Duty of care in professional negligence covers claims arising when a professional’s breach of the standard of care causes loss to a client. It includes solicitors, doctors, architects and other regulated professionals. A solicitor handling these matters investigates the breach, gathers expert evidence, negotiates settlements, and may issue or defend court proceedings to recover damages. In practice, claims hinge on establishing the duty, breach, causation and loss, with time limits and professional indemnity shaping strategy.
Why this work is usually handled by a solicitor
If a professional erred, the client must prove breach and loss; a regulated solicitor provides accounts of professional standards, protected client funds handling, and access to professional indemnity. They instruct experts, prepare pleadings, advise on settlement options, and conduct proceedings in the appropriate court. This work remains anchored in regulated conduct and evidence-based proof of causation and damages.