GMC defence solicitors for doctors

To practise medicine in the UK, all doctors must register with the General Medical Council (GMC). The GMC has the power to investigate concerns about doctors, and to take action to restrict or withdraw a doctor’s registration. At Hempsons, our specialist GMC defence lawyers have extensive experience of defending doctors in fitness to practise investigations.

Whether you need to submit a written response to a complaint or have been summoned to a hearing before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS), our team is here to guide you through this challenging process, so contact us today.

Who we work with

We work with doctors at all stages of their careers who are facing GMC investigations. Our clients include:

  • General practitioners (partners, salaried GPs and GP registrars)
  • Consultants
  • Specialty and Associate Specialist (SAS) doctors
  • Resident (junior) doctors (including foundation doctors)
  • Medical students (student fitness to practise)

Our GMC defence services

Rule 7 / Case Examiner Responses

If the GMC contacts you to submit a written response to a complaint, it is crucial to seek advice immediately. The initial response can significantly influence the investigation’s outcome, including whether the case proceeds to a full, public hearing before a Medical Practitioners Tribunal (MPT). Our experienced GMC defence solicitors have a strong track record of helping doctors resolve investigations early, often avoiding the need for an MPT Fitness to Practise hearing.

Interim Orders Tribunal (IOT) Hearings

At the start of an investigation, doctors may be required to appear before an Interim Orders Tribunal (IOT) to determine whether restrictions should be placed on their registration during the investigation. These restrictions can severely impact a doctor’s ability to work (or even prevent them from working altogether) and may last for an extended period (sometimes many years).  Legal representation at this stage is essential. Our GMC defence lawyers have successfully represented many doctors at IOT hearings, either through direct advocacy or in collaboration with expert barristers.

Medical Practitioners Tribunals (Fitness to Practise Hearings)

Many GMC investigations culminate in a hearing before a Medical Practitioners Tribunal (MPT). This tribunal decides whether the allegations against a doctor are proven, assesses the doctor’s fitness to practise, and determines any necessary actions regarding the doctor’s registration (including warnings, conditions, suspension or erasure from the Medical Register).  Proper advice and robust representation are vital to achieving the best possible outcome. Our proven success in defending doctors at MPT hearings has established us as leaders in this field. Contact us to ensure you have the best chance of a favourable result.

Other linked proceedings

If your GMC case relates to allegations which could constitute a criminal offence, you may also be the subject of a criminal investigation.  Our lawyers have specialist experience of defending doctors in criminal proceedings (such as sexual offences and fraud), and our experience in dealing with the GMC as well as the criminal justice system will ensure that you receive joined up advice to protect your position in both arenas. 

Similarly, our inquest lawyers can assist you if you are called to give evidence at an inquest as a witness or an interested party, and our clinical negligence litigation specialists can assist you if you are the subject of a claim.  We can also advise you in relation to any Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) proceedings including being included on a Barred List.

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    • Chambers UK 2023
      “Adam Smith possesses a wealth of expertise in defending clients facing GDC, GMC and HCPC investigations into allegations of inappropriate behaviour, dishonesty and sexual assault. He is also noted for his representation of police officers facing claims of misconduct.”
    • Chambers UK 2023
      “He is a super solicitor – he’s incredibly organised and has a very calm manner with clients and litigation. His drafting and communication skills are excellent.”
    • Legal 500 2023
      “Commitment to client’s best interests in all respects, and from the start to the end were unwavering. No gaps, no pauses; always active and engaged.”
    • Legal 500 2023
      “Very dedicated team.”
    • Legal 500 2023
      “Always acts in clients' best interests.”
    • Legal 500 2022
      “‘Hempsons’ team is committed to its clients, hardworking, knowledgeable, and empathetic to clients’ needs.”
    • Legal 500 2022
      “Fantastic defendant firm.”
    • Chambers UK 2023
      “Surjit Dubb is a skilled professional discipline expert who is called upon by a range of medical professionals for his abilities in disciplinary and regulatory issues. He offers experience in proceedings before the MPTS, GDC and a variety of wider governing bodies. ”
    • Chambers UK 2023
      “Surjit Dubb works really hard on the cases and makes a huge difference by going that extra mile.”
    • Legal 500 2022
      “Tania Francis is a qualified doctor and brings an invaluable perspective to any defence team.”