Claims Against Barristers Articles and News

Barristers are instructed to provide specialist legal advice, draft important court documents and represent clients at hearings or trials. Their advice can have a major impact on whether a claim is brought, defended, settled or abandoned. If a barrister gives incorrect advice, fails to prepare properly or makes serious errors in the way a case is presented, the financial consequences for the client can be significant.

Claims against barristers are specialist professional negligence claims. It is not enough to show that the case was unsuccessful, or that another barrister might have taken a different view. To bring a claim, you usually need to show that the barrister’s work fell below the standard expected of a reasonably competent barrister, and that this caused financial loss or the loss of a valuable chance to pursue or defend a case.

Samuels Solicitors has experience dealing with professional negligence claims against barristers, solicitors, accountants and surveyors. Our articles explain recent cases, common examples of barrister negligence, the evidence needed to bring a claim and the practical steps involved in recovering compensation where negligent advice or advocacy has caused loss.