Professional Negligence
We have many years’ experience of acting for and against professionals who are alleged to have provided a service below that which can reasonably be expected. This includes traditional professionals such as solicitors, architects, surveyors, engineers and accountants and also new or emerging professionals, such as IT and media consultants. Claims for and against property professionals, including valuers, estate agents and property management companies form a significant part of our professional negligence practice, as do claims involving construction professionals, including quantity surveyors, engineers and project managers. Claims against financial advisers is an area of particular expertise and our experience includes not only claims in the Courts, but also those referred to various Ombudsmen schemes, such as the Financial Ombudsman Scheme.
We have developed a particular expertise in relation to claims against schools, colleges and universities, often where allegations of discrimination have been made.
We seek to avoid litigation, where possible, and therefore consider whether it is appropriate to use alternative forms of dispute resolution, such as mediation and adjudication. Expert evidence is often vital to the successful defence or prosecution of a professional negligence claim and we are careful to appoint and thereafter liaise closely with trusted and effective experts to achieve the best results for our clients.
We have significant experience and expertise to advise on policy coverage issues and as to risk management, where appropriate.
We regularly advise clients in relation to the obligations of Directors & Officers (D&O) and deal with claims where D& O cover is in place.