Kings View Chambers achieve no further action in GOsC case

Kings View Chambers represented two Osteopaths running a large well known central London practice in partnership.

The Osteopaths had both been referred to their regulator – the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) – for integrity and conduct matters concerning their marketing and advertising.

Represented by leading health and care defence barristers Stephen McCaffrey and Catherine Stock, the two Osteopaths were advised that the best strategy in their case was to engage early and in detail. Stephen and Catherine intervened on their behalf accepting some errors on their part in relation to some aspects of the allegations and refuting others. In relation to those which were refuted, a thorough audit and investigation was carried our and were able to show that many of the alleged instances of misleading advertising were not caused or created by our clients. In relation to those they accepted were, Stephen and Catherine were able to argue that all reasonable action had been taken to remedy the matter and that there was never any opportunity for danger or harm to the public due to processes in place. Also successfully arguing that regardless of any of the above neither acted in a way with could question their integrity or probity. 

The clients were advised to invest early and allow Stephen and Catherine to make robust strategic submissions to the Committee. As a result of those representations and submissions the GOsC Investigating Committee found there was no real prospect of proving any of the allegations against one of the partners.   

Regarding the second partner they found that, due to admissions made by our client there was clearly a prospect of finding facts proved, however they found (in full agreement with our argument) that there was no real prospect of that conduct being found to be lacking in integrity or being dishonest. 

As such both referrals were closed down by the Investigating Committee with no further action at all. 

Stephen McCaffrey, joint-head of chambers said:

“This case yet again demonstrates the importance for health and care professionals of good strategy decided at an early stage by instructing expert advice.”

PR, the clients, said:

“I came across Stephen and Catherine through a personal recommendation. I immediately put my trust into Kings View Chambers. I was wowed by their knowledge, excellence in legal matters and efficiency.

 

“Stephen and Catherine came to the rescue and tackled every aspect with the highest standards of knowledge and professionalism. They understood the case straight away and this put me at ease.

 

“I would not hesitate in recommending both Stephen and Catherine to anyone that needs their services. They both make an excellent team, they are incredibly accessible and friendly and happy to answer any questions you have.

 

“From the minute I called Kings View Chambers, I knew I was in the best of hands. I truly am thankful and grateful for all their hard work and most importantly they are genuine, trust-worthy and lovely people.”