What is the definition of professional negligence?

Professional negligence is a form of negligence which, in the case of a professional such as a lawyer, accountant or doctor, is a breach of a duty to act with reasonable care in a professional capacity. It occurs when a professional provides services to a client that fall below the standard of care that a similarly qualified professional in the same field would use in a similar situation. Professional negligence can lead to financial or other losses for the client, and potential legal action. In District of Columbia, professional negligence can be a breach of the standard of care as set out in the Washington Professional Code of Professional Responsibility, which sets out the professional duties and obligations of lawyers practicing in the district. The code requires that a lawyer maintain a level of competence and professional conduct that a reasonably prudent lawyer in the same specialty would use when confronted with a similar situation. When professional negligence occurs, the client may be able to sue for damages to the extent that the negligence caused a financial loss. The client can also sue for injunctive relief such as ordering the professional to perform some duty or stop doing something. In the District of Columbia, the Washington Professional Code of Professional Responsibility provides a version of a malpractice suit which is a suit against a professional for providing services in a negligent manner. An action for professional negligence can be brought by an injured person, a corporation, or a government agency. In any case, it is important to contact an experienced attorney to discuss the case and understand the potential legal claims.

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What is the definition of professional negligence?

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