Doctor in an office writing a prescription while consulting with a patient.

Medical/Doctors Regulation & Professional Disciplinary (GMC)

Facing an investigation by the General Medical Council (GMC) can be devastating for doctors and medical practitioners who have worked hard to get where they are, especially if the accusations are particularly serious or unfounded. Instructing experienced criminal and regulatory defence solicitors with experience in the GMC investigation process, particularly if the case proceeds to a tribunal or court, is essential to ensure your best interests are protected and you are represented fairly.

Allegations against Medical Professionals & Doctors

Doctors, whether based in hospitals or within GP practices, can be investigated by the GMC for a range of reasons including:

Professional misconduct
Concerns around fitness to practise (e.g. physical or mental impairments, lack of valid registration)
Patient neglect
Drug and alcohol misuse
Ethical violations
Concerns around performance
Clinical incidents
Criminal convictions

Why choose DJMS Solicitors

If you have been placed under investigation by the GMC for misconduct, get in touch with DJMS Solicitors before responding to any notification. We are experts in regulatory and criminal defence law and have an excellent track record of representing doctors and medical professionals in GMC cases.

Our team can provide advice throughout the GMC investigation process, from start to finish, including:

Drafting responses to GMC following a complaint or notice of investigation
Reviewing and offering advice on warnings and undertakings
Gathering evidence and witness statements
Representation at Interim Order Hearings (IOHs)
Appeals to the High Court
Representation at fitness to practice hearings
Representation at Medical Practitioner Tribunal Service (MPTS) hearings

We advise doctors – whether hospital or GP-based – facing GMC investigations from the initial advice stage and representation at interviews to representation at hearings, including, where necessary, criminal proceedings.

Medical Regulation & Disciplinary FAQs

What should I do if I receive a notice from the General Medical Council (GMC)?

Immediately seek legal advice from DJMS Solicitors’ team. Do not respond to the GMC directly without first obtaining specialist legal advice to ensure your response is appropriate and protects your interests. Once you engage with the GMC, it can use your correspondence to build its case, so it is crucial to have the initial response drafted by a lawyer that understands the GMC investigation process.

Can you help me prepare for a GMC hearing?

Yes, we can provide comprehensive support, including preparing your case, advising on the best approach, and representing you during the hearing. Our goal is to ensure you have the strongest possible defence.

What are the potential consequences of a GMC investigation?

Consequences can range from no action taken to warnings, conditions on your practice, suspension, or even removal from the medical register. The outcome depends on the nature of the misconduct and the strength of your defence.

Can I continue to practice while under investigation?

In many cases, you can continue to practise while under investigation unless the GMC refers you to an Interim Orders Hearing (IOH) with the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS), which may impose sanctions on your practice or suspend your registration temporarily. We can provide guidance based on the specifics of your case.

Can you help with appeals?

Yes, we can assist with appealing against unfavourable GMC decisions, which can be made to the High Court within 28 days of a Tribunal decision. We will review the grounds for appeal and represent you throughout the process to secure a better outcome for you and your career.