Proportionate and focussed
As the prevalence of historic abuse continues to emerge an ever increasing number of public, private and commercial organisations have to address the complexities of investigating such claims.
Through our representation of public and private sector organisations and the care sector, we have extensive experience and understanding of the psychological considerations in relation to both individual and group litigation claims for historic abuse claims.
Given the acute sensitivities of all parties involved in these matters it is important that an early assessment is taken of the merits of the allegations made. Inevitably historic abuse claims often involve events that span many decades. It is imperative from the outset that a comprehensive chronology of the organisation’s involvement with the claimant is pieced together.
Working closely with our clients to collate this initial information we can formulate and provide a clear strategy for the onward investigation of documentary, lay and expert evidence and resolution of the claim.
These complex claims are often document heavy. We provide our clients with clear guidance to ensure a proportionate and focussed search is made for relevant documents at the beginning of the claims process. It is important for all parties to work from the same compendium of documents so there is a continuing evaluation of the liability issues throughout the lifecycle of the claim.
By promoting an early exchange of documents and information we look to provide a clear and timely process that helps to reduce the ongoing anxiety to the claimant and ensure that settlement is achieved at the optimum point.
Tracing witnesses and former personnel involved in historic abuse claims can be problematic and very expensive. By assessing the likely pertinence of witness evidence jointly with our clients we ensure there is an efficient use of time and resource in the proofing of witnesses.
As there has been a growth in the proliferation of historic abuse claims the law has developed to clarify the fundamental legal hurdles for parties in relation to limitation, breach of duty and vicarious liability.
Our extensive experience of managing these claims enables us to provide not only advice on legal liability but issues relating to confidentiality, risk management and recovery actions. Additionally, we regularly advise on insurance indemnity and policy interpretation.
Sensitive Claims & Abuse
