Licensing Litigation

At Hark and Hark, we represent professionals at risk of either disciplinary action against or the complete loss of their professional license by the supervisory board. Disciplinary action ranges from compelled participation in VRP or Voluntary Recovery Program, to brief suspensions or revocation. For those who have already been disciplined or suffered a revocation of license, we assist in appeals and petitions for reinstatement.

Almost every Commonwealth of Pennsylvania licensing board has its own regulations that include a clause that allows for the professional to undergo disciplinary measures should he or she engage in conduct unbecoming or moral mistakes. Any time a professional is charged with a criminal offense, it could trigger this clause and negatively impact the professional license. Licensing boards will often attempt to dig up events from the professional’s past in an effort to demonstrate distasteful or immoral behavior.

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I am attorney Richard Hark, and my professional license practice is closely linked my criminal defense practice. As a trial lawyer, responding to pleadings, attending medical examinations, and handling motions and trials every day directly translates into my representation of the license professional. In all litigation but especially in the criminal context, you never concede any significant fact that constitutes an element of any offense.

The moral turpitude clause is not limited to physical conduct and acts between a doctor and a patient. In one case, the doctor asserted that his license should not be suspended because the misconduct to which he pled guilty did not involve a “doctor-patient relationship,” and thus did not relate to the practice of his profession. The court concluded, however, that the offenses to which the doctor pled guilty did relate to the practice of his profession, because he obtained the improper payments by exploitation of his professional position.

Simple drug use or driving under the influence charges have become red flags that are required to be disclosed if the licensee is still under supervision (probation) and/or the record has not been expunged prior to the next license renewal date. Call us to discuss ARD and completion of probation to secure a possible expungement of the criminal record so that it may not have to be reported at your next license renewal.

Pennsylvania Licensing Hearing Attorney

We represent a wide range of professionals and industries, including:

  • Doctors
  • Dentists and dental professionals
  • Nurses
  • Hospital administrators
  • Pharmacists
  • Other medical professionals
  • Veterinarians
  • Architects, engineers and design professionals
  • Accountants
  • Real estate agents

A fundamental understanding and working knowledge of the Rule of Evidence, administrative process, proof burdens, evidentiary issues, ability to cross examine experts and present a case is essential to a proper defense. Being in court every day hones my skills, keeps me constantly updated on the law, and maintains important confidence in not being intimidated by equally experienced State trial counsel.

As you face discipline, it is important that you have skilled, knowledgeable, and aggressive representation on your side, advocating on your behalf to protect your interests and your career. We are very aware of the issues that will arise, and our trial experience translated directly in our firm’s and stalwart representation of you in your licensing hearings.

Contact Attorney Richard Hark About Professional Licensing Litigation

To arrange a free initial consultation to discuss the allegations against you and how our lawyers can fight for you, contact me online or call my 24-hour professional license hotline at 1-877-4-HARK-LAW (1-877-442-7552).

Free initial consultation. Reasonable rates and payment plans. Major credit cards accepted.

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