Gemma has extensive experience in advising and representing parties at all stages of regulatory proceedings. She is regularly instructed in lengthy and complex hearings including issues of lack of competence in highly specialised and technical areas. For example, errors and disputes in relation to patient diagnosis, scientific research, record keeping and others, and serious allegations of misconduct, including issues of dishonesty, sexual assaults, improper relationships and others.
Gemma is a forthright advocate with strong witness handling skills and the ability to understand complex professional issues and terminology (both healthcare and financial). Gemma has advised regulatory bodies on matters of procedure and evidence in order to guide policy decisions and has also appeared on behalf of these clients at the High Court.
Assists Professional Regulatory Panels as a legal adviser, performing a vital role in ensuring hearings are conducted within the law and that a panel’s reasoning is clear within a written determination.
Notable Professional Discipline cases
SWE v F
Concerning two allegations of rape. Successfully proved the case on the basis of previous inconsistent accounts, despite victim attending and making withdrawal statement.
SWE v K
Concerning sexual assault on a minor.
GMC v A
Concerning allegations of dishonesty. Despite admitting the facts, the panel were persuaded to make no order made against the Doctor’s registration.
HCPC v A
Concerning allegations of repeated sexual assaults on a number of patients by a physiotherapist.
GDC v A
Concerning the treatment of caries and record keeping for a large number of patients.
HCPC v A
Concerning extensive dishonesty charges in relation to a CV submitted and relied upon by a Biomedical Scientist.
NMC v A
Concerning a number of nursing staff and their involvement in the care of elderly residents in a retirement home.
IFA v A
Concerning allegations that a number of student Actuaries were cheating in their professional examinations and qualifications.
HCPC v A
Concerning allegations of bullying.
GOC v A
Concerning a dentist’s failure to inform the professional regulator of a recent criminal caution.
GTC v A
Concerning a headteacher’s alleged misappropriation of school fund.
