We take school’s negligence claims very seriously and are committed to handling your case with the utmost diligence and care.
Our specialist team in Personal Injury law is dedicated to helping to secure proper compensation if you or someone you know has suffered harm due to school negligence.
Understanding Your Rights and Entitlements
When a student experiences injury, loss, and damage at school as the result of negligence, it is essential that they understand their rights and entitlements, as well as the options available for seeking redress and compensation. Negligence claims against schools arise when physical and/or mental harm occurs on school grounds or in close connection with school/educational activities.
Early Action is Essential
If you have been adversely affected by a school’s failure to provide reasonable care and supervision, there are legal remedies available. Knowing and acting on your rights and entitlements in a timely manner is critical, as there are time limits on pursuing compensation claims. Contact us to discuss your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Are There Time Limits on Making a Claim Against a School?
Yes, generally three (3) years from the date the personal injury becomes discoverable, and not more than twelve (12) years after the date of injury. However, it is crucial to speak with a solicitor as soon as possible if you think you may have a claim.
What is School Negligence?
School negligence occurs when a school fails to provide a safe environment for its students, resulting in injury, loss, or damage. This can include a lack of proper supervision, failure to maintain safe facilities, or not addressing known hazards. When a school’s negligent acts and/or omissions lead to a student suffering harm, the student and their family may be entitled to financial compensation.
Has the School Been Negligent at Law?
To establish a claim in negligence against a school, the plaintiff must prove the following four elements:
- Duty of Care: The school owed a duty of care to the student.
- Breach of Duty of Care: The school breached this duty through acts and/or omissions.
- Causation: The breach(es) of duty caused a student’s injury, loss, or damage.
- Damage: The student suffered significant injury, loss and damage sufficient to warrant bringing legal proceedings for personal injury damages.
Examples of school negligence include injuries from lack of supervision, unsafe facilities, and failure to prevent foreseeable risks. Click here to learn more.
What are the Options for Students and Families Affected by School Negligence?
Affected persons have options for redress:
- Internal Review and Compensation: Liaise with schools and authorities for nominal compensation.
- Court Proceedings for Damages: Pursue a negligence claim if the school failed to take reasonable precautions against reasonably foreseeable risks of harm.
Importantly, if you or someone you know has been affected by negligence in a school environment, it is essential to seek legal advice as soon as you are able.
What Are the Steps in Making a Claim Against a School?
Contact a specialist personal injury lawyer as soon as you can.
We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your potential claim/s. If we offer to act, we will offer to work on a No Win/No Fee* basis.
No child should suffer injury, loss and damage as the result of school negligence. If you or a loved one has suffered physical or mental harm, we recommend that you seek early legal advice.
Our team of specialist personal injury lawyers would be pleased to meet with you to advise you on your options. You can either book an appointment online, or call us on (02) 4050 0330, for an obligation-free consultation.
*“no win, no fee” is a special type of payment arrangement, granted on a case-by-case basis, whereby you are only required to pay our legal fees upon the successful resolution of your claim. Please contact us to find out more.
If reading this page has upset you, or caused you emotional distress, and you would like some support and counselling, we encourage you to reach out to one of the leading support services listed below.
Kids Helpline https://kidshelpline.com.au/about/about-khl 1800 55 1800
Beyondblue https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ 1300 224 636
Lifeline https://www.lifeline.org.au/ 13 11 14
