In the first Q&A of 2020, I’ve sat down with Thomas Stride, to learn more about his training background, his role within Howells, and his plans for the future. Check out his answers below.
Tell Us A Bit About Your Background. Where Did You Grow Up?
I was born in Cardiff and grew up in Cathays. I now live in Canton and have only lived outside of Cardiff for the 3-year period that I studied law at Swansea University. Cardiff is one of the fastest growing cities in Europe and a great place to live. With the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons an hour’s drive away, I can’t think of a better place to be.
I have a Scottish mother, so spent a lot of time in Edinburgh (another great city) as a child. Trips to Ben Lomond and the Highlands whetted my appetite for adventure holidays and now as an adult I always look to take trips to new places when I can. I recently came back from a skiing holiday where there were great views of Mont Blanc.
What Led You to The Law, And Then to Practice in Personal Injury in Particular?
My grandmother sat as a Magistrate at Aberdare Magistrates Court and I was always interested to hear her stories. At 15, I did a week of work experience at Leo Abse & Cohen Solicitors and was hooked.
I have always wanted to help people and being a personal injury lawyer enables me to help and guide my clients throughout the claims process from start to finish. My expertise is in high value employers and public liability claims, but I am also skilled at handling cases involving road traffic accidents. I adopt a thorough and understanding approach and I always seek to get the best possible results for my clients.
Are There Any Specific Aspects of Your Role That You Particularly Enjoy?
When I settle each case, knowing that I have achieved the best possible outcome for my client, I hope that I have been able to make a difference to their life.
Why Did You Choose Howells?
Howells are a multi award-winning firm and are one of the largest and longest established firms of solicitors in Wales. There is a real family feel here and I have instantly been made to feel welcome. I have worked with Sue Edwards and Rob Jones in the past, and was keen to work with them again. I am looking forward to my future working at such a progressive and successful firm.
What Are Your Ambitions Inside of Work?
I want to be part of the firm’s Personal Injury and Medical Negligence department’s continuous growth. I have worked with Sue Edwards, who is the Partner and Head of the Department, previously, and I am confident that along with Sue and the team I will be able to help drive the business forward. This is a very exciting time for us and I am eager to see what the future holds for me and the team here at Howells.
And Outside of Work, How Do You Spend Your Time?
I try my hand at DIY and gardening when I’m at home. I enjoy cooking too, but won’t profess to be a master of any of these. I enjoy walking: mountain, coastal and countryside, and I run and play football when I can. I support Cardiff City Football Club, for my sins.
Get to Know the Howells Team
If you would like to learn more about Thomas, or any other member of the growing Howells team, please explore the Our People section of this website or get in touch.
