Preliminary Case Assessment
What it is
A preliminary medico-legal opinion based on the available documentation. It is designed to give early clarity on the clinical issues and whether a full expert report is likely to add value.
When it helps
Early triage of new instructions before incurring full report costs
Identifying whether breach/causation issues are potentially supported by the medical record
Clarifying the relevant condition(s), chronology, and likely mechanisms
Highlighting missing documents and investigations needed to strengthen the evidence base
Informing whether another specialty expert is required (e.g., neurology, microbiology, spinal injuries)
What you receive
A succinct written note (or email-style memorandum, if preferred) covering:
Clinical summary and key timeline
Initial views on consistency, plausibility, and red flags
Preliminary thoughts on causation questions (where appropriate)
Further information required and suggested next steps
Clear limits of opinion based on incomplete information
What it isn’t
This is not a Part 35 report and is not intended as a final opinion for court. It is an early, pragmatic assessment to support decision-making.