Are you worried about advice you have received from a professional? Are you concerned that the professionals actions have caused you to lose money?
Melissa Worth, a Partner at the award-winning SRA-regulated solicitors firm, Bexley Beaumont, shares how she leverages her unique expertise to guide private individuals, company executives, and business owners through the complexities of professional negligence claims.
If you're reading this, you may be concerned that a professional has made an error resulting in financial loss. Finding yourself in this situation can be very distressing. I understand this because I've helped many clients in claims against professionals, securing compensation for them after things have gone wrong.
When you trust a professional—be it a solicitor, surveyor, accountant, or architect—you expect the highest standards of care and expertise. While most professionals deliver great service, things don't always go as planned. Professional negligence can have serious repercussions for business owners, private individuals, and company executives alike.
Every professional owes a duty of care to their clients, meaning they must exercise reasonable skill and care when providing advice or services. If you believe the advice or service you received fell below the expected standard and caused a negative outcome, then I can help.
Unlike most other solicitors, I have represented both professionals (the defendants) and claimants, giving me a comprehensive understanding of both sides of negligence claims.
I recognise the emotional toll that professional negligence claims can take and I offers empathy and support throughout the process, making her clients feel valued and understood.
I am a solicitor and Partner at Bexley Beaumont, an award-winning law firm regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. I am based in Manchester, and I have clients across the country. I act for all my clients through Bexley Beaumont, and you can contact me by email melissaworth@bexleybeaumont.com or telephone 03339 960 640.
I bring a unique perspective to my practice because, for many years, I worked with professional indemnity insurers to defend negligence claims against professionals. This dual experience allows me to grasp the intricacies and nuances of negligence claims from all angles. This comprehensive understanding of both sides ensures that my clients receive well-rounded and effective representation.
This extensive experience means I am adept at identifying potential pitfalls and opportunities that others might overlook, providing my clients with strategic advantages.
I approach each case with a balanced perspective, ensuring that all aspects are considered and addressed thoroughly. My clients can trust that they are in capable hands, benefiting from my holistic understanding of the legal landscape surrounding professional indemnity and negligence claims.
I am approachable, down-to-earth and deeply committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for my clients.
I help my clients with claims against various types of professionals, including solicitors, surveyors, financial advisers, accountants and architects.
Solicitors are trusted advisors on legal matters, providing essential guidance and representation. However, when they fail to deliver services to the expected standard, the consequences can be severe and far-reaching. I specialise in handling claims against solicitors, ensuring that clients receive the justice they deserve.
My expertise covers these scenarios and more, providing clients with the legal recourse needed to address solicitors’ negligence. If you believe you have a claim against a solicitor, contact me for a consultation so that I can help you understand your options.
Please contact me by email melissaworth@bexleybeaumont.com or telephone 03339 960 640.
Surveyors play a crucial role in property transactions and assessments. Errors in their valuation or survey reports can lead to significant financial losses.
Incorrect Valuations: Over-valuations can cause buyers to pay more than a property's true market value, resulting in financial strain or difficulty in securing financing.
Inaccurate Surveys: Failures to identify structural problems can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards for occupants.
Defective Property Conditions: Overlooking issues like mould, dampness, or pest infestations can deteriorate living conditions and require expensive remediation.
Boundary Discrepancies: Errors in identifying property lines can result in disputes with neighbours, legal battles, and the need to relocate structures.
Failure to Provide Adequate Recommendations: Inadequate maintenance advice or lack of expert referral can lead to unexpected costs and property degradation.
Inadequate Maintenance Advice: Failing to inform clients of necessary maintenance or future repair needs can lead to unexpected costs.
Lack of Expert Referral: Not recommending specialist surveys (e.g., electrical, plumbing) can overlook critical issues that require expert assessment.
If you believe that your surveyor's negligence has led to significant financial losses, I am here to help. With years of experience dealing with surveyors' negligence claims, I can guide you through the process of making a claim and seeking redress.
Please contact me by email melissaworth@bexleybeaumont.com or telephone 03339 960 640.
Architects play a crucial role in ensuring that buildings not only look good but are also functional and safe. However, the complexities involved in architectural design and project management mean that mistakes can sometimes occur. These errors can lead to significant project delays and financial losses.
Design Errors: Design flaws or omissions can lead to structural problems, safety hazards, and costly modifications.
Non-compliance with Building Regulations: Failure to adhere to building regulations can result in delays and unexpected costs for the project.
Lack of Oversight in Construction: Architects are responsible for overseeing construction progress and ensuring that it meets design specifications. Failures in this duty can result in poor quality workmanship, project delays, and financial losses.
Absence of Clear Contract Terms: Unclear or incomplete contract terms can lead to disputes
If you suspect that your architect's oversight has caused substantial financial loss, I can help you. With extensive experience in handling professional negligence claims, I will guide you through the claims process and help you seek the redress you deserve.
Please contact me by email melissaworth@bexleybeaumont.com or telephone 03339 960 640.
The role of accountants is vital in managing an organisation's or high net worth individual's financial health. They are trusted with ensuring accurate financial reporting, tax compliance, and strategic financial planning. However, mistakes or oversights by accountants can lead to severe consequences, including tax issues, financial losses, and legal penalties.
Inaccurate Record-Keeping: Failure to maintain accurate financial records can lead to significant discrepancies in financial statements, causing stakeholders to make decisions based on incorrect information.
Improper Financial Forecasting: Providing unrealistic or inaccurate financial forecasts can jeopardize financial planning and decision-making processes.
Misfiling Tax Returns: Incorrectly filed tax returns can result in audits, fines, and penalties from tax authorities.
Failure to Maximise Deductions: Overlooking eligible deductions and credits can lead to higher tax liabilities than necessary.
Conflict of Interest: Engaging in activities that benefit the accountant at the expense of the client can constitute a breach of fiduciary duty.
Failure to Act in the Client's Best Interest: Not providing advice or taking actions that are in the best interest of the client can be grounds for a negligence claim.
Inadequate Understanding of Accounting Standards: Failing to keep up with changes in accounting standards and regulations can lead to non-compliance and financial inaccuracies.
Missed Deadlines: Failing to meet critical deadlines for tax filings, financial reporting, or other accounting tasks can result in penalties and lost opportunities.
Delayed Response to Client Inquiries: Not promptly addressing client concerns and inquiries can lead to misunderstandings and financial harm.
Overstating Financial Health: Providing overly optimistic assessments of a client's financial situation without basis can lead to poor business decisions.
False Promises: Guaranteeing specific financial outcomes that are not achievable under realistic circumstances.
Accountants hold a position of great responsibility and trust. When they fail to fulfil their duties competently and ethically, the repercussions can be severe for their clients. If you believe you have been affected by an accountant's negligence, I have the experience to help you to navigate the complexities of your claim.
Please contact me by email melissaworth@bexleybeaumont.com or telephone 03339 960 640.
When seeking financial advice, individuals and businesses put their trust in the expertise of a financial adviser. However, there are times when this trust is broken due to professional negligence on the part of the financial adviser. In such cases, it is important to understand the types of professional negligence claims that can be made against a financial adviser and how legal representation can help.
Unsuitable advice: Financial advisers have a duty to provide competent and suitable advice to their clients based on their financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance. When a financial adviser fails to thoroughly assess a client’s needs and provides inappropriate or unsuitable advice, it constitutes a breach of duty. This can lead to significant financial losses for the client, which may be grounds for a negligence claim.
Misrepresentation: Allegations of misrepresentation arises when a financial adviser provides false or misleading information that a client relies upon to make investment decisions. This can occur if an adviser overstates the potential returns of an investment or omits key information about associated risks. Misrepresentation can lead to a client suffering unforeseen losses and may warrant a claim for damages.
Failure to Disclose Conflicts of Interest: Financial advisers are obligated to act in the best interest of their clients, which includes disclosing any conflicts of interest that might impair their objectivity. If a financial adviser fails to disclose relationships or financial interests that conflict with the interests of the client, it can result in financial harm to the client and become grounds for a professional negligence claim.
Poor Investment Management: Financial advisers are expected to manage their client’s investments diligently and wisely. When an adviser neglects to monitor investments and advise and adjust strategies based on market changes, it can result in suboptimal returns or losses. Clients who experience financial harm due to neglectful investment management may have the right to pursue a professional negligence claim.
With my extensive knowledge and expertise in this area of law, I can provide valuable guidance and representation to clients who have suffered financial losses due to the negligence of their adviser.
I understand that these types of disputes can be complex and emotionally taxing for clients, which is why I strive to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. I work closely with my clients to gather all necessary evidence, assess the strength of their cases and pursue appropriate legal action to seek fair compensation for their losses.
If you need help with a claim against a financial adviser, please contact me by email melissaworth@bexleybeaumont.com or telephone 03339 960 640.
Navigating property transactions can be complex, and mishaps can occur. When these mistakes are due to professional negligence, they can have severe financial consequences.
Solicitors play a pivotal role in property transactions, ensuring that all legal aspects are correctly handled. However, negligence can occur if they fail to conduct essential searches, miss critical deadlines, or provide incorrect advice. Such oversights can result in significant financial losses or complications for their clients.
Surveyor Negligence
Surveyors are responsible for assessing a property's condition and value. If they fail to identify structural issues or incorrectly value the property, it can lead to severe financial repercussions for the buyer. Claims against surveyors often arise when these professionals provide inaccurate or incomplete reports.
Architect Negligence
Architects involved in property transactions must deliver precise and safe designs. Errors in planning, non-compliance with building regulations, or failure to oversee project progress can result in substantial financial and structural problems. Clients affected by such negligence can pursue claims to cover their losses.
Recovering compensation for professional negligence in property transactions requires expert legal assistance. I am a highly experienced solicitor dedicated to helping clients hold negligent professionals accountable and secure the resolution they deserve.
I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to each case, meticulously analysing every detail to ensure a strong claim. Through my comprehensive and client-focused approach, I ensure that my clients receive the support and guidance they need throughout the legal process.
Whether you've faced negligence from a solicitor, surveyor, or architect, I am committed to securing the best possible outcome for you.
Please contact me by email melissaworth@bexleybeaumont.com or telephone 03339 960 640.
Why Choose me?
Expert Assessment
I provides an early assessment of the merits of pursuing a professional negligence claim and discusses funding options with you.
Comprehensive Review
I will carefully reviews all relevant facts, documents, and events related to your case to ensure that I understand the full picture.
Strategic Guidance
I will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you are well-prepared to move your claim forward.
Understanding the Process
Before any claim is commenced, I will explain the specific process for pursuing a professional negligence claim in England and Wales. This includes understanding the Pre-Action Protocol for Professional Negligence, which encourages the early exchange of information and evidence. The protocol helps narrow down the issues in dispute and provides an opportunity to explore settlement without going to court.
Exploring Resolution Options
I understand that litigation can be stressful and time-consuming. That's why I will explore all options for resolving your claim, including alternative dispute resolution methods such as negotiation and mediation. The goal is to achieve an out-of-court settlement whenever possible to avoid the stress, cost, and inconvenience of attending a trial.
Dealing with Insurance
Almost all professionals have professional indemnity insurance to cover liabilities arising from negligence claims. I have previously acted for professional indemnity insurers. I am therefore experienced in dealing with insurers and their solicitors, especially in complex disputes.
Client-Focused Service
I focus on my clients' individual and business needs. My vast experience in professional negligence claims allows me to quickly identify key issues and advise on the best strategic course of action for your case.
If you think you might have a professional negligence claim, don't hesitate to contact me. Me and my experienced team is ready to help you regain control and work towards a successful resolution. Contact me today for a consultation and take the first step towards addressing your professional negligence concerns.
My unique experience acting for and against professionals and their indemnity insurers gives me unparalleled insight into professional negligence claims. I understand the complexities involved and I am dedicated to advocating for my clients' best interests.
Contact me today to discuss your case and see how I can help you achieve the resolution you deserve.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact me today.
Examples of Recent Professional Negligence Success Stories
Tax Planning Gone Wrong
I helped my business client to secure compensation in their multi-million-pound professional negligence claim against a firm of accountants and tax advisers. The advisers provided negligent tax planning advice, resulting in lost profit and significant penalties from HMRC. I successfully helped my clients secure a settlement before trial, saving them from further litigation costs and risks. The outcome not only rectified the financial penalties but also restored my clients' trust in professional advice.
Structural Engineering Mishap
I assisted in resolving a £250,000 claim against a structural engineering firm. The engineers' poor advice on the foundations of a day nursery led to substantial structural damage. By negotiating a settlement before trial, my clients avoided the high costs and uncertainties associated with court proceedings. This timely resolution enabled the claimant to focus on repairing the damage and continuing their business operations.
Employment Advice Failure
A company director sought my expertise to bring a claim against an employment solicitor who failed to provide crucial guidance on post-termination restrictions. This negligence jeopardised the director's livelihood. Through careful negotiation, I helped my client yo secure a settlement before the case reached trial. This outcome provided my client with significant compensation, alleviating the stress and financial burden of litigation.
Planning Use Oversight
I represented a transport company in a professional negligence claim against commercial property solicitors. The solicitors had failed to offer proper advice on planning use, rendering a newly acquired depot unsuitable and causing a prolonged and expensive dispute with the local planning authority. By securing a pre-trial settlement, I helped the company recover significant losses incurred due to the solicitors' negligence. This resolution allowed the company to redirect its focus and resources back to its core operations.
Negligent Handling of Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Cases
I successfully pursued claims on behalf of multiple clients against the same solicitor who negligently handled their personal injury and clinical negligence cases. My clients had suffered not only from their original injuries but also from the extended distress caused by the solicitor's mishandling over several years. Securing favorable settlements before trial, I helped them obtain the compensation they deserved.
Disclosure Failure by a Financial Adviser
I successfully secured a significant settlement in my client's favour after a financial adviser failed to pass on important information about my client's circumstances to their insurer. This resulted in the insurer refusing to pay out when my client needed to make a claim on an insurance policy. I was able to settle the case before court proceedings were started which meant that my client could avoid the stress and inconvenience of dealing with court.
These examples highlight my commitment to advocating for clients who have been let down by professional negligence. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, don’t hesitate to contact me. Your path to rectify the problems you are facing starts with a conversation.
Contact Me
To schedule a consultation or discuss your potential professional negligence claim, please contact me by phone at 03339 960 640 or email me at melissa.worth@bexleybeaumont.com. You can also visit Bexley Beaumont's website to learn more about my services and expertise. Let's work together to secure the resolution you deserve.
Professional Negligence Claims
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Professional negligence occurs when a professional fails to perform their duties to the expected standard, resulting in harm or loss to their client.
I will conduct a thorough assessment of your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim.
I prioritise resolving disputes through negotiation and mediation, aiming for a settlement without the need for court proceedings. As such, the vast majority of cases that I deal with settle before trial.
Melissa Worth
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