Childbirth Archives - Sweeney Solicitors

CHI Spinal Scandal: A Wake-Up Call for Medical Negligence in Ireland

What the CHI Spinal Scandal Reveals About Patient Safety

The CHI Spinal Scandal has become one of the most disturbing cases of medical negligence in Ireland in recent history. It involves the alleged use of non-medical grade ‘spring’ devices during complex spinal surgeries on children at Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) in Temple Street. These implants were not CE-approved, meaning they did not meet required European safety standards.

For many families, this scandal is more than a news story, it’s a devastating personal crisis. As investigations unfold, the scandal raises serious questions about patient safety, hospital oversight, and the legal rights of those affected by medical negligence in Ireland.

External link: Read the original story in The Times

Understanding Medical Negligence in Ireland

Medical negligence occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the expected standard of care, resulting in harm or injury to a patient. In Ireland, victims of medical negligence have the right to seek compensation through legal channels.

In the case of the CHI Spinal Scandal, affected children may have experienced:

Unnecessary surgical procedures
Exposure to non-compliant medical devices
Delayed or mismanaged post-operative care
Lack of informed consent from parents or guardians

Each of these failures may form the basis of a valid medical negligence claim in Ireland.

How Could This Happen?

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has launched an internal investigation, and an external clinical review is underway. However, reports suggest that concerns about the surgeon’s practices were raised as far back as 2019. Despite this, no immediate action was taken.

The scandal points to a systemic breakdown in hospital governance, including failures in:

Monitoring device approval and usage

Medical oversight

Safety auditing

Reporting and responding to whistleblowers

Your Rights as a Patient in Ireland

If you or your child were treated at CHI and you’re concerned about your care, you may have legal rights to:

Access full medical records
Request an independent medical review
File a formal complaint with the HSE
Pursue a medical negligence claim for injury or trauma

In Ireland, you generally have two years from the date of discovery of the negligence to bring a legal claim, though exceptions may apply in the case of children.

What Should You Do Now?

If you suspect your child was impacted by the CHI Spinal Scandal, or you’ve experienced poor care in any Irish hospital, you should:

Request your full medical records from CHI or the HSE.
Contact a solicitor with experience in medical negligence in Ireland.
Avoid signing any hospital/NHS correspondence without legal advice.
Begin documenting your child’s symptoms and outcomes post-surgery.

At Sweeney Solicitors, we specialise in handling complex medical negligence claims and are currently assisting families affected by the CHI Spinal Scandal.

How Can We Help?

We offer:

Free initial consultation
Full medical file reviews
Access to independent medical experts
Trusted legal representation

Do You Think You or Your Child Were Affected?

The CHI Spinal Scandal is not just a one-off case it’s a wake-up call for transparency, accountability, and reform within Irish healthcare. But most importantly, it’s a moment to stand up for patients’ rights.

If you or your child were affected by medical treatment in CHI or any other hospital, don’t delay. Legal advice can make all the difference.

If your child had spinal surgery at CHI or you suspect any form of medical negligence get in touch for a free consultation. You may have a valid claim, even if the incident occurred several years ago.

📞 Call us on 1800 246 442
💻 Or book a confidential callback at info@sweeneysolicitors.ie or david@sweeneysolicitors.ie

10/07/2025

Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims in Ireland: Your Legal Options

Medical Negligence

A cancer diagnosis is life-changing. But what if that diagnosis comes too late or is missed entirely because of medical negligence? Sadly, cancer misdiagnosis and delays in treatment can reduce treatment options, lower survival rates, and cause avoidable suffering for patients and their families.

If you or a loved one has suffered because of a delayed or incorrect cancer diagnosis, you may be entitled to bring a cancer misdiagnosis claim. Our specialist medical negligence solicitors are here to help you secure answers and the compensation you deserve.

What is Cancer Misdiagnosis?

Cancer misdiagnosis happens when a doctor or medical professional:

Fails to detect cancer when they should have.
Diagnoses the wrong type of cancer.
Diagnoses cancer at a much later stage than should have been possible with proper care.

This can occur in a range of settings from a missed referral for tests, to errors in interpreting scans, biopsies, or blood tests.

Examples of Cancer Misdiagnosis

We regularly see claims involving:

Failure to refer for specialist tests or scans.
Misinterpretation of X-rays, MRIs, or biopsy results.
Delays in receiving test results or follow-up.
Wrong diagnosis – for example, treating cancer as an infection or benign condition.

Common cancers involved in misdiagnosis claims include:

Breast cancer
Cervical cancer
Bowel cancer
Lung cancer
Prostate cancer
Skin cancer (melanoma)

The Impact of Misdiagnosis

A delay in cancer diagnosis can mean:

The cancer progresses to a more advanced stage.
Treatment options are more invasive or limited.
Survival rates and prognosis are reduced.
Patients suffer avoidable pain, stress, or financial hardship.

In tragic cases, families may bring claims on behalf of a loved one who has died as a result of negligent misdiagnosis.

What Can Compensation Help With?

Cancer misdiagnosis claims aim to provide financial support for:

Additional or more intensive medical treatment
Loss of income and future earnings
Pain and suffering
Care, support, or home adaptations
Funeral expenses (in fatal cases)

Our role is to help you secure the resources you need to move forward.

How We Can Help

At Sweeney Solicitors, we have extensive experience handling complex cancer misdiagnosis claims across Ireland. We will:

Review your medical records and seek expert medical opinions.
Clearly explain your legal options and potential outcomes.
Handle your case sensitively and efficiently.
Work on a no-win, no-fee basis where appropriate.

We understand how distressing this process can be. Our team is here to support you at every stage.

Get in Touch

If you believe your cancer was misdiagnosed or diagnosed too late due to medical negligence, contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

📞 1800 246 442
📧 info@sweeneysolicitors.ie

01/07/2025

Birth Injury Claims in Ireland: Your Rights and How We Can Help

Medical Negligence

The birth of a child should be a joyful occasion, but for some families in Ireland, it can be overshadowed by trauma when medical errors lead to a birth injury. A birth injury is any harm caused to a baby or mother during pregnancy, labour, or delivery due to substandard medical care. These injuries can have lifelong consequences, affecting not only the child but the entire family.

If your baby or you have suffered a birth injury because of medical negligence, you may be entitled to bring a legal claim for compensation. Our specialist medical negligence team is here to guide you through this complex and emotional process.

What is a Birth Injury?

A birth injury can occur when medical professionals fail in their duty of care before, during, or after delivery. This may include errors in monitoring the baby’s heartbeat, failing to act quickly in cases of distress, improper use of forceps or vacuum delivery, or delays in performing a necessary caesarean section.

Birth injuries can vary from minor, temporary harm to severe, life-altering conditions requiring lifelong care.

Common Types of Birth Injuries

Some of the most serious birth injuries we see in medical negligence cases include:

Cerebral palsy – often linked to oxygen deprivation during delivery, leading to brain damage and long-term disability.
Erb’s palsy / Brachial plexus injury – damage to nerves controlling the arm and shoulder, potentially causing weakness or paralysis.
Fractures – such as a broken collarbone due to improper handling during delivery.
Facial nerve damage – typically caused by incorrect use of instruments like forceps.
Maternal injuries – such as severe tearing, bladder or bowel damage, or untreated infections.

How Do I Know If I Have a Birth Injury Claim?

Not all birth injuries result from negligence. Sometimes complications arise despite the best medical care. However, if errors were made that no competent professional would have made – and these caused harm – you may have a case.

Examples include:

Failure to monitor or respond to signs of fetal distress.
Delayed decision-making in emergency situations.
Incorrect use of medical equipment during delivery.

Our experienced solicitors will assess your case, review medical records, and work with independent medical experts to determine whether negligence occurred.

What Can Compensation Cover?

Birth injury compensation is intended to support your child’s and family’s future needs. A claim can help cover:

Medical and rehabilitation costs
Special care, aids, and equipment
Home adaptations
Ongoing therapy and support
Loss of earnings (where relevant)
Pain and suffering

How We Can Help

We understand that bringing a claim is not just about compensation – it’s about securing the best possible future for your child. We will:

Provide clear, compassionate advice.
Handle your claim with sensitivity and professionalism.
Work on a no-win, no-fee basis where appropriate.
Keep you informed every step of the way.

Our goal is to take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your family.

Contact Us Today

If you are concerned that a birth injury was caused by medical negligence, contact our dedicated medical negligence team today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.

📞 1800 246 442
📧 info@sweeneysolicitors.ie

01/07/2025

Ireland’s Hip Dysplasia Surgery Scandal: What Irish Parents Need to Know

Medical Negligence

Unnecessary Hip Dysplasia Surgeries on Children in Ireland: What Parents Need to Know and How to Seek Justice

Imagine being told your child needs surgery, trusting the specialists, going through the stress, the hospital visits, the recovery and then learning that surgery might not have been necessary at all.

That’s the painful reality now facing hundreds of families in Ireland, after a shocking audit revealed that many children may have undergone unjustified hip surgeries at two major hospitals between 2021 and 2023.

If your child was treated for hip dysplasia at Temple Street or Cappagh Hospital, this news may be deeply unsettling. You are not alone and you may have legal options.

What Happened: A Closer Look at the Hip Dysplasia Surgery Scandal

An internal review found that:

At Cappagh Hospital, 79% of surgeries reviewed did not meet the clinical criteria.
At Temple Street, the figure was 60%.
Over 1,800 children are now being contacted for medical reviews.

Many of these procedures involved osteotomies, surgeries where the bones of the hip are cut and realigned. These are major operations—ones that should only be carried out when absolutely necessary.

The Impact on Families: Real Lives, Real Consequences

As a parent, you place immense trust in medical professionals. To now learn that your child may have endured pain, fear, and physical trauma unnecessarily is devastating.

We’ve spoken with families who are:

Questioning whether they were fully informed
Wondering if their child now faces long-term complications
Struggling emotionally, mentally, and financially

You deserve answers. And more importantly—you may deserve justice.

What Is Medical Negligence?

Medical negligence happens when a healthcare provider fails in their duty of care and causes harm to a patient. In cases like this, it can include:

Performing surgeries that weren’t medically necessary
Failing to follow proper diagnostic guidelines
Not securing informed consent from parents
Causing long-term damage due to poor judgment

If any of these apply to your child’s situation, you may have the right to claim compensation.

What Can You Do as a Parent?

If your child had surgery for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) between 2021 and 2023, you may be eligible to:

Request a full review of your child’s medical records
Get an independent medical opinion
Explore a medical negligence claim with a specialist solicitor

You don’t have to take this on alone. Our legal team is here to support you every step of the way.

Why Act Now?

In Ireland, there are strict time limits for taking legal action in medical negligence cases—especially those involving children. While exceptions exist, the sooner you seek legal advice, the stronger your case may be.

Even if you’re unsure whether negligence occurred, we can help you investigate it thoroughly.

How We Can Help You

At Sweeney Solicitors, we specialise in Medical Negligence and Child Injury Claims. We understand the sensitivity and emotional weight of these cases, and we’re here to listen, support, and take action on your behalf.

What You Can Expect:

✅ Free, no-obligation consultation
✅ Clear, compassionate legal advice
✅ Expertise in child injury and medical negligence claims

Take the First Step Toward Justice

You didn’t choose this situation—but you can choose how to respond. Let us help you make sense of what’s happened, and explore your legal rights with confidence.

📞 Call us now on Freephone 1800 246 442

📩 Email us at david@sweeneysolicitors.ie

💬 Click here to book a free consultation

You Are Not Alone

This scandal has shaken families and communities across the country. But through accountability, there can be healing. If your child was affected, we urge you to reach out.

We’ll listen. We’ll guide you. And we’ll fight for the justice your family deserves.

27/05/2025

Cancer Misdiagnosis Medical Negligence Claims with Sweeney Solicitors

Medical Negligence

A cancer diagnosis is an event that no one ever wishes to face. Yet, when it comes, early and accurate detection is paramount in ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient. But what if that diagnosis is delayed, missed, or incorrect? Cancer misdiagnosis can significantly affect a patient’s chances of recovery and can lead to dire consequences. At Sweeney Solicitors, we understand the devastating impact of cancer misdiagnosis and are here to support those affected.

**Understanding Cancer Misdiagnosis**

Cancer misdiagnosis can take various forms:

1. **Missed Diagnosis:**

Where a medical professional fails to identify the presence of cancer altogether.

2. **Delayed Diagnosis:**

Where cancer is eventually diagnosed, but due to prior oversights, the diagnosis comes later than it should have.

3. **Incorrect Diagnosis:**

Where a patient is wrongly diagnosed with cancer or diagnosed with the wrong type of cancer.

4. **Misinterpretation of Test Results:**

Where lab results or imaging scans are not correctly interpreted by the medical practitioner.

**The Impact of Misdiagnosis**

The implications of a misdiagnosis can be life-altering. Early detection of cancer is often crucial to successful treatment. A delay or oversight can lead to:

– Progression of the disease to a more advanced stage.

– Limited treatment options.

– Reduced chances of successful treatment.

– Unnecessary treatments in case of incorrect diagnosis, leading to potential side effects and emotional distress.

**Your Rights and Making a Claim**

When you approach a healthcare professional, there is a reasonable expectation of accurate diagnosis and treatment. If there is a failure in this duty of care, and you suffer harm as a result, you are entitled to seek compensation.

**Here’s how Sweeney Solicitors can assist:**

1. **Investigation:**

We delve deep into the medical records, consultations, and other pertinent details to understand the gravity of the oversight.

2. **Expert Consultation:**

We collaborate with oncology specialists and other medical professionals to understand the nuances of the case.

3. **Assessment:**

We provide an honest appraisal of your claim, discussing potential outcomes and compensation avenues.

4. **Representation:**

From documentation to negotiations or courtroom representation, we offer a comprehensive service ensuring your voice is heard.

**Conclusion**

Cancer misdiagnosis can bring a wave of anguish, confusion, and anger. But amidst the emotional upheaval, you have the right to seek justice and compensation for the negligence faced. With Sweeney Solicitors by your side, you’re assured of expert guidance, empathy, and unwavering support. If you believe you or a loved one has been a victim of cancer misdiagnosis, reach out to us. Our mission is to bring you justice and peace in these trying times.

31/08/2023

Medical Negligence | Childbirth Injury

Childbirth

To bring a medical negligence case, you must prove that the injuries you have suffered would not have occurred if the treatment you received had not been substandard, as defined by law.

To prove this, you must have all relevant medical records and documentation relating to your case. Such records will enable your medical expert to demonstrate the negligence of your treatment.

1. Speak with a Solicitor

If you feel the medical treatment you were afforded during your pregnancy resulted in an injury to you or your baby; you may be entitled to claim compensation. However, bear in mind that medical negligence is a complex topic in Irish law. As such, it is highly recommended that you speak with a medical negligence specialist solicitor to discuss your case. They will ensure all the required details are taken care of and that your claims procedure is not delayed.

2. Medical Records

Next, the medical negligence specialist solicitor will request access to your medical records. They will do this to establish whether the injuries were caused as a result of the malpractice of the medical professional who oversaw your prenatal care, pregnancy, delivery or aftercare.

An independent medical expert will then assess your medical records. This expert will help determine whether the medical practitioner provided substandard medical care and whether the outcome could have been avoided had they been performed by a competent doctor.

3. Letter of Claim

Finally, your solicitor will draft a Letter of Claim to the medical practitioner who treated you and your baby. This letter is standard in medical negligence cases and will outline the nature of your case. The Letter of Claim will also invite your medical practitioner to settle your case. Their response to the letter will determine whether your case will be settled outside of court or is brought to a judge.

26/05/2022

Sweeney Solicitors – Medical Negligence Specialists

medical negligence, Childbirth

If you suffer from an injury or disease which you have developed as a result of the poor treatment or misdiagnosis by medical or dental professionals, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

This is referred to as medical negligence, though sometimes it is called medical malpractice or clinical negligence. It occurs when substandard care is given to a patient, either by action or failure to act, that either worsens their current condition or causes additional injury to them.

Usually, these injuries are avoidable because the medical practitioner should have adhered to the standard of medical practice and duty of care expected of their profession. However, in most cases, medical professionals are dedicated, diligent and practice in a safe manner.

Dental injury claims
Cancer misdiagnosis claims
Birth injury claims
Cosmetic surgery claims
GP claims

The settlement outcome of a medical negligence claim will depend on particular factors. For example, whether you have a history of similar medical issues, the long-term effects of your injury, the type of injury or illness sustained. These are referred to as two types of damages:

General medical negligence damages

Non-financial damages include; pain and suffering, physical and emotional damage, loss of quality of life, and loss of opportunity.

Special medical negligence damages

These refer to out of pocket expenses incurred as a result of the malpractice. These can include:

Loss of earnings and future earnings.
Current and future medical bills.
Care fees.
Costs of adapting a home.
Physiotherapy fees.
Payments for medical equipment.
Expenses for ongoing medication needed.

What’s the time limit to make a medical negligence claim

Medical negligence is a complicated part of Irish law and there is no definitive answer as to how long your claim will take. However, how long you have to make a medical negligence claim is defined.

The ‘Statute of Limitations’ is the formal term for the legal time limit in which you can make a medical negligence claim. This is usually two years minus one day after the date of knowledge of the injury.

The date of knowledge is often the date the accident occurred. However, sometimes, a person may not realise their injury until some time after an accident. In such cases, this is the date of knowledge.

Children are not allowed to make a medical negligence claim because they are classed as minors. Instead, their two-year time limit begins on the 18th birthday. However, a parent or legal guardian can make a medical negligence claim on behalf of a minor following the medical malpractice. This option is typically more desirable because it is easier to uncover reliable evidence to strengthen the child’s case if they filed as soon as possible.

Explore your medical negligence options with us

Our team of medical negligence specialist solicitors in Cork and Dublin will work tirelessly to deliver the highest quality legal representation and advice for your medical negligence claim.

31/03/2022

When am I likely to need the services of a notary public? | Notary Public Cork

Medical Negligence

You are most likely to require a notary where you have to send papers or documents to a foreign jurisdiction. You may require the services of a notary public in relation to:

Foreign adoption papers
Affidavits for use in foreign courts
Copies of State documents for use abroad
International contracts
Powers of Attorney

For further information visit notarycork.ie or to speak directly with Notary Public Cork David Sweeney, kindly visit our Contact page.

20/01/2022

Sweeney Solicitors – Medical Negligence Specialists

Notary Public Cork, Medical Negligence

If you suffer from an injury or disease which you have developed as a result of the poor treatment or misdiagnosis by medical or dental professionals, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

This is referred to as medical negligence, though sometimes it is called medical malpractice or clinical negligence. It occurs when substandard care is given to a patient, either by action or failure to act, that either worsens their current condition or causes additional injury to them.

Usually, these injuries are avoidable because the medical practitioner should have adhered to the standard of medical practice and duty of care expected of their profession. However, in most cases, medical professionals are dedicated, diligent and practice in a safe manner.

Dental injury claims
Cancer misdiagnosis claims
Birth injury claims
Cosmetic surgery claims
GP claims

The settlement outcome of a medical negligence claim will depend on particular factors. For example, whether you have a history of similar medical issues, the long-term effects of your injury, the type of injury or illness sustained. These are referred to as two types of damages:

General medical negligence damages

Non-financial damages include; pain and suffering, physical and emotional damage, loss of quality of life, and loss of opportunity.

Special medical negligence damages

These refer to out of pocket expenses incurred as a result of the malpractice. These can include:

Loss of earnings and future earnings.
Current and future medical bills.
Care fees.
Costs of adapting a home.
Physiotherapy fees.
Payments for medical equipment.
Expenses for ongoing medication needed.

What’s the time limit to make a medical negligence claim

Medical negligence is a complicated part of Irish law and there is no definitive answer as to how long your claim will take. However, how long you have to make a medical negligence claim is defined.

The ‘Statute of Limitations’ is the formal term for the legal time limit in which you can make a medical negligence claim. This is usually two years minus one day after the date of knowledge of the injury.

The date of knowledge is often the date the accident occurred. However, sometimes, a person may not realise their injury until some time after an accident. In such cases, this is the date of knowledge.

Children are not allowed to make a medical negligence claim because they are classed as minors. Instead, their two-year time limit begins on the 18th birthday. However, a parent or legal guardian can make a medical negligence claim on behalf of a minor following the medical malpractice. This option is typically more desirable because it is easier to uncover reliable evidence to strengthen the child’s case if they filed as soon as possible.

Explore your medical negligence options with us

Our team of medical negligence specialist solicitors in Cork and Dublin will work tirelessly to deliver the highest quality legal representation and advice for your medical negligence claim.

13/01/2022

Medical Negligence | Childbirth Injury

Medical Negligence

To bring a medical negligence case, you must prove that the injuries you have suffered would not have occurred if the treatment you received had not been substandard, as defined by law.

To prove this, you must have all relevant medical records and documentation relating to your case. Such records will enable your medical expert to demonstrate the negligence of your treatment.

1. Speak with a Solicitor

If you feel the medical treatment you were afforded during your pregnancy resulted in an injury to you or your baby; you may be entitled to claim compensation. However, bear in mind that medical negligence is a complex topic in Irish law. As such, it is highly recommended that you speak with a medical negligence specialist solicitor to discuss your case. They will ensure all the required details are taken care of and that your claims procedure is not delayed.

2. Medical Records

Next, the medical negligence specialist solicitor will request access to your medical records. They will do this to establish whether the injuries were caused as a result of the malpractice of the medical professional who oversaw your prenatal care, pregnancy, delivery or aftercare.

An independent medical expert will then assess your medical records. This expert will help determine whether the medical practitioner provided substandard medical care and whether the outcome could have been avoided had they been performed by a competent doctor.

3. Letter of Claim

Finally, your solicitor will draft a Letter of Claim to the medical practitioner who treated you and your baby. This letter is standard in medical negligence cases and will outline the nature of your case. The Letter of Claim will also invite your medical practitioner to settle your case. Their response to the letter will determine whether your case will be settled outside of court or is brought to a judge.

01/12/2021