Guidance on attending a hearing
Disciplinary Tribunal hearings are held in public unless there has been a specific order that a particular hearing be held in private. Members of the public, press and the profession are welcome to attend hearings, although it should be noted that seating is usually limited to 6 observers per hearing.
As space is limited, anyone wishing to attend is encouraged to reserve a space by calling us on 0203 432 7350 or emailing [email protected]. Hearings may be subject to cancellation or postponement at short notice and we therefore recommend that you contact us the day before the hearing to confirm that the hearing is to go ahead. Hearings usually start at 10:30 a.m but please check our forthcoming hearings section for specific details.
When attending a hearing, members of the public and the press should note that they are not entitled to participate and are expected at all times to follow the following guidelines
- Please arrive at the venue at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start of the hearing. If you arrive late, you will not be admitted once the hearing has begun until there is a suitable break.
- Please enter or leave the hearing room only during adjournments or suitable breaks, such as when there is change of witnesses. Please leave or enter as quietly as possible.
- Please switch off your mobile phone and remain silent at all times during the hearing.
- You must abide by the rules set down by the Chair of the hearing. For example, if the panel decides that all or part of the hearing should be held in private, you must leave the hearing the room.
- At a Disciplinary Tribunal, members of the press and public should observe the established etiquette of standing when the panel enters the room or leaves the hearing room. The Clerk to the Tribunal will indicate the appropriate times.
If you have any questions at a hearing, please direct them to the Clerk to the hearing or the Tribunals Administrator.