Professional Discipline

As a regulated professional there are a wide range of conduct issues that could arise during your career.

Client A
You are be a chartered accountant with an unblemished record of 30 years, but now face a complaint that you have failed to adequately deal with a conflict of interest. Your professional regulator appears to be relying upon information that does not reflect the facts, or provide the correct context. You are articulate and intelligent but realise you need specialist legal advice to achieve the best possible outcome.

Client B
You are an experienced Barrister facing allegations of sexual harassment. You have spent your professional life defending others, but now feel you have been tried and convicted without a shred of evidence being heard. Your integrity defines you as a professional, and as a person, but that is now being called into question. You categorically deny the allegations. You know the law as well as anyone and want the same high level of specialist representation that you provide.

Whether you are a chartered accountant, barrister, or other regulated professional, if you have been notified you are under investigation, it is essential that you seek specialist legal advice to protect your interests and to protect your practice. Regulators are often criticised their investigations take too long and members such as you are disproportionally affected by the delay. At Penman Sedgwick we have specialist senior lawyers who deal with all aspects of professional regulation. We will aim to expedite and conclude matters at the earliest stage of the investigation. If your case has to be resolved at a hearing, we will provide you with clear, strategic advice to achieve the best outcome for you.

We can advise you in relation to:

• Regulatory compliance
• Assisting with applications for registration and authorisation
• Preparing notifications to regulators and professional bodies regarding reportable events
• Advising clients under investigation, including assisting with disclosure of information, preparing written responses and attending meetings
• Interim orders
• Consent orders
• Privacy applications
• Professional conduct and fitness to practice hearings
• Appeals against decisions
• Reputational issues