Professional Negligence

Professional negligence claims arise where a qualified professional fails to exercise the reasonable care, skill, or expertise expected within their profession, resulting in financial loss or other damage to a client. Kerrigan Solicitors advises clients throughout Galway and Ireland in relation to professional negligence claims and civil litigation matters.

What Is Professional Negligence?

Professional negligence occurs where a professional adviser or service provider breaches their duty of care to a client by failing to meet the standards expected of a competent professional in that field.

To establish a professional negligence claim in Ireland, it is generally necessary to show:

• That the professional owed a duty of care to the client
• That the professional breached the required standard of care
• That the breach directly caused financial loss or damage

Professional negligence claims can arise in a wide variety of industries and professions.

Types of Professional Negligence Claims

Professional negligence claims may involve:

• Accountants
• Architects
• Builders and construction professionals
• Engineers
• Financial institutions and advisers
• Healthcare professionals
• Pharmacists

Common examples of professional negligence may include:

• Incorrect or inadequate professional advice
• Errors in reports, valuations, or financial returns
• Failure to follow client instructions
• Negligent financial management
• Professional errors resulting in financial loss

Investigating Professional Negligence Claims

Professional negligence claims are often complex and usually require detailed review of documentation together with independent expert evidence.

An expert witness may be required to assess whether the professional failed to meet the standards expected within their profession and whether this directly caused the loss suffered by the client.

Kerrigan Solicitors advises clients throughout the investigation and litigation process and works with appropriate independent experts where necessary.

Time Limits for Professional Negligence Claims

Strict time limits apply to professional negligence claims in Ireland. In many cases, court proceedings must be commenced within six years of the negligent act or omission.

However, clients may not immediately become aware of the negligence or resulting loss. For example, an accounting error may only become apparent following correspondence from Revenue or another regulatory authority.

Because of these limitation periods, it is important to seek legal advice as early as possible. Early investigation allows sufficient time to review documentation, obtain expert reports, and protect your legal position before time limits expire.

Kerrigan Solicitors has the experience to guide clients through complex professional negligence claims and civil litigation matters. You can also read what previous clients have said about their experience of working with us.

Speak With a Professional Negligence Solicitor

If you believe you have suffered financial loss or damage due to professional negligence, we can provide clear, practical guidance regarding your situation.

Contact Kerrigan Solicitors to arrange a confidential consultation. We advise clients throughout Galway and Ireland in relation to professional negligence claims and related litigation matters.

Email us at m.kerrigan@kerrigansolicitors.ie or telephone 091-820630 to arrange a consultation.