Professional negligence occurs when a professional fails to exercise the standard of care, skill, or diligence expected in their field, resulting in harm or loss to a client. It often involves errors, omissions, or poor advice that fall below the accepted professional standards. Unfortunately, these cases can sometimes prove to be challenging to win. A proactive approach is a must. Here, our Philadelphia professional negligence attorney explains the key things that you need to prove to win this type of legal claim in Pennsylvania.
Why Professional Negligence Cases Are Challenging
Professional negligence claims are difficult because the standard of proof is high. A claimant must show that the professional’s actions clearly fell below the accepted level of skill or diligence in their field. Notably, you will often need expert testimony from another professional who can explain what should have been done under the circumstances. Courts generally want to provide some discretion to professionals who act within their own field of expertise. You will need to present a strong and compelling case that a professional’s negligence directly caused you harm.
What You Need to Prove in Court in a Professional Negligence Case in Philadelphia
In order to succeed in a professional negligence case, you must prove several elements. Here is an overview of the required elements of a professional negligence case in Pennsylvania:
- You must show that the professional owed you a duty of care;
- You must prove that the professional breached that duty by failing to act with the required skill or diligence;
- You must establish that this breach directly caused you harm (financial, physical, etc); and
- You must present evidence of the specific damages you suffered as a result.
Professional Negligence Cases are Time-Sensitive
You have a limited amount of time to bring a professional negligence claim. In Pennsylvania, there is a two-year statute of limitations for professional negligence claims (42 Pa. C.S.A. § 5524). There are only very narrow exceptions to the rule that apply. What happens if you fail to bring a claim in a timely manner? You will likely lose out on your right to bring a claim at all. Be proactive: Consult with a top-tier Philadelphia professional negligence lawyer as soon as possible.
We Protect Victims of Professional Negligence in Philadelphia
Professional negligence claims are complex. It is a highly specialized area of law. Attorney Sean Quinn is a Pennsylvania attorney with the skills, knowledge, and legal training to represent clients in these high-stakes cases. Our client testimonials and case results tell the story best. Your initial consultation is always free and completely confidential.
Call Our Philadelphia Professional Negligence Lawyer Today
At Quinn Law Group, LLC, our Philadelphia professional negligence attorney has the specialized experience that you can rely on. If you have any questions or concerns about a professional negligence claim, please do not hesitate to call us now or contact us online. From our Philadelphia law office, we represent victims of professional negligence throughout the Commonwealth.