We have been independently ranked among the top medical negligence solicitors in England and Wales*. For a free and confidential consultation about sexual abuse in a medical setting, call us on 0333 888 0412 or send an email to info@medicalaccidentlawyers.co.uk and we will respond to you immediately.
Kiera Shoemake, a member of our medical negligence team, looks at making a legal claim for sexual abuse by a doctor.
Medical practitioners conduct physical examinations as part of their day-to-day practice. They owe a duty of care to their patients and if the examination is intimate, then they may offer the patient the option to have a chaperone present. However, despite all the safeguards a small minority of patients suffer sexual abuse by a doctor during an intimate examination.
Before a medical examination takes place, the patient must be informed of what is going to happen during the examination. The doctor should not deviate from what was consented to mid-examination, and must only examine the patient in accordance with what was agreed beforehand. If the doctor proceeds to examine beyond what was agreed upon, and the patient did not consent, then the doctor may be legally liable.
A patient may find it difficult to raise their concerns during an examination due to the nature of the appointment, but to then feel retrospectively that something was not right. Patients put their trust in medical professionals when they are at their most vulnerable, and abuse of that trust can have a significant impact both mentally and physically. This is why it is crucial to speak to someone if you are concerned about what occurred during an appointment.
How we can help with claims for sexual abuse by a doctor
Medical negligence claims can be made against doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, or any other professional working and treating a patient in a healthcare setting, when an act of sexual abuse has been committed.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse by a medical professional, our experienced team is here to listen and to help.
We offer a free consultation service and can deal with claims on a fully funded no win, no fee basis.
*www.reviewsolicitors.co.uk May 2025.
What our clients say about us
We have over 1,200 reviews and an overall five-star rating on the independent legal review website, ReviewSolicitors.
Here is just a short selection of some of the reviews that our clients have left for our clinical negligence team:
Maddy Lawrence
“With the premature death of our eldest daughter, as it turned out, by clinical negligence, we were facing a very difficult journey both in proving fault and keeping heart and soul together. That we were able to, in terms of the fault element, was down to our professional legal team. They provided clear, calm and compassionate advice which got us through a horrendous inquest and subsequent legal maneuverers. They, in short, were magnificent and we are extremely grateful that we had them on our side.”
Great firm!
“I had an experience with Oliver Thorne who was nothing but helpful with settling my claim. He was very patient and professional as well as making sure I was happy and content throughout the whole process! Would highly recommend him if you’re looking for a solicitor!”
Compassionate, thorough, and outstanding legal support thus far
”Jade was incredibly friendly, taking the time to ask all the right questions and thoroughly investigate our case. Unlike previous solicitors, who dismissed us, Jade and the team at Slee Blackwell delved deeper and gave us renewed hope. We are extremely grateful for the dedication and professionalism in fighting for us. I would recommend Slee Blackwell to anyone in need of legal assistance.”
Mesh claim
“I cannot thank the team enough there understanding and empathy and the knowledge is outstanding. Caroline has been supportive every step of the way, she has informed me and kept me updated how the claim has progressed she has also had great understanding around my mental health and the physical damage I have occurred. I cannot thank the team enough. The team made this experience easier for me to deal with my emotional distress and pain.”
Thank you
“On behalf of all of us, we would like to thank you for your guidance, professionalism, humanity and kindness you have shown us all throughout this process. You have explained everything to us in clear and concise terms throughout and we are extremely grateful. We would have no hesitation recommending you and using your services in future. Thank you.”
Exceptional Service
“I have received expert advice throughout my case, the attention to detail is second to none. Their professional outlook and relatability means that I always recommend the firm. When I was unclear of any information or possible outcomes they took the time to speak with me on a personal level, confirming our conversation through email, I feel supported and understood and most of all they are empathetic, something that is often missing from large firms.”
Friendly, professional, knowledgeable.
“Oliver assisted me in the aftermath of my father’s sudden death in hospital. He helped me to draught my initial letter of complaint to the health authority, represented me and my mother at the inquest and ultimately succeeded in bringing a successful claim. I always felt I could approach Oliver with any questions and he would explain the legal processes in an understandable way. I would not hesitate to recommend him should anyone find themselves in a similar unfortunate position.”
Excellent solicitor
“I cannot recommend this firm highly enough and especially Caroline who is professional approachable and thorough, she works tirelessly and is a real credit to the firm, you are not made to feel like just a number as with other firms, it’s a pleasure to have such an excellent solicitor to represent you when you have gone through so much she is so understanding and knowledgeable.”
