It takes a lot of hard work, long nights and stress to receive a professional medical license as a doctor, nurse or pharmacist. However, losing this professional license is much easier than receiving it. A single problem, such as a domestic violence charge, could cost you your career. 

The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine (PSBM) is very strict about professional conduct, holding medical practitioners to high ethical standards. A medical board may scrutinize any allegations of misconduct even if there is no conviction. As a health care practitioner, it is important to protect your career and maintain trust with patients. It is important for your future to understand what you need to do to keep your medical license in this situation. Here are some tips that may help:

1. Understand the self-reporting requirements as a licensed professional

Medical professionals in Pennsylvania are required to self-report certain criminal arrests or convictions to the PSBM that may be related to their professional conduct. Doctors, nurses and pharmacists have very strict deadlines to report an arrest or conviction. Failing to self-report domestic violence charges can lead to disciplinary consequences – even if the charges are eventually dismissed or resolved without a conviction.

A Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer can help you better understand the self-reporting process, as well as how to best provide accurate and concise information to a medical board. 

2. Learn more about the investigative process

A medical board can (and likely will) launch an investigation into a medical professional accused or convicted of a crime to protect the public interest. 

The investigative process can involve examining details of the crime, reviewing relevant legal proceedings and determining the impact of alleged behavior on a medical professional’s ability to practice medicine safely and ethically. Substantial evidence of immoral conduct could lead to disciplinary actions, such as suspension or revocation of the provider’s license, among other sanctions.

Understanding what to expect during the investigation process and how to cooperate without putting yourself in further legal or administrative danger requires some additional learning – which a Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer can provide.

3. Begin exploring your legal options immediately

Medical practitioners have the right to defend against domestic violence arrests and charges. By understanding what legal options are available and navigating the legal process quickly, doctors, nurses and pharmacists may be able to protect their professional licenses. 

A Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer can help prepare a medical practitioner for a hearing before the PSBM and explain the best options they have for a favorable resolution.

If you are facing domestic violence charges, it is wisest to talk to a Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer who is experienced working with medical professionals as quickly as possible. Your reputation, freedom and livelihood may all be at stake.