How long does a medical negligence claim take in Ireland?

3 minute read

Ideally, you will never need to bring a medical negligence claim. However, if you have suffered avoidable harm, it is natural to want to know how long the process will take.

The reality is that medical negligence cases can and often do take several years to resolve in Ireland. This is because these claims are often complex and require careful consideration to ensure the injured person receives the support they need for the best possible quality of life in the future.

What affects how long a medical negligence claim takes?

Every case is different, and the time it takes will depend on several factors, including:

Complexity of the case
Severity of injuries
Availability of medical reports

Claims involving multiple defendants or unclear causation can take longer to resolve. More serious injuries may require additional expert evidence and reports to assess future care needs and financial losses. It can also take time to obtain medical records and independent expert opinions, which are essential for advancing a claim.

While this may feel frustrating, taking the time to build a strong case is important to ensure you receive the compensation and support you need.

How can an injured patient speed up the process?

While medical negligence claims in Ireland often take years, there are steps that can help avoid unnecessary delays, even if the difference is marginal.

Giving your solicitor detailed information about your care and treatment can help progress your claim.
Independent medical examinations are often required to support your claim. Attending these when arranged can prevent delays.
Your solicitor may need additional information or documents during the process. Prompt replies can help keep your case moving.

Despite these steps, it is important to understand that many factors are outside your control, and a careful, thorough approach is often necessary to ensure the best outcome.

Can you receive any financial support while your claim is ongoing?

In some cases, it may be possible to secure an interim payment while your medical negligence claim is ongoing. An interim payment is a partial payment of compensation made before the case fully concludes, usually to help with immediate care needs or financial pressures if liability has been admitted.

While not available in every case, your solicitor will advise you if seeking an interim payment is appropriate. It can ease some of the financial strain while allowing your claim to progress thoroughly to ensure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to.

We are medical negligence claims experts based in Dublin, Wicklow & Wexford

Whilst the medical negligence claims process can be a long and difficult journey, with the help of an experienced medical negligence solicitor, you will be able to get the justice you deserve.

If you believe you have suffered as a result of medical negligence, Contact Us for confidential chat with an experienced expert. Or, you can visit Medical Negligence Claims to learn more about our services.

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