Our Employment Solicitors Manchester specialist for dentists offers representation in all cases presented by the General Dental Council (GDC).
The Regulatory Process
The following information describes the disciplinary process as outlined by the General Dental Council.
Investigation
An initial investigation is carried out by a caseworker. If the caseworker determines the matter to be liable for further proceedings, it will be passed on to an investigating committee. It is up to the investigation committee to gather all evidence pertaining to the case, including information from the dentist under investigation. If there is a significant cause for the case to progress, the matter is then presented before a practice committee for a full hearing.
The practice committee will be one of the following:
- The professional conduct committee
- The professional performance committee
- The health committee
The dentist under enquiry may be suspended or subject to special conditions outlined by an interim orders committee until the enquiry is completed.
Hearing
All evidence is presented to the practice committee. The dentist will be given every opportunity to present evidence in their defence, including calling witnesses wherever relevant.
Decision
If the dentist’s fitness to practice is proved to be diminished on the balance of probabilities, the following action can be taken:
- Carry out a reprimanding
- Impose appropriate conditions on the dentist’s practice
- Suspend the dentist for a set period of time
- Dismiss the dentist indefinitely, prohibiting them from working in this field
Appeal
The dentist can appeal to the High Court against any decision or judgement within 28 days of the decision.
Internal disciplinary proceedings
Our specialist employment law solicitors will be happy to represent any dentist involved in internal disciplinary proceedings being carried out by their employer or line manager.
Representation for social workers in cases of regulatory proceedings
If you are subject to proceedings carried out by the General Dental Council in respect to your role as a dentist, please contact us on 0161 82 11 559, or complete the form on our enquiry page. One of our dedicated team will contact you as soon as possible to discuss your case, possible outcomes and all of your available options.
