Regulatory Law
Dentists

We handle cases where dentists are being investigated by their regulatory body, the General Dental Council (GDC)

The Regulatory Process

The disciplinary process is as follows:-

• Investigation – the case is handed to a case worker. Should the case worker decide that the case warrants investigation, then the matter is passed on to the investigating committee. The committee will then gather evidence, including from the dentist who is the subject of the investigation, to determine whether there is a case to answer. Should they decide that there is, then the matter will be referred on to a practice committee (of which there are 3: the professional conduct committee, the professional performance committee, and the health committee) for a full hearing. At this stage, the interim orders committee may either suspend the dentist or impose conditions on them whilst the enquiry is completed.
• Hearing – the relevant practice committee will hear all the evidence. The dentist will be able to present evidence, call witnesses, and make full representations.
• Decision and sanctions – should the committee determine that the case has been proved on the balance of probabilities and that the dentists fitness to practice is impaired, then they can reprimand them, impose conditions upon them, suspend them for a period, or strike them off the register.
• Appeal – the dentist has the right to appeal to the High Court against any sanctions imposed.

Internal Disciplinary Proceedings

We also assist and represent dentists where they are the subject of internal disciplinary proceedings by their employer​

What To Do If Regulatory Proceedings Are Commenced Against You

Should internal disciplinary proceedings or GDC regulatory proceedings be commenced against you, then please either telephone us on 0333 301 0700, or complete our questionnaire.