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Medical Negligence Compensation Claims2023-03-02T11:29:32+00:00

Medical Negligence Compensation Claims

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Medical Negligence Compensation Claims

Our medical negligence solicitors offer a free consultation for victims of medical malpractice, negligence or accidents.

There are very few firms of solicitors in Northern Ireland who have specialist Medical Negligence Solicitors and before you decide who to bring your case with this should be your first question. Ask have you done this type of case before and be prepared to seek specialist help. Libby Smyth of Reid Black Solicitors has brought successful claims against Antrim Hospital, Causeway Hospital, Altnagelvin and all major Belfast Hospitals. Libby has more than 20 years experience in medical negligence cases and is supported by Reid Blacks firm of litigation solicitors.

Call on 028 9446 6333 or by email claims@reidblack.com to get professional no obligation advice at no cost to you. There are a number of various cost arrangements which can be put in place and if you are under 18 years of age then you are likely to be entitled to Legal Aid for a medical negligence claim as it is the child’s income, which is taken into account as opposed to a parents’ income.

Deciding to make a clinical negligence claim is daunting, because of the issue’s sensitive and controversial nature. We aim to give expert guidance and support throughout the process. Our qualified, experienced solicitors take every possible step to get you a successful outcome, taking account of your individual needs and circumstances.

If you would like advice about substandard medical care, contact us now to speak to one of our qualified solicitors. Your conversation is strictly confidential.

In addition, there is potential that your own home insurance policy may cover you initially in the case or indeed it is possible to take out after the event insurance policies to cover any potential cost involved in bringing a medical negligence action. Please don’t let the potential for the cost of proceeding put you off as there are a number of potential options to discuss in regards to covering the costs of any action.

We cover the following areas but will also happily discuss any other medical negligence action:

Private nursing home claims on the increase

  • Family receive a five figure settlement following the unfortunate death of their mother whilst in private nursing home care. Failures on the part of the home to provide a proper care plan, monitoring of food & fluid intake or any nutritional assessment resulted in her becoming acutely ill and her premature death.
  • We are currently handling claims against nursing homes arising out of their failure to properly supervise patients and address risk of Falls (present client who has severe learning disability is claiming compensation from nursing home after he fell out of bed during the night sustaining a hip injury and fractured Great Toe).
  • Another client bringing compensation claim after her late father who suffered from Dementia fell whilst unsupervised in Nursing Home and suffered a fracture to his hip.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

We have settled many personal injury claims for mums arising out of childbirth. These include:

  • Failures to remove Placenta
  • Perineal Tears
  • Episiotomies
  • Damage to organs including bowels/bladder from Caesarean Sections
  • Failure to treat Pre-Eclampsia

A current client is suing her local hospital Trust after her midwife uses incorrect techniques to manually remove Retained Placenta after childbirth resulting in potentially life threatening Inverted Uterus which required Emergency surgery.

Another client received “Bitter Compensation” from local hospital Trust after sadly losing her baby at 33 weeks gestation when hospital staff failed to Detect & Properly treat her Pre-Eclampsia.

Another client is seeking compensation following the birth of her first child when she suffered a distention of her bladder and retention of urine as a result of the negligent treatment on the part of the hospital staff.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

We currently handle many claims for both Minor Children and Adults who suffered injuries during their traumatic birth. Babies have suffered a variety of injuries whilst both in the womb and during the delivery process itself.

An example of the case we undertake:

  • One child received a five figure settlement award from a Hospital Trust after suffering a laceration and scarring to her face following forcible use of Forceps at birth.
  • Brachial Plexus Nerve Injuries/Erbs Palsy Injuries – We currently represent a client who following a forceps delivery suffered damage to her right arm which has necessitated surgery. Despite the fact that this client was 18 years of age when she lodged her claim, her claim will proceed as she had up to her 21st Birthday to bring a claim arising during her birth.
  • We currently represent a number of children who suffered brain Injury caused by lack of oxygen to the brain as a result of a prolonged Labour and failure to carry out a Caesarean Section.
  • Child suffers burn Injury to right ankle from LED Probes whilst being cared for in Neonatal Unit resulting in scarring.
  • Currently representing a Child diagnosed with Spina Bifida allegedly caused by failures on the part of the Hospital Trust to pick up on abnormal blood results during pregnancy

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

We represent clients who have suffered from negligent medical treatment leading to anaesthetic awareness.

If you think that you have been awake during surgery, then something has gone wrong with the anaesthetic and you may be able to bring a claim for compensation for “Anaesthetic Awareness”.

Anaesthetic Awareness can occur during surgery, after surgery or in the recovery room. The causes include:

  • Misjudging the dose needed for a patient.
  • Problems with equipment and drug delivery.
  • Failure to detect a patient is in a state of awareness.

Many people who have found themselves awake during surgery have experienced pain, anxiety, fear of hospitals/further surgeries, flashbacks, nightmares, post-traumatic stress and even depression.

If you have experienced Anaesthetic Awareness, please contact us to seek legal advice as you may be entitled to financial compensation.

In addition to the failure to properly anaesthetise, we also act for a number of clients who have suffered pain and disabilities caused when anaesthetics have been wrongly injected into the spine/nerves.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Reid Black have experience in dealing with clients who have had limbs amputated because of negligent medical treatment. This can be caused by incorrect care of diabetes, untreated/mistreated infections or surgical errors. Types of amputations can include:

  • Lower Limb amputations.
  • Upper Limb amputations.
  • Multiple amputations.

In Northern Ireland compensation awards range from:

  • Below Knee Amputation of one leg £115,000.00 – £200,000.00.
  • Above Knee Amputation of one leg £170,000.00 – £245,000.00.

We currently represent a client who suffered from diabetes and attended a local hospital with an infection in his right foot. The hospital failed to treat him for over a week whilst in hospital. Eventually following an MRI scan he was transferred to another NHS hospital where he was told that the infection had caused bones in his feet to deteriorate to such an extent that he required a below the knee amputation. He is seeking compensation against the Trust as a direct consequence of their failure to diagnose and treat him in time.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Reid Black, Solicitors have experience in handling claims for clients who have suffered injuries as a result of prescription errors. This includes:

  • Prescription of the wrong medication.
  • Overdose of medication.
  • Prescription of medication to patients which they are known to be allergic to.
  • Failure to prescribe any medication at all.

Many medication errors cause harm only for a short period, but some result in serious injury, illness and even death. Prescription mistakes can be made by GP’s or Hospital Doctors or by Pharmacies giving out the wrong drugs. Most errors occur at the chemist, although more are taking place in Nursing and Care Homes.

If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of a prescription mistake, please contact us for a free consultation.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Negligence during Cosmetic Procedures occurs unfortunately too often and many people don’t do anything about it. When a procedure goes wrong, it can be devastating to the individual and can cause both physical and psychological injuries. Types of surgical errors include:

  • Breast Enhancement, Augmentation, Lift, Reduction.
  • Facial Contouring: Rhinoplasty, Chin or Cheek Enhancement.
  • Facial Rejuvenation, Facelift, Eyelid Lift, Neck Lift, Brow Lift.
  • Body Contouring: Tummy Tuck, Lipo-Suction.
  • Lip Fillers.
  • Laser Eye Surgery.
  • Laser Treatment.
  • Dermal Fillers.

We can act on your behalf to get you the financial compensation you deserve if errors have caused you to experience undesirable results.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Unfortunately many people have experienced injuries during the course of what should have been routine surgery. Here at Reid Black, Solicitors we have many years of experience in helping clients obtain financial compensation for injuries suffered by them as a result of surgical errors or complications. Examples of surgical errors include:

  • The wrong operation being performed.
  • Nerve, artery/organ damage during surgery.
  • Leaving instruments, swabs or other items inside the body.
  • Carrying out surgery in the wrong place.
  • Unnecessary Surgery.
  • Failed Surgical Procedure.

We succeeded in obtaining a five figure settlement for a client who as a result of delayed surgery suffered from a Perforated Appendix requiring a full laparotomy.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Vaginal mesh has been in the news recently. It is a procedure which is commonly used to treat pelvic organ, such as:

  • Bladder Prolapse.
  • Stress Urinary Incontinence.
  • Also used for treatment of Hernias.

They are inserted using open or keyhole surgery. Many women with vaginal mesh implants suffer some of the following symptoms:

  • Pain when walking or running.
  • Incontinence.
  • Painful sex.
  • Pressure or pulling sensation in the vagina or pelvis.

If you or anyone you know has had a vaginal mesh implant and is suffering as a result, they should contact us immediately to seek legal advice about bringing a compensation claim for the pain/psychological/financial loss they have suffered.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Reid Black, Solicitors represent a number of clients and their Next of Kin who have suffered because of a delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis of:

  • Lung Cancer.
  • Bower Cancer.
  • Breast Cancer.
  • Brain Cancer.
  • Eye Cancer.
  • Oesophageal Cancer.
  • Skin Cancer.

We succeeded in obtaining over a quarter of a million pound for the Next of Kin whose spouse’s lung cancer diagnosis was so delayed that it sadly became terminal.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

We at Reid Black, Solicitors currently act on behalf of clients who have suffered as a result of a DePuy ASR Hip Replacement. If you or someone you know has suffered as a result of a Depuy ASR Hip Replacement, we can help you claim compensation. Clients experience varied symptoms including:

  • Pain.
  • Requirement for Revision Surgery.
  • Raised Blood Metal Ion Levels.
  • Financial losses as a result of time off work/having to give up work.
  • Groin Pain.
  • Difficulty walking.
  • Swelling.
  • Clunking or grinding.
  • Numbness or loss of sensation in the leg.

If you are experiencing any of these problems or believe that your hip may be failing and want to discuss legal action, please contact us now.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Dental Negligence Claims arise as a result of mistakes being made by dentists usually at the diagnosis, monitoring, treatment or surgical stage.

Types of Dental Negligence compensation claims include:

  • Inappropriate tooth extraction
  • Tooth Decay.
  • Root Canal Treatment.
  • Poorly fitted dental bridges, veneers and crowns.
  • Failure to treat or diagnose gum disease or periodontitis disease.
  • Cosmetic Dentistry.
  • Failed Dental Implants.
  • Failure to Diagnose Oral Cancer.

If you have suffered as a result of dental negligence, you may be able to bring a claim for compensation. Please contact us by telephone or arrange a free initial consultation.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Dr. Michael Watt a well known Neurologist who worked out of the Royal Victoria Hospital and privately at the Ulster Independent Clinic and Hillsborough Private Clinic, is currently under investigation by the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust.

Many of his patients have been the alleged victims of misdiagnosis and prescription of wrong medication for various medical conditions including MS, Stroke, Motor Neurone Disease and Parkinson’s Disease.

If you or a family member have been a patient of Dr. Watt and feel that you have been mistreated, you could be entitled to financial compensation.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Whilst most people experience quality medical care and attention while visiting the A & E Department for a critical injury or illness, others unfortunately do not.

Reid Black, Solicitors have many years of experience in dealing with a variety of A & E negligence claims. There are many common claims brought against A & E departments where patients have suffered serious and in some cases long lasting damage. These include:

  • Misdiagnosis bone fractures.
  • Delayed Treatment.
  • Misinterpreting exam and test results.
  • Hospital infections.
  • Incorrect treatment.
  • Misdiagnosis of medical conditions.
  • Inadequate Medical Investigations.

Reid Black, Solicitors secured a six figure compensation claim for a client who attended her local A & E Department after a fall. X-rays were performed and she was told there was no evidence of a fracture of dislocation and she was discharged. She had ongoing pain for many months and after a GP referral and an MRI scan, it was discovered that she had in fact a Lisfranc injury, mid-foot fractures and dislocation. The client had to have significant restorative surgery and treatment.

A compensation was awarded in a tragic case for one of our client’s which resulted in the death of his young daughter after a local A & E Department repeatedly failed to diagnose and treat a viral infection.

Speak to our Specialist Medical Negligence solicitor today – Libby Smyth on libby@reidblack.com

Our Specialist Medical Negligence Solicitor – Libby Smyth

Our Specialist Medical Negligence Solicitor – Libby Smyth

Libby Smyth
Libby Smyth
20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
  • Libby Smyth of Reid Black Solicitors has brought successful claims against Antrim Hospital, Causeway Hospital, Altnagelvin and all major Belfast Hospitals.
  • Libby has more than 20 years experience in medical negligence cases and is supported by Reid Blacks firm of litigation solicitors.
  • Request a callback to get professional no obligation advice at no cost to you.
  • There are a number of various cost arrangements which can be put in place and if you are under 18 years of age then you are likely to be entitled to Legal Aid for a medical negligence claim as it is the child’s income, which is taken into account as opposed to a parents’ income.

Frequently Asked Questions

You have 3 years from the date your injury was caused. In some cases a person may not become aware of the negligent treatment until some time later. In that event you have 3 years from the date of knowledge of the negligence.

If you were a Minor when the medical negligence occurred, you have up until your 21st birthday to issue Court Proceedings.

There is no time for a person incapable of instructing a Solicitor due to lack of mental capacity.

Legal Aid Funding is still available to fund such claims. Your Solicitor will be able to assess your financial eligibility to qualify.

In the event that you do not qualify for Legal Aid, you should make enquiries with your Home and/or Motor Insurers to find out if you have Legal Expenses Cover to fund the cost of bringing your claim. Your Solicitor can assist you and make enquiries on your behalf.

Private Funding is a last resort, but again you should discuss this with your Solicitor at the outset of your case.

This depends on the nature of the case. Compensation falls into two categories:

General Damages –
Covers pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by the negligence. This will include the nature of changes in your quality of life. It is assessed with reference to expert medical advice and the amount will depend on the seriousness of the injury and the extent to which you have been affected.
Special Damages –
Covers specific losses, such as loss of earnings, or adaptations needed to your home, and additional care required.

You have 3 years from the date your injury was caused. In some cases a person may not become aware of the negligent treatment until some time later. In that event you have 3 years from the date of knowledge of the negligence.

If you were a Minor when the medical negligence occurred, you have up until your 21st birthday to issue Court Proceedings.

There is no time for a person incapable of instructing a Solicitor due to lack of mental capacity.

Legal Aid Funding is still available to fund such claims. Your Solicitor will be able to assess your financial eligibility to qualify.

In the event that you do not qualify for Legal Aid, you should make enquiries with your Home and/or Motor Insurers to find out if you have Legal Expenses Cover to fund the cost of bringing your claim. Your Solicitor can assist you and make enquiries on your behalf.

Private Funding is a last resort, but again you should discuss this with your Solicitor at the outset of your case.

This depends on the nature of the case. Compensation falls into two categories:

General Damages 
Covers pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by the negligence. This will include the nature of changes in your quality of life. It is assessed with reference to expert medical advice and the amount will depend on the seriousness of the injury and the extent to which you have been affected.
Special Damages 
Covers specific losses, such as loss of earnings, or adaptations needed to your home, and additional care required.

Case Studies

Legal gavel

A medical negligence client of our solicitor Libby Smyth was delighted to recently have had her claim settled for a sum of £300,000.00.

Following a diagnosis of a prolapsed bladder, the client underwent surgical repair. Following her surgery it was discovered that she had a Bowel Obstruction which had been caused directly by the negligence of her treating surgeon. She was forced to undergo an urgent laparotomy/bowel resection.

The client suffered significant pain and suffering, psychological upset, financial loss and ongoing medical problems which finally resulted in a financial pay out by the defendant.

The client suffered at the hands of the defendant, but was extremely happy to have obtained the recognition of the negligent treatment, as well as remuneration to reflect all that she had been put through.

If you have suffered from medical negligence, contact us today and we can advise you on your options on whether or not you have a case to bring.

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      Great service from a professional company. Eilis McQuillan handled a case for me and was outstanding. I was kept informed at every stage and would recommend Reid Black without hesitation.
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      I approached Reid Black Solicitors having known Hamill Clawson for many years as a good dependable lawyer and having been badly let down and grossly overcharged by another solicitor. He referred me to his colleague, David French who was very approachable and went out of his way to help resolve matters equitably in a timely and stress free manner.As a busy professional, this invaluable advice from Hamill and, especially his partner David was greatly appreciated. I am impressed by the high standard of service offered by this Firm and would recommended their services without caveat.read more
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      Highly recommend Reid Black Solicitors. David French handled my case and guided me step by step. Very fast and professional. Made my whole experience stress free. Couldn't be more thankful. 🙂
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      I would highly recommend Reid Black Solicitors. my experience was totally stress free and easy from the start. David handled my case in a professional manner, notifying me every step of the way. Thank you for all your hard work. A1read more
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      Had the best service from all at Reid black from David and Karen who dealt with my claim, all in all a great service I would highly recommend this Company to anybody wanting a professional service, thankyou to everyone at your office. odyread more
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      Reid and Black were absolutely outstanding and extremely professional in their handling of my case, They were well organised, timely and informative in their updates as the case progressed. The outcome was even better than anticipated which can only be due to the excellent knowledge, tenacity and determination in seeking a satisfactory outcome. I would highly recommend their services to anyone.read more
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      I would like to thank Reid Black solicitors for the outstanding work you have done for all the veterans who have mostly suffered in silence and would never have thought to start any sort of compensation claim against the MOD,also to find out that your firm does not take a penny from the veteran's settlement just shows the amazing integrity of Reid Black.read more
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      Just want to start off by Thanking Eilis for helping me through everything. I arrived in with very little expectations to get anywhere and I came out with exactly what I wanted, all thanks to the hard work and dedication of Eilis. When I first met Eilis she gave me the warmest reception and was fully understanding and complient with what I wanted. The best solicitors in Belfast hands down! would very highly recommend to anyone!read more
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      We would like to thank Reid Black Solicitors and specifically David French for helping us in a recent professional negligence case. His professionalism was a breath of fresh air and the positive outcome we received has been a weight off our shoulders, we would highly recommend David and his team.read more
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