach to resolving injury claims.

We believe that early openness and cooperation benefit everyone involved. By engaging constructively with insurers, sharing evidence promptly, and focusing on fairness rather than confrontation, we achieve faster and more practical outcomes for our clients.

Our proactive, balanced approach ensures that interim payment applications are well-evidenced, persuasive, and strategically presented to secure the best possible result before the High Court or County Court.

The Benefits of Interim Payments for Injured Victims

 

An interim payment can make a life-changing difference for someone recovering from serious injury. It provides:

  • Financial stability – covering mortgage, rent, or living expenses.
  • Access to private treatment – physiotherapy, prosthetics, counselling, or surgery.
  • Peace of mind – allowing the injured person to focus on rehabilitation rather than financial survival.

Interim payments ensure that justice is not delayed simply because the legal process takes time.

How Lacey Solicitors Can Help

 

If you’ve been seriously injured and liability for your accident has been admitted, you may be entitled to an interim payment under Order 29 Rule 12. Our experienced personal injury team regularly brings these applications before the High Court in Northern Ireland and achieves successful outcomes for clients across a range of accident types.

With offices in Belfast and Dublin, Lacey Solicitors combine local knowledge with national expertise in serious injury litigation. We act transparently, efficiently, and always in your best interests—ensuring you receive the financial support you need while awaiting full compensation.

Contact Lacey Solicitors – Injury Lawyers Belfast

 

If you would like advice about a serious accident where you have suffered catastrophic injuries and require an interim payment in a personal injury claim, contact Lacey Solicitors today.

Hearing Loss Claims in Northern Ireland – How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

Hearing loss and tinnitus can be life-changing, affecting communication, employment, balance, and mental wellbeing. In Northern Ireland, many people bring hearing loss compensation claims after suffering noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in unsafe working environments.

If your employer failed to protect your hearing, you may be entitled to significant compensation. This guide explains how much you could receive, based on the official Guidelines for the Assessment of General Damages in Personal Injury Cases in Northern Ireland (the “Green Book”), which courts use to assess damages.

Deafness and Tinnitus – What Do the Courts Consider?

 

The term “deafness” covers both total and partial hearing loss. When assessing awards, courts consider:

  1. Whether the injury amounts to a hearing impairment, disability, or handicap.
  2. Whether it developed suddenly (e.g. an accident) or gradually (e.g. industrial noise exposure).
  3. Whether the hearing loss began at an early age (affecting speech) or later in life.
  4. Whether balance has also been affected.

How Much Compensation for Hearing Loss in Northern Ireland?

 

Following on from our Guide to Hearing Loss Claims the actual level of compensation due to you depends on the severity of the hearing loss or tinnitus. We gave one example of a 2025 case involving hearing loss in our recent blog where the judge assessed General Damages at £30,000.00.

The Green Book guideline ranges are:

  • Total Deafness and Loss of Speech / Gross Impairment of Speech: £350,000 – £625,000
  • Total Deafness: £250,000 – £350,000
  • Total Loss of Hearing in One Ear: £50,000 – £100,000
  • Severe Hearing Loss: £60,000 – £200,000 (upper awards are for cases approaching total deafness)
  • Moderate Hearing Loss: £20,000 – £60,000
  • Mild Hearing Loss: Up to £20,000

 

Tinnitus Compensation

 

Tinnitus is often claimed alongside deafness. Courts take care to avoid double compensation, but guideline awards are:

  • Severe Tinnitus: £40,000 – £90,000
  • Moderate Tinnitus: £20,000 – £40,000
  • Mild Tinnitus: Up to £20,000

Special Damages in Hearing Loss Claims

 

In addition to general damages, you may be entitled to special damages for financial losses, such as:

  • Hearing aids, cochlear implants, and future medical treatment
  • Past and future loss of earnings
  • Care and assistance costs
  • Travel and rehabilitation expenses

Time Limits for Hearing Loss Claims in NI

 

In Northern Ireland, the general rule is that you must bring a hearing loss claim within three years of:

  • The date of negligent noise exposure, or
  • The date you first realised your hearing loss was linked to your work.

Because hearing problems often develop gradually, the three-year clock typically runs from when your condition was diagnosed or connected to workplace exposure.  For example, if you worked in a factory in Derry or Strabane and have only recently discovered that your hearing loss was linked to your work, then you may still be entitled to claim.

Why Choose Lacey Solicitors?

 

At Lacey Solicitors, we’ve been helping clients across the entire island of Ireland from Cork to Carnlough, and we have built a reputation for trust, results, and ethical legal practice.

With Lacey Solicitors Hearing Loss Lawyers, you benefit from:

  • Experienced personal injury solicitors with offices in Belfast and Dublin

  • 100% compensation retained

  • Clear, transparent legal costs

  • A proven track record in hearing loss claims, workplace compensation and more

  • Legal representation tailored to your financial situation

We’re here to provide access to justice — legally, ethically, and effectively.

Start Your Hearing Loss Claim Today

 

If you are suffering from deafness or tinnitus caused by workplace noise, you may be entitled to claim compensation ranging from £20,000 to over £600,000, depending on severity and impact.

Contact Lacey Solicitors Belfast & Dublin today to start your hearing loss claim. Roisin Cassidy, our dedicated hearing loss solicitor will guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

 

Skin Injury and Psoriasis Claims in Road Traffic Accidents| Lacey Solicitors NI

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

When we think of road traffic accident claims, car crashes or accidents at work, we often imagine fractures, whiplash, or head injuries. However, Lacey Solicitors are seeing an increase in claims for dermatology-related injuries—those affecting the skin.  These types of claims are becoming more common and can cause serious long-term effects.

From burns and scarring to psoriasis flare-ups triggered by trauma or stress, skin conditions following a car accident can lead to significant pain, disfigurement, and psychological suffering. Understanding how these conditions are treated within the legal process is key to ensuring fair compensation.

Can You Claim for Skin Injuries After a Car Accident?

 

The skin can be damaged in many ways during a collision. Common dermatological issues in road traffic accident personal injury claims include:

  • Lacerations and abrasions – from broken glass, airbags, or seatbelts, often leading to permanent scarring.
  • Burns – caused by vehicle fires, airbag deployment, friction from seatbelts, or contact with hot metal and chemicals.
  • Bruising and tissue damage – which can result in long-term skin discolouration or sensitivity.
  • Scarring and disfigurement – particularly visible injuries that may impact confidence, self-esteem, and quality of life.

Even relatively minor-looking skin injuries can have lasting physical and emotional consequences.

Psoriasis and Skin Conditions Triggered by Car Accidents

 

A lesser-known but increasingly recognised issue in road traffic accident claims is the exacerbation or triggering of psoriasis and other chronic skin conditions.

Can a car accident cause psoriasis to flare up?

Yes. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can be triggered or worsened by physical trauma or emotional stress – both common after a car accident. This phenomenon is known as the Koebner response, where new psoriasis lesions develop on previously unaffected skin following an injury or stressor.

In personal injury cases, psoriasis can appear or worsen due to:

  • Physical trauma to the skin (cuts, friction burns, or surgery).
  • Psychological stress or anxiety after the accident.
  • Medication side effects used to treat other injuries.

This can leave victims struggling with chronic pain, itching, and embarrassment, often requiring ongoing dermatological treatment.

Medical Evidence in Dermatology and Psoriasis Claims

 

To support a claim involving dermatological injuries or psoriasis, expert medical evidence is essential. A consultant dermatologist will typically:

  • Assess the extent and visibility of any scarring, lesions, or flare-ups.
  • Provide an opinion on causation—whether the condition was caused or exacerbated by the accident.
  • Evaluate treatment options and the likelihood of future improvement or recurrence.
  • Comment on psychological impact, as visible skin conditions often affect self-esteem and mental health.

This evidence forms a key part of calculating pain, suffering, and loss of amenity within a compensation claim.

Valuing Dermatology and Psoriasis-Related Compensation

 

Compensation in road traffic accident claims for dermatology issues depends on several factors:

  1. Severity and visibility of scarring or skin lesions.
  2. Impact on daily life, work, and mental wellbeing.
  3. Permanency or likelihood of recurrence (particularly with psoriasis).
  4. Treatment requirements, including creams, UV therapy, counselling, or cosmetic surgery.

Case Study: Lacey Solicitors Secure £23,000 for Taxi Driver with Psoriasis Flare-Up

 

A recent case handled by Lacey Solicitors that settled in 2025, highlights the importance of experienced lawyers recognising dermatological issues in personal injury claims.

Our client, a taxi driver, was involved in a low-speed road traffic collision with a bus. Thankfully, no one suffered major physical injuries.  Our client suffered minor whiplash injuries that settled quickly but mentioned to our office that he had a pre-existing history of psoriasis, which flared up significantly in the weeks following the accident.

For around two to three weeks post-accident, he suffered itchy, inflamed patches on his scalp and hips, leading to disturbed sleep and emotional strain. The stress of the ongoing claim also contributed to the psoriasis being slow to settle.

All the passengers in the vehicle were represented by another firm and settled their cases for £2,000 each. When Lacey Solicitors were appointed to represent the taxi driver, we were initially offered the same sum of £2,000.

However, our team rejected that offer immediately and instructed a consultant dermatologist to provide an expert medical opinion. The dermatologist confirmed that the accident and subsequent stress had caused a significant psoriasis flare-up and that the condition was slow to resolve due to the ongoing psychological impact.

Following intense negotiations, Lacey Solicitors settled the case for £23,000 – a result £21,000 higher than any other passenger in the vehicle.

This case demonstrates the value of specialist legal and medical input in identifying and evidencing the true impact of dermatological and stress-related injuries.

The Psychological Impact of Dermatology Injuries

 

Visible skin injuries often cause more than physical pain – they can also lead to depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal. This is particularly true for individuals who develop psoriasis after an accident, as the condition is often unpredictable and difficult to manage.

In these situations, it is important that solicitors seek both dermatological and psychological reports to ensure the full extent of the injury is recognised and compensated.

How Lacey Solicitors Can Help

 

At Lacey Solicitors, we understand how distressing it can be to live with scarring, burns, or a long-term skin condition such as psoriasis after a road traffic accident.

Our specialist personal injury solicitors in Northern Ireland will:

  • Obtain expert dermatology and psychological reports.
  • Gather photographic and witness evidence.
  • Calculate your full financial and emotional losses.
  • Negotiate with insurers to secure the maximum compensation available.

We act for clients across Belfast, Dublin, Derry, Newry, and throughout Northern Ireland.

Contact Lacey Solicitors Today

 

If you’ve suffered skin injuries, scarring, burns, or a psoriasis flare-up following a road traffic accident, contact Lacey Solicitors for expert legal advice.  We’ll help you obtain the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.

 

Leading Personal Injury Lawyer in Belfast – Ruaidhrí Austin of Lacey Solicitors

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

If you are searching for an experienced and trusted personal injury solicitor in Belfast, Ruaidhrí Austin, Partner at Lacey Solicitors, is recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s top litigators.

Known for his dual qualification and expertise across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, Ruaidhrí represents clients in courts throughout the island, acting for both Plaintiffs and Defendants in complex and high-value cases.

In recognition of his work, Ruaidhrí Austin was a finalist in the Personal Injury Lawyer of the Year category at the 2025 LEAP Irish Law Awards in Dublin, where Lacey Solicitors was also honoured for its excellence and innovation in the legal profession.

With practice areas spanning personal injury, insurance litigation, data privacy, and medical negligence, Ruaidhrí combines deep legal knowledge with a collaborative approach securing justice and fair outcomes for individuals and organisations alike.

Dual-Qualified Litigation Solicitor Covering All of Ireland

 

A local to Ballymena, he is a dual-qualified solicitor in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.  Ruaidhrí Austin is a respected figure in courts across both jurisdictions. This dual expertise allows him to represent clients seamlessly across the island – an essential advantage for insurers, businesses, and accident victims alike.

A home-grown Partner at Lacey Solicitors, Ruaidhrí rose from trainee to associate to Partner, becoming the firm’s first new Partner since its founding over 20 years ago. His rise reflects his professionalism, leadership, and reputation for achieving results.

Champion of Data Privacy and Human Rights

 

In his Data Privacy practice, Ruaidhrí acts as a leading advocate for individuals whose personal data has been mishandled or unlawfully disclosed. He champions the fundamental rights to privacy and family life under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), the Irish Constitution, and the Human Rights Act 1998.

He has represented clients in some of the most high-profile data breaches in recent years, including:

  • The Cabot Financial Data Breach
  • The PSNI Data Breach
  • The GP Capita Data Breach

Ruaidhrí’s advocacy in these cases reflects his commitment to accountability, transparency, and protecting individuals’ rights in the digital age.

Specialist in Medical Negligence and Healthcare Law

 

Ruaidhrí also has extensive experience in medical negligence and wrongful death claims, representing patients and families in cases involving serious professional failings.

Notable matters include:

  • Representing patients sexually assaulted by two doctors at Naas General Hospital, Kildare.  Ruaidhrí was interviewed in relatino to these cases and featured on RTÉ Investigates: Abuse of Trust (RTÉ One)
  • Acting for the family of a patient who died following treatment at Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast
  • Representing a family whose loved one died after an unnecessary surgical procedure concealed by a hospital

His ability to combine empathy, determination, and legal precision ensures that clients receive compassionate yet rigorous representation in the most difficult circumstances.

Professional Leadership and Recognition

 

Ruaidhrí’s influence extends well beyond his individual cases. He actively contributes to the development of the legal profession across Ireland through his leadership roles and committee work.

He has served as:

  • Chair, Northern Ireland Young Solicitors’ Association (NIYSA)
  • Member, Law Society’s LawTech Committee
  • Member, Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL)
  • Member, Ulster Medico-Legal Association (UMLA)
  • Member, Judicial Advisory Group – “Vision 2030”, established by Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhán Keegan, advising on the modernisation of the courts system

His recognition at the 2025 LEAP Irish Law Awards further highlights his standing as one of Ireland’s most respected and forward-thinking personal injury solicitors.

Dedicated to Clients and the Community

 

Ruaidhrí Austin is known for being accessible, responsive, and results-driven. Whether acting for a major insurer or a private client pursuing a personal injury or data privacy claim, he provides strategic, practical, and transparent advice from start to finish.

Contact Ruaidhrí Austin – A Ballymena Personal Injury Lawyer 

 

If you need expert legal advice from a leading injury solicitor in Belfast, contact Ruaidhrí Austin at Lacey Solicitors.

Roundabout Accidents in Northern Ireland. Who is at Fault?

Posted on by Ruaidhri Austin

 

Roundabouts keep traffic moving but they are also a common scene for collisions. Working out who is at fault in a roundabout accident can be complicated. Fault usually turns on who had right of way, who signalled correctly and whether any driver changed lanes or entered unsafely.

At Lacey Solicitors, we help innocent drivers, passengers, insurers, cyclists and pedestrians across Ireland and Northern Ireland resolve roundabout accident claims and assist in determining liabilty.

How Roundabouts Work

 

The Golden rule is always: traffic already on the roundabout has priority. Drivers entering must give way to vehicles approaching from the right. Both the Rules of the Road (Ireland) and Official Highway Code (Northern Ireland) require motorists to:

  • Give way to the right.
  • Use the correct lane for their intended exit.
  • Signal left when leaving.
  • Avoid sudden lane changes or cutting across traffic.

Common Causes of Roundabout Accidents in NI

 

  • Failing to yield to circulating traffic.
  • Entering or exiting from the wrong lane.
  • Changing lanes suddenly.
  • Not indicating correctly.
  • Tailgating or harsh braking.
  • Speeding or wet-weather skids.
  • Driver distraction.

Typical Fault Scenarios

 

1. Entering without giving way:
A driver who joins and collides with a vehicle already on the roundabout is normally at fault.

2. Lane discipline errors:
Drivers who cut across lanes or exit from the wrong lane may be fully or at least partially liable if an accident occurs.

3. Failure to signal:
Not indicating if it contributes to a collision can result in a driver being held to a degree liable for the accident.

4. Rear-end impacts:
Usually the rear driver will be found at fault.

5. Collisions with cyclists or motorcyclists:
These vulnerable road users should be afforded strong legal protection due to their increased risk of serious injury.  It is vital that you take care and look for cyclists and motorcyclists.

Proving Fault in Roundabout Accidents

 

Detailed documentation can help establish fault, clarify the circumstances of the accident, and protect your legal rights. Useful evidence includes:

  • Dashcam or CCTV footage.
  • Witness statements.
  • Garda or PSNI reports.
  • Photographs of vehicle positions and damage.
  • Time-stamped messages or insurer correspondence.

Shared Responsibility

 

Whether it is Sandyknowes Roundabout Glengormley or Caw Roundabout in Derry, an inescapable truth is that in many roundabout accidents, fault is often shared between the drivers.

Liability is often be apportioned where both parties contributed to the collision, perhaps through poor observation, incorrect lane use, or failure to signal properly. This legal principle, known as contributory negligence, can reduce the amount of compensation awarded to reflect each driver’s degree of responsibility.

For example, where both drivers contributed equally to the accident, your compensation might be reduced by 50%.

Useful evidence like the evidence outlined above is critical to assisting your car accident solicitor in proving the other driver is at fault.

What to Do After a Roundabout Accident

 

  1. Ensure everyone is safe.
  2. Exchange driver and insurance details.
  3. Take photos of the scene if it is safe to do so.
  4. Report serious incidents to Gardaí or PSNI.
  5. Seek legal advice before speaking to insurers.

How Lacey Solicitors Can Help

 

With offices in Dublin and Belfast, Lacey Solicitors represent clients in all types of road traffic accident claims, including complex liability disputes arising from roundabout collisions.

Our experienced team can:

  • Investigate fault and liability using expert accident reconstruction and evidence analysis.

  • Engage directly with insurers and third parties to progress your claim efficiently.

  • Pursue full compensation for your injuries, vehicle damage, loss of earnings, and related expenses.

We provide clear, practical legal advice and ensure that every client receives a personal, professional, and transparent service from start to finish.

Hearing Loss Claims in Northern Ireland – Lacey Solicitors Welcomes Industrial Disease Specialist Roisin Cassidy

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

At Lacey Solicitors, we are proud to announce that Ms Roisin Cassidy has joined our team, bringing with her extensive experience from one of Northern Ireland’s leading industrial disease firms. Roisin has acted on behalf of countless clients across the province who have suffered from noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and tinnitus as a result of unsafe working conditions.

Her arrival strengthens our position as one of the go-to firms in Northern Ireland for hearing loss compensation claims.

Why Hearing Loss Claims Are So Important in Northern Ireland

 

For decades, Northern Ireland’s industries – from shipbuilding and engineering to textiles and manufacturing – exposed workers to dangerously high levels of noise. Many were never provided with proper ear protection.

Today, thousands of former employees are living with permanent hearing damage because their employers failed to keep them safe. Noise-induced hearing loss is irreversible, but compensation can help cover the cost of hearing aids, medical treatment, and the daily challenges caused by reduced hearing.

Common Symptoms of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and Tinnitus

 

Many of our clients describe:

  • Muffled or distorted sounds
  • Difficulty following conversations, especially in noisy places
  • Turning the TV or radio up louder than others need
  • Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
  • Persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Trouble concentrating or sleeping due to noise in the ears

If you recognise these symptoms and previously worked in a noisy environment, you may be entitled to compensation.

Who Is Most at Risk?

 

Workers in the following industries are particularly affected by occupational hearing loss in Northern Ireland:

  • Shipyard workers
  • Factory workers
  • Mechanics and engineers
  • Construction workers and builders
  • Aviation workers
  • Military and police personnel
  • Transport and haulage workers
  • Textile and mill workers

At Lacey Solicitors, we have successfully pursued claims against many of the biggest employers in Northern Ireland, including Harland & Wolff PLC, Bombardier Aerospace, Short Brothers PLC, Rolls Royce, Taylor Wimpey PLC, Metro (NI) Limited, Cape Insulation Limited, Courtaulds PLC, and many more.

How Much Compensation Could You Receive?

 

The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your hearing loss and whether you also suffer from tinnitus. It is difficult to say exactly how much a claim may be worth however according to the most recent Northern Ireland guidelines:

  • Mild hearing loss – up to £20,000
  • Moderate hearing loss – £20,000 to £60,000
  • Severe hearing loss – £60,000 to £200,000
  • Total deafness – £250,000 to £350,000+
  • Tinnitus – up to £90,000 depending on severity

Every case is different, and Roisin Cassidy and our team will ensure you receive expert medical evidence to support your claim.

The Hearing Loss Claim Process with Lacey Solicitors

 

When you contact Lacey Solicitors, we will:

  1. Arrange an initial consultation with Ms Roisin Cassidy.
  2. Gather your employment records and medical notes.
  3. Set up a specialist hearing test to assess your level of hearing loss.
  4. Instruct expert ENT specialists to provide medical reports.
  5. Pursue your former employers for compensation through negotiation or, if needed, litigation.

Why Choose Lacey Solicitors?

 

With Roisin Cassidy’s arrival, our clients benefit from the knowledge of a solicitor who has been at the forefront of hearing loss litigation in Northern Ireland.

This experience ensures our clients are represented by a solicitor who knows how to overcome the challenges these claims often face and who has secured results against some of the biggest names in industry in Northern Ireland.

Contact Lacey Solicitors in Belfast today to speak directly with Ms Roisin Cassidy about a potential hearing loss or tinnitus claim. Alternatively use our Online Portal and a solicitor will call you back.  Even if your noisy job was many years ago, you may still have a case.

Lacey Solicitors Belfast & Dublin : The Implications of Farley v Equiniti for Data Protection and Data Breach Claims

Posted on by Ruaidhri Austin

 

At Lacey Solicitors, with offices in Belfast and Dublin, our data protection solicitors represent clients affected by high-profile data breaches across the entire island of Ireland. The Court of Appeal ruling in Farley and Others v Paymaster (1836) Limited (trading as Equiniti) [2025] EWCA Civ 1117 has solidified the approach to compensation for data protection breaches in the UK – a development highly relevant for both clients and organisations seeking guidance from expert data protection solicitors on the issue of a data breach.

The focus of the Court of Appeal was the confirmation that there is no minimum threshold of harm for claims under Article 82 of the UK GDPR or section 168 of the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA 2018).

A claimant can therefore seek compensation for a minor claim of distress or fear of misuse of personal data.

What Happened in Farley

 

The case arose after Equiniti, administrator of the Sussex Police pension scheme, accidentally sent over 750 annual benefit statements to outdated addresses. These statements contained sensitive information including names, dates of birth, National Insurance numbers, salaries, and pension entitlements.

Following the breach, a claim form was issued on behalf of 474 current and former officers, seeking damages for breach of statutory duty under the UK GDPR and the DPA and/or misuse of private information “arising from the [respondent’s] failure to keep the claimants’ personal data and private information secure by posting the same to incorrect postal addresses.”

The High Court Decision

 

At first instance, Mr Justice Nicklin struck out most claims, leaving only fourteen claimants whose letters had been physically opened. Only two could show that someone outside their family or workplace had actually read the documents.

The High Court applied a “de minimis” principle, dismissing claims that weren’t considered sufficiently serious. The court concluded that the mere risk of disclosure—without evidence that the information had been seen—was not enough to support compensation.

The Court of Appeal

 

The Court of Appeal overturned much of the High Court’s decision, clarifying several important principles relevant for individuals consulting data protection solicitors:

  • Proof of disclosure is not required: Data does not need to have been accessed by a third party for processing or an infringement to occur. The term “processing” covers all steps, including collating, printing, and sending letters.
  • Distress is not essential: Non-material damage can be claimed even without proving distress, though compensation does not cover every emotional reaction to a breach.
  • No threshold of seriousness: Claims under the GDPR do not require a minimum level of harm.
  • Fear of misuse must be well-founded: Where claims are based on fear that personal data could be misused by third parties, the fear must be objectively reasonable, based on what the claimant knew or should have known at the time.
  • Future harm is compensable: A claimant may have a well-founded fear of future misuse, even if no actual harm occurs.

These findings emphasise that data protection claims focus on the unlawful processing of personal data, rather than solely on whether actual harm or disclosure occurred.

The Irish Supreme Court in Dillon v Irish Life

 

In a previous article, our office highlighted the Irish Supreme Court Decision in Dillon v Irish Life Assurance.  This Decision was referenced by the English Court of Appeal who acknowledge that victims of data breaches who seek compensation “solely for mental distress, upset and anxiety … cannot expect anything other than very, very modest awards”

But the English Court of Appeal went on to say that some of the claims in the case encompass psychiatric injury and the modest scale of the likely recovery cannot of itself be sufficient to justify dismissal of the claim.

The Judge referenced Lewison LJ  Sullivan v Bristol Film Studios [2012] EWCA Civ 570, [2012] EMLR 27, [29]: “The mere fact that a claim is small should not automatically result in the court refusing to hear it at all. If I am entitled to recover a debt of £50 …. it would be an affront to justice if my claim were simply struck out.”

Data Protection Breach or Misuse of Private Information

 

At Lacey Solicitors, one of the key distinctions that we often have to make clear to our client’s is the difference between Data Breach Claims and Misuse of Private Information Claims.  Both are, in our opinion erroneously, used interchangeably.

What Is a Misuse of Private Information Claim?

 

A misuse of private information claim is a common law tort that has evolved in light of Article 8 of the Human Rights Act 1998, which protects the right to respect for private and family life.  It arises when private information is disclosed without consent, even if data protection laws are not breached. Key elements include:

  • Expectation of Privacy: The information must be private, and the individual must reasonably expect it to remain confidential.
  • Unauthorised Disclosure: The information must be shared without consent.
  • Harm or Distress: The disclosure must cause harm or distress.

 

How It Differs from a Data Protection Breach

 

  • Legal Basis: Data protection breaches are statutory claims under UK GDPR and DPA 2018; misuse of private information claims are common law.
  • Scope: Data protection claims cover lawful handling of personal data, including collection, storage, and sharing. Misuse of private information focuses on unauthorised disclosure.

What You Should Know About Data Protection Breaches in Northern Ireland & Ireland

 

For individuals, the decision is significant: even minor breaches can entitle them to compensation for distress or fear of misuse.

For organisations, the implications are clear: even small errors in handling personal data carry liability. Businesses should consult data protection solicitors to ensure robust data governance, clear processes, and effective breach communication.

At Lacey Solicitors, we advise clients on risk management, compliance, and breach response, and represent individuals affected by high-profile data breaches across the entire Island of Ireland.

Conclusion

 

Farley v Equiniti strengthens the rights of individuals affected by data breaches. By removing the de minimis threshold, the Court confirmed that fear of misuse and emotional distress are valid grounds for compensation, even without actual disclosure.

For organisations, the judgment highlights the importance of compliance and proactive breach management. For individuals, it demonstrates that personal data rights carry real legal protections.

At Lacey Solicitors, as experienced data protection solicitors, we continue to represent clients in high-profile data breach claims, helping them secure compensation and protections under the law. Cases such as Farley, Lloyd v Google [2021] UKSC 50, Prismall v Google UK Ltd [2024] EWCA Civ 1516, and Rolfe v Veale Wasbrough Vizards Ltd [2021] EWHC 2809 (QB) form a strong foundation for our work in this area.

Will Writing in Belfast – Lacey Solicitors Partner with Cancer Research UK

Posted on by Lacey Solicitors

 

If you’re considering will writing in Belfast, Lacey Solicitors can help you secure your family’s future with professional, simple, and stress-free services. We’re proud to announce that we are now a trusted legal partner of Cancer Research UK, making it easier than ever to write or update your Will.

Simple Will Writing Made Easy in Belfast

 

Writing a Will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out. Our experienced solicitors in Belfast provide clear guidance throughout the process, helping you prepare a simple Will efficiently and professionally.

As part of our partnership with Cancer Research UK, once your Will is completed, Lacey Solicitors will invoice Cancer Research UK directly up to a fixed fee. This means you can write your Will at no direct cost to you, while still having the opportunity to leave a legacy gift that supports life-saving cancer research.

Why Consider Leaving a Gift in Your Will?

 

Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy, which may not reflect your intentions. A will allows you to decide exactly who receives your property, money, and personal belongings, and you can also leave gifts to friends, charities, or causes that matter to you. Additionally, it enables you to appoint trusted executors to manage your estate, ensuring debts and taxes are paid and your assets are distributed correctly.

A will is especially important for protecting your family and dependents. You can provide for minor children, appoint guardians, or set up trusts to manage assets until beneficiaries reach a certain age. Clear instructions in a will reduce the risk of disputes among family members and prevent courts from deciding how your estate should be handled. Beyond family considerations, a will can also form part of estate planning to minimise inheritance tax and ensure your estate is passed on efficiently, giving you peace of mind that your wishes will be followed.

Over a third of Cancer Research UK’s work is funded by gifts in Wills. By leaving a gift, no matter the size, you can contribute to vital research, prevention, and awareness programmes that save lives every day. It’s a way to make a lasting impact while ensuring your estate is managed according to your wishes.

Why Choose Lacey Solicitors for Will Writing in Belfast?

 

  • Trusted expertise: Our solicitors have years of experience in drafting Wills that are clear, legally valid, and tailored to your personal circumstances.
  • Professional, caring service: We handle every step with sensitivity and attention to detail.
  • No upfront cost: Through Cancer Research UK, your simple Will can be written at no cost to you.
  • Local support: Conveniently located in Belfast, our team is accessible and ready to guide you.

How to Get Started

 

Writing your Will in Belfast has never been easier. To take advantage of this service:

  1. Contact Lacey Solicitors in Belfast to arrange an appointment.
  2. Prepare any necessary details about your estate and beneficiaries.
  3. Complete your Will with guidance from our professional team.
  4. Lacey Solicitors will invoice Cancer Research UK for the fixed fee once your Will is complete.

Secure your family’s future while supporting life-saving cancer research. Book your appointment with Lacey Solicitors in Belfast today and take the first step in writing your Will.

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