Simon Gurney ensures Consultant retains GMC registration despite sexual misconduct towards patient

Simon Gurney was instructed, on a direct access basis, by Dr Z, a Consultant Plastic Surgeon who had been referred to the GMC by the private cosmetic surgery clinic from which he operated. He was referred over allegations of sexual misconduct in relation to a female Patient. It was alleged, and Dr Z admitted, that he had sexual intercourse with his patient and examined her intimately without a chaperone being present.
Simon advised Dr Z throughout the proceedings, from the point of his first referral until the conclusion of the proceedings before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal.

He represented Dr Z before an Interim Orders Tribunal in early 2019 and succeeded in persuading the Tribunal that Dr Z should not be suspended, but should be permitted to practise, subject to conditions, during the 9 month period whilst he awaited his final hearing.

Simon assisted Dr Z in the preparation of his written response to the allegations and in obtaining evidence for presentation at his final hearing.

He represented Dr Z throughout the 5-day final hearing before the Medical Practitioners Tribunal in December 2019. Dr Z gave evidence about his misconduct and his efforts to remediate since those regrettable events. Despite the seriousness of the charges, and the importance of maintaining the reputation of the profession, Simon successfully persuaded the Tribunal that it was not necessary for Dr Z to be erased from the medical register. Instead a period of suspension from practice for 12 months was deemed sufficient.

Simon Gurney has a wealth of experience across a range of disciplinary tribunals representing professionals facing allegations of serious professional misconduct. He has a strong track record securing outstanding results and is happy to accept instructions either to advise or to appear during a contested hearing.
If you would like any further information please contact David Wright, Senior Clerk in Chambers on 0161 832 5701 or dwright@lincolnhousechambers.com