Regulatory Law
Nurses & Midwives

We handle cases where nurses and midwives are being investigated by their regulatory body, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

The Regulatory Process

In the United Kingdom, nurses and midwives are regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, which is responsible for maintaining the professional register and investigating concerns about a registrant’s fitness to practise. Where a concern is raised, the NMC will first assess whether the matter falls within its jurisdiction and whether there is sufficient evidence to justify investigation. If the matter proceeds, it is investigated and considered by NMC Case Examiners, who review the evidence, including any response from the nurse or midwife, and may obtain expert advice where necessary.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the Case Examiners may decide to take no further action, issue advice, agree undertakings, or refer the matter to a fitness to practise hearing. Hearings are conducted before an NMC Fitness to Practise Committee or panel, consisting of registrant and lay members. The nurse or midwife is entitled to attend, make representations, call witnesses and submit evidence in their defence.

If the panel determines that fitness to practise is impaired, sanctions may include a warning, conditions of practice, suspension, or a striking-off order removing the nurse or midwife from the register. A registrant may appeal against a sanction to the High Court in England and Wales, or to the Court of Session in Scotland, generally within 28 days of the decision.

Internal Disciplinary Proceedings

We also assist and represent nurses and midwives 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 NMC regulatory proceedings be commenced against you, then please either telephone us on 0333 301 0700, or complete our questionnaire.