A solicitor at Bristol law firm Barcan+Kirby has been shortlisted in a new category in the Action Against Medical Accidents Awards.
Former oncology nurse Fiona Dabell, pictured, who specialises in medical negligence, is among the contenders for the inaugural Rising Star award. 
Action Against Medical Accidents (AvMA) is a national charity campaigning for patient safety and supporting victims of medical negligence.
The Rising Star award is a new initiative aimed at recognising excellence exhibited by junior medical negligence solicitors who represent injured patients and their families. The winner will be announced at AvMA’s 30th annual clinical negligence conference in Brighton on Friday.
The nomination comes hot on the heels of the Junior Lawyer of the Year title won by Fiona at last year’s Bristol Law Society Awards.
Before starting her career in the legal profession, Fiona worked as a registered oncology nurse. and authored materials for a postgraduate degree in Health Law at Salford University, where she tutored for four years.
Following her time at the university, Fiona decided to step into legal practice and joined Barcan+Kirby’s medical negligence team, where she qualified as a solicitor in 2016.
Fiona said: “It’s a surprise and an honour to be part of AvMA’s shortlist. For me, this is a testament to the support and encouragement I have received from the great team at Barcan+Kirby.”
Partner and head of department Richard Harries added: “This nomination justly reflects Fiona’s commitment and dedication to her clients, as well as the expertise and legal acumen she exhibits in all her work.”
Barcan+Kirby offers a comprehensive range of legal services from its six offices across Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
