Laura Roche

Laura graduated from the University of Leeds with a 2:1 Law Degree in 2009 and completed the CILEX Fast-Track Graduate Diploma in Law in 2014 before being admitted as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives in 2016. In January 2026, Laura went on to obtain independent practice rights as a CILEX Civil Litigator.

Prior to joining JMW, Laura worked at DWF LLP, one of the leading defendant firms in the industry, although prior to this, all of her background was claimant-based. This experience on both sides of litigation makes Laura an extremely well-rounded lawyer, allowing her to get the best for her clients.

Laura has exceptional knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules, and has been described as “technically very good with excellent file management and a reasoned strategy.” Laura strives to deliver the best service and results to her clients and maximise not only their damages, but also their rehabilitation.

Laura is now part of JMW’s dedicated Cycling Team and Employers Liability/Public Liability Team, having previously been based in the Road Traffic Accident Team until May 2023.

Laura handles and deals with all cases on a spectrum of minor soft tissue type injuries to more serious injuries such as complex fractures and chronic pain.

Laura has particular expertise in relation to:

• Accidents involving vulnerable Claimants, i.e., cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and e-bike/e-scooter riders;
• Accidents involving foreign-registered vehicles, untraced or uninsured drivers;
• Cases where insurers raise fraud and/or fundamental dishonesty;
• Cases involving credit hire and subrogated losses.

• "Laura handled my claim with professionalism and efficiency, keeping me informed every step of the way. Her expert advice and clear communication ensured a smooth process, leading to a timely and fair resolution. I highly recommend JMW to anyone in need of legal support. Thank you for making what could have been a stressful experience as seamless as possible."
• "I had an excellent experience with Laura at JMW regarding my claim. The process was handled professionally and efficiently, with clear communication at every step. The team was responsive, empathetic, and went above and beyond to ensure my concerns were addressed promptly. I truly appreciated the seamless experience and would highly recommend their services to others. Thank you for making a potentially stressful situation so manageable!"
• "I got knocked off my road bike in May 2023 and appointed JMW Solicitors to act on my behalf. Laura Roche acted on my behalf. Laura's handling of the case was excellent throughout, arranging everything, and she always kept me in the loop. The final settlement was more than I thought at the outset. I have found Laura's attitude, conduct, knowledge, and professionalism to be second to none. Thank you so much, Laura."
• "I would just like to personally say a huge thank you. You have been the one constant from the start of this whole legal process that has been by my side. I really appreciate the compassion, professionalism, and knowledge that you’ve given me since day one. I will never forget the kindness you showed me when I was particularly fragile, at the beginning, when I was trying to get help and treatment. You have been so brilliant and understanding. I think what you said at the end of today’s conference call, about closure of the process being healing in itself, may be true. I already feel like a weight has been lifted and a sense of relief. Thank you so much, Laura."

• "It is always a pleasure to be instructed by Laura Roche of JMW. Her cases are meticulously prepared, and her instructions are consistently clear and insightful. Laura possesses the intellect, courage, and experience required to fight fiercely and effectively for her clients. Over the years, I have seen her secure numerous outstanding results, both at trial and through settlements. Put simply, she knows how to win." - Jamie Hill, Barrister, Nine Chambers
• "Laura is an excellent practitioner. She is approachable, diligent, and consistently goes above and beyond to secure the best possible outcome for her clients. She has a real talent for identifying the decisive issues in a case at an early stage and offers calm, reassuring advice that is clear, practical, and well-focused. She is genuinely a delight to work with." - Daniel Boal, Barrister, 18 St John Street Chambers

• C v UK Insurance Limited - Laura acted for a Claimant injured in a cycling accident. Proceedings were issued and served on the Defendant's nominated Solicitors. They failed to acknowledge and defend the proceedings. Some months later they switched Solicitors and applied to set Judgment aside. Laura successfully opposed the application and the Claimant was awarded their costs.
• C v FOK - Laura acted for a Claimant injured in a cycling accident. The Defendant Insurers made an initial offer well below fair and reasonable. Laura gave notice that we would be seeking an award 3 times that amount, and later issued proceedings. The matter went to Trial, and the Defendant attempted to argue fundamental dishonesty. The Judge gave Judgment for the Claimant and commented, "I found the Claimant to be an honest and straightforward witness" - the Judgment exceeded the Claimant's own Part 36 offer, so the Claimant received the benefit of an uplift on his damages plus interest and indemnity costs and interest.
• C v VF - Another cyclist injured in a road traffic accident. Despite liability being admitted, no offers were made by the Defendant Insurers. Proceedings were issued, judgment obtained, and the matter went to a Disposal Hearing. Again, the Claimant beat their own Part 36 offer.
• C v The MIB - Laura acted for an e-scooter rider who was knocked off his escooter by an untraced motorist. The MIB admitted liability and C received an award of £150,000, including future lost earnings.
• C v Pets at Home - Laura acted for a Claimant who was visiting the Defendant's store and slipped on a wet floor. The Claimant suffered an MCL sprain and a meniscus tear. Laura arranged for the Claimant to be assessed by a treating Orthopaedic Surgeon for the benefit of arthroscopic meniscectomy surgery. The Claimant said: "JMW are fantastic Solicitors, Laura Roche has been amazing from start to finish. I felt completely reassured that I was a priority and my case was dealt with very efficiently. I would highly recommend JMW to anyone who needs assistance, as they will definitely fight your corner."
• C v National Car Parks Limited - Laura acted for a Claimant who was using the Defendant's car park and slipped down a step/kerb which was disguised and not highlighted from the lower level of the flooring. The Claimant suffered an ankle fracture - despite the Defendant's denial of liability, Laura recouped damages for the Claimant and the matter settled without a Trial. The Claimant was delighted with the result - "I received an excellent service from start to finish. Laura Roche was professional, clear, and reassuring throughout the entire process. She provided trusted guidance and support at every stage, explaining things in a way that made me feel confident and well-informed. I would not hesitate to recommend Laura to anyone looking for professional, supportive, and reliable legal representation."
• C v Surrey County Council - Laura acted for a Claimant who was dismounted from his bicycle by a pothole in the road. Liability was denied throughout the case, but prior to Trial the matter was settled. The Claimant left the following feedback: "Laura and the team successfully resolved my claim. I appreciated the clear guidance, direction, and understanding provided by Laura. Would recommend."

• CILEX

In her personal life, Laura enjoys dining out, shopping, and travelling. As a former competitive gymnast representing Greater Manchester and the North West, Laura enjoys keeping fit by going to the gym and weight training with a personal trainer. She also enjoys spending quality time with her young family.