If you or a loved one have suffered harm due to medical or dental negligence, it is important to understand your legal rights. At Marley Solicitors, we are committed to supporting residents in Ashley who have experienced substandard care. This guide will explain what medical and dental negligence claims are, how you can make a claim, and what compensation you may be entitled to.
What is medical and dental negligence?
Medical and dental negligence occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide care to the expected standard, resulting in injury or harm. This can involve errors during surgery, misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, or poor dental procedures. Negligence does not mean a bad outcome alone; it must be proven that the healthcare provider breached their duty of care, which caused the injury.
Examples of medical negligence include incorrect medication, surgical mistakes, failure to diagnose a condition, or insufficient aftercare. Dental negligence might involve poor tooth extraction, nerve damage, or improper use of dental equipment.
Your legal rights in Ashley
As a patient in the UK, you have the right to safe and competent medical and dental treatment. When this standard is not met and you are harmed as a result, you may have the right to seek compensation through a negligence claim. In Ashley, Marley Solicitors specialises in helping claimants understand and exercise these rights.
You have the right to:
- Receive clear information about your treatment
- Expect that professionals will follow recognised medical and dental standards
- Pursue a claim if you suffer avoidable injury or loss
It is important to act within the legal time limits for making claims, known as limitation periods. Generally, this is three years from the date you became aware of the injury or the negligent act.
The process of proving medical or dental negligence involves several key steps.
Proving negligence requires establishing four key elements:
- Duty of care – that a healthcare professional owed you a responsibility to provide appropriate care.
- Breach of duty – that the care given fell below the accepted standard expected of a competent professional.
- Causation – that the breach directly caused your injury or worsened your condition.
- Damages – that you suffered harm or loss due to the breach.
Medical records, expert witness reports, and testimonies play a crucial role in proving these points. Marley Solicitors works with trusted medical experts who assess your case and provide impartial opinions.
Types of compensation available
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:
- General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Special damages to cover financial losses such as medical expenses, travel costs, and loss of earnings
- Future care costs if you require ongoing treatment or assistance
The amount awarded depends on the severity of the injury, impact on your daily life, and financial consequences.
Common examples of claims in Ashley
Residents of Ashley have pursued claims for various medical and dental negligence cases, including:
- Birth injuries caused by delayed or improper delivery methods
- Surgical errors during operations leading to infections or organ damage
- Failure to diagnose cancers or serious illnesses early
- Dental nerve damage from poor treatment
- Incorrect prescriptions causing adverse reactions
Each case is unique and requires careful investigation.
The claims process with Marley Solicitors
At Marley Solicitors, we guide you through every step of the claims process. Here is what to expect:
- Initial consultation to assess your case and explain your options
- Gathering evidence such as medical records and expert reports
- Negotiation or court proceedings to pursue compensation
- Settlement or trial based on the merits of your claim
Our team in Ashley provides compassionate, expert support to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Ashley?
Marley Solicitors has a proven track record in handling medical and dental negligence claims in Ashley and the surrounding areas. We offer:
- Experienced solicitors specialising in healthcare law
- No win no fee arrangements to reduce your financial risk
- Clear communication and personalised service
- Access to leading medical experts
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll negligence can have. Our priority is to secure justice and compensation so you can focus on recovery.
Time limits and the importance of acting quickly
The law sets strict time limits for making medical and dental negligence claims. In most cases, you have three years from the date of injury or when you became aware of it. There are some exceptions, particularly involving children or cases of incapacity.
Delaying your claim can risk losing your right to compensation. Contact Marley Solicitors in Ashley as soon as possible for a free case assessment to ensure your claim is not time-barred.
Frequently asked questions about medical and dental negligence claims
Q: Can I make a claim if the treatment was provided by the NHS?
Yes, negligence claims can be made against NHS trusts as well as private practitioners.
Q: How long does it take to resolve a claim?
The timeline varies depending on case complexity, but most claims take several months to over a year.
Q: Will my claim go to court?
Many claims settle out of court, but some require court proceedings to reach a fair resolution.
Q: What if I am unsure if I have a claim?
Contact Marley Solicitors in Ashley for an expert review of your circumstances at no cost.
Get in touch with Marley Solicitors in Ashley today
If you believe you have suffered from medical or dental negligence in Ashley, do not delay in seeking legal advice. Marley Solicitors is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Our friendly and experienced team offers a free initial consultation and works on a no win no fee basis to support you every step of the way.
Call us today or visit our Ashley office to discuss your case confidentially.
