Clinical Negligence

For many years Ropewalk Chambers has been instructed by both Claimants and Defendants in cases across the whole spectrum of clinical negligence litigation ranging from the most serious cases of cerebral palsy to minor dental negligence.  Members have appeared in courts throughout the UK and in foreign jurisdictions.

Collectively our members have experience of the wide range of cases arising in this field, including those involving anaesthesia; birth injuries (such as pre eclampsia, episiotomies); brain injury; catastrophic injury; clinical misdiagnosis; cosmetic surgery; gynaecological and obstetric procedures; mental health; product liability; spinal operations; general surgery; and sterilisation procedures.

We regularly deal with high value claims of several millions pounds and have experience in the implementation of periodical payments.  Individual members are highly experienced in group and multi-party actions.

Tragically, some medical errors result in the death of the patient and we are able to provide expertise in advising and representation at Coroners’ Inquests and in subsequent civil claims for damages.

We are also able to provide advice and representation in connection with hearings before all the disciplinary tribunals in the healthcare sector.

Clinical negligence claims stand apart from other claims for personal injury.  All our members who work in this field appreciate the particular need for sensitivity and understanding when dealing with the consequences of clinical negligence and are well aware of the difficulties to which this type of claim can give rise.  As a result of their expertise and experience members are able to guide and support all those involved in the litigation process.  We understand that making a claim is often difficult and stressful for the Claimant but equally the defence of a claim will have implications for the professional reputations of those whose conduct is criticised.

We appreciate the importance of keeping up to date with legal and other developments in this field and, working with our professional clients, we are prepared to meet the challenges to which the proposed funding changes in this area are likely to create.  Many of those handling clinical negligence claims are members of the Professional Negligence Bar Association and some have links with AvMA, regularly attending the annual conference.

Members of the group can also offer client seminars on many aspects of clinical negligence litigation. If this is of interest to you please contact the Senior Clerk, Tony Hill, or Deputy Senior Clerk, Alan Odiam.