Disciplinary law for professionals
Disciplinary law & professional law lawyer in Montreal
In Quebec certain professionals (doctors, accountants, pharmacists, etc.) are governed by the Code des Professions, which has certain standards of practice to protect public interests. Courts may decide that professionals that are proven not to have respected these standards could face disciplinary law against them.
Each professional Order also has its own enabling statute and code of ethics. For example, lawyers are governed by the Bar act and the Code of ethics for lawyers. Each Order also has the responsibility to create a body that will investigate the allegation as well as a disciplinary committee that acts as a court, hears the evidence, and imposes sanctions if warranted.
An accusation of breach of ethics is no laughing matter; your livelihood, professional reputation, and future income potential are hanging in the balance. It is crucial to seek experienced counsel when dealing with such allegations. Steven Slimovitch will guide you through this complex process in order to avoid crucial strategic errors when communicating with the Order.
What Steven Slimovitch Can Offer You
When you or someone you know is facing professional disciplinary charges, it is important to retain the services of an experienced disciplinary law lawyer (or professional law lawyer) as soon as possible. Steven Slimovitch represents professionals (lawyers, doctors accountants, etc.) when they are accused of breaching professional standards set out by their respective Order. Steven Slimovitch is a highly skilled and experienced defence lawyer with a very impressive track record in this area. His expertise can be the difference between loss of license to practice and complete withdrawal of the charges. He has defended many people accused of disciplinary offences and has successfully supported them throughout the legal process and enabled them to get their lives back on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive a notice of disciplinary action?
Read the notice carefully and find out about the procedures of your professional order. It is strongly recommended that you consult a lawyer with experience in professional and disciplinary law to help you understand your rights and prepare your response or defence. A disciplinary complaint can have significant consequences for your right to practise.
Can I continue to work while a disciplinary investigation is underway?
In many cases, yes. However, depending on the seriousness of the alleged offences, the professional association may impose temporary conditions on your practice or even a preventive suspension. Consulting a lawyer is essential to understand your rights. The syndic or professional inspection committee may also intervene at this stage.
What penalties could I receive?
Disciplinary penalties may include:
- Warnings or reprimands,
- fines,
- mandatory training in professional ethics,
- temporary restrictions on your practice,
- suspension or even revocation of your license.
Each professional order has its own rules, in accordance with the professional code. These measures are intended to protect the public and maintain integrity in the professions in Quebec.
Will my employer be notified?
Disciplinary proceedings are generally confidential. However, if the decision of the syndic or disciplinary council has an impact on your right to practise, your employer will often have to be informed. Some professional orders also require official disclosure in certain cases of ethical misconduct or breach of standards of conduct.
How long does a disciplinary proceeding last?
It depends on the complexity of the dispute, the level of cooperation between the parties, and the internal process of each professional order. An investigation can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. Responding quickly to requests from your professional order or the syndic can help speed up the process. Good cooperation with the review committee can also make a difference.
Can I appeal a disciplinary decision?
Yes. You can usually appeal the decision to the Professional Conduct Tribunal or, in some cases, to a civil court. It is crucial to act within the time limits set out in the professional code. Consulting a lawyer who specializes in disciplinary law is essential to prepare your case and understand the options available to you.
Can I contact you at any time if I am arrested or charged with a crime?
Yes. Steven Slimovitch is available 24/7 for urgent criminal matters. If you are arrested or charged, you can call at any time to receive immediate legal assistance. Acting quickly can be critical to protecting your rights.
Will you represent me immediately if I contact you after an arrest?
Absolutely. Steven Slimovitch can act on your behalf right away. Having a lawyer present from the earliest stage helps ensure that your rights are respected and can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Do I need to meet you in person to start working with you?
Not necessarily. In urgent cases, initial consultations can often be done over the phone or by videoconference. Steven Slimovitch will work with you to find the fastest, most efficient way to begin your defence.
How quickly can you start working on my case?
Immediately. Upon your first contact, Steven Slimovitch will start assessing your situation and advising you on the next steps to take. Early intervention often makes a major difference in criminal matters.
Do you handle cases outside of Montreal?
Yes. Although based in Montreal, Steven Slimovitch regularly represents clients across Quebec and can discuss handling cases elsewhere depending on the circumstances.
Legal Fees
Steven Slimovitch offers a free initial consultation in order to properly assess your particular situation and circumstance.
Legal fees are determined either on a per-hour billing rate or a flat fee basis. We will always provide you with an accurate estimate of the potential financial costs associated with your file.