Osteopath in case taken over from other solicitors where no unacceptable professional conduct found - John Williams

"Mr Williams of Bankside Law took on my case from another firm of solicitors. I am an Osteopath and I feared the worst-case outcome following allegations made of UPC. From my first phone call with Mr Williams, when I was feeling discouraged and despondent, he took care of my case with close attention to the details, correct legal advice and encouragement every step of the way.

It was Mr Williams who recommended and co-ordinated with the experts for my case. It was my barrister Mr Jonathan Goldring who challenged the GOsC's Guidance that evidence of good character at the decision and sanction stage should not be admissible, and he won, which was so important in my case.

My complaint process was a long and very stressful two years and at the final Hearing, the Professional Conduct Committee did not consider the facts found proved amounted to UPC and the case was closed with no sanction imposed against me. From fearing the worst outcome and getting the best outcome was such a relief and I believe was only due to the expert legal knowledge and care by Mr Williams and his team. I will be forever grateful to Mr Williams and would wholeheartedly recommend Bankside Law for excellent legal representation."

Chiropractor of long unblemished record no order on Interim Suspension Hearing and subsequently no case to answer at Investigating Committee

I was told that John Williams is awesome. That is not a word I would normally use, but I can tell you its true. He is highly professional and knowledgeable. He leaves no stone unturned in your defence. He is a busy man but he always seems available to talk to. Jonathan Goldring, who acting for me in the Interim Suspension Hearing, is also brilliant. He very effectively totally dismantled the complaint against me. Gillian Frost is also fantastic. She appears to work very long hours. Together they make an awesome team.

Emminent Clinical Psychologist on HCPC Investigating Committee finding no case to answer

Receiving a HCPC concern was an incredibly stressful and unexpected situation for myself and family.  Seeing allegations written from my regulatory body left me feeling guilty of a crime.  I was feeling so low, I thought these were true because that was how my professional body considered my actions. John provided a very personal, reassuring and calming service, was readily available and easy to contact.  John helped me fight the first battle of securing monies for proper legal provision, and of my choice, from my professional indemnity insurance.   Talking to John helped me view HCPC allegations as allegations arising from another party, rather than facts, allegations  that could be actively addressed rather than meekly accepted.    He encouraged me to fight for the right outcome rather than give up.   He was supportive but also appropriately challenging which helped my learning and my writing of a reflective, full response understandable for all members of the HCPC investigatory committee.  John provided an excellent summary of my response, including legal examples, that spoke to the legal, lay and professional arms of the HCPC investigatory committee.  I was delighted to be fully exonerated by HCPC investigatory committee and look forward to continuing the profession I love and take such pride in.

Social work manager Speedy Decision of No Case to Answer

I was totally traumatised by the allegations made against me and after safeguarding children for over 20 years I genuinely thought this may be the end of my social work career.  I did some research, wanting to find someone who was experienced to see through the allegations and support my innocence and eventually found John Williams and was very impressed by reviews regarding his supportive approach. John has. throughout this crippling experience, supported me fully. having the knowledge, experience, compassion, empathy and I genuinely would not be writing this review now if John had not taken on my case.  Fortunately my life is now back on track allowing me to do what I do best which is safeguarding children - Thank you so very much John

Chiropractor acquitted on all allegations including excessive treatment

I would like to thank Bankside's John Williams and my barristerJonathan Goldring for their upmost professional expertise and experience which has proved invaluable to me. The support and confidence that is gained from having the most experienced team behind you has helped to carry me through the mental stress of one of toughest years in my life.
It is very clear that these guys care passionately about the people they represent.

Social Worker in successful HCPC hearing where all allegations dismissed on findings of no case to answer

It is such a relief that this case is over as it was impacting on my life. It was reassuring to meet John as he was immediately supportive, knowledgeable and insightful into the detail of my case and as a result I felt reassured that someone of his experience was prepared to fight my corner.

Social Worker in HCPC Investigation

I was very grateful for the time John gave me, it really did help me with my second submission. He really was an informed voice of reason and helped me put things in context which was really valuable to me at a time when I felt I was drowning and I do thank him for this I will remember John and recommend him to people should the opportunity arise."

SFO investigation

"I met John Williams of Bankside Law, through another very close friend, also a Solicitor of some repute in his own well known Legal firm, where he is a Senior Partner.  That introduction was inspired.  I was caught up in a complicated issue in which I was implicated by association only, but it took patience, deep research and a calming and caring guidance, all qualities and more, displayed by John Williams.  Surprisingly costs/expenses were really fair. Charges were faultless.  Thank God for John’s presence, as the matter was unravelled and concluded, with my eventual complete exoneration. Bankside Law is all one would wish for in a Law Firm.”

Doctor in a GMC Investigation

“John Williams was incredibly hard working, thorough and very sincere. I really felt he understood my case which was of medical nature. I felt I was in safe hands and his communication with me was excellent. I would really like to thank him for all the support he provided to me.”

Doctor in a Coronor's Case

“I just wanted to let you know how enormously grateful I am to the MDU in general and to you in particular for choosing John Williams as the solicitor to represent my interests in the recent matter of the coroner’s inquest. I do not know whether or not you routinely get feedback on “out of house” solicitors, but I thought you should know that in my opinion John was absolutely marvellous in the way he dealt with the case. He appeared to be beyond thorough in looking at every single possible angle and he was always courteous professional and perhaps most importantly available to me. As I am sure you know at least half the job of the legal representative is to provide psychotherapy and I am pleased to say that John was supremely expert at this aspect of it without ever making me feel stupid or inadequate. He would appear to be a real gem from my limited exposure to dealing with these sorts of matters.”

Osteopath in GOsC Case

"It is one year today since the beginning of what was quite comfortably the worst week of my life before the PCC at the General Osteopathic Council. I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you again for all the hard work and support you both gave to me during those difficult days. I have never forgotten it or the high level of professional acumen I had behind me. I am enjoying the busiest time ever in Practice which would have seemed wishful thinking a year ago and more importantly am settled and happy in personal and professional life like no other time in the last 25 years!

Once again I cannot express my gratitude enough to you both for helping me achieve that possibility and I continue to sing your praises."

Chiropractor in GCC Case

"When your professional career and livelihood is called into question you'll want the best legal support available. In my experience Bankside Law care as much about your license as you do. They have a well established reputation for providing the right advice at the right time and getting the right result. I wouldn't trust my career and reputation with anyone else"

Successful defence of Senior Director of Lloyds Banking Group (LBG) – Fraud, Money Laundering, Bribery & Corruption – Bill Wilson - November 2019.

Bill Wilson was recommended to me by a close friend in the legal profession. It was the best recommendation I could have asked for. Bill is an exceptional criminal lawyer, who quickly was able to familiarise himself with what was a complex Banking sector case which included allegations of Money Laundering, Bribery & Corruption and Fraud. Bill is very methodical in the way that he broke down the case and tactically and strategically negated every point that was alleged.
As a lawyer, Bill is both savvy and articulate and with his vast experience of these kinds of cases, considers every conceivable avenue to explore and leverage for the benefit of his clients. He is relentless in his work and over the two years Bill represented me, he was always available to me in my many hours of need. I owe Bill a huge debt of gratitude and we will remain lifelong friends of that I am sure.

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Investigation and subsequent Trial – Successful Defence – Bill Wilson – August 2019.

Before my case with the FCA I had not even been inside a Court let alone a Trial. So, when the FCA instructed me to attend their premises with a solicitor for an interview under caution, I was almost certain I would be charged. I was in total shock and I had no idea what to do.
I was recommended by another solicitor to make contact with Bill. I vividly remember my first contact with Bill by telephone. His voice has that re-assuring quality about it. I knew straight away I was in good hands. Thereafter he was literally by my side throughout the most difficult time of my life, advising, instructing, supporting, encouraging and sustaining my will to defend myself.
I owe him and his handpicked legal team my life. I cannot thank him enough!

General Medical Council – Successful reversal of decision to refer to a Fitness to Practice Hearing – Bill Wilson - May 2019.

We cannot thank Bill enough for the hard work he put into our case. He was able to grasp the complex facts which surround imaging very quickly and succinctly rectified the misunderstanding by Case Examiners. What a result! Without doubt this relieved a huge degree of pressure from both of us.

General Medical Council – Successful Restoration to Medical Register – Bill Wilson – March 2019.

Bill represented me on my GMC restoration case. Clearly, he has great experience in the healthcare sector and his expertise helped shape my case along the way. He’s been so kind, approachable, trustworthy, supportive of my vision and he was always there when I needed him. Nothing was too much trouble. I am very, very grateful to him. His communications were always timely, helpful and wise and his friendly comforting approach made everything seem a little bit easier, at one of the most stressful times in my life. I cannot thank him enough for his invaluable support. His professionalism and commitment to provide high quality service to his clients were well above my expectation and I would certainly recommend him to any members of my profession who may need his expertise.

Police Investigation – Football Coach – Bill Wilson – February 2019.

What a relief. So pleased, to have instructed Bill and both my wife and I were so grateful for all his help and the time he spent with our matter. Cannot thank him enough.

Drug Offences, Money Laundering – Bill Wilson – October 2017

It is hard to find the words to convey our thanks and gratitude for all that you have done to help with this ghastly situation, particularly for always being so available to talk when most needed. You have been a friend indeed!

Representing ex-Police Officer - MOPAC (Mayor for London: Office for Policing & Crime) – Bill Wilson – September 2017.

I recently had my last employer (Metropolitan Police) try to make a case for forfeiture of my pension. I had been paying into this pension for almost 12.5 years. However, after being dismissed for Gross Misconduct, the Metropolitan Police went after my pension.

I was referred to Bankside Law Solicitors through a family friend. I spoke to someone called Bill Wilson, he gave me good advice on the phone and then had a consultation with me face to face. Bill promptly got a letter drafted and sent off to MOPAC (The department who were seeking to have my pension forfeited).

On receiving the letter from Bill, MOPAC decided not to proceed with the pension forfeiture.
Bill showed me respect and care throughout the handling of my case and made it easy for me to speak with him.
Bill is both professional and friendly. I highly recommend Bankside Law Solicitors, but in particular I highly recommend Bill.

Consultant Gynaecologist – GMC Investigation – November 2016

I am emailing to recommend Mr. Bill Wilson for his remarkable help, exceptional patience, candid advice, thorough approach and immediate attention during the General Medical Council Investigation I have been through over more than 3 years.

He was always available for discussion beyond the expected role, even when not at the office and even when at home or on leave. He was flexible enough to accommodate my preferences, whilst making his own opinion clear.

He has been extremely supportive, and consistently so, during a very difficult time, which helped me getting though the lengthy process. I am most grateful to him for this beyond description and would wholeheartedly recommend him for those unfortunate enough to have to go through a similar investigation.

Consultant – GMC Interim Orders Tribunal – November 2016 – Bill Wilson .

I wanted to express my gratitude for your efforts and dedication for my case. It is really hard to make someone who doesn’t know you believe that you are innocent but you still put all your efforts in clearing my name. I am grateful to you that you took all the stress and restored everything out for me. Your faith, knowledge and determination were something that solves my worries.

General Medical Practitioner – Indemnity Cover – October 2016 – Bill Wilson.

Professional Medical Indemnity cover held by all GP's is ever more at risk as MDO's react to escalating liability exposure. Unexpected loss of cover for the individual GP may be individually unfair but who can help you with remedying the situation? How do you represent yourself regarding complex issues to a MDO. The process can be an opaque one at times.

Mr Bill Wilson is an experienced lawyer in the field of regulatory healthcare including General Practice.

His quick grasp of complex issues, understanding of the regulatory environment, sharp eye for detail and talent for spotting the important areas to address are very reassuring qualities that are not so easy to find. Discussing your situation with Bill may find a way forward which others have overlooked.

Incorporating Bill's ideas into my approach resolved an unfairness, the remedy for which had stalled for nearly a year with other approaches.

Money Laundering Case

"You hear many horror stories about Solicitors, however I can truly say that Bill Wilson was professional, easy to talk to and explained things in an everyday language without using legal jargon. Bill conducted his work in a timely manner and always communicated the facts with the minimum amount of fuss. I would have no hesitation in recommending Bankside Law to anybody who needed legal assistance.

I must also mention Miss Sarah Wood, Barrister from 5 St Andrews Hill, concerning how excellent she put the case over to the Judge. At the end of the trial, the Judge complimented Sarah on how well she had presented her case.  

Bill, “Out of the depths of a battle a warrior is forged but heroes and friends are found in many unlikely places!” Thank you, again. "

Doctor Defence on a Criminal Crown Court Case involving an allegation of a sexual assualt on a patient

“As a client of Bill's in my recent very serious case, I felt tremendous support from him even on our first meeting and this has remained until this day. Nothing was a bother to him and he was always available to answer any fears or queries no matter how small .He explained every step of the legal process in a very reassuring and calm way and left no stone unturned to achieve the positive result for a very complex case. I would thoroughly recommend Bill to be your guiding light in what may be the darkest journey of your life .Thanks again Bill”.

Doctor Defence in a GMC Investigation

"Having just been through the torrid experience of a GMC investigation which seemed to go on forever I must praise Bill Wilson and Bankside Law for the consummate professionalism and humanity granted to me in a successful defence of all allegations made. It was a very difficult time for me and made much easier by the support, attention to detail and realistic predictions of the likely outcome at every stage of the procedures. I shall be eternally indebted and grateful for all of the kindness, understanding, thoroughness, advice and care at the highest level."

Speech and Language Therapist before Health Care Professions Council (HCPC)

“Bill thank you, for all the help and support in achieving a remarkable result!” (Client) Our Client’s mother also commented:  “I wanted to thank you for your assistance and professionalism in regard to this case. I know she felt encouraged by your manner and had confidence in your ability to assist her in obtaining a positive outcome. Thank you also for instructing Rad (Kohanzad, Serjeants Inn) to represent her at the hearing. His warm manner and softly, softly approach struck the right balance, allowing her to place her trust in him”

Doctor Defence in a GMC Investigation

“I think without your tireless efforts and genuine concern it would not have been possible to have the result we desired! I cannot thank you enough for your dedication and hard work and right from beginning found it very comfortable working along you. You have been a great support and even a friend in many ways and I shall be grateful to you for all my life. I am sure you are busy helping many other doctors now .Good luck and I know they are very lucky to have you on their side.”

Doctor in a Coroner's case

“I would just like to thank both yourself and Jeremy for the excellent support and clarity of your advice, this would have been an entirely different process without your help and input, thank you.”

Managing Director of an international oil company

"I was introduced to the criminal Justice system and all of its complexity, anachronistic and oft draconian consequences, in a structured, caring way by Bill Wilson – Solicitor, Bankside’s Senior Partner and his appointed Counsel. Over a 3.5 years investigation, they were able to guide me through the mire and, by preparing me and my family for the ultimate likely outcomes, minimise my trauma when subsequently being acquainted with Her Majesty’s penal system. By grasping very quickly that the sentencing Judge had made serious errors in law, inter alia biased and misinformed guidance to the Jury, Bankside’s Team was able to secure leave to an appeal hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice. Counsel Peter Lodder Q.C. successfully won the legal argument, which resulted in a substantial reduction of sentence and almost immediate eligibility for my release on license. In addition, by a structured process conducted over several months in HMP’s Wandsworth and Brixton, which involved a diligent defence preparation supported by meticulous collation of supporting documents, an initial preposterous “Benefit Confiscation Calculation” by the Crown was reduced by a million pounds. This assistance and support continued post-release, including dealing with Ministry of Justice support organisations such as probation and other outsourced service providers, which was exacerbated during a period of internal turmoil. This total experience has cumulated into an expansive awareness during a novice’s five year experience of a process which encompassed police and CPS investigations, conditional bail, pre-trial, sentencing, incarceration, then eventual release on license. The result was both psychologically manageable and informative, while dismissing immediately any thoughts of retribution, re-offending or self-harm. I thank and would thoroughly recommend Bankside Law to any individual or corporate client needing legal counsel, personal guidance and / or a roadmap, of how to navigate through the potential minefield that is the British Criminal Justice system.”

Doctor Defence of criminal case

"I want to acknowledge Mr Bill Wilson of Bankside Law my diligent, efficient and learned solicitor  for his professionalism while handling my sexual assault case. The period of time was an extremely uncomfortable and stressful one for me but Mr Wilson made me feel very comfortable and kept me informed about the case every step of the way. His wealth of experience made me feel re-assured each time we discuss the case, and he was always understanding of what I was going through. I found him to be very approachable and he never even once complained that I was always seeking to speak to him. He made the period of the trial as bearable as possible for me. Mr Wilson's choice of barrister was also excellent. I could not have asked of anything or anyone better. I would be proud to refer my family, friends, colleagues and even strangers to him, and I am sure they will be happy with his legal expertise."

Company Director acquittal on large scale arson allegation 

"Now I have had a chance to catch my breath after two and a half years of hell, I wanted to write to thank you for your professionalism, commitment to detail and personal support. I couldn’t have made it through without your constant support and encouragement, over and above what your role required. I shall be forever grateful!

Looking back on my court case, after my acquittal with its unanimous jury verdict of ‘not guilty’, I am more than ever impressed by how you brilliantly steered my case through the procrastinations of the CPS and navigated the incipient and deeply stressful effects of the repeated postponement of the court case. Each time the prosecution sought yet more evidence and although new Prosecution Barristers were instructed to represent them, you worked with our own expert witnesses and Barrister (Jeremy Barton) to address the situation. I am extremely impressed by how you kept on top of the minute detail and specialist forensic evidence, and the way in which you motivated our whole team throughout. Likewise, such was the professionalism of the team that you put together, when the case finally reached court, even the Judge and Prosecuting Barrister requested guidance because of the complexities the case threw up.

As we know, the Prosecution were able to dedicate far more resources than we were at the case and I will always be grateful to you for the way you fought our corner. Without your personal dedication, care and sheer hard work, the outcome may well have been different. I will always be grateful to you."

GCC Defence - Alex Lane

"Alex Lane handled my case from the offset and I could not have asked for better. She was always on hand when I needed her to be so, was thorough, professional and got the job done to a very high standard. Highly recommended."

GCC Defence - Alex Lane

"When I found out that there was a case filed with the GCC I went through the range of emotions that would be expected. A friend told me that Jonathan was the best. I am glad I listened to him! Alex took a lot of the fear out of the process. And she stopped me from going berserk! Jonathon played to game perfectly - even though I wanted to go for the kill! It was pitched so perfectly that the panel basically read Jonathan's closing statement as their reasons for their verdict! I am forever grateful for the work those two did and the recommendation to hire them. They are the team you want in your corner!"

Doctor Criminal and GMC Defence - Alex Lane

"I cannot thank you enough for all the work you did for me and for being so kind and compassionate with me.  This has been the worst experience of my life but no one could have made it more bearable than you! My experience with Alexandra Lane and the rest of the team at Bankside Law was absolutely stellar!  The whole team were very warm, very informative and always responded promptly.  I have never dealt with a lawyer that I would rate higher than Alexandra Lane.  When having to face the bleak prospect of defending yourself in the legal system, it makes all the difference in the world to have a lawyer working for you whom you immediately develop a good personal rapport with.  She always took the time to explain everything as often as I needed reassuring and always was kind and made me feel understood and was empathetic.  Alexandra Lane is the model lawyer and I would not think twice about seeking her appointment again should I need legal assistance again in the future!”

Confiscation Alex Lane

"Alex, I really have been so impressed with your work and more than your work, you are the first lawyer who understands and empathises with the human side of a problem and I hope that as you get more and more successful as you surely will, you never lose that quality.  If the others in your firm are half as good as you, I will be content."

GCC Defence - Alex Lane

"Going up against the GCC allegations was always going to be trying however what helped was knowing I could rely on Bankside Law. They were swift, knowledgeable and kept me in the loop at all times with regular communication. I wouldn't hesitate to use them again should the occasion ever arise."

GCC Defence - Alex Lane

"Alex Lane handled my case from the offset and I could not have asked for better. She was always on hand when I needed her to be so, was thorough, professional and got the job done to a very high standard. Highly recommended."

“I have used Bankside law on two occasions and have found them to be incredibly knowledgeable about the GCC and their complaints and knew the exact way to handle them.  I had complete confidence in their approach and have had both cases dismissed.  I would highly recommend them!”

“When your professional career and livelihood is called into question you'll want the best legal support available. In my experience Bankside Law care as much about your license as you do. They have a well established reputation for providing the right advice at the right time and getting the right result. I wouldn't trust my career and reputation with anyone else"

"Bankside Law provide an excellent and highly professional service in dealing with GMC related matters. They have extensive experience and knowledge in dealing with fitness to practise issues and put clients at ease from the start. I would highly recommend their services!"

“I cannot thank you enough for all the work you did for me and for being so kind and compassionate with me.  This has been the worst experience of my life but no one could have made it more bearable than you!” 

“My experience with Alexandra Lane and the rest of the team at Bankside Law was absolutely stellar!  The whole team were very warm, very informative and always responded promptly.  I have never dealt with a lawyer that I would rate higher than Alexandra Lane.  When having to face the bleak prospect of defending yourself in the legal system, it makes all the difference in the world to have a lawyer working for you whom you immediately develop a good personal rapport with.  She always took the time to explain everything as often as I needed reassuring and always was kind and made me feel understood and was empathetic.  Alexandra Lane is the model lawyer and I would not think twice about seeking her appointment again should I need legal assistance again in the future!”

“I really have been so impressed with your work and more than your work, you are the first lawyer who understands and empathises with the human side of a problem and I hope that as you get more and more successful as you surely will, you never lose that quality.  If the others in your firm are half as good as you, I will be content.”

"Your firm were thorough, diligent and approachable. You explained everything clearly and left nothing to chance.  Thank you."

It is one year today since the beginning of what was quite comfortably the worst week of my life before the PCC at the General osteopathic Council.

I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you again for all the hard work and support you both gave to me during those difficult days. I have never forgotten it or the high level of professional acumen I had behind me. I am enjoying the busiest time ever in Practice which would have seemed wishful thinking a year ago and more importantly am settled and happy in personal and professional life like no other time in the last 25 years!

Once again I cannot express my gratitude enough to you both for helping me achieve that possibility and I continue to sing your praises.