Professional misconduct

Professional misconduct proceedings can end a career. Whether you face an investigation by your professional regulator, an employer disciplinary process running alongside criminal proceedings, or a referral to a licensing authority, early and specialist legal advice is essential.

Regulators and bodies

I advise and represent individuals facing proceedings before and investigations by a range of professional and regulatory bodies, including:

  • The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
  • The Bar Standards Board (BSB)
  • The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
  • The General Medical Council (GMC)
  • The General Dental Council (GDC)
  • The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
  • The Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA)
  • Financial services regulators (FCA, PRA)

Interaction with criminal proceedings

Where professional misconduct allegations arise from conduct that is also the subject of criminal proceedings, the two processes must be managed carefully. Statements made in regulatory proceedings can in some circumstances be used in criminal proceedings. I will advise on how to approach both sets of proceedings in a way that protects your position in each.

Interim orders

Regulators have power to impose interim suspension or conditions of practice orders pending the outcome of an investigation or hearing. These can take effect at short notice and have an immediate impact on your ability to practise. I can make urgent representations against proposed interim orders or seek to have existing orders reviewed.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Regulatory bodies apply their own fitness to practise standards, which are separate from the criminal standard of proof. A finding of impaired fitness to practise can lead to removal from the register without a criminal conviction.
Most UK regulators apply the civil standard of proof — the balance of probabilities — rather than the criminal standard of beyond reasonable doubt. This means the threshold for a finding against you is lower than in criminal proceedings.
This depends on the nature of the investigation and the regulator involved. In some cases, early and cooperative engagement can demonstrate insight and reduce the risk of interim action. In others, premature disclosure can be harmful. I will advise on the appropriate approach in your specific case.