Professional Misconduct Lawyers

What kind of Disciplinary Proceedings do Galbally Parker’s Professional Misconduct Lawyers handle?

Where there is any allegation of rule breaking, whether that be allegations of committing crimes or professional misconduct, Galbally Parker is the experienced industry leader in representing those accused. We appear in disciplinary proceedings and professional misconduct proceedings across every industry. Galbally Parker represents professionals in professional conduct and disciplinary proceedings prosecuted by the Legal Services Commissioner, Racing Appeals Tribunal, and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), before the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. It is the attention to detail, thorough knowledge of the relevant prosecuting agencies and our experience which sets us apart.

Why Choose Galbally Parker Lawyers to Represent your Interests?

Most criminal defence firms do not conduct disciplinary matters, so please contact our firm to arrange an initial client consultation and discuss your proceedings so that we can ensure that they are managed skillfully, diligently and swiftly.

The reason that you haven’t heard about the professional misconduct and disciplinary proceedings that we have handled? Because we are swift and discreet. We manage your matter in the way that you would manage your practice: carefully and skillfully.

What Kinds of Allegations can Lead to Disciplinary Proceedings?

Individuals prosecuted for professional misconduct and disciplinary matters may have been prosecuted by the Professional body alone or the proceedings may have followed on from criminal proceedings. For example, if a Medical Practitioner is alleged to have inappropriately touched a patient and the alleged victim has reported a sexual assault, the Medical Practitioner may be charged and prosecuted for the alleged offence. In addition to that, the alleged conduct can be the basis for a complaint to AHPRA regarding the Practitioner’s suitability to practise medicine. This will result in an AHPRA prosecution.

In other circumstances, the conduct alleged may not constitute an offence, but a disciplinary infraction under the relevant legislation governing the profession of which the Accused is part, or which might affect an individuals ability to become registered or licensed within that profession. There will also be situations where the conduct alleged and the complaint may affect the person’s ability to continue practicing their profession.

For example, there are infractions within the legal industry for failing to properly disclose costs to a client. Unless there is an allegation of theft or fraud, this infraction will not give rise to criminal charges, but may give rise to disciplinary proceedings that may affect the ability of the person to practice in their field.

This will inevitably be devastating to the individual, their families and their businesses. Particularly where a medical practice, racing business, or legal practice is reliant on a Principal practitioner continuing to practice, the threat to whole businesses and the livelihood of employees will be extreme.

How Can a Professional Misconduct Lawyer Help?

A professional misconduct lawyer specialises in handling cases involving allegations of wrongdoing, unethical behavior, or violations of professional standards within various industries. The following are some of the ways a professional misconduct lawyer can help you:

• Legal Expertise: Professional misconduct lawyers have a deep understanding of the laws, regulations, and ethical standards that pertain to different professions. They can navigate the complex legal landscape and provide guidance tailored to your situation.
• Case Assessment: A lawyer will review your case thoroughly to determine its strengths and weaknesses. They will assess the evidence, interview witnesses, and analyse relevant documents to understand the nuances of your situation.
• Strategy Development: Based on this assessment, your lawyer will develop a strategic plan to address the allegations. They’ll help you understand your options, advise you on the best course of action, and set realistic expectations for the outcome.
• Evidence Gathering: Lawyers are skilled at collecting and preserving evidence that supports your case. They know how to obtain documents, records, and other information that can be crucial in proving your innocence or mitigating the allegations against you.
• Legal Representation: If your case progresses to hearings, trials, or administrative proceedings, your lawyer will represent you. They’ll present your case effectively, cross-examine witnesses, and make legal arguments to protect your rights and interests.
• Negotiation and Settlement: In some cases, professional misconduct matters can be resolved through negotiation or settlement. Your lawyer can engage in discussions with opposing parties to seek a favorable resolution that minimises the impact on your reputation and career.
• Protecting Your Rights: A professional misconduct lawyer ensures that your legal rights are upheld throughout the process. They will safeguard your rights to due process, fair treatment, and protection against self-incrimination.
• Mitigating Penalties: If allegations are substantiated, your lawyer can advocate for reduced penalties or sanctions. They can present mitigating factors and argue for fair consequences that align with the severity of the misconduct.
• Appeals and Reviews: If an unfavorable decision is reached, your lawyer can help you explore options for appealing the decision or seeking a review. They will guide you through the appeals process and present your case to higher authorities if necessary.

Hiring a professional misconduct lawyer early in the process is essential to build a strong defence and navigate the complexities of such cases effectively. They can provide you with the expertise and guidance needed to protect your reputation, career, and professional standing.

Why You Should Choose Galbally Parker Professional Misconduct Lawyers

Our practice ranges from assisting applicants to become licensed or registered, to misconduct proceedings and re-licensing applications before a number of professional bodies. When you work within this area, you need diligent lawyers who will learn the practice area of the individual client to best represent them in their application or proceedings. We work closely with our clients to learn everything that we can about their practice area so that we can best represent them. We also have a number of allied barristers and professionals who work within this area, whom we engage and brief to maximise the prospects of success for our clients. No matter is too complicated, too complex or too hard for our team to manage and progress to its best possible conclusion.