Weightmans LLP‘s ’exceptional lawyers’ are consistently sought out to represent clients at GMC, GDC and HCPC hearings; and the practice has notable expertise in defending solicitors facing SRA investigations and SDT proceedings. The group also supports law firms during the early stages of complaints. The department further acts in disciplinary proceedings before the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the Architects Registration Board (ARB), and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW); and additionally assists the professional regulators of emerging professions such as approved inspectors, in relation to the Construction Industry Council Approved Inspectors Register (CICAIR). William Childs has ‘great abilities’; Sam Flew, Alistair Hewitt and Mike Scherp act in healthcare-related disciplinary investigations; Simon Gomersall ’always prepares his cases impeccably’; and Anne Green and Michaela Nicholas represent healthcare professionals in disciplinary matters. The team also showcases litigator Susanna Heley, an expert in professional disciplinary work for solicitors; national health sector practice head Richard Jolly; ‘excellent tactician and lawyer’ Ian Sadler; Nigel West, who specialises in defence work for solicitors; and Sadie O’Reilly, who assists with disciplinary proceedings involving dental and medical practitioners. Tom Thurlow, Stewart Duffy, Richard Privett are also key team members.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The practice provides a very sincere and clear approach throughout. Always to be recommended to others. Exceptional lawyers at all levels.’
‘A Rolls-Royce firm that has strength in depth. It has the ability to represent practitioners with professionalism and knowledge - they have a very good reputation in this area of law.’
- ‘Nigel West is an expert in the area of regulatory work, especially dealing with solicitors. He has written books on the SDT and Solicitors Act. He is very approachable and thorough in taking instructions. Clients will always continue to recommend him. Prepares cases to the highest standards.’
- ‘Susanna Heley is an excellent advocate, who is very persuasive in her arguments. Has a wealth of case law, and is clear with her points. To be recommended as an advocate before the SDT Tribunal any day. ’
- ‘Ian Sadler is an excellent tactician and lawyer.’
- ‘Sam Flew is excellent and can see the global picture of a case, and William Childs has a self-deprecating manner that belies his great abilities, particularly with clients.’
- ‘Simon Gomersall is an excellent and effortless lawyer who always prepares his cases impeccably, and Stewart Duffy has exceptional legal and medical knowledge that always bring an extra advantage to his clients.’
‘Tom Thurlow has outstanding knowledge of the sectors in which he practises, and that cut across several legal disciplines (crime, regulatory and public law).’
Key clients
- Assent Building Control
- Jenkinson Architecture
- Turner Architects
Work highlights
- Acting for an approved inspector in front of its regulator, succeeding in a favourable outcome at the rehearing.
- Acted for two architects facing unique and challenging actions from the Architects Registration Board, resulting in complete dismissal.
- Acted for Anna McEntee in proceedings in front of the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy, resulting in complete dismissal of the case.
Lawyers
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Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Sam Flew, Nigel West, Susanna Heley, Tom Thurlow