Opticians Defence Lawyer

Protect Your Practice, Reputation, and Career

If one of your patients has filed a complaint against you with the College of Opticians of Ontario (COO), it is crucial to have a knowledgeable and skilled professional discipline lawyer on your side. GlickLaw specializes in defending opticians in regulatory proceedings at the COO. Facing allegations of professional misconduct or a patient complaint can be anxiety-inducing and disruptive to your career. With GlickLaw's expertise, you will have a trusted advocate throughout the complaints and discipline process. We understand that these situations can severely affect your reputation, career, and financial well-being. Our lawyers are committed to working tirelessly and creatively to achieve the best possible outcome for you. We also collaborate with expert witnesses to strengthen your case and ensure a comprehensive defence.

Investigations and Audits by the College

GlickLaw’s optician defence lawyers have extensive experience in guiding opticians through the investigatory stage of COO complaints, as well as assisting with audits. The sooner you retain our legal services, the better we can protect your professional standing and ensure your license remains secure. During an audit, we work closely with you to prepare effectively. In the case of an investigation, we ensure that all relevant evidence showcasing your competence and integrity is presented to the College, enabling them to dismiss the complaint against you.

Hearings at the Inquiries, Complaints, and Reports Committee (“ICRC”)

The ICRC is responsible for screening complaints, and can refer cases to the Discipline Committee for a formal hearing on professional misconduct or incapacity. In some instances, the ICRC may choose to impose less severe measures, such as issuing a caution or requiring the completion of a specialized continuing education program (SCERP).

At this stage, it is crucial to consult a lawyer. Even if the complaint is not referred to the Discipline Committee, decisions such as cautions or SCERPs are published on the COO’s online register, potentially damaging your professional reputation. GlickLaw’s experienced lawyers can make compelling written submissions to the ICRC, aiming to have the complaint dismissed early and prevent unnecessary reputational and financial harm.

Hearings Before the Discipline Committee

When complaints are referred to the Discipline Committee, the hearing involves evidence presentation, witness testimony, and cross-examination. GlickLaw’s team of optician defence lawyers has decades of experience in tribunals and courtrooms across Ontario. We are adept at cross-examining witnesses and presenting a robust defence that can lead to the dismissal of charges.

Effective cross-examination is key to a successful defence, and our lawyers are experts in tailoring their approach based on witness responses. Our comprehensive preparation and strategic questioning can significantly influence the outcome of your hearing.

Hearings Before the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (“HPARB”)

If the ICRC or Discipline Committee makes an adverse decision, opticians have the right to appeal to the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (HPARB). This process involves examining the record of the original proceedings, drafting legal arguments, and sometimes presenting oral arguments before a panel.

GlickLaw’s optician defence lawyers bring a wealth of appellate experience. We will scrutinize the record to identify errors in the original proceedings that could lead to a successful appeal. Our expertise in written advocacy ensures that your case is presented effectively and persuasively, giving you the best chance of success in your appeal.

Judicial Review at the Divisional Court

If HPARB’s decision is deemed unfair, opticians can seek judicial review at the Divisional Court of Ontario. Similarly, decisions from the Discipline Committee are also subject to judicial review. This process involves a detailed review of the proceedings and legal arguments before a panel of Superior Court judges.

GlickLaw’s lawyers are highly experienced in judicial reviews and have a strong track record before the Divisional Court. We will thoroughly examine the record and pursue every possible avenue to protect your reputation, license, and career.How ALF Can Support You

GlickLaw provides comprehensive legal services for opticians facing regulatory matters and complaints, including:

Responding to complaints and investigations at the College of Opticians Inquiries, Complaints, and Reports Committee (ICRC)
Representing opticians in hearings before the Discipline or Fitness to Practise Committees
Appealing ICRC decisions to the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (HPARB)
Representing opticians in registration and fitness to practise matters before HPARB
Appealing decisions from HPARB or the Discipline Committee to the Divisional Court
Assisting opticians in criminal or quasi-criminal proceedings under the Criminal Code or Provincial Offences Act
Representing opticians in civil litigation before the Superior Court of Justice
Assisting with applications for registration and submissions to the Registration Committee
Handling audits and quality assurance programs
Advising on compliance with the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA), Opticianry Act, and other relevant legislation and regulations
Providing guidance on professional practice issues such as privacy, record-keeping, billing, insurance, and reporting

Why Choose ALF?

Proven Results: We have a strong track record of achieving favorable outcomes for regulated professionals.
Respected Advocacy: Our written and oral advocacy is highly regarded across tribunals and courts.
Competitive Fees: We provide top-tier representation at reasonable rates.

If you are an optician facing a complaint or investigation, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced defence lawyer immediately. ALF is here to protect your career, your license, and your livelihood.

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