Samantha Higgins

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in October 2000, since then I have predominantly worked in the field of spinal cord injury, upper limb injuries, pain management and orthopaedics. Over the last 11 years my clinical caseload has focused on the specialist rehabilitation of individuals following spinal cord injury. This has enabled me to develop comprehensive, holistic assessment and treatment skills for patients with highly complex presentations including assessment for and knowledge of specialist equipment, upper limb treatment interventions including splinting, seating provision for complex postural presentations, complex discharge planning and vocational support.

I joined Somek & Associates as an expert witness in 2012. Between 2015 and 2019 I worked for Somek & Associates as Deputy Clinical Business Manager, this involved liaising with clients, identification of appropriate experts, assessment and report types.

In August 2019, I returned to clinical practice based within a leading spinal cord injury centre. I provide advice and support to referring hospitals on the therapeutic management of individuals following acute spinal cord injuries, the management of a small caseload of inpatients through their initial rehabilitation and an outpatient caseload. I provide clinical support, education and guidance to more junior members of the team.

Throughout my career I have maintained active involvement in developing skills, knowledge and education, attending and presenting on national study days, national and international conferences and the development of national guidelines for upper limb management of spinal cord injury.

I accept instructions from both Claimant and Defendant Solicitors and Insurers. I have undergone formal training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to Expert Witnesses.