Areas of Expertise
Regulatory & Professional Discipline
Immediate, strategic representation for professionals. A regulatory referral can arise without warning — and the consequences can be career-defining.
Why timing decides outcome
Strongest Position is Established Before Tribunal
Regulatory proceedings require a structured and strategic approach from the outset. Decisions made during the investigation stage often determine whether a matter proceeds to a formal hearing at all.
We act for doctors, solicitors, nurses, social workers, teachers, and financial services professionals at every stage — combining solicitor and barrister expertise within a single team so the strategy developed during investigation is carried through to tribunal without interruption.
Where urgent issues arise — including interim suspension or restrictive conditions — we act immediately to challenge those measures and protect your position.
Our services
Our Regulatory & Discipline Services
We act across the full range of regulatory and disciplinary matters, including parallel criminal investigations.
- Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) — fitness to practise
- Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) investigations and SDT
- Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) hearings
- Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) proceedings
- Interim orders — suspension and conditions of practice
- Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) proceedings
- Bar Standards Board (BSB) proceedings
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) investigations and enforcement
- Internal disciplinary hearings with regulatory implications
- Appeals against tribunal findings and sanctions
Why Chess Law
Why Chess Law Solicitors for Regulatory Defence
Regulatory work informed by criminal defence
Parallel criminal and regulatory matters
Detailed written representations early
Interim orders challenged without delay
Continuity from investigation to appeal
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between criminal and regulatory proceedings?
A criminal prosecution is brought by the state and can result in a fine, community order or imprisonment. Regulatory proceedings are brought by a professional body and can result in sanctions affecting your ability to practise. The standard of proof in regulatory proceedings is the balance of probabilities, which differs from the criminal standard.
Can I lose my registration without a criminal conviction?
Yes. Regulatory bodies make independent findings. An acquittal in a criminal case does not prevent a regulator from making findings on the same facts.
Should I respond to the regulator at the investigation stage?
Engagement is usually necessary, but it should be done with legal advice in place. We advise on what should be disclosed, how it should be presented, and when it should be provided.
What is an interim order?
An interim order is a temporary restriction imposed during an investigation — it may involve suspension or conditions on practice. These orders can be challenged and are subject to review.
What happens at a fitness to practise hearing?
The regulator presents its case, evidence is examined, and witnesses may be cross-examined. The panel determines the facts, whether they amount to impairment, and what sanction, if any, should be imposed.
Can I appeal against a regulatory decision?
Yes. Most regulatory decisions can be appealed on grounds such as errors in fact-finding, application of the wrong legal test, or disproportionate sanction.
What if the complaint was made in bad faith?
The regulator will still investigate, but the credibility of the complainant and any inconsistencies in their account are matters we examine and present.
Speak to us now.
A regulatory investigation can have serious and lasting consequences. You will leave the first conversation with a clear understanding of the process, the risks, and what will be done to protect your position.
