The adage goes "to err is human". However we seldom pay heed to the statement when its comes to ourselves. In the course of professional conduct and duties it is possible for an individual to commit errors, omissions which might not be intentional but can potentially harm the interest of his client.

The scope of professional liability insurance is vast and it includes within its fold a number of professionals like that of architects, lawyers, physicians, accountants and also software developers. The professional liability insurance is described in different professions by various names. In case of Medicine it is referred as medical malpractice whereas in legal professions the same is known as errors and omissions. When an individual opts for services of a professional, he expects a certain degree of professional conduct in absence of which, the client may sue him for professional misconduct. A lawyer as a professional is required to maintain secrecy about confidential information disclosed by clients in the course of his service. Any negligence on his part may be considered as professional negligence and the client may sue him on this account.

Professionals are required to be in possession of technical knowledge and also an area of expertise. If they fail to perform according to the skill expected out of them, they may be held responsible in the court of law. Some of the common grounds which give rise to these claims are negligence, misrepresentation, violation of good faith and fair dealings or inaccurate advice. Other factors include, charging undue amount on the pretext of professional expenses and taking advantage of the client's finances. In these cases a client on his part is at liberty to claim compensation and might sue him. A hefty penalty is like a severe blow to a professional's business and may all together jeopardise his financial wellness. In order to avoid such situations, most professional opt for a professional liability insurance so as to protect their business against sudden financial setbacks.

About the Author:

For further information on indemnity insurance and professional liability insurance, please contact Coulson Pritchard Associates on 01480 470220 or visit at www.coulsonpritchard.com