DEPARTMENT PROFILE

Bates Wells

Professional Discipline

2 ranked lawyers

Band 3

UK-wide

UK 2022 View ranking table

chambers review

department information

Ranked Lawyers

Chambers Review

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What the team is known for

Recognised for its expertise in regulation across a range of sectors, particularly accountancy, veterinary and healthcare. Regularly assists with investigations into allegations such as sexual misconduct and dishonesty. Also provides advice and representation to regulators on corporate governance and regulatory matters.

Strengths

Interviewees remark that the lawyers at Bates Wells are "professional, understanding, good listeners and hard-working."

Sources reveal that the firm is "very well equipped to speak with authority on issues that may face professional bodies and regulators."

Work highlights

Represented the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in an investigation into a veterinary surgeon who practised without indemnity insurance and carried out surgical treatments which gave rise to clinical concerns.

Notable practitioners

Claire Whittle is a senior associate who frequently handles disciplinary proceedings on behalf of a range of regulators, including the IPA and RCVS. She is also capable of handling procedural reviews for regulatory bodies.

Melanie Carter frequently represents clients from various sectors in fitness-to-practise proceedings, in addition to advising regulatory bodies on disciplinary and governance matters.
"She has impressive expertise and you can tell her clients trust her." "Melanie holds an impressive reputation and provides sharp insight into the professional regulatory sector."

Department Information

This content is provided by Bates Wells.

Overview

Bates Wells understands the public interest drivers for professional regulators - in particular, the protection of the public and maintaining public confidence. At the same time, the need to ensure proportionality and “right-touch” regulation can sometimes create a difficult balancing act.

With decades of experience advising professional bodies (both statutory and voluntary) we have not only an in-depth knowledge of the law, but a practical understanding of what’s needed to manage your real-world challenges.

For more information, visit https://bateswells.co.uk/services/public-and-regulatory/professional-discipline/