GMC fitness to practise case success: avoiding erasure after criminal conviction

A doctor facing potential erasure from the medical register has successfully navigated the General Medical Council’s (GMC) fitness to practise process following representation by Kings View Chambers. 

The doctor had been suspended from practice after being convicted of theft—an offence that placed them at serious risk of erasure. At the substantive hearing, we worked intensively to present mitigating factors, evidence of insight, and steps taken toward remediation.

As a result, the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) imposed an eight-month suspension rather than erasure, with a recommendation for a review hearing.

During the suspension period, we provided ongoing guidance to the doctor on how to demonstrate continued insight and remediation. 

Thanks to the strength and relevance of the documentary evidence submitted, the Tribunal revoked the suspension at a paper hearing—without requiring a review hearing or further oral evidence from the doctor.

Fitness to practise defence barrister, Catherine Stock, commented:

“This outcome reflects the value of sustained engagement and well-prepared submissions during the currency of a sanction.”

The doctor said:

“I was facing the possibility of being erased from the medical register. The team worked tirelessly to ensure I wasn’t. Their support during my suspension was invaluable, and thanks to their guidance, my suspension was revoked without a review hearing.”

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Disclaimer: This article is for guidance purposes only. Kings View Chambers accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any action taken, or not taken, in relation to this article. You should seek the appropriate legal advice having regard to your own particular circumstances.