Our Employment Solicitors Manchester specialist for opticians offers representation in all cases presented by the General Optical Council (GOC).
The Regulatory Process
The following information describes the disciplinary process as outlined by the General Optical Council.
Investigation
The investigation committee will provide a case examiner to gather all evidence including information provided by the optician in their defence. The optician may be suspended from duty, or be required to follow specific restrictions or conditions by way of an interim order for the duration of the investigation. If the case examiner finds just cause for the case to progress the matter will be passed on to the fitness to practice committee for a full hearing.
Hearing
The hearing will be presented to a panel from the fitness to practice committee who will consider all evidence, including the defence made by the optician under prosecution. The optician should be given every opportunity to present evidence, including calling witnesses or experts wherever relevant.
Decision
If the optician’s fitness to practice is proved to be diminished on the balance of probabilities, the following actions may be enforced:
- A warning is issued that must be disclosed to all enquirers
- A financial penalty is imposed
- Conditions are imposed on the optician that must be adhered to for up to 3 years
- The optician is suspended for up to 1 year
- The optician is dismissed indefinitely, prohibiting them from working in this field
Appeal
The optician 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 optician involved in internal disciplinary proceedings being carried out by their employer or line manager.
Representation for opticians 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 optician, 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.
