Civil Litigation & Disputes: Negligence Specialisation
The Civil Litigation & Disputes practice area focuses on resolving disagreements between people or organisations. One important part of this area is negligence, which happens when someone fails to take proper care, leading to harm or loss for another person.
What is Negligence?
Negligence occurs when a person or business does not act as a reasonable person would in a similar situation. This can result in accidents or injuries. For example:
- Car Accidents: If a driver is texting while driving and causes a crash, they may be found negligent because they did not pay attention to the road.
- Medical Mistakes: If a doctor fails to diagnose a serious illness due to carelessness, the patient may suffer harm, leading to a negligence claim.
- Slip and Fall Cases: If a shop owner does not clean up a spill and someone slips and gets hurt, the owner may be held responsible for negligence.
How Does it Work in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, if you believe someone has been negligent and it has caused you harm, you can seek legal advice. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and whether you have a case. If you decide to proceed, your lawyer will gather evidence, such as witness statements and medical reports, to support your claim.
What Happens Next?
Once your case is prepared, it may go to court if a settlement cannot be reached. In court, both sides will present their arguments, and a judge will decide if negligence occurred and what compensation, if any, should be awarded.
Why is This Important?
Understanding negligence is crucial because it helps protect people from harm and ensures that those who are careless are held accountable. This practice area plays a vital role in maintaining safety and fairness in our communities.
If you think you have a negligence case, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. The sooner you act, the better your chances of a successful outcome.