Health & Professional RegulationLawyer referralProfessional complaints and discipline

Pharmacy audit and College of Pharmacists matter

Responding to a pharmacy inspection, audit or complaint, including recovery demands from the Ministry.

Regulators set response dates in their letters; ask for an extension early if you need one, and the lawyer confirms the timeline in writing before work starts. Ontario Done by an Ontario lawyer, by referral

What is included

  • Reviews the complaint, investigator's requests or notice of hearing
  • Advises you before any interview with an investigator
  • Prepares a written response and supporting records
  • Negotiates outcomes such as undertakings or remediation where suitable
  • Represents you at discipline, fitness to practise, registration or reinstatement hearings
  • Challenges interim orders or suspensions where there are grounds

What is not included

  • Independent reports and other disbursements
  • Appeals or judicial review unless added to the retainer
  • Clinical, billing or management consulting

Who this service is for

  • Health professionals regulated by an Ontario college
  • Lawyers, paralegals, teachers, engineers, accountants and real estate professionals
  • Applicants refused registration or seeking reinstatement

Information to have ready

  1. 1The complaint, notice or letter from your regulator
  2. 2Your licence or registration details
  3. 3Relevant records, such as charts, files or emails
  4. 4Details of any professional liability insurance or protective association
  5. 5A timeline of events

How a referral works

  1. 1Tell us in a few words what the matter is about, and who else is involved, so we can check for a conflict of interest.
  2. 2We recommend an Ontario lawyer for your matter, and at least one other you could choose instead.
  3. 3The lawyer runs their own conflict check, confirms the scope and quotes the fee, normally in a written retainer agreement.
  4. 4You pay the lawyer's fee to the lawyer. Any referral fee comes out of it, is disclosed to you in writing, and never increases what you pay.

NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm, not a law firm. Every step of a referral, and your rights

Frequently asked questions

What does the lawyer charge?

Lawyers usually charge $400–$850/hr for this kind of work, by the hour. The lawyer quotes the actual rate and an estimate. You pay the lawyer directly; the referral itself costs you nothing.

Do I have to answer the regulator's investigator?

Professionals usually have a duty to co-operate with their regulator. A lawyer can help you respond accurately and protect your position.

Should I tell my insurer or protective association?

Often yes. Many professionals have coverage that includes help with regulatory complaints, and some policies require prompt notice.

Will the outcome be made public?

It depends on the regulator and the outcome. Some decisions and register entries are public, while many complaints are resolved without a public finding.

General information only, not legal advice. NEO Legal Services Professional Corporation is a licensed paralegal firm regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.

Important limitations

  • No outcome can be guaranteed
  • Regulators' deadlines must be met even while a lawyer is being chosen
  • The lawyer confirms the scope, fee and steps in a written retainer before starting
Law Society of Ontario — Barreau de l'Ontario
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