Professional Negligence

Has a professional failed to give you proper advice?

The consequences of negligence by your solicitor, accountant, architect, engineer, financial adviser, share broker, or any other professional can be catastrophic. When this happens, it’s easy for the client to feel disillusioned and powerless. Most of these professionals have insurance that covers their liability for negligence. These insurance companies have skilled lawyers who specialise in defending professional negligence claims. So, it can be difficult to take them on when they are armed with all the power.

Shine Lawyers can help

At Shine Lawyers NZ we have solicitors who specialise in these types of cases and have previously represented insurance companies that insure professionals. We know how they operate and we have the expertise and knowledge to take the insurance companies on. What’s more, as part of the Shine Group of lawyers, we have the backing and expertise of teams of experts in our Australian offices. We give the little person the power and resources to take on these cases.

Insurance claim denied? Contact us

If you are a professional whose insurance claim has been denied, we can help. You may be able to challenge the declinature or join the insurance company to the claim against you and force them to cover you. Insurance contracts can be complicated even for other professionals. We have the experience and expertise to provide you with independent advice on your professional negligence claim and your insurance company’s obligations. If you suffered from the consequences of negligence from a professional, you may be eligible for compensation, contact Shine Lawyers NZ today for a confidential, obligation-free consultation.

Why choose Shine Lawyers?

serviceFree 30 minute consultation
serviceClaim assessment where we explain all of the options available
serviceCan’t make it to the office? We can meet with you virtually
serviceNo Win No Fee* for suitable cases

We are here to help you right wrong.


Common Questions 

How do you prove professional negligence?  

To bring about a successful claim of professional negligence, you must be able to prove one of the following:  

1. The professional owed you a duty of care; 

2. The professional breached the duty of care that was owed to you;

3. As a result of the breach, you have suffered loss and/or damages.  

Our team of legal experts will take the time to listen and understand your situation to devise the best course of action. From there, we can advise on the merit of your professional negligence claim and the next best steps.

Can you claim compensation for professional negligence? 

Yes. Professionals should usually have Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) that covers them for these types of claims. 

In a successful claim, it’s typically the professional’s insurer who pays the compensation (depending upon the professional’s insurance policy). The amount of compensation you can claim will depend on the specific circumstances of your situation. 

How long does a professional negligence claim take? 

Every case is different, but our team will work hard to ensure your claim is finalised as soon as possible so you can move on and look to the future.  

During your initial consultation, your lawyer will asses your case and be able to give you a better idea of time frames then.

To express your interest on a confidential, no-cost, no-obligation basis, or to ask any questions you may have, please contact us on 0800 744 63529 or [email protected].

Who is Shine Lawyers New Zealand's Professional Negligence Claims team?

Shine Lawyers’ Professional Negligence Claims team includes some of the firm’s most experienced solicitors and support staff. The team includes:

Contact Us

Fields marked with an * are required

If required, we gather more details or documents later in the process.

I agree to the Shine Lawyers privacy policy

Meet our team

Our team at Shine Lawyers New Zealand, works tirelessly to achieve great outcomes for clients. Learn more ›

Civil litigation information

We have extensive experience as civil litigation lawyers, and are able to guide you through the process by which legal disputes are resolved in New Zealand. Learn more ›

General Insurance Claims

We have years of experience dealing with New Zealand insurers and can help you understand the insurance landscape. Learn more ›

Contact us

We are civil litigation and insurance claims experts based in Auckland and operating throughout New Zealand. Contact us today to see how we can assist. Learn more ›