Your professional license is vital for your livelihood. However, a single misconduct claim can pose a significant threat not only to your job but also to your professional career and reputation. If you ever face allegations of professional misconduct, it’s crucial to contact a professional license defense attorney in Fishers, Indiana. Mishandling the situation may result in the loss of both your job and license.
Even if you successfully avoid formal charges, you may encounter challenges in finding employment, particularly if you relocate to a different state. Fortunately, hard-working professionals in Fishers don’t have to navigate intrusive investigations or disciplinary boards alone. At the Rathburn Law Office P.C., we provide professional license defense services for individuals throughout Fishers and the surrounding areas.
What Does a Fishers Professional License Defense Attorney Do?
Government regulatory boards oversee license approvals and disciplinary actions against medical professionals and licensees accused of professional misconduct, unethical behavior, or criminal charges.
The primary responsibilities of a professional license defense attorney center around safeguarding an individual’s occupational license and right to work. These attorneys focus on three main categories:
Application Appeal
Professional license defense attorneys advocate for license applicants whose applications have been denied. They defend applicants following the filing of a “Statement of Issues” or a denial.
Discipline Defense
These attorneys also represent practicing licensees facing disciplinary action due to accusations of unethical behavior, professional misconduct, or criminal activities.
Petition for Reinstatement
Professional license defense attorneys assist former licensees seeking to reenter their career fields after having their license revoked or suspended.
Reasons a Professional License Can Be Revoked
A professional license may be at risk for various reasons, many of which may not directly relate to workplace mistakes or consumer complaints about job performance. Personal matters affecting a professional’s life can significantly impact their professional standing if not disclosed to the licensing board. Some reasons why a professional or medical license can be revoked include:
- Allegations of misconduct
- Substance abuse
- Criminal charges
- Embezzlement
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI)
- Medical malpractice
If you’re facing accusations of sexual harassment or violating your profession’s code of conduct, it’s essential not to remain passive during a professional investigation, potentially leading to public sanctions. You have the right to retain legal representation to defend yourself against these allegations. At the Rathburn Law Office P.C., we provide experienced legal assistance. Contact us today to schedule your free, initial, no-obligation consultation.
How Much Time Do I Have to Respond to an Administrative Complaint in Indiana?
Following the initiation of an investigation, you, as the licensee, will receive a copy of the consumer complaint along with an opening letter outlining the investigative process. You will have 20 days to respond and submit any supporting documents.
Once the investigation is completed, the Office of the Attorney General will decide whether to:
- Close the file.
- Close the file but issue a warning, indicating that your professional conduct may have fallen below the standards of practice, but no charges will be filed for any reason.
- File an administrative complaint, charging you with misconduct.
What Should I Do If My License Is Under Investigation?
If your professional license is under investigation in Fishers, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
1. Contact Your Malpractice Insurance Carrier
Immediately inform your malpractice insurance carrier upon receiving notification from the board about the ongoing investigation. This proactive step is essential to safeguard your interests.
2. Contact a Reputable Fishers Professional License Defense Attorney
Seek legal representation from a reputable attorney with experience in administrative law and knowledge of the state’s administrative code. It’s advisable to engage a lawyer who has dealt with the board on similar issues in the past. The legal team at Rathburn Law specializes in cases involving licensing boards and can provide expert guidance.
3. Secure All Documents Supporting Your Response
Gather and organize all relevant documents that support your response to the consumer complaint. Failure to provide sufficient documentation may result in the Office of the Attorney General issuing administrative subpoenas or dispatching investigators to gather additional evidence.
4. Be Active in Your Defense
Collaborate closely with your lawyer to provide context and insights into the case. Identify leading experts who can support your defense strategy. It’s crucial to hire knowledgeable and supportive experts to strengthen your case.
5. Prepare for the Long-Run
Being under investigation can be stressful and time-consuming. Practice stress management techniques such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, engaging in physical activities, and seeking professional support if needed. Be prepared for a potentially lengthy resolution process and adopt a proactive approach to managing stress throughout the investigation.
What Should I Look for in a Professional License Defense Lawyer?
The professional license defense lawyer you hire will determine the outcome of your license defense or license application. You need to be discerning in your choice of lawyer for your case. Here are some of the qualities you should look for:
Knowledge of State Laws
License suspensions or revocations may be governed not only by the requirements of the indiana professional licensing agency and board but also state laws. If you are facing criminal charges, for instance, you will need to hire an Fishers professional license defense attorney with a good understanding of criminal law too.
Availability
The professional license defense lawyer you hire should be available to clients at most times, particularly when free consultation is needed. Communication is an integral component in establishing rapport with the attorney. If the lawyer is always unavailable, it can be difficult for your case to secure the commitment and attention it deserves.
Coordination Ability
An ongoing license defense case may require your cooperation with the licensing board and your Fishers professional license defense attorney. Defending your license against possible censure by the board does not have to mean antagonizing the authorities. Your Fishers professional license defense lawyer should advise for cooperation as necessary and should work with the board on your behalf so that you are able to carry on with your occupation.
Defense Skills
License revocation or suspension may also entail other allegations that could be disastrous to your career and finances too such as a felony charge for a DUI or defaulting on child support or student loan payments. That’s why it is so important to hire a lawyer with the right defense skills to fight on your behalf.
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is an important quality for your professional license defense attorney to have since it will be quite advantageous when procuring evidence, handling interviews with the board, or keeping track of different filing deadlines. Your lawyer should be very thorough since it is the only way to craft a solid defense.
If My License is Revoked Can I Get It Back?
If your professional license has been suspended by your state’s licensing board, your primary concern may be whether it’s possible to regain it. For individuals working in fields such as real estate, medicine, or engineering, a professional license is essential for maintaining employment.
The legal team at Rathburn Law can assist you in petitioning for the reinstatement of your license in Fishers. However, the timeframe for initiating this process can vary depending on the industry in which you work, ranging from 1 to 3 years.
Contact an Fishers Professional License Defense Attorney
Professional licenses are mandatory for numerous professions, including lawyers, doctors, architects, dentists, nurses, and real estate professionals, among others. These licenses are typically issued by specific professional boards, agencies, or commissions.
If you’re under investigation by either the Indiana Attorney General or the Indiana Professional License Agency and face the risk of having your professional license revoked or suspended, it’s crucial to seek assistance from experienced lawyers.
When your future and that of your family are on the line, you need a knowledgeable legal team like Rathburn Law to handle your professional license defense. We can guide you through the process and work toward achieving the best possible outcome.
Contact an Fishers professional license defense attorney today, either online, by phone, or by visiting our main office, for your free initial consultation. Discuss your legal challenges directly with an experienced lawyer who will help you navigate the complexities of your professional license defense.
