Our Approach

We understand that instructing firms often require fast, efficient service for their clients, and we aim to meet these needs. Appointments can normally be arranged within 2 weeks if urgent and within 1 month for routine cases. We normally provide reports within two weeks of the assessment.  We aim to keep costs to a minimum without sacrificing quality. We also offer a 3-month deferment of fees. We always provide a fee estimate with our terms and conditions, after receiving instructions or before, if required. We are also happy to discuss a case informally before instructions are given.

Direct instructions are welcome. We no longer accept referrals from medico-legal agencies. Given that Dr Thorley has practising privileges at Spire Hospital, referrers can be assured that full professional insurance cover is in place and that training is provided in Resuscitation and Safeguarding.

Assessments are conducted in a relaxed, quiet setting, and much attention is devoted to enabling clients to recall experiences and events in a way that minimises anxiety or upset. Clients are consulted about who they would like to be present if they are 16 and older. Assessments are only undertaken by Dr Thorley, not junior staff, who analyses the information.

Other expert reports are helpful, and GP and hospital records are generally required unless we are instructed that they are unnecessary. In certain cases, educational records are also helpful.

Once we receive instructions, we contact the client by phone to arrange a mutually convenient appointment, then confirm this in writing to the client and the instructing firm. If necessary, the client can change the appointment time and date by contacting the clinic. Home visits can also be arranged anywhere in the UK or abroad. For further details of our clinic arrangements, see the Clinics and Contacts section.

General Medico-Legal assessments.

These usually take 2 hours and involve a semi-structured interview and, where appropriate, the administration of standardised questionnaires.  The assessments typically involve a parent, parents or carers being present for part of the interview. They may involve the young person only for those over 16.

Neuropsychological Assessments

Young people up to and including age 16 who require assessment for brain damage generally need 2-3  hours of evaluation, including a semi-structured interview with carers and standardised cognitive and neuropsychological functioning with clients. For clients with brain damage arising from birth injuries and having a severe physical handicap as well, assessments in the client's home are preferred

Limited Screening Reports

Instructions for these pre-litigation scoping reports are welcome, and the work involved will be variable. We are happy to provide an estimate of likley costs over the telephone if required..