Medical Negligence Solicitors | Clinical Negligence Solicitors | Howells
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Medical Negligence Solicitors

Medical Negligence Solicitors based in Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley and Nationwide

Our medical negligence solicitors specialise in recovering compensation for patients who have suffered because of medical negligence and medical accidents.

 

If you or someone you know has suffered as a result of medical negligence that caused injury or death, you may be able to claim compensation. Whilst professional legal advice can never turn back the clock, it can help you and your family rebuild for the time ahead.

 

Our medical negligence solicitors can assess your claim for free. We can often take on medical negligence claims on a no win no fee basis* and limited claims on Legal Aid.

 

As accredited medical negligence specialists, we handle a wide variety of cases daily across the entirety of England and Wales. These include complex cases about hospital negligenceinquests, birth injuries, fatal injury claims, mis diagnosis and delayed diagnosis claims and cancer claims.

 

Our medical negligence team are accredited by the Law Society and have earned numerous positive client reviews, as the number 1 medical negligence law firm in the UK on Review Solicitors, they are consistently recognised for their empathetic communication — always taking the time to listen, support, and guide their clients.

Medical Negligence Solicitors

 

 

Are you concerned about making a claim against the NHS? Claims are typically managed by NHS solicitors. Your local hospital or doctor does not handle them.

 

Specialist Medical Negligence Solicitors You Can Trust


We understand that reaching out to a medical negligence solicitor often comes at one of the most difficult times in your life. You may be feeling overwhelmed, let down, or unsure about what to do next. That’s why our specialist team—supporting clients across England and Wales—is here to guide you with compassion, patience, and clarity at every step.

 

Medical negligence claims can be complex, but you don’t have to face the process alone. Our solicitors work exclusively on medical negligence cases, meaning you’ll receive focused expertise from people who truly understand both the legal journey and the emotional impact it can have.

 

Unlike some law firms that only take on the highest‑value claims, we believe every person deserves justice, no matter their circumstances. Our national team is recognised by The Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, reflecting our dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for the individuals and families we support.

 

From your free initial consultation through to the final resolution of your claim, we promise to explain everything in plain English, explore all funding options, and keep you fully supported throughout. Your wellbeing matters to us. Our priority is helping you access the recovery, rehabilitation, and compensation you deserve—so you can focus on rebuilding your life with confidence.

 

We are approachable, highly rated by our clients, and committed to helping you move forward. Call us today on 0114 2496 611 or fill out an assessment form to start your claim.

 

Types Of Medical Negligence Claims

 

All doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals have a duty to provide safe, accurate, and timely care. When that standard falls short, the consequences can be devastating.

 

Medical negligence can affect patients and families in many different ways, including:

 

– Hospital negligence, including claims against NHS hospitals and private healthcare providers.

– Poorly managed pregnancy or labour, leading to birth injuries or harm to the mother.

 

– Delayed diagnosis allowing conditions to worsen or, in the most serious cases, leading to preventable death.

 

Hospital-acquired infections, including life‑threatening illnesses such as sepsis.

 

– Mis diagnosis resulting in incorrect or harmful treatment.

 

– Medication errors and prescription error claims, such as the wrong drug or dosage being given.

 

GP negligence, where symptoms may be missed, dismissed, or not referred appropriately.

 

– Inquests, where a death may have been caused by medical failures and needs formal investigation.

 

– Cancer claims, including delayed or incorrect diagnosis that affects the chance of recovery.

 

Medical negligence is rare, but when it happens, the impact can be life‑changing. We understand how frightening, overwhelming, and unjust this can feel. That’s why our compassionate team of specialist medical negligence solicitors is here to listen to your story, support you throughout the process, and help you access the justice, answers, and compensation you deserve.

 

Fill out an assessment form or call us on 0114 2496 611 to book your free assessment today.

 

Free Medical Negligence Initial Appointment

 

Do you think you have a claim? Our Medical Negligence team offer a free initial appointment on all types of potential compensation claims, big or small. Our compassionate and friendly Medical Negligence team will discuss your concerns with you and will let you know as soon as we can whether we can help.

 

Your initial appointment will be made by telephone, offering you complete flexibility. The appointment can be arranged to fit around lunch breaks or work commitments.

 

Call us today on 0114 2496 611 or fill out an assessment form to start your claim.

 

Free Medical Negligence Initial Appointment – Step by Step

 

Step 1 – Book Your Free Consultation
Contact our medical negligence team by completing our online form or by calling 0114 2496 611. We’ll arrange a free appointment at a time that suits you, including during lunch breaks or after work.

 

Step 2 – Share Your Story
During your initial telephone appointment, our friendly solicitors will listen to your concerns with care and compassion. We’ll ask for some basic details about what happened and how you’ve been affected.

 

Step 3 – Get an Initial Assessment
We’ll let you know quickly whether we can help with your medical negligence claim. Our team handles all types of cases, whether large or small.

 

Step 4 – Understand the Process
Your solicitor will explain the medical negligence claims process in simple terms, guiding you step by step at your own pace.

 

Step 5 – Case Investigation
If we believe your claim requires further investigation, we’ll open a case and discuss your next steps, including funding options and legal costs.

 

Step 6 – Ongoing Support
From your first appointment onwards, our medical negligence solicitors will provide expert advice, compassionate support, and clear guidance to help you secure the compensation and rehabilitation you deserve.

 

How to Make a Medical Negligence Claim – Step by Step

 

Step 1 – Free Consultation
Contact Howells Solicitors on 0114 2496 611 or complete our online form. During your free consultation, we’ll ask for some basic details about what happened and how you were affected.

 

Step 2 – Initial Assessment
Our specialist medical negligence solicitors will review your case and let you know if further investigation is needed. We’ll explain your funding options, including No Win, No Fee agreements.

 

Step 3 – Case Investigation
If your claim proceeds, we’ll collect and review your medical records. Our expert solicitors will work with independent medical professionals to identify errors in your treatment and the impact on your health.

 

Step 4 – Letter of Claim
Once evidence is gathered, we will formally start legal proceedings by sending a Letter of Claim to the Defendant (hospital, GP, or healthcare provider).

 

Step 5 – Interim Payments
Where possible, we will secure interim compensation payments to help cover immediate care, rehabilitation, or financial needs while your case continues.

 

Step 6 – Settlement or Court
We aim to resolve claims through negotiation or mediation, helping you achieve a faster and less stressful outcome. If necessary, we’ll represent you in court to secure the compensation you deserve.

 

No Win No Fee Medical Negligence Claims

 

We believe that everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial circumstances. Our no win no fee agreement, also known as a conditional fee agreement (CFA), helps you take legal action. You don’t have to worry about upfront costs.*

 

In most cases, if accepted on a no win, no fee basis, you won’t pay a penny upfront for our legal services*. The basis of a CFA is that you will not be required to pay our legal fees if the compensation claim is unsuccessful. Meaning, you will not pay any fees to us unless we win your case for you*.

You can find more information on our no win no fee medical negligence page. It includes a full list of terms and conditions.

 

*There are circumstances where you would be asked to pay any outstanding costs even if you don’t win your case.

 

You may need to pay for services from Howells Solicitors in certain situations. These include being dishonest, not giving your solicitor instructions, or rejecting an offer against their advice. Other examples are the death of the claimant, cancelling your claim, and moving without telling your solicitor.

 

In these cases, you might also have to cover the defendant’s costs. Client’s may be asked to pay disbursements up front or must stand to the cost of a medical report if a second opinion is obtained. In some instances, you may need to pay for medical reports or other third-party payments upfront. We would discuss this with you before making any decision.

 

Legal Aid For Medical Negligence

 

Howells Solicitors are one of the few firms holding a Legal Aid franchise for medical negligence. In certain circumstances you may be able to apply for Legal Aid Funding.

 

As soon as you contact us, we’ll be able to discuss your funding options. We will answer any questions you have to alleviate any worries or stress you might be feeling.

 

Flexible Appointments

 

We understand that dealing with medical negligence matters can be stressful, and finding time to attend in-person appointments isn’t always easy. That’s why we offer our full range of medical negligence services remotely, offering a more efficient and convenient service. We can offer our medical negligence legal support via telephone or secure remote online meetings.

 

This approach allows you to access expert legal advice from the comfort of your home, without the need to travel or rearrange your schedule. If your case requires a court hearing, many procedural matters are now handled remotely too, ensuring your legal journey is as smooth and accessible as possible.

 

Our remote services are designed to be just as personal and confidential as in-person consultations, with clear communication and full transparency every step of the way. Remote appointments are offered throughout the case, and most correspondence can be handled by email and Howells secure Client Portal.

 

Whether you’re dealing with sensitive medical negligence matters or simply seeking guidance, we ensure a smooth, stress-free experience that puts your needs first. Whilst we appreciate that remote services offer convenience, they may not be suitable for everyone. If you do wish to meet us face to face, you can book an appointment at one of our offices in Sheffield, Barnsley or Rotherham.

 

Hospital Negligence Claims

 

Hospital negligence occurs when a hospital or its staff fail to provide care that meets the expected medical standard, resulting in avoidable harm to a patient.  This can include delayed diagnosis, hospital misdiagnosis, A&E negligence, surgical negligence and errors, medication mistakes, poor hospital infection control, cancer negligence claims, or failures in monitoring and aftercare which could result in pressure sores or sepsis.

 

Birth Injury Compensation

 

Birth injuries can have life‑changing consequences for both the child and the family. When mistakes during pregnancy, labour, or immediate aftercare lead to avoidable harm, this may amount to medical negligence. Birth injury claims often arise from failures such as delayed responses to fetal distress, maternity and pregnancy negligence, errors in using instruments like forceps, or poor monitoring of mother and baby.

Brain Injury Negligence Claims

 

Brain injuries caused by medical negligence can have profound, lifelong effects on a person’s health, independence, and quality of life. These injuries often result from delays in diagnosing conditions like stroke or meningitis, oxygen deprivation during surgery or birth, medication errors, or failures to monitor a patient’s deteriorating condition.

 

Spinal Injury Negligence Claims

 

Spinal injuries caused by negligent medical care can lead to permanent pain, limited mobility, or life‑changing disabilities. Negligence can occur through surgical errors, delayed diagnosis of spinal conditions, incorrect treatment, or failures in emergency care. These mistakes can result in nerve damage, paralysis, or long‑term loss of function.

 

Delayed Diagnosis and  Misdiagnosis Claims

 

A delayed diagnosis can result in a condition becoming far more serious than it needed to be. When symptoms are missed, investigations are not ordered in time, or follow‑up appointments are overlooked, patients may lose the chance for earlier treatment and better outcomes. Delays often occur in A&E, outpatient clinics, and GP practices, where warning signs can be misinterpreted or not escalated quickly enough.

 

Inquests

 

When a loved one passes away unexpectedly, the coroner may open an inquest to understand how and why the death occurred. This process can feel overwhelming for families, especially when negligent medical care may have played a role. An inquest is not about blame but about establishing the facts — however, the findings can be crucial for any future medical negligence claim.

Unlike many law firms who only assist with the paperwork before the inquest takes place, we often provide full legal representation throughout the entire process. This means we could stand beside you at the hearing, ask questions on your behalf, challenge evidence where necessary, and ensure your loved one’s story is fully explored.

 

Our Medical Negligence Solicitors

 

Our medical negligence team cover the entirety of England and South Yorkshire, and have physical offices in:

 

– Sheffield

– Barnsley

– Rotherham

 

You can arrange appointments face to face, or we offer telephone or video call options available. If you can’t reach our office, we could arrange for a member of the team to visit you at home.

Medical Negligence Claims Frequently Asked Questions

Medical negligence, or clinical negligence, happens when a healthcare provider fails to provide the expected level of care. This can lead to harm for a patient. This failure can lead to injuries, illness, the aggravation of existing conditions, or even death. Medical negligence claims are usually complex. They need an understanding of both law and medicine. A medical negligence solicitor can help achieve this.

The length of medical negligence claims varies considerably. They are often affected by outside factors. This includes waiting for medical records and for medical experts to finish their reports.

It can also depend on how complex the case is. Issues will need to be investigated, and there may be lots of evidence to gather. In all appropriate cases, we will apply for interim payments.

The duration of a medical negligence claim is largely influenced by the defendant’s actions. Claims can be resolved before reaching court; however, if the defendant disputes liability, the process could be significantly prolonged.

Even when liability is acknowledged, rushing a settlement is not advisable. The full impact of injuries might only become clear after several years. It is important for your medical negligence solicitor to keep you updated on your case. They should also advise you if more time is needed to value and settle your claim accurately.

Your case will determine this, and we will discuss your fee agreement at the start of your case. The success fee is a percentage of the money you get for your physical or mental injury. It also includes past losses. This fee caps at 25% of the total compensation from these areas.

No one takes a success fee from any damages received for future losses. If the amount of costs recovered from the defendant falls short, the compensation will also cover the difference.

There are strict time limits for medical negligence claims in the UK. All claims involving medical negligence are subject to a three-year time limit. The time limit starts from the date of negligence or when you first knew your injury was caused by the poor care. Three years isn’t a long time, so if you’ve experienced medical negligence, contact a solicitor right away.

Many medical negligence cases either settle before court or are discontinued. Your medical negligence lawyer will usually try to settle the case before going to court. This way, you won’t have to testify.

Our medical negligence solicitors are known for using dispute resolution options. They work hard to resolve claims without going to court.

This helps keep costs low and can speed up the claims process. It also reduces stress on the family involved. If your case does go to court, our solicitors will be with you every step of the way.

Medical Negligence Fees

We appreciate that worry about costs can be the biggest barrier to getting professional help – so don’t let it stop you. If we believe you have a claim, then we can potentially pursue it via one of a number of funding options or fee arrangements such as ‘no win, no fee’ if you are eligible*.

You can find more on our ‘no win, no fee’ arrangement here.

Request a Call back

The Howells Solicitors law team are compassionate, down-to-earth and professional, offering you the best expert advice. Get in touch with solicitors in Sheffield, Rotherham, and Barnsley to see how we can help. Fill in the form or give us a call at:

Medical Negligence Articles

What Do Our
Clients Say?

"During my ongoing dental negligence claim, I have received totally professional, personal, supportive and caring service from this company. Even at the very beginning, before taking on my case, their encouraging help and advice got me through some very dark days."

Medical Negligence Client
2022

"I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first reached out to Howells, but when Helen contacted me, I was immediately put at ease by her warmth and understanding. She clearly explained everything and took thorough notes from the start. As my case progressed, Helen went above and beyond my expectations, offering valuable advice and support. I’m extremely glad I chose Howells, as Helen made the entire experience comfortable and stress-free. Thank you."

Medical Negligence Client
2024

"I had an awful experience during the birth of my baby and I knew things could have been better but reluctant to speak to a solicitor as in the end both me and baby were fine. I found the courage to speak to Howells, I felt really listened to and I’m grateful they have decided to take on my case. I will write a review at the next stage but if it’s even crossed your mind, do what I did and just pick up the phone as you may be suprised."

Medical Negligence Client
2025

"I am very pleased with the service I receive from Michelle Gyte at Howells solicitors in handling my negligence case. Michelle is very thorough in explaining the legal process and kept me informed every step of the way. I felt confident knowing Im in good hands throughout the process. Michelle is knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions I would highly recommend and can not Thankyou enough with the support you’ve given me."

Medical Negligence Client
2025

"I’ve had an excellent experience with Howells Solicitors. From the outset, they were approachable, transparent, and consistently kept me informed with a clear roadmap of what to expect next.
This was a particularly challenging medical negligence case, and their empathetic, human approach made a difficult time far more manageable. Their compassion and professionalism truly stood out."

Medical Negligence Client
2025

"I required help with a medical negligence complaint with the NHS and Howells Solicitors were so helpful with a difficult situation."

Medical Negligence Client
2025

"I required help with a medical negligence complaint with the NHS and Howells Solicitors were so helpful with a difficult situation."

Medical Negligence Client
2025

“I can honestly not thank you and your team enough for everything they did to help with my 10 month old daughters inquest. I was absolutely terrified going into this as I had no previous knowledge on inquests. You reassured me from the start and kept me fully updated on what was going on. You helped explain everything in a way that we could understand. Losing my daughter then having to go through an inquest is the worst thing that’s ever happened in my life but I couldn’t of asked for someone better to help us get the answers we needed. You kept me calm and reassured the full way through. You are so professional with a personal touch. I cannot thank there team enough for what they have done for myself, my family and more importantly Lily my daughter.” 

Inquest Client
2012

"Thank you for the very professional way in which you handled our claim and for your kindness – I always felt it was very easy to discuss matters with you. We have received exceptional service in a timely, totally professional and caring manner….always!! I will certainly continue to engage your firm for any future legal matters."

Medical Negligence Client
2015