In times of financial uncertainty and recession there is often a trend towards an increase in negligence claims as clients are more likely to challenge fees and advice and look to blame their advisers if ‘something goes wrong’.

As a starting point in respect of professional negligence claims, lawyers look at whether the accountant has acted with reasonable skill and care, judged by the standard of a reasonably competent accountant specialising in the field in question. Further they will look at what was agreed in the written retainer or engagement letter between the accountant and their client.