Professional Discipline
UK Guide 2025 : UK-wide
Band 4
About
Provided by Herbert Smith Freehills
We have an unrivalled track record helping claimants, defendants, interested parties or intervening third parties in administrative and public law issues across a variety of proceedings, including judicial review, tribunal proceedings, governmental and other inquiries, disciplinary proceedings involving public bodies and statutory appeal work.
Our expertise in both public law and financial services disciplinary work distinguishes us from other firms. We therefore have continued to have clients on both sides of the fence in professional discipline work, acting for leading professional bodies such as the Financial Reporting Council, ACCA and CIMA as well as individuals and firms involved in disciplinary proceedings. It is notable that we have long - standing clients in this practice area who instruct us repeatedly on various matters, demonstrating not only our experience in this area but also the high standards of our client service. We believe we are the leading firm in large scale disciplinary cases in the accountancy sector.
We are also active in professional circles in this area our senior partners are members of the Association of Regulatory and Disciplinary Lawyers and members of the team regularly attend and speak at external disciplinary conferences.
Chambers Review
Herbert Smith Freehills has a specialist practice noted for advising on regulatory matters relating to the financial and accountancy sectors. The firm acts for professional bodies such as the FRC and ACCA, as well as individuals and firms involved in disciplinary proceedings. It is also adept at advising on cases involving criminal proceedings brought against regulated professionals.
Work Highlights
- Herbert Smith Freehills represented a former partner of Clyde & Co throughout an SRA investigation, following allegations of breaches of the Money Laundering Regulations.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"HSF understands the pace with which decisions must be made in today’s environment; we are never waiting for them to catch up with us."
"The team is super impressive and full of bright talented people."
"The team is responsive and efficient."
"HSF understands the pace with which decisions must be made in today’s environment; we are never waiting for them to catch up with us."
"The team is super impressive and full of bright talented people."
"The team is responsive and efficient."
Notable Practitioners
Andrew Lidbetter is commended by market sources for his experience and expertise. His practice involves handling disciplinary proceedings in the accountancy sector, acting for both defendants and regulatory authorities.
William Glassey has extensive experience representing firms and individuals facing regulatory investigations and disciplinary actions. This experience extends to handling matters before the SRA, SDT and FCA.
"William Glassey is very good and fantastic at representing the interests of law firms."
"Will provides sound and effective advice."
"Will brings to the table a wonderful combination of outstanding analytical skills, deep experience and a dry wit. I look forward to our meetings, which is a remarkable thing to say in this space!"
"Will's a delight to work with. He brings a laser-sharp focus to matters and immediately sees where we should push. He's always prepared and always brings a sensible, practical touch to our matters."
Ranked Lawyers at
Herbert Smith Freehills
UK-wide
Industries
Provided by Herbert Smith Freehills
Banks
Commercial & Professional Services
Financial Services
Private clients / Individuals