Standing With You When Medical Care Fails
Led by Richard O'Shea - Ireland's Medical Negligence Specialists
When a healthcare professional's negligence causes harm, it's more than a mistake—it's a breach of trust. You deserve answers, accountability, and justice. We understand the emotional and physical toll medical negligence takes on you and your family. We're here to fight for what's right.
Led by Richard O'Shea TEP
Head of Injury Department, Medical Negligence Specialist
Richard O'Shea TEP has dedicated his career to representing victims of medical negligence across Ireland. With extensive experience in complex clinical negligence cases, Richard provides expert legal guidance to clients who have suffered due to substandard medical care.
What sets Richard apart is his unwavering commitment to each client. He understands that behind every case is a person whose life has been profoundly affected by medical errors. Richard personally oversees every case, ensuring you receive the expert guidance and compassionate support you deserve.
Richard's approach is simple: Listen to your story, investigate thoroughly, work with leading medical experts, and fight relentlessly for the justice and compensation you deserve.
How We Help You
Our straightforward, compassionate approach to medical negligence claims
Initial Consultation
We listen to your story with care and empathy. During your consultation, we'll discuss what happened, review your medical timeline, and provide an honest assessment of your case. There's no pressure—just clear, straightforward advice about your legal options.
Gathering Evidence & Medical Records
We handle all the paperwork. We'll obtain your complete medical records, consult with independent medical experts, and build a comprehensive understanding of how the negligence occurred and the impact it's had on your life. This thorough investigation is key to building a strong case.
Building Your Case
Working with Ireland's leading medical experts, we construct a compelling case that demonstrates the negligence you experienced and the compensation you deserve. We keep you informed at every stage, explaining complex medical and legal terms in plain English. Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation to support your recovery and future needs.
What Our Clients Say
Real experiences from people we've helped
"Richard and his team provided exceptional support during the most difficult time of my life. They fought tirelessly for my family and secured the compensation we needed for my son's ongoing care. I can't thank them enough."
— Barry Drea
"After being let down by the medical system, I felt lost and overwhelmed. Richard explained everything clearly, handled all the stress, and achieved a result that exceeded my expectations. Truly professional and caring."
— Emma Poff
"I was hesitant to pursue a claim, but Richard made the process straightforward and kept me informed every step of the way. The outcome gave me closure and the financial security I needed for treatment. Highly recommend."
— Daniel Webster
"Compassionate, knowledgeable, and determined—that's how I'd describe Richard and the team. They took on my complex surgical negligence case and delivered justice. Forever grateful."
— Daniel Esmond
Types of Medical Negligence We Handle
Expert representation for a wide range of clinical negligence claims
Birth Injuries
Injuries to mother or baby during pregnancy, labour, or delivery
Erb's Palsy
Nerve damage affecting arm movement caused by birth trauma
Cerebral Palsy
Brain injury occurring before, during, or after birth
Cancer Misdiagnosis
Delayed or incorrect cancer diagnosis affecting treatment outcomes
Cauda Equina Syndrome
Spinal emergency requiring urgent diagnosis and treatment
Sepsis
Life-threatening infection requiring rapid medical response
Brain Injuries
Traumatic or acquired brain injuries from medical errors
Spinal Injuries
Spinal cord damage from surgical errors or delayed diagnosis
Surgical Negligence
Preventable errors during or after surgical procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about medical negligence claims in Ireland
What constitutes medical negligence in Ireland?
Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide the expected standard of care, leading to injury, harm, or deterioration in a patient's health. This could involve misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, or failure to obtain informed consent. For negligence to be proven, we must demonstrate that the care you received fell below the standard that a reasonably competent medical professional would have provided in similar circumstances, and that this substandard care directly caused your injury.
What are the time limits for making a claim?
In Ireland, you generally have two years from the date of the negligent act, or from the date you first became aware (or should reasonably have become aware) that you suffered an injury due to medical negligence. This is known as the Statute of Limitations. However, there are important exceptions—for example, if the injured person is a minor (under 18), the two-year period doesn't begin until they turn 18. Time limits can be complex, which is why it's crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible after discovering potential negligence.
What compensation can I expect from a medical negligence claim?
Compensation varies significantly depending on the severity of your injury, the impact on your quality of life, and your future needs. Awards can include general damages for pain and suffering, special damages for out-of-pocket expenses (medical bills, travel costs, loss of earnings), and compensation for future care needs and loss of earning capacity. Cases can range from several thousand euros for less severe injuries to hundreds of thousands or even millions for catastrophic, life-changing injuries. Every case is unique, and we assess compensation based on medical evidence, expert reports, and the specific circumstances of your injury.
How long does a medical negligence claim take?
The timeline for medical negligence claims varies. Simple cases may settle within 12-18 months, while complex cases involving catastrophic injuries or disputed liability can take 2-4 years or longer. The process involves obtaining medical records (which can take several months), securing independent expert reports, and potentially going through court proceedings. While we work as efficiently as possible, we never rush at the expense of securing the best outcome for you. We'll provide regular updates throughout the process so you always know where your case stands.
Do I need to go to court?
Most medical negligence cases in Ireland are settled without going to trial. Through skilled negotiation with the defendant's insurers and solicitors, we often reach fair settlements that avoid the stress and uncertainty of court proceedings. However, if a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to represent you in court. Richard O'Shea and our legal team have extensive courtroom experience and will fight vigorously for your rights. We'll advise you at every stage about whether settlement or court action is in your best interests.
What evidence do I need for my claim?
We handle gathering the evidence for you. The key evidence includes your complete medical records from all relevant healthcare providers, independent expert medical opinions (which we arrange), witness statements, and documentation of your injuries and their impact on your life. You should keep records of all medical expenses, loss of earnings, travel costs, and how the injury has affected your daily activities. However, don't worry if you don't have everything organised—we'll guide you through what we need and obtain the necessary medical records on your behalf.
Can I make a claim against a private hospital?
Yes, absolutely. Medical negligence claims can be made against private hospitals, public hospitals (HSE facilities), individual doctors, surgeons, consultants, GPs, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. The legal principles are the same regardless of whether the care was provided privately or publicly. Private hospitals and doctors carry professional indemnity insurance specifically to cover negligence claims, just as public healthcare providers are covered by the State Claims Agency.
What if the negligence happened years ago?
Even if the negligence occurred years ago, you may still be able to make a claim depending on your circumstances. While the standard time limit is two years, this begins from the "date of knowledge"—when you first knew or should reasonably have known that you suffered an injury due to negligence. Some injuries don't become apparent for months or even years after the negligent act. Additionally, special rules apply for children and people who lack mental capacity. Contact us for a confidential assessment—we'll review your specific situation and advise whether you can still pursue a claim.
Will making a claim affect my future medical care?
No. Healthcare professionals in Ireland are legally and ethically obligated to provide the same standard of care to all patients, regardless of whether they've made a complaint or claim. Making a medical negligence claim is your legal right and should never affect the quality of care you receive in future. If you have concerns about ongoing treatment, we can discuss options such as seeking care from different providers. Your health and wellbeing always come first.
What makes your firm different from other solicitors?
Our practice is led by Richard O'Shea, who specialises exclusively in medical negligence law. This focused expertise means we have deep knowledge of medical standards, healthcare regulations, and the complex legal principles that apply to clinical negligence cases. We work with Ireland's leading medical experts, invest heavily in thorough investigations, and provide truly personalised service—Richard personally oversees every case. What really sets us apart is our approach: we combine aggressive legal advocacy with genuine compassion. We understand the emotional toll of medical negligence and provide support that goes beyond just legal advice.
Can I claim for emotional distress and psychological harm?
Yes. Compensation for medical negligence includes both physical and psychological injuries. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions resulting from medical negligence are recognised injuries under Irish law. We work with expert psychiatrists and psychologists to properly assess and document psychological harm, ensuring your compensation claim reflects the full impact of the negligence on your mental health and wellbeing.
What if my loved one died due to medical negligence?
We are deeply sorry for your loss. When a death occurs due to medical negligence, family members may be entitled to pursue a claim under the Civil Liability Act. These claims can include compensation for mental distress, loss of financial support, funeral expenses, and the loss of the deceased's company and care. These cases require sensitive handling, and we approach them with the utmost compassion while fighting to hold those responsible accountable. We can also help you seek answers through the inquest process.
How do I get started with my claim?
Simply contact us by phone at 01 5827148 or use the contact form on our website to request a call back. We'll arrange a consultation at a time that suits you—this can be in person at our Dublin or Kilkenny offices, by phone, or via video call. During the consultation, we'll listen to your story, review any documentation you have, and provide honest advice about your case. There's no pressure and no obligation. If you decide to proceed, we'll guide you through every step of the process with clarity and compassion.
Do you handle claims for children?
Yes, we have extensive experience representing children who have suffered medical negligence, particularly in cases involving birth injuries, cerebral palsy, Erb's palsy, and delayed diagnosis. Children's cases require special legal procedures—a court must approve any settlement to ensure it's in the child's best interests. We work with paediatric medical experts and ensure that compensation accounts for the child's lifetime needs, including future medical care, education, accommodation, and loss of earning capacity. These cases are particularly important to us, and we handle them with exceptional care.
What happens during the consultation?
During your initial consultation, Richard O'Shea or a member of our specialist team will listen carefully to your experience. We'll ask questions about the medical treatment you received, the timeline of events, and the impact on your life. Bring any medical records, appointment letters, or documentation you have, but don't worry if you don't have everything—we can obtain records on your behalf. We'll provide an honest assessment of your case, explain the legal process in straightforward terms, and outline the next steps if you decide to proceed. The consultation is confidential, and you're under no obligation to move forward.
You Deserve Justice and Answers
If medical negligence has affected you or your family, you don't have to face it alone. Richard O'Shea and our dedicated team are here to fight for what's right.
What Our Clients Say
Real feedback from clients we've supported through medical negligence cases across Ireland
Richard O'Shea handled my case with the utmost professionalism and care. From the very first meeting, he listened carefully to what had happened and explained everything in language I could understand. His support throughout a very difficult time made all the difference.
I cannot fault the service I received from Mary Molloy & Co Solicitors. Richard treated me with respect and dignity at every stage, kept me fully informed, and made sure I understood the process. His expertise in medical negligence is clear, and he genuinely cares about his clients.
Richard O'Shea is an exceptional solicitor. He combines deep legal knowledge with real empathy — qualities you really need when going through a medical negligence case. His attention to detail and clear communication put my mind at ease throughout.
Throughout an incredibly stressful experience, Richard provided steady, professional guidance and was always available to answer my questions. His honest, plain-English approach was exactly what I needed. I would recommend him to anyone facing a medical negligence issue.
Outstanding service from start to finish. Richard's knowledge of clinical negligence law is impressive, but what really stood out was his patience and willingness to explain every step of the process. A truly professional and compassionate solicitor.
⭐ Rated 5/5 by Our Clients ⭐
Trusted by clients across Ireland for medical negligence and clinical negligence advice