Christopher’s recent work has included misconduct hearings before a range of different disciplinary tribunals including those dealing with the police, military, medical, teaching and legal professions. He also regularly represents professionals in associated criminal proceedings and at coroner’s inquests.
At the start of his career, Christopher spent three years prosecuting disciplinary proceedings before Royal Air Force Court Martials including aviation, negligence and more general criminal offences. Upon a finding of guilt, these often gave rise to issues including dismissal from the service, reduction in rank (resulting in reductions in pay and pensions) or custody.
Recommendations
"Christopher is very detail oriented, and nothing is ever too much trouble. He ensures that he works together with his instructing solicitor and always goes the extra mile."
Legal 500 2023 - Professional Disciplinary Law (Midlands)
"His ability to communicate effectively and empathetically to a client is second to none. He approaches each case with a positive attitude and seeks the very best possible outcome."
Legal 500 2022 - Professional Disciplinary Law (Midlands)
Notable Cases
Examples of Christopher’s recent misconduct work include the following:
- Representing a Detective Inspector in a ten-day hearing police Gross Misconduct Hearing involving multiple allegations including workplace sexual harassment;
- Chris represented a firearms trained police officer at a Special Case Hearing before his Chief Constable following his earlier criminal conviction for breaching a Restraining Order. The Officer was retained with a final written warning;
- Successfully representing a police Custody Sergeant accused of acting in breach of the standard of Honesty and Integrity. The allegations were dismissed;
- Successful defence of a male Met Police officer accused of racism, bullying and harassment against a female colleague;
- Successful defence of a Met Police officer accused of discriminating against a member of the public by reason of his race in stopping and searching his vehicle. The Gross Misconduct Hearing had taken place following a five year long investigation and a direction from the IOPC;
- Representing an osteopath in contested proceedings before the Professional Conduct Committee of the General Osteopathic Council involving allegations of sexual misconduct and complex expert medical evidence. The Osteopath received a conditions of practice order for 12 months;
- Successful defence of a pharmacist who was acquitted by a Crown Court Jury of causing a noxious thing to be taken with intent contrary to section 24 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861;
- Defending a pharmacist in the Crown Court after he was charged with theft from his employer.
Appointments
Appointed to List B of the List of Specialist Regulatory Advocates in Health and Safety and Environmental Law.
Memberships
Health and Safety Lawyers Association
