One of South Wales’ leading law firms has expanded its well-established personal injury department with the appointment of two new members of staff.

Newport-based solicitors HardingEvans has appointed Victoria Smithyman as a supervising solicitor, and Ryan Barnett as a first line response team leader.

Victoria has previously worked for other local law firms including Eversheds, New Law and Hugh James and has many years’ experience handling personal injury claims on behalf of clients.

She has been appointed to oversee the operational management of the firm’s personal injury team and will also manage a caseload of more complex injury claims.

Victoria said: “I was attracted to the role at HardingEvans because they have an excellent reputation for delivering good quality legal advice and genuinely have their clients’ best interests at heart.

“I will also have the opportunity to develop my management skills with the support of senior managers who are hugely experienced in the legal sector. This presents an exciting challenge for me.”

Ryan said: “The FRU’s role in attracting new clients to the firm is an important one. When someone has suffered injury either through an accident or medical negligence, they want to speak with someone who can empathise with their situation and put them at ease.

“I was attracted to HardingEvans because of their reputation as a customer focused and quality driven firm. The firm enforces that the client understanding and experience comes first, which I am proud to play a part of in my department.”

Joy Phillips, practice director from HardingEvans said: “The personal injury market has gone through some challenging times in recent years. The skills set needed in the new personal injury arena includes not only a knowledge of the law, but an understanding of what makes a high performing team and a commitment to getting the best possible results for our clients.

“Both Victoria and Ryan bring experience from other sectors and organisations which will be invaluable to them in their new roles and from which we can only benefit. We are delighted to have them as part of our team.”