Our specialist healthcare team, led by partner Ronan Hynes secured a €1.1 million High Court settlement on behalf of a child who suffered a severe brachial plexus injury at birth.

Serious Birth Injury After Complicated Delivery

The case centred on a baby who developed Erb’s palsy, a condition caused by damage to the brachial plexus nerves. According to the legal team, the injury occurred during a difficult delivery where the baby’s shoulder became lodged — a recognised obstetric emergency known as shoulder dystocia.

The family’s legal representatives said the injury likely resulted from excessive traction or delays in performing appropriate manoeuvres, leaving the child with lasting weakness and reduced arm function. As noted in the case file, “the injury resulted in lasting weakness affecting the child’s arm function, with ongoing implications for mobility, independence and development.”

Erb’s palsy can require years of therapy, specialist intervention and long-term support, with many children experiencing lifelong consequences.

 

Investigation and Mediation

The case was led by Ronan Hynes, Partner and Patient Safety Advocate, whose team instructed independent experts in obstetrics and paediatric neurology. Their investigation identified issues in how the delivery and shoulder dystocia were managed.

Although liability was not admitted, the matter proceeded to mediation, where a settlement was reached and later approved by the High Court.

 

Settlement to Support Long-Term Needs

The €1.1 million award is intended to fund the child’s ongoing care, including:

• Specialist therapies and rehabilitation
• Medical treatment and monitoring
• Educational and developmental supports
• Future care requirements

Hynes described the case as one with “profound and lifelong consequences for this child and their family,” adding that the settlement will make a meaningful difference to the child’s future quality of life.

 

Family Welcomes Outcome

The child’s parents said the years following the injury had been extremely challenging. In a statement, they noted:

While no outcome can undo what has happened, this settlement will help us provide the care, support and opportunities our child will need.

Their focus, they said, is now on ensuring the best possible quality of life for their child.

 

Broader Significance

The case highlights ongoing concerns around maternity safety in Ireland, particularly in the management of obstetric emergencies such as shoulder dystocia. It also underscores the role of legal redress where avoidable failures in care occur.

The healthcare law team involved has been recognised for its work, including:

• 2025 Personal Injury / Medical Negligence Law Firm of the Year
• 2024 UK Brain & Spinal Injury Law Firm of the Year (Neuro-Rehab Times Awards)

 

This result reflects the depth of experience within MHP Sellors’ litigation practice, which has represented clients for over a century. The firm has guided individuals and families through complex legal disputes, combining technical expertise with a practical and compassionate approach. The healthcare litigation team continues that tradition today, helping clients secure accountability, support, and financial security following catastrophic injuries.

Led by Ronan Hynes — recently named Munster Lawyer of the Year 2026 — the team continues to support families navigating complex medical negligence cases.