Lock criticized the AG’s office for not taking into consideration the license suspension in a potential plea deal, and Ms. Hearthway’s refusal to meet him face-to-face. He said he has never heard of prosecutors refusing to meet with defense attorneys.

Ms. Hearthway responded that it is not unusual for defense attorneys to request to meet with her, but “it’s not the norm.” The line prosecutors deal with defense attorneys, and supervisors rarely get involved directly in cases, she said.

She said her boss, Richard Sheetz, also agreed with her position on a plea deal, and has the ultimate authority to approve plea deals.

Ms. Hearthway did not agree with St. John’s characterization that a 10-year license suspension was a “harsh consequence,” but said prosecutors considered that in deciding how to handle Dr. Lowe’s case.

“I’m not in disagreement that some license suspension is appropriate,” she said.

Lock said guidelines provided by the American Bar Association and the National District Attorney’s Association recommend that prosecutors take into account all the potential consequences of a prosecution, and that prosecutors should be available for plea discussions.

St. John said prosecutors are granted discretion in deciding who they prosecute and how they prosecute cases, and he cannot interfere unless there is proof of discrimination.

“You’re argument really needs to be made to Attorney General (Tom) Corbett,” St. John said.

A pretrial conference in the case is set for Monday before Judge Francis J. Fornelli.

Three former employees of Dr. Lowe’s also were charged. Their cases are set for May.