We have assisted clients when facing difficulties with their Local Authority in relation to, not only their alcohol licence, but also virtually all other types of activity for which a Local Authority licence is required.
This includes representation before the local authority review panels and appeals to the Magistrates and Crown Courts when terms of the licences have been amended or if the licence has been revoked.
Our experienced solicitors can act for you in defending against all aspects of regulatory and disciplinary matters.
These areas have grown significantly in recent years. As a team, we recognise that these proceedings have a serious impact on our clients. Our aim is to make the process as straightforward as possible while providing the best representation in respect of the investigation and any allegations or charges.
Defence Regulatory
We represent both companies and individuals when faced with prosecutions in the Magistrates and Crown Courts from a number of regulatory bodies, including:
- Environment Agency
- Health and Safety Executive
- Local Authorities
Often clients are simply unaware of the obligations placed on them due to the plethora of legislation which exists and regulates the daily activities of so many people. It can come as a shock when faced with the prospect of a PACE interview and is daunting when dealing with the charges that can follow. The objective is always that the matter will not proceed to prosecution. However it is inevitable that some will and when they do, our team has the experience to represent clients throughout the process to the final hearing.
Professional Disciplinary
We appreciate the importance and seriousness of professional disciplinary proceedings and the potential impact they have on clients’ livelihood. The department is happy to take instructions to defend clients in any disciplinary matter and we have experience in a variety of areas, as set out below:
- Healthcare Professionals
The team acts for a multitude of health professionals when facing allegations before their regulatory body. We deal with matters from when the allegations are first investigated to full hearings. We regularly represent clients before the Health Professions Council, General Optical Council, General Osteopathic Council, General Dental Council, General Chiropractic Council, Royal Pharmaceutical Society, General Medical Council and Nursing and Midwifery Council.The period from investigation to substantive hearing can be lengthy and we understand that it causes clients a great deal of stress and worry. We have extensive experience in all types of professional disciplinary cases and are passionate about achieving the best results for our clients and ensuring that the allegations are fought whenever possible.
- Care Home Providers and Childminders
We also represent clients when appealing against suspension and cancellation notices received from the Care Quality Commission and Ofsted and which can ultimately end up before the First-tier-Tribunal Health, Education and Social Care Chamber (formerly the Care Standards Tribunal).
- Councillors
The team has represented several Councillors throughout England and Wales before the Adjudication Panel for Wales and the First-tier Tribunal (Local Government Standards in England). These cases involve alleged breaches of the Code of Conduct and derive from complaints made by fellow Councillors and members of the public. We have achieved many successful outcomes with the allegations being dismissed.
High Court Appeals & Judicial Review
If required, the firm will undertake the appeal process and/or judicial review. Naturally, we seek to obtain outcomes, which are satisfactory to the client and do no involve the appeal process, but have the experience to do so should that be necessary.
