A 70-year-old claimant sought legal advice from a firm in Romford after an operation at Basildon & Thurrock University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in 2004 left him with three plastic bags inside his body. As a result, the Claimant suffered life-changing injuries and was left permanently disabled.
The firm advertised themselves as having extensive experience and signed a contract with the Claimant which implied their staff were legally qualified and regulated by the Solicitors Regulations Authority.
However, in this case, the claimant failed to comply with court orders, and sought sums for damages ranging from £1,000,000 to £3,000,000 without evidence to support these figures.
The NHS Trust admitted limited liability and settled the claim for £20,000, with the claimant having to pay towards the hospital’s legal costs of £75,000.
However, the High Court ruled that the unqualified legal adviser, was professionally negligent in limiting the claimant’s winnings, as they were held to the same standard as a qualified lawyer. They were ordered to pay £263,759 in damages, and £73,200 for costs.
If you have been subject to incorrect legal advice from an unregulated individual, contact us today at Audley Chaucer.
Written by Syeda Anjum
