Neil Sheldon KC

Professional Discipline & Regulation

Neil has represented hundreds of doctors, dentists and other health professionals in disciplinary proceedings before the GMC, the GDC, the HCPC and the GOC. He has extensive experience of employment related disputes concerning health professionals, including the application of MHPS, and of judicial review challenges arising out of such cases.

Neil has acted in some of the most important professional disciplinary cases of recent years including the cases of Dr Andrew Wakefield (MMR), Professor Philip Bonhoeffer (the leading case on hearsay), Dr Ruscillo (the first CHRE appeal), and SS & Ghosh (legal representation in Trust disciplinary hearings).

“He is always brilliant. He is fantastic at dealing with difficult clients and he always goes above and beyond. He is excellent in conference and when providing written submissions.” “Incredibly knowledgeable in any field you throw at him. Amazing ability to put clients at ease in really stressful situations and achieve the best results for them.” “He is very clever, very calm and a fabulous advocate.” (Chambers & Partners 2021)

‘A very polished silk who demonstrates great client empathy.’ (Legal 500 2021)

“Modest and universally able” and “a rising star.” “He is extremely good and I suspect we will be seeing much more of him.” (Chambers & Partners 2020)

Selected Cases

• S (2020): dishonesty allegations brought by GMC against neurosurgeon.
• O (2020): represented married couple accused of fraudulent claiming on NHS contracts.
• K (2020): defended consultant psychiatrist accused of inappropriate relationship with vulnerable patient.
• Al-Mishlab v Milton Keynes Hospital Trust [2015] EWHC 3096 (QB): internal disciplinary proceedings; MHPS; injunction; correct approach to defects in investigation.
• Al Mishlab v Milton Keynes Hospital Trust [2015] EWHC 91 (QB): claim by doctor for breach of contract; duty to seek alternatives to suspension; breakdown in working relationships.
• R (Bonhoeffer) v General Medical Council [2012] IRLR 37: successful challenge to MPTS decision to admit hearsay evidence; only permissible in compelling circumstances.
• R (SS) v Knowsley NHS Primary Care Trust [2006] EWHC 26 (Admin): right to legal representation at removal hearings; Article 6; common law fairness.
• Ruscillo v CHRE [2005] 1 WLR: First appeal by CHRE for undue leniency; applicable principles.
• Dr Andrew Wakefield v General Medical Council: MMR; legal aid funding; research ethics; dishonesty.