People who work in the medical field devote years to establishing their careers. They need hands-on experience, specialized education and a state license. They have to commit to continuing their education and to meeting high standards of professional performance to retain their licenses.
Their investments in their careers could be at risk if they end up accused of criminal activity. Criminal charges can lead to penalties that interrupt a career, including incarceration. Additionally, pending criminal prosecution could lead to disciplinary action initiated by the relevant medical licensing authority.
Healthcare professionals accused of criminal activity may be able to preserve their professional licenses if they respond to the situation appropriately. How can medical professionals prevent criminal charges from derailing their careers?
By avoiding a conviction
Criminal defendants in the United States benefit from a presumption of innocence. Until the courts convict them or they enter a guilty plea, they should not face professional penalties for the charges that they face.
Those who mount a successful criminal defense can often prevent the relevant licensing board from taking action against them because of a conviction. Provided that the alleged offense is unrelated to their career, the risk to their license may end when the criminal case against them is over.
By responding to disciplinary measures
Those who have already entered a guilty plea or gotten convicted at trial may face disciplinary hearings. Those professionals have the right to legal representation during their disciplinary hearings.
In some cases, there might be administrative hearings in court heard by an administrative law judge. Other times, the licensing authority might review the case independently. In either scenario, having legal support during any interactions with the licensing authority or courts could be beneficial.
An attorney familiar with administrative law may be able to help the accused professional minimize the penalties imposed. Their advocacy could allow a professional to retain their license or may set them up to be eligible to reacquire their licensing after they fulfill certain criteria.
Responding assertively to criminal charges and disciplinary action can help people protect their medical licenses. Professionals are in a strong position to preserve their licenses and careers if they have appropriate support when responding to criminal charges and professional discipline.