Rhodri Jones has just had his book published ‘A Practical Guide to Material Contribution in Clinical Negligence’ by Law Brief Publishing which sets out the current landscape and aims to assist claimants and defendants tackle material contribution arguments.
The current state of the law regarding material contribution in clinical negligence appears complicated and uncertain. This book charts the evolution of material contribution as a concept in causation from its original application in occupational disease cases to its more recent analysis in the context of clinical negligence.
As with many areas of common law, the courts have attempted to define the factual characteristics of cases where material contribution causation can apply. It is commonly plead in clinical negligence where there are a range of potentially causative agents in operation and where the limitations of medical science prevent the application of traditional ‘but for’ causation. The courts have sought to categorise injuries and diseases in respect of their characteristics of ‘divisibility’ and ‘indivisibility’. These terms have not however been applied and interpreted consistently. It is anticipated that clarification will be provided by the Supreme Court in due course.
You can purchase a copy of this book using the following links:
- Amazon
- Law Brief Publishing. If you purchase from the publisher you get a free online chapter and you can receive 10% discount (along with their free delivery) by using this code: JDP47KE
Rhodri specialises in clinical negligence and inquests, acting for both claimants and defendants. Before retraining as a barrister Rhodri practiced as a medical doctor for 18 years, principally in A&E and general practice. Read more here.