Attending Bond Solon’s Clinical Negligence Essentials Course with Dr Jock Mackenzie

Participating in Bond Solon’s Clinical Negligence Essentials course, led by Dr Jock Mackenzie, a Partner at Anthony Gold in the Injury & Medical Claims department based in London Bridge and South London, was a valuable experience that significantly enhanced my understanding of clinical negligence law and the role of an expert witness.

Course Structure and Content

The training is divided into two half-day sessions, each meticulously designed to cater to both new and experienced expert witnesses.

• Part 1: Substantive Legal Principles and Case Law
  This session explored the foundational aspects of clinical negligence law. Dr Jock Mackenzie explained key concepts such as duty of care, breach of duty, and causation. We analysed landmark cases, including Bolam, Bolitho, and Montgomery, to understand their implications on consent and standard of care. The interactive case examples provided a practical understanding of these principles.

• Part 2: Practical Aspects of Being a Clinical Negligence Expert Witness
  Building upon the first part, this session focused on the practical responsibilities of an expert witness. Topics included the preparation of CPR-compliant reports, effective use of medical records, and navigating procedural steps such as expert discussions. Dr Mackenzie shared insights from recent case law, highlighting common challenges and best practices for expert witnesses.

Key Takeaways

The course offered an in-depth understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of clinical negligence. Dr Mackenzie’s use of real-world examples clarified complex legal concepts. The training reinforced the importance of precise report writing, adherence to legal duties, and staying updated with current case law.

Conclusion

Attending Bond Solon’s Clinical Negligence Essentials course was an invaluable experience. The knowledge and skills I gained will directly benefit my role as an expert witness, enhancing my ability to contribute effectively to clinical negligence cases. For anyone seeking to refine their expertise in this field, I highly recommend this course.