NMC Investigations – Legal Support for Nurses and Midwives
If you are a nurse or midwife facing an investigation by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), you are not alone. We understand how stressful and uncertain this process can be and how much is at stake. Our specialist NMC defence lawyers are here to guide and support you every step of the way.
What do the NMC Investigate?
The NMC investigates concerns about a nurse or midwife’s fitness to practise. These concerns may relate to:
- Misconduct
- Lack of competence
- Criminal convictions or cautions
- Concerns about English language proficiency
The process begins with an initial screening, where the NMC filters out concerns that do not meet the threshold for investigation. If the case proceeds, the NMC’s investigation team will gather evidence and examine whether there is a case to answer.
Written Representations: Your First Line of Defence
Once the NMC shares the evidence and outlines its allegations, you will be invited to respond in writing. This is a critical stage in your case and can significantly influence the outcome.
Our expert NMC lawyers will:
- Review the NMC's evidence with an objective, clear, strategic eye
- Take your instructions on what happened and advise you on the best course of action
- Draft robust representations on your behalf. Whether that means contesting the allegations or presenting compelling mitigation.
We have an excellent track record of persuading NMC Case Examiners to close investigations at this early stage, helping nurses and midwives avoid the need to go through a fitness to practise hearing.
NMC Interim Orders Hearings
As part of the NMC’s investigation, the NMC may refer you for an interim orders hearing, for consideration for an interim suspension order or an interim conditions of practice order. Click here to find out more about how we can help if you have been referred to an NMC Interim Order Hearing.
Criminal Investigations and the NMC
If you are also under a police investigation, we can support you through both processes. Our team includes experienced criminal defence solicitors who work seamlessly alongside our NMC lawyers to:
- Represent you at police interviews and in court, if necessary.
- Coordinate your defence to protect your registration.
- Ensure your criminal case is managed without jeopardising the outcome of your NMC investigation.
We understand the serious implications of any criminal sanction for your career, and we will fight to protect your future.
How Long will The NMC Investigation Take?
NMC investigations vary in length depending on the complexity of the case. While some matters resolve in several months, others, especially those involving parallel criminal proceedings or multiple allegations, can take 18 months or longer.
What Can the NMC Case Examiners Decide?
Once the investigation is complete, the Case Examiners will review the evidence and decide whether there is a realistic prospect that the nurse/midwife’s fitness to practise is currently impaired.
Their decision may be to:
- Close the case with no further action.
- Give advice.
- Issue a warning.
- Agree undertakings.
- Refer the case to the NMC’s Fitness to Practise Committee.
Why Choose Us?
We understand that facing an NMC investigation is not just about your job; it is about your professional identity, your reputation, and your future. That is why we take a proactive, compassionate, and strategic approach to every case.
We have:
- Specialist NMC defence lawyers with years of experience.
- Multi-disciplinary team including criminal defence and employment experts.
- Proven results in written representations and hearings.
- Confidential, responsive, and client-focused service.
If you’ve been contacted by the NMC or are already under investigation, get in touch for a confidential telephone consultation with one of our NMC defence lawyers. We’re here to help you protect your registration and move forward with confidence.
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