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Doctors Defence

Medicine is a vocation, and for a doctor, one of the most important things in their lives. When the ability to practice is under threat, the consequences can be devastating and of course extremely stressful. We have extensive experience of advising, supporting, and representing doctors facing the complex challenges which impact upon their careers.

For many years, we have been successfully advising and defending doctors who are facing fitness to practice investigations by the GMC. We have been instructed both by the Medical Defence Organisations and by individuals on a private basis in matters relating to performance, conduct and health.

It is essential to seek specialist advice at the outset of an investigation to ensure that the right decisions are made from the start to protect your interests. We can advise and assist with the preparation of responses at the early stages of a GMC investigation (Rule 4 and Rule 7) which may result in a matter being concluded without referral to a hearing. However, where matters are referred, we provide representation at hearings brought before the MPTS including:

  • Interim Orders Tribunal Hearings
  • Fitness to Practice Hearings
  • Review Hearings

Coroner's Inquests

We can assist with both the preparation of statements for the Coroner and representation at inquests where needed.

Criminal matters
We have extensive experience of representing doctors in relation to a variety of different criminal allegations both at the early investigation and proceedings stages. Such cases inevitably run in tandem with or follow on to GMC investigations and having one legal team with expertise in both regulatory and criminal matters is both tactically advantageous and more cost effective.

Internal Disciplinary Proceedings
We have experience of assisting doctors with NHS disciplinary matters including investigations and hearings under Maintaining High Professional Standards (MHPS) and those in the private sector. We have also represented doctors in Deanery matters.

If you are facing any of these proceedings and would like free initial advice, please call Dr Sam Godwin on 07494 829341 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call Bill Wilson or John Williams on 0207 407 2356 and we will be happy to discuss how we can assist.