What the team is known for

Outstanding professional discipline practice with a formidable track record in defending professionals facing disciplinary proceedings. Also advises regulators on investigatory and prosecutorial matters, alongside broader roles counselling on public policy and governance issues. Regularly acts for clients in a diverse range of industries, including legal services, health and social care, education and finance.

Strengths

One client says: "Their attention to detail, pragmatic and constructive approach to cases and clear commitment to supporting our organisation are outstanding."

Another remarks: "They are at all times professional while maintaining an excellent relationship with their clients. Their extensive knowledge of a wide variety of regulatory frameworks, together with their experience of both defending and prosecuting disciplinary cases, ensures that we receive the best possible advice."

Interviewees say: "The team are experienced, knowledgeable on regulatory matters and flexible in their approach."

Work highlights

Acted for the HCPC in the investigation and presentation of an allegation of impairment against a social worker.

Notable practitioners

Hannah Eales is a senior associate who frequently acts as lead advocate in a range of regulatory proceedings. She represents numerous regulatory bodies, including the ARB, IFoA, HCPC and TRA.
"Her cases are meticulously prepared and she has an excellent rapport with disciplinary tribunal panels. She remains calm and measured regardless of what arises during the course of a hearing."

Iain Miller is highly regarded for his specialism in advising major law firms and legal regulatory bodies on a broad range of issues. He frequently handles governance reviews and SRA misconduct investigations.
"He has an encyclopedic knowledge of the area and knows the rules inside out." "He is a class act who has great powers of judgement and good knowledge of the issues."

Julie Matheson is highly adept at advising on regulatory matters in the finance sector. She is noted for her representation of the FCA and IFoA in disciplinary proceedings, as well as regulated professionals in FRC, CIMA and CIFPA investigations.
"She has an excellent grasp of technical principles and is quickly able to identify the heart of each case and the matters that need to be focused upon." "Her key strengths are her understanding of the whole regulatory process and her ability to provide objective and sound advice."

Julie Norris is held in particularly high esteem for her representation of regulated professionals in the legal, finance and healthcare sectors. She regularly assists clients with both internal and external investigations, as well as appeals against prior decisions.
"She is very astute - her meticulous approach meant that all aspects of the case were covered in detail." "She has a good eye for detail and good client skills."

Melinka Berridge is recognised for her expertise in the education and healthcare sectors, which sees her frequently represent regulatory bodies in fitness-to-practise hearings and inquests. She frequently assists with the investigation and presentation of cases concerning allegations of dishonesty and inappropriate behaviour.
"She has excellent knowledge and is flexible in her approach to issues."

Nicola Hill heads the firm's regulatory team and possesses significant expertise in professional discipline matters in the healthcare sector. She is noted for her proficient representation of the HCPC in fitness-to-practise prosecutions.
"She is very proactive and responsive."

Shannett Thompson has significant experience of handling fitness-to-practise investigations and hearings on behalf of healthcare regulators, including the GOC and HCPC. She also assists individuals facing investigation by the GMC and NMC, as well as other regulatory bodies.
"She brings a healthy dose of realism to cases and provides helpful and constructive insights."