Protect Your Practice, Reputation, and Career

If a patient has filed a complaint against you with the College of Optometrists of Ontario (“COO”), it is crucial to have an experienced and dedicated professional discipline lawyer on your side. At Aouchiche Law Firm(“ALF”), we specialize in defending optometrists through the complaint, investigation, and hearing processes at the COO. Facing allegations of professional misconduct or a patient complaint can be stressful, frustrating, and time-consuming. With ALF on your side, you gain an experienced advocate committed to protecting your reputation, license, and livelihood. We understand how such allegations can affect your career, and we work relentlessly to ensure the complaint is dismissed, and your professional standing remains intact.

Investigations and Audits by the College

ALF optometrist defence lawyers possess deep expertise in guiding optometrists through the investigatory stage of a COO complaint and handling audits. The earlier you retain legal counsel, the better our opportunity to safeguard your career and license. During an audit, we work collaboratively with you to ensure thorough preparation. During an investigation, we ensure that all relevant evidence of your competence and professionalism is presented to the investigator, increasing the chances that the complaint will be dismissed.

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

The ICRC is responsible for screening complaints and determining whether an optometrist should be referred to the Discipline Committee for a hearing. The ICRC can also issue alternatives, such as ordering a caution or requiring completion of a specialized continuing remediation and education program (“SCERP”).

It is essential to engage a lawyer at this stage of the process. Even if the ICRC doesn’t refer the case to the Discipline Committee, cautions and SCERPs are published on the COO's online register, which can damage your reputation and financial standing. ALF’s optometrist defence lawyers are skilled at crafting clear, persuasive written submissions to the ICRC, striving to have the complaint dismissed early and saving you time, money, and stress.

Hearings Before the Discipline Committee

The Discipline Committee handles cases where complaints are escalated, involving evidence presentation, witness testimony, and cross-examination. ALF’s team has decades of experience representing optometrists at these hearings. We are experts in effective cross-examination, which can significantly influence the outcome of the case. Proper preparation, strategic questioning, and the ability to adapt to witness responses are critical to achieving the best possible result. ALF brings these skills and years of courtroom experience to your defence, giving you the best chance to clear your name.

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

If the ICRC or Discipline Committee reaches an adverse decision, optometrists have the option to appeal to HPARB. Our team specializes in crafting detailed legal arguments based on a thorough review of the original proceedings. We focus on identifying errors that could lead to a successful appeal. With ALF, you benefit from our extensive appellate experience, ensuring that your appeal is presented persuasively through both written submissions and oral arguments.

Judicial Review at the Divisional Court

If HPARB does not set aside the ICRC’s decision, an optometrist can seek judicial review at the Divisional Court of Ontario. This process involves examining the record of the original proceedings and drafting legal arguments for oral submissions before a panel of Ontario Superior Court judges. ALF lawyers are highly experienced in judicial reviews, having represented clients in numerous cases before the Divisional Court. We will explore every legal avenue to protect your professional standing, your license, and your career.

Why Choose ALF?

• Proven Results: We have a strong track record of achieving favourable 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.

Contact Us Today

If you are an optometrist facing a complaint, investigation, or hearing, it's essential to retain an experienced lawyer immediately. By working with an experienced defense lawyer from the outset, you can protect your practice, reputation, and livelihood.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a confidential consultation. Whether in-person, by phone, or virtually, the ALF team is here to guide you through this challenging process with expertise and dedication.