Christopher Gillespie

Professional Discipline

The vast majority of Chris’s practice is now made up of professional disciplinary work. Chris is regularly instructed on behalf of all the major medical insurers to defend doctors and dentists facing allegations of misconduct and/or deficient professional performance and/or health concerns at fitness to practice hearings. He has represented medical professionals charged with sexual misconduct, drug abuse, financial irregularities, irregular record keeping, dishonesty, bullying and clinical incompetence. His twenty years’ experience at the Criminal Bar makes him an adept cross-examiner of lay, professional and expert witnesses.

In the past he has been instructed to present cases on behalf of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the General Optical Council and the General Osteopathic Council. He previously presented for the NCTL including two cases that were part of the Birmingham Schools Trojan Horse investigation.

Chris’s advisory work has included advice on disclosure both in the context of planned disciplinary proceedings and under the Data Protection Act/General Data Protection Regulations and on the lawfulness of Production Orders issued to doctors under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.

Ranked in the Legal 500, “A first-rate advocate, who is diligent and thorough in his preparation.” – Legal 500 UK 2024, and Chambers and Partners “Very knowledgeable in professional discipline. He picks up and advises on complex matters very quickly and is a very clear and persuasive advocate.” “Adept handling of very nervous clients and achieves excellent results. What more could you want?” and “A great barrister, who is thoughtful, excellent with clients, and has good strategic awareness. A safe pair hands.” – Chambers UK 2024.