Protect Your Practice, Reputation, and Career

The professional regulations lawyers at ALF specialize in defending pharmacists before the Ontario College of Pharmacists (https://www.ocpinfo.com/). If you are facing a complaint, have been approached by investigators, or are concerned about potential scrutiny, it's crucial to contact counsel without delay. By choosing ALF, you ensure access to skilled and dedicated legal support to navigate the disciplinary process. We recognize the high stakes involved, with your professional reputation and financial stability on the line. Our team is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes and working tirelessly on your behalf. ALF provides thoughtful and strategic legal services for pharmacists across Ontario.

Investigations and Audits

Our team of defence lawyers supports pharmacists during the investigative phase of a college complaint or audit. During an investigation, we ensure that every relevant piece of information that exonerates you is presented to the investigator. We will identify and pursue witnesses and documentation that could aid in your defense. For audits, we assist you in ensuring your practice is compliant, facilitating a smooth audit process. Retaining legal counsel early gives us the time necessary to ensure your practice is properly organized and in compliance.

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care frequently audits pharmacists and pharmacies for billings under the Ontario Drug Benefit Plan. Our legal experts will guide you through the preparation and response processes, ensuring your business is protected.

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

ALF represents pharmacists at hearings before the ICRC, the committee responsible for screening complaints against pharmacists and other healthcare professionals. The ICRC has broad discretion on how to proceed with a complaint, including dismissing it, requiring a caution, ordering specialized continuing remediation and education programs (SCERPs), referring the case to the Discipline Committee, or taking other actions.

It’s vital to consult with a lawyer before attending an ICRC hearing. Proper preparation and legal advice can help you avoid a formal hearing at the Discipline Committee. Even if the complaint does not escalate, being cautioned or ordered to complete a SCERP will still result in a published record, which can harm your reputation and business.

ALF has extensive experience in preparing strong written submissions that could influence the outcome of your case at this stage. The right submission can determine whether a complaint is dismissed or proceeds further. By investing the time and resources to prepare thoroughly, you can avoid potential reputational damage and financial distress.

Hearings Before the Discipline Committee

Our team of experienced pharmacist defense attorneys represents clients at the Discipline Committee of the Ontario College of Pharmacists. With decades of experience in the courtroom, we are adept at cross-examining witnesses and persuading adjudicators to rule in your favor. Our lawyers are well-equipped to handle contested hearings and ensure that your interests are effectively protected.

Strong cross-examination can lead to the dismissal of complaints. Our team prepares meticulously, using skillful questioning to adapt to witnesses' responses and present your case effectively. We have a deep understanding of the legal issues involved in hearings before the Discipline Committee and are experienced in presenting facts in a compelling manner.

Appeals to the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board (“HPARB”)

If you have lost before the ICRC or Discipline Committee, you can still appeal to the HPARB. The HPARB panel reviews the record of proceedings from the earlier hearings. ALF’s team will craft persuasive legal arguments on your behalf and present them orally before the panel.

Our appellate lawyers excel in scrutinizing the proceedings and identifying legal errors. We develop compelling grounds for appeal and prepare sophisticated written submissions. In oral arguments, we will present your position convincingly to the panel.

Judicial Reviews at the Divisional Court

If an appeal to the HPARB doesn’t succeed, our lawyers can help you seek judicial review at the Divisional Court of Ontario. The Divisional Court has the authority to review HPARB decisions for legal errors. Similar to the HPARB process, judicial reviews require a detailed examination of the case record, identification of errors, and the preparation of written and oral submissions before the court’s panel of judges. ALF’s lawyers bring years of experience arguing cases at the Divisional Court and will work diligently to pursue your case.

Appeals to the Ontario Court of Appeal

Should a judicial review at the Divisional Court not succeed, pharmacists in Ontario can apply for leave to appeal to the Ontario Court of Appeal. If granted leave, a full appeal will follow, involving written submissions and oral arguments. ALF’s legal services also include representing clients in applications for leave to appeal and in full appeals before the Ontario Court of Appeal.

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 a pharmacist facing a complaint, it’s important to act quickly and retain experienced legal counsel. By working with an experienced defense lawyer from the outset, you can protect your practice, reputation, and livelihood.

Contact Us Today

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.