James Northridge, the visionary behind UrAbility, is a distinguished researcher and educator with a global reputation as a foremost authority in the domain of assistive technology (AT).
James provides his services as an Assistive Technology Expert Witness to leading law firms in Ireland and the UK.
Over the past twelve years, James has closely collaborated with hundreds of children with disabilities and their families in both Ireland and the United States, addressing their unique technological requirements. His extensive background includes a tenure at UMASS Medical School in Boston as a Marie Curie Research Fellow.
James possesses substantial expertise in evaluating individuals with various learning, physical, and cognitive challenges. He has a particular knack for identifying technology solutions that cater to clients with autism, cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, and spinal injury, specifically focusing on technology support for communication and home environmental control.
James' proficiency in serving as an expert witness is well bolstered by his active involvement in the global research and development of assistive technology solutions.
James aims to ensure that each client’s technology needs are comprehensively assessed and accounted for, to enable them to reach their full potential and live an independent and quality life.
My medico-legal report will:
Outline the functional limitations imposed by the individual’s injury or illness and give their current and future Assistive Technology requirements
Contain recommendations and costs for Assistive Technology required by the client during their lifetime for personal care, education, employment, leisure activities, and independent living
Client Testimonial
James appears to have an endless supply of knowledge and experience in the AT area. He has a natural ability and willingness to share this information with everyone!
– Lorraine Dineen
Expert Witness Services Include:
Client Visit
Visiting the client’s own home, hospital, nursing home or other place where they are incapacitated to assess their needs. This can be done via Zoom or in-person.
Technology Trials
Trial of technology supports, as relevant and where feasible. Video of the client using the relevant technologies, which demonstrates and reiterates their benefit, is included.
Testimony
Appearance in court to give evidence of and validate client’s technology needs and recommended supports as required.
I’m James Northridge, the Founder of UrAbility and an expert in the field of assistive technology.
Here’s my professional background in assistive technology:
United Nations #ZeroProject 2020 Award Winner; one of only 75 innovative practices selected internationally that supports people with disabilities in education
2018 winner of the Young Researcher of the Year at the International Conference on Computers Helping People with Special Needs (ICCHP) in Austria
Three-year Marie Curie Assistive Technology Fellowship at UMass Medical School, Boston
Founder of UrAbility, where I use my expertise in technology to help students with learning challenges thrive through online courses, workshops, and one-on-one training. I’ve worked with hundreds of educators and families across Europe and the U.S.
First-class honours Degree in Business Information Systems from University College Cork
First-class honours Masters in Disabilities Studies from University College Dublin
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you work for claimants or defendants?
I provide expert witness services for both claimants and defendants throughout Ireland and the UK.
What’s the expert witness report process?
I will request copies of all other medical reports to be sent via secure digital transfer. Once all documentation is reviewed, I’ll arrange an appointment to meet with the client for an assessment (usually up to 2 hours). I’ll write a detailed report and deliver it to you within three weeks.
How long will it take to receive the report?
Once I receive all required documents and medical reports, I have assessed the client, and payment has been made, I’ll deliver the report to you within three weeks. I also offer expedited service upon request.
How is the expert witness report presented?
My report is delivered to you in PDF format and is written in a manner that is both easy to understand and contains all of the information required by your client and court. I include a full list of recommended supports, including annual and lifetime replacement costs, to ensure you have the full picture.
Do you supply a video overview of the report?
Yes. I will create a video overview (sent via a secure link) of the report to be shared with the court and client. This video will break down the level of disability, its impact on the client, and the required technology in under 10 minutes.
I have more questions!
I’m happy to jump on a call to discuss your specific case and how I can help your client. Just get in touch here.