All solicitors in Ireland are expected to meet a high standard of professional competence and conduct.
Indeed, the overwhelming majority of solicitors and other law practitioners work extremely hard to faithfully represent their clients in accordance with the latest law and best practice. Unfortunately, in some cases, a Solicitor may be found to have acted negligently due to their actions or failure to act.
Lavelle Partners have advised many clients over the past 35+ years who have suffered loss as a result of the negligence of a solicitor or law firm they have engaged.
How can Solicitor Negligence Arise?
Solicitor negligence may arise in the following contexts which could cause your claim to be struck out by the court:
Failing to account for monies
Failing to administer a deceased’s estate correctly
Failing to advise you about planning permission and building regulations
Failing to draft a will properly
Failing to follow instructions
Failing to honour undertakings to banks or other solicitors
Failing to issue court proceedings within the appropriate limitation period or missing a court deadline
Failing to provide the correct legal advice
Failing to serve a notice on your behalf by a given deadline
Issuing court proceedings against the wrong party
Losing title documents
Making a mistake when purchasing your home or property
Making an error in drafting a lease
Should I bring a Case against my Solicitor?
We recognise that many people who encounter problems with their Solicitor may feel unsure of their options or reluctant to complain. This may be for fear of causing the Solicitor to lose their position or face disciplinary action. However, by bringing a case against them, if found to have acted negligently, they will be brought to account for their actions, meaning another client is less likely to be affected by the same misconduct.
Our Professional Negligence Expertise
Lavelle Partners is one of the top ranked law firms in Ireland for Litigation & Dispute Resolution, with a highly commendable Tier 3 ranking in The Legal 500, the internationally recognised legal directory guide.
Ciarán Leavy, Partner and Head of Litigation & Dispute Resolution has been advising and representing Lavelle Partners clients for over 18 years , having earned a reputation for achieving positive outcomes for clients under even the most challenging circumstances. Ciarán is recognised by The Legal 500 for his “technical knowledge and interpersonal skills” as well as the “first-class” team that he leads and was named Litigation Lawyer of the Year at the Irish Law Awards in 2019.
Marc Fitzgibbon, Partner and Head of Employment has over 30 years’ experience advising clients in relation to a wide range of legal disputes, including professional negligence claims. Marc is described in The Legal 500 as "an exemplary solicitor" with a "very commercial and pragmatic" approach.
How to Make a Professional Negligence Claim?
To find out more about pursuing a claim for Solicitor Negligence, please contact Ciarán Leavy or email law@lavellepartners.ie