Clear, Strategic Advice When a Professional Has Let You Down

Professional negligence occurs when a trusted professional fails to meet the standard of care expected of them, causing financial loss or harm. If you believe you have been let down, this page explains how professional negligence claims work and how I can support you through the process.

Are you worried about advice you’ve received from a professional? Are you concerned that their actions have caused you to lose money? Are you unsure about the steps you need to take to put things right?

I am Melissa Worth, a solicitor and Head of Commercial Litigation at HM3 Legal, an award‑winning SRA‑regulated law firm. I use my experience 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 for you or your business. This situation can be extremely distressing. I understand this because I’ve helped many clients bring successful professional negligence claims and secure compensation after things have gone wrong.

When you trust a professional - whether a solicitor, surveyor, accountant or architect - you rightfully expect high standards of care and expertise. While most professionals do 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 and must exercise reasonable skill and care when providing advice or services. If the advice or service you received fell below the expected standard and caused a negative outcome, I can help you understand your options and pursue a professional negligence claim where appropriate.

Unlike most solicitors, I have represented both professionals (the defendants) and claimants. This gives me a comprehensive understanding of both sides of negligence claims and puts me in a strong position to secure the compensation you deserve.

I recognise the emotional toll that professional negligence claims can take. I offer empathy, clarity and support throughout the process, making my clients feel valued and understood.

I am a solicitor and partner at HM3 Legal, an award-winning law firm regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.  I am based in Manchester and I act for clients across the country. I act for all my clients through HM3 Legal, and instructions can only be taken through the firm.

Feel free to contact me by email mxw@hm3legal.co.uk or telephone 0161 672 0471. 

My experience

I bring a unique perspective to my practice because, for many years, I worked to defend professional negligence claims made against solicitors, surveyors, accountants and other professionals. This experience of the “other side” means I understand the intricacies and nuances of negligence claims from all angles. It allows me to provide well‑rounded, effective representation for my clients.

This extensive background means I am adept at identifying potential pitfalls and opportunities that others might overlook, giving my clients strategic advantages and helping them work towards the best possible outcome.

I approach each case with a balanced perspective, ensuring that every aspect is 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 aim to be approachable, down‑to‑earth and deeply committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for my clients. I look forward to hearing from you.

You can contact me by email mxw@hm3legal.co.uk or telephone 0161 672 0471.

Professionals Commonly Involved in Negligence Claims

I specialise in helping clients bring professional negligence claims against a range of professionals, including solicitors, surveyors, financial advisers, accountants and architects.

If you want to understand the early signs that a professional may have acted negligently, I’ve written a full guide that explains the most common indicators and what they mean for your potential claim.

Professional Negligence Claims Against Solicitors

Solicitors are trusted advisors on legal matters (I should know - I am one), providing essential guidance and representation for their clients. 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 and helping clients secure the justice and compensation they deserve.

Examples of Claims Against Solicitors

Missed Deadlines

• Missed Limitation Periods: Solicitors must adhere to strict deadlines for filing claims and other legal actions. Missing these deadlines can compromise your legal position and may result in losing the right to pursue your case entirely.
• Failure to Submit Documents on Time: Solicitors are responsible for submitting all necessary documents promptly. Delays or omissions can hinder the progress of your matter and, in some cases, compromise the outcome.

Poor Advice

• Incorrect or Misleading Advice: Solicitors are expected to provide accurate and reliable guidance. Incorrect or misleading advice can lead to financial loss, missed opportunities or other serious consequences.
• Failure to Advise on Risks: Solicitors must explain the risks associated with legal decisions. Failure to do so can leave clients unprepared for adverse outcomes.
• Inadequate Due Diligence: Solicitors must carry out thorough research and investigations. Inadequate due diligence can result in uninformed decisions that negatively affect the client.

Inadequate Representation

• Failures in Representation: Effective representation is crucial in legal proceedings. Solicitors who fail to act competently can cause unfavourable outcomes that are distressing for clients who trusted them.
• Conflict of Interest: Solicitors must avoid conflicts of interest that compromise their ability to act in a client’s best interests. Poor management of conflicts can lead to biased or ineffective representation.

Breach of Confidentiality

• Unauthorised Disclosure of Information: Solicitors are obligated to maintain client confidentiality at all times. Unauthorised disclosure of sensitive information can have serious repercussions for the client and leave them potentially vulnerable.
• Insecure Storage of Documents: Secure storage of client documents is a fundamental duty. Lapses can lead to data breaches and loss of confidential information.

Financial Mismanagement

• Improper Handling of Client Funds: Solicitors must manage client funds with integrity and transparency. Mismanagement or misappropriation can lead to substantial financial loss.
• Overcharging or Hidden Fees: Clients should be charged fairly and transparently. Overcharging or imposing hidden fees can constitute a breach of trust and professional conduct.

For a deeper explanation of when a solicitor’s mistakes may amount to professional negligence, you can read my full article on bringing a claim against a solicitor.

How I Can Help

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 an initial discussion so I can help you understand your options.

Please contact me by email mxw@hm3legal.co.uk or telephone 0161 672 0471. 

Professional Negligence Claims Against Surveyors

Surveyors play a crucial role in property transactions and assessments. Errors in their valuation or survey reports can lead to significant financial losses in both the short and long term.

Examples of Negligence Claims Against Surveyors

• Over‑valuations can cause buyers to pay more than a property's true market value, resulting in financial strain or difficulty securing financing.
• Under‑valuations can put buyers in a stressful situation that sees them being denied a secured loan or mortgage.
• Inaccurate Surveys: Failures to identify structural problems can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards for occupants. The stress this places on homeowners is immeasurable.
• Defective Property Conditions: Overlooking issues like mould, dampness or pest infestations can deteriorate living conditions and require expensive remediation, often rendering the property unliveable for a period of time.
• Boundary Discrepancies: Errors in identifying property lines can result in disputes and legal battles with neighbours, sometimes even requiring structures to be relocated.
• Inadequate Maintenance Advice: Failing to inform clients of necessary maintenance or future repair needs can lead to unexpected costs, property degradation and significant stress for the owner.
• Lack of Expert Referral: Not recommending specialist surveys (for example electrical, plumbing or structural assessments) can overlook critical issues that require expert investigation and remediation.

How I Can Help

If you believe your surveyor’s negligence has led to financial loss, I can help. With years of experience handling negligence claims against surveyors, I can guide you through the process of bringing a successful claim and seeking redress.

Please contact me by email mxw@hm3legal.co.uk or telephone 0161 672 0471.

Professional Negligence Claims Against Architects

Architects play a crucial role in ensuring that buildings are functional, safe and compliant. However, the complexities involved in architectural design and project management mean that mistakes can occur. These errors can lead to significant project delays and financial losses.

Examples of Professional Negligence Claims Against Architects

• 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, unexpected costs and the need for redesign or remedial work.
• Lack of Quality Control in Construction: Architects are responsible for overseeing construction progress and ensuring that buildings meet design specifications. Failures in this duty can result in poor workmanship, project delays and financial loss.
• Absence of Clear Contract Terms: Unclear or incomplete contract terms can lead to disputes with contractors or other parties, causing both emotional and financial stress.

How I Can Help

If you suspect that your architect’s oversight has caused financial loss, I can help. With extensive experience 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 mxw@hm3legal.co.uk or telephone 0161 672 0471. 

Professional Negligence Claims Against Accountants

Accountants play a vital role in managing an organisation’s or individual’s financial health. They are trusted with accurate financial reporting, tax compliance and strategic financial planning. However, mistakes or oversights can lead to severe consequences, including tax issues, financial loss and legal penalties.

Examples of Professional Negligence Claims Against Accountants

• 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 jeopardise financial planning and decision‑making.
• Misfiling Tax Returns: Incorrectly filed tax returns can result in audits, fines and penalties from HMRC.
• Failure to Maximise Deductions: Overlooking eligible deductions and credits can lead to higher tax liabilities than necessary.
• Failure to Act in the Client's Best Interest: Not providing advice or failing to act in the client’s best interests 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, causing problems and stress for the client.
• 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 enquiries can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities to manage financial risk or meet financial targets.
• False Promises: Guaranteeing specific financial outcomes that are not realistically achievable can amount to professional negligence.

How I Can Help

Accountants hold a position of great responsibility and trust. When they fail to fulfil their duties competently and ethically, the repercussions can be severe. If you believe you have been affected by an accountant’s negligence, I have the experience to help you navigate the complexities of your claim.

Please contact me by email mxw@hm3legal.co.uk or telephone 0161 672 0471. 

Professional Negligence Claims Against Financial Advisers

Financial advisers must assess risk accurately and provide suitable, well‑reasoned advice. When they fail to do so, clients can suffer significant financial loss, stress and long‑term consequences.

Examples of Professional Negligence Claims Against Financial Advisers

Unsuitable advice: Financial advisers have a duty to provide competent and suitable advice based on a client’s financial situation, goals and risk tolerance. When an 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 and may be grounds for a professional negligence claim.

Misrepresentation: Misrepresentation occurs when a financial adviser provides false or misleading information that a client relies upon when making investment decisions. This may include overstating potential returns, downplaying risks or omitting key information about fees or charges. Misrepresentation can lead to unforeseen losses and may warrant a claim for damages.

Failure to Disclose Conflicts of Interest: Financial advisers must act in the best interests of their clients, which includes disclosing any conflicts of interest that might impair their objectivity. If an adviser fails to disclose relationships or financial interests that conflict with the client’s interests, this can result in financial harm and may amount to professional negligence.

How Can I Help?

With extensive experience in professional negligence claims, I provide clear guidance and representation to clients who have suffered financial losses due to the negligence of their adviser.

I understand that these disputes can be complex and emotionally taxing, which is why I strive to make the legal process as smooth and stress‑free as possible. I work closely with clients to gather evidence, assess the strength of their case 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 at mxw@hm3legal.co.uk or telephone 0161 672 0471.

Why Trust Me With Your Professional Negligence Claim

Expert Assessment I provide an early assessment of the merits of your claim and give clear advice about costs, timelines and what to expect as your case progresses.

Comprehensive Review I carefully review all relevant facts, documents and events to ensure I fully understand the issues and the impact on you or your business.

Strategic Guidance I guide you through every step of the process, helping you prepare your claim and work towards the best possible outcome.

Understanding the Process Before any claim is commenced, I explain the specific process for pursuing a professional negligence claim in England and Wales, including the Pre‑Action Protocol. This encourages early exchange of information and often allows disputes to be resolved without going to court.

Exploring Resolution Options Litigation can be stressful and time‑consuming. I explore all options for resolving your claim, including negotiation and mediation, with the aim of achieving an out‑of‑court settlement wherever possible.

Experience With Insurers Most professionals have indemnity insurance. I have previously acted for professional indemnity insurers, giving me valuable insight into how insurers assess and respond to negligence claims.

Client‑Focused Service I focus on your individual and business needs. My experience allows me to quickly identify key issues and advise on the best strategic course of action for your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is professional negligence?

Professional negligence occurs when a professional fails to perform their duties to the expected standard, causing financial loss, harm or other negative consequences for their client.

How do I know if I have a claim?

I will carry out a thorough assessment of your situation, review the documents and advise you on whether the professional’s actions fell below the required standard and whether this caused your loss.

How long do I have to bring a claim?

Most professional negligence claims must be brought within six years, although there are exceptions. I will advise you on the relevant limitation period for your specific circumstances.

Will I need expert evidence?

Many claims require expert evidence to show what a competent professional should have done. I will advise you on whether expert input is needed and help you obtain it if so.

Will the professional’s insurer be involved?

Almost all professionals have indemnity insurance. In most cases, your claim will be handled by the insurer and their solicitors. I have extensive experience dealing with professional indemnity insurers and understand how they approach these claims.

Do most cases go to court?

No. The vast majority of professional negligence claims settle before trial. I prioritise negotiation and mediation wherever possible to avoid the stress, cost and uncertainty of court proceedings.

How long does a claim take?

It depends on the complexity of the case, the evidence required and the insurer’s approach. I will give you clear guidance on likely timelines once I have reviewed your documents.

How much will it cost?

I will explain costs clearly at the outset and discuss funding options with you. You will always know where you stand.

Get in Touch

If you think you may have a professional negligence claim, I’m here to help. I will give you clear, practical advice about your options and guide you through the process with empathy and expertise.

Contact me today by email mxw@hm3legal.co.uk or telephone 0161 672 0471.