Identify the responsibility
A disappointing result does not by itself prove negligence. The starting point is who owed a duty, what work or responsibility they accepted and what they are said to have done wrong.
Disputes Affecting You
Negligence Claims
If someone’s failure to take proper care has caused a loss, you may want to know whether there is a claim. We can discuss the circumstances and identify the type of advice and evidence needed.
Understanding your next steps
How we can help
Connect the failure and the loss
A claim needs careful consideration of the link between the alleged failure and the loss. Keep records showing what happened, what it cost and any steps taken to limit the damage.
Confirm the right scope
Different rules apply to different types of negligence. Tell us at the outset if the issue concerns injury, medical treatment or specialist work so we can confirm whether we can assist or whether another specialist is needed.
A clear way forward
What happens next
What to have ready
Prepare a short account with dates, the relevant contract or instructions, correspondence and evidence of the loss. Include any complaint already made and the response.
Your next step
Ask us to review the type of matter and confirm whether it falls within our work. If it does, we can agree an initial assessment before further costs are incurred.
Planning ahead
Fees and timescales
01 / Fees
What the costs cover
An initial assessment may identify a need for expert evidence before the strength of a claim can be judged. We agree the legal fee and VAT for that assessment and discuss any further report, investigation or court costs before proceeding.
02 / Timescales
Timing and deadlines
Time limits vary with the type of claim and the circumstances. Do not assume that a complaint or negotiation pauses them. Seek advice as soon as the loss becomes apparent.
Read our published Price Guide, then contact us to confirm the work you need and the costs involved.
View Price GuideUseful to know
Your questions, answered
Is every mistake negligence?
No. A legal claim needs more than an error. The duty, the standard of care, the cause of the loss and available remedies all require assessment.
What counts as evidence of loss?
Invoices, valuations, account records and correspondence may help. The relevant evidence depends on the loss alleged and may need expert input.
Can I complain and bring a claim?
A complaint may be useful, but its role and any effect on other rights need checking. Do not assume a complaint protects the deadline for proceedings.
Do you handle every type of negligence case?
We first need to identify the type of claim and confirm whether we can act. Personal injury, clinical negligence and some technical matters may need a different specialist.
General information for England and Wales. Contact us for advice about your circumstances.
SJS Solicitors · Balham