The doctor patient relationship is a very delicate one which stands on mutual trust. Unfortunately in recent days the standard of medical practice is declining. Until 1986 the number of cases filed on doctors were less but after the emergence of the Consumer Protection Act in 1986 the consumer awareness has been increased with rising expectations and medical negligence has been included under the purview of this act. Especially in recent times the number of cases filed on doctors has increased and it is necessary to know the basics of medical negligence.