Key Takeaways
- Health colleges can act without notice where patients are exposed to risk, but you may make submissions while the order is in place (Code, s. 25.4(7)).
- OCT and social work statutes allow the 14-day submission period to be skipped where delay would be inappropriate (OCT Act, s. 29.2(3); SWSSW Act, s. 25(5)).
- Licensing suspensions without proposals take effect on service, with a hearing right (LLCA, s. 13(2)–(4)).
- Respond quickly and in writing.
The Exceptions to Notice
Under the Code, an interim order may be made without notice if the committee believes on reasonable and probable grounds that the conduct exposes or is likely to expose patients to harm, subject to your right to make submissions while the order is in place (s. 25.4(7)). The OCT and social work statutes let the decision-maker dispense with the 14-day submission period where delay would be inappropriate given the risk (OCT Act, s. 29.2(3); SWSSW Act, s. 25(5)).
Making Submissions After the Fact
- Write promptly. Every day of delay is a day under the order.
- Address the risk with evidence.
- Propose alternatives to the current terms.
- Ask for the order to be varied or lifted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a without-notice order unfair?
It is permitted only in urgent risk situations, and the statutes preserve your right to respond.
Does the order expire automatically?
Not under the Code. It continues until varied or the matter is resolved (s. 25.4(4)).
Sources
Statutory references are to the provisions listed below, as consolidated on e-Laws when this page was prepared.
- Health Professions Procedural Code (RHPA, Sched. 2), s. 25.4 — Checked November 10, 2026.
- Ontario College of Teachers Act, 1996, s. 29.2 — Checked November 10, 2026.
- Social Work and Social Service Work Act, 1998, s. 25 — Checked November 10, 2026.
- Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019, s. 13 — Checked November 10, 2026.