I have just returned from the NMC, where after a 4 day hearing into allegations of neglect and inadequate contact.

It's tempting to give in to anger and frustration, but these negative emotions do not assist in achieving what you want, which is unrestricted practice. Instead put that energy into doing more to resolve your situation

When the order was imposed, they had attended unrepresented. At the beginning of this week, they decided they needed some help and contacted me.

To make sure that I stay on top of things, I have just hired a PA, Annie

I got to visit the Edinburgh location for the first time. What a lovely city! Unfortunately, there was little time for sight-seeing,

It was a disappointing day at the NMC today for my client in their registration appeal. Having been accused of behaving criminally towards patients in their care.

At the moment, I have 19 active cases in front of the NMC and HCPC, with another 2 or 3 in the process of signing up. This is about my usual caseload, give or take 5 cases.

In order to stand a fair chance, you need someone on whose list of priorities you are first and foremost. If it is not your union's list, then find someone else who will fight for you.

The panel gave me quite a grilling in the absence of my client (often it is better that they do not attend for certain hearings, and send me instead).

I called him was similar to that National Lottery representatives get when they call up jackpot winners - astounded, emotional and overjoyed.

This afternoon, as the panel deliberated on the allegations of dishonesty and insecure sending of confidential data,

I often get asked how long it takes for a referral to be completed. There are a number of stages in the referral process, and the 'halfway' stage is when the Case Examiners consider whether there is a case to answer

This was a client who had contacted me immediately upon referral Following early written representations by me.

A referral for possession of Class A drugs was successfully defended in both the Crown Court (I have colleagues who specialise in criminal court representation) and at the NMC, where the Case Examiners decided that there was no case to answer.

When you get struck off, this means you cannot work as a nurse or midwife, unless you succeed in an appeal or review, for at least 5 years. You’ll have to find some other way of paying your bills.

They came to me at the earliest possible stage, and I was able to advise them on the correct steps to take, with a view to defending themselves throughout the NMC investigation.