Q. Do You Have A Professional Negligence Claim?
If you have received advice from a professional who has made a mistake or mishandled your matter, you may have a claim for professional negligence.
Q. How do I know the claim has been mishandled?
The test which is applied is whether the professional has reached the standard usually provided by a reasonably competent professional in the same field of work. If the professional has not acted in that way, and this has caused you financial loss, then you may have a claim.
Q. What Professional can I make a claim against?
Professional Negligence - Frequently asked questions
We have successfully brought claims against surveyors, architects, solicitors and accountants. A claim can be made against any professional.
Q. Have I got a claim?
It is not enough for you to have received poor service. Nor is it enough for you to have a grievance against the professional concerned which does not amount to negligence. The service has to fall below the legal test which is whether the advice falls below the standard usually provided by a competent Professional working in the same field.
If your complaint relates to poor service you should approach the relevant professional body, which is likely to have its own complaints procedures.
Q. What can I claim for?
Any financial losses directly suffered as a result of the below standard advice. The damages should seek to put you in the position you would have been in if the negligent action had not taken place.
Q. What do I need to do next?
You contact our professional negligence specialists. We will review the facts, analyse the situation and provide advice and assistance.
Q. What are the costs of making a professional negligence claim?
Following consideration of a claim, it may be possible for us to carry out work under a ‘no-win no-fee agreement’ otherwise known as a Conditional Fee Agreement. This would need to be supported by insurance. You should also check whether you have legal expenses insurance or any other type of funding available to you such as trade union funding. We can provide advice upon funding such an action.
Q. What are the Time limits
In most professional negligence claims you have six years to issue Court proceedings. The period generally starts to run from the date when the professional was negligent or the date you suffered loss. We would suggest that you contact us as soon as you think you have a potential claim so that we can advise you further.
Q. What happens next?
If you would like more information or would like to see one of our Solicitors specialising in professional negligence matters, please call Catherine Preece on 01332 225225.
Main Contact:
catherine.preece@smithpartnership.co.uk