Medical malpractice, also known as clinical negligence, happens when a healthcare professional or organisation provides care that falls below accepted standards, resulting in avoidable harm, injury, or the worsening of a patient’s condition. If you or a loved one has experienced this in Lambeth, you may be eligible to claim compensation.
Lambeth is home to some of South London’s busiest healthcare services, including King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Guy’s and St Thomas’, and a wide range of GP surgeries and private clinics. Despite the high standard of treatment, serious mistakes can still occur. When they do, Marley Solicitors offers clear, compassionate, and expert legal advice to help you take the next step with confidence.
What is a medical malpractice claim?
A medical malpractice claim is a legal action taken by someone who has suffered harm due to negligent medical treatment. This could involve a misdiagnosis, surgical error, incorrect prescription, or a failure to act when treatment was clearly needed.
To bring a successful claim, three key elements must be proven:
- A duty of care existed – The healthcare provider was responsible for treating you
- That duty was breached – The care given was below an acceptable standard
- Harm was caused as a result – You experienced injury, illness, or financial loss because of that breach
These types of claims are complex, but with the right legal guidance, patients can hold providers accountable and receive fair compensation for what they’ve been through.
Can I make a medical negligence claim in Lambeth?
Yes. You can pursue a claim for compensation if you received treatment in Lambeth and suffered avoidable harm due to substandard medical care. This rule applies whether your treatment was through the NHS or a private provider.
Marley Solicitors supports clients throughout Lambeth, including those treated at:
- King’s College Hospital
- Guy’s and St Thomas’
- Lambeth Hospital (part of South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust)
- Local GP surgeries like Vassall Medical Centre, Clapham Family Practice, and Streatham Hill Group Practice
- We also provide information about private health centres, dental clinics, and walk-in services
We understand the local healthcare landscape and can help you assess whether your experience meets the criteria for a negligence claim.
Examples of medical malpractice
Medical negligence can happen in many different ways. Some common examples include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis
Failure to identify serious conditions like cancer, meningitis, or stroke results in delayed or incorrect treatment. - Surgical mistakes
Errors during surgery such as damaging healthy tissue, operating on the wrong area, or not managing complications properly. - Incorrect prescriptions or medication errors
This includes giving the wrong medicine or dosage, as well as failing to check for allergies and potential interactions. - Poor maternity care
Injuries to either the baby or the mother can occur due to a failure to monitor labour, delays in performing emergency caesareans, or the misuse of delivery tools. - Neglect in mental health settings
Inadequate supervision or follow-up care, leading to preventable deterioration or harm. - Failure to obtain consent
Carrying out treatment without explaining risks, alternatives, or obtaining valid consent. - Neglect in care homes or long-term hospital wards
Patients may develop pressure sores, infections, or dehydration as a result of inadequate basic care.
Each case is unique, and what might seem like a mistake could meet the legal threshold for negligence. We can help you determine whether your experience qualifies for compensation.
What compensation can I receive for a medical negligence claim?
Compensation is calculated based on the impact the negligence has had on your life. It usually includes two categories:
- General damages
These cover pain, suffering, and the long-term effects on your quality of life. For example:
- Loss of mobility or independence
- Long-term physical or psychological symptoms
- Disruption to daily activities or family life
- Special damages
These cover financial losses and future costs, such as:
- Medical treatment or rehabilitation
- Travel expenses for appointments
- Adjustments to your home or lifestyle
- Loss of income or future earnings
- The cost of care or personal assistance
- Private therapy or counselling sessions
Severe claims involving permanent injury or disability may result in compensation exceeding six or even seven figures. More moderate cases, such as temporary complications, can still result in meaningful awards.
What is the time limit for bringing a medical negligence claim?
In most cases, you must initiate your claim within three years from one of the following events:
- The date the negligence occurred, or
- The date you first realised that your injury was linked to negligent care
Some exceptions apply:
- Children – The three-year period starts from their 18th birthday
- People who lack mental capacity – There is no time limit until capacity is regained
If you’re unsure about time limits, we recommend speaking with us as soon as possible. Even if time has passed, your case may still be eligible.
What do I need to start a claim?
The process begins with a review of your medical care and the consequences that followed. Your solicitor will gather evidence to build a strong case, including:
- Your complete medical records
- Reports from independent medical experts
- Financial documents such as payslips and receipts
- Witness statements if relevant
- A detailed account of your treatment and symptoms
You do not need to request medical records yourself. We’ll handle all that on your behalf.
Could you please let me know the duration of the claims process?
Most medical negligence claims take between 12 and 36 months, depending on complexity and whether the provider admits fault early on.
For example:
- A straightforward medication error may settle within a year
- A disputed surgical claim with multiple complications could take two to three years
- A birth injury claim requiring multiple expert opinions may take longer
Throughout the process, Marley Solicitors will provide regular updates and realistic timelines. We handle all correspondence with hospitals, NHS Resolution, insurers, and legal opponents on your behalf.
Do I need to go to court?
Most medical negligence claims are resolved without needing a court hearing. In fact, the majority are settled through negotiation or mediation.
If your case does go to court, we will guide and support you through every step. Court proceedings are usually a last resort and only pursued when settlement cannot be reached through other means.
Am I eligible to file a claim if my treatment was provided by the NHS?
Yes. You can absolutely bring a claim against an NHS provider. The NHS is held to the same legal standards as private healthcare services. Marley Solicitors has extensive experience dealing with NHS Resolution and understands how to navigate their internal complaints and compensation processes.
Bringing a claim will not affect your ongoing care or ability to access NHS services. Your right to treatment remains protected.
What is a “no win, no fee” agreement?
We handle most medical negligence claims in Lambeth on a no win, no fee basis. This means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t owe us anything
- If successful, your legal costs will be recovered from the other side, with any deductions explained clearly in advance
This approach ensures that everyone has access to justice, regardless of their financial situation.
Why choose Marley Solicitors?
At Marley Solicitors, we’re proud to offer expert legal support to those affected by medical malpractice across Lambeth. Our team is experienced, approachable, and committed to securing the best outcome for every client.
Clients choose us because:
- We have local knowledge of Lambeth’s hospitals, clinics, and health systems
- We offer tailored, personal service from start to finish
- We explain everything in plain English, without legal jargon
- We work hard to maximise your compensation while minimising stress
- We can often take on your case on a no win, no fee basis
Frequently asked questions
Can I make a claim on behalf of someone else?
Yes. If your loved one is under 18, lacks mental capacity, or has passed away, you may be able to make a claim on their behalf. You’ll act as their “litigation friend” or personal representative.
Will the doctor or nurse be personally punished?
No. Medical negligence claims are not about blaming individuals. Claims are made against the hospital’s trust or organisation that provided the care. It’s about ensuring accountability and securing compensation, not punishing staff.
Ready to speak to a solicitor?
If you or someone close to you has experienced medical malpractice in Lambeth, we are here to help. You don’t need to face this alone. Marley Solicitors offers a free, no-obligation consultation to assess your situation and explain your options.
Whether your case involves hospital errors, delayed diagnosis, surgical mistakes, or poor aftercare, we’ll guide you through the process with clarity and care. Our local team understands the pressures of the Lambeth healthcare system and will fight to get the justice you deserve.
Call Marley Solicitors today to begin your claim. Our Lambeth team is ready to help you move forward.
