Professional Negligence Solicitors in Cheltenham
Legal Advice on Claims Arising From Professional Errors and Failures
Specialist Legal Advice on Small Claims
When a professional fails to provide services with reasonable care and skill, the consequences can be significant. Professional negligence claims arise where poor advice, mistakes, or omissions cause financial loss or other damage that could have been avoided.
We provide clear legal advice on professional negligence claims to individuals and businesses in Cheltenham and across England and Wales. Our role is to assess whether a professional has breached their duty of care, explain the legal options available, and guide you through the claims process in a structured and proportionate way.
We also advise clients nationwide and can provide support remotely where appropriate.
What Is Professional Negligence?
Professional negligence occurs when a professional fails to meet the standard of care expected within their profession and that failure causes loss. The standard applied is whether the professional acted in accordance with the level of skill and care reasonably expected of someone in their position.
Claims can arise from incorrect advice, missed deadlines, inadequate preparation, failure to follow instructions, or failure to identify risks. Each claim depends on the specific facts and the professional duties owed in the circumstances.
Types of Professional Negligence Claims
Professional negligence claims may arise across a wide range of professions. We regularly advise on claims involving:
Solicitors and legal advisers
Accountants and tax advisers
Surveyors and valuers
Financial advisers and brokers
Consultants and specialist advisers
The nature of the claim will depend on the service provided and the loss that has resulted from the alleged negligence.
Establishing Breach of Duty and Loss
To succeed in a professional negligence claim, it must be shown that the professional breached their duty of care and that this breach caused loss. It is not enough to show that advice was poor; it must be demonstrated that the advice fell below an acceptable standard and led directly to damage.
We review engagement letters, advice given, correspondence, and supporting documentation to assess whether the legal requirements for a claim are met. Where necessary, expert evidence may be used to assess whether the professional’s conduct fell below the required standard.
Limitation Periods for Professional Negligence Claims
Strict time limits apply to professional negligence claims. In most cases, a claim must be brought within six years of the negligent act or omission, or within three years from the date the issue was discovered or should reasonably have been discovered.
Determining the correct limitation period can be complex. We advise on how time limits apply to your circumstances and whether a claim remains viable.
Resolving Professional Negligence Disputes
Professional negligence claims do not always require court proceedings. In many cases, disputes can be resolved through early correspondence, negotiation, or alternative dispute resolution.
We advise on the most appropriate route based on the strength of the claim, the value of the loss, and the proportionality of pursuing formal action. Where court proceedings are necessary, we ensure claims are prepared carefully and managed efficiently.
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Professional negligence FAQs
What types of professionals can be sued for negligence?
Professional negligence claims can be brought against a wide range of professionals, including solicitors, accountants, surveyors, architects, financial advisers, and other regulated professionals. The key issue is whether they owed you a duty of care and failed to meet the standard expected of someone in their role.
How do I know if poor advice amounts to negligence?
Not all poor outcomes result from negligence. The question is whether the advice or service fell below an acceptable professional standard and caused loss. This often requires comparing what was done with what a reasonably competent professional should have done in the same situation.
Do I need evidence to bring a professional negligence claim?
Yes. Evidence is essential and usually includes documents, correspondence, reports, and records of advice given. The stronger and clearer the evidence, the easier it is to assess whether negligence occurred and whether the loss can be linked to it.
Is there a time limit for bringing a professional negligence claim?
Yes. Professional negligence claims are subject to strict time limits, which can vary depending on when the negligence occurred and when it was discovered. Because these rules are complex, early advice is important to avoid missing deadlines.
Can professional negligence claims be resolved without court proceedings?
Many claims are resolved without going to court through negotiation or settlement once liability and loss are clearly set out. Court proceedings are usually considered only where resolution cannot be achieved through other means.
Is it expensive to bring a professional negligence claim?
The cost depends on the complexity and value of the claim. Legal advice can help assess whether the claim is proportionate and explain funding options before any action is taken.
Advice in Cheltenham and Across England and Wales
We advise on professional negligence claims in Cheltenham, across Gloucestershire, and throughout England and Wales. Advice can be provided in person at our Cheltenham office or remotely by telephone or video call where appropriate.
Speak to a Solicitor
If you believe you have suffered loss due to professional negligence and would like legal advice, speaking to a solicitor early can help clarify your position. To discuss your situation, call 0330 900 0377 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation.
How to Find Us
Pembridge Solicitors
Calderwood House
Montpellier Parade
Cheltenham
GL50 1UA
If you have any questions before visiting or would prefer remote advice, please contact us by phone.