malpractice
malpractice (mal-prak-tis). An instance of negligence or incompetence on the part of a professional. • To succeed in a malpractice claim, a plaintiff must also prove proximate cause and damages. — Also termed professional negligence. [Cases: Negligence 321. C.J.S. Negligence § 162.] legal malpractice. A lawyer’s failure to render professional services with the skill, prudence, […]