Do I Need a Lawyer to Defend My Professional License in Indiana?

Indiana Professional License Discipline Attorney for PLA Complaints and Hearings

Professional license holders will be understandably concerned if they receive notice that complaints have been filed against them, that they are under investigation for violations of the law or professional standards, or that they may face disciplinary action. In these situations, professionals will likely have many questions, and they may be unsure about the steps they should take to avoid or minimize discipline as much as possible. The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, LLC works to help remove uncertainty in these cases, and we can answer questions about the defense of professional licenses and other related issues.

Do I Really Need Legal Representation in Professional License Discipline Cases?

You may be wondering if it will be necessary to hire an attorney to represent you in cases involving the Indiana Public Licensing Agency (PLA). After all, it may seem like asking investigators to speak to your lawyer could be an admission that you are guilty or have something to hide. However, everyone can benefit from having a legal advocate in these situations. The rules, laws, administrative procedures, and standards of practice that apply to professional license holders can be complex, and it can be difficult for the average person to determine what types of violations may have occurred, the types of action that the PLA may take, and the potential defenses that may be used against complaints. With a legal representative on your side, you can make sure your rights will be protected, and you will have a better chance of reaching a positive resolution to your case.

What Types of Consequences Can I Face Because of Complaints or Violations?

If the PLA investigates you based on complaints or violations, you may face multiple different forms of discipline to your professional license. Disciplinary action may include the suspension or revocation of your license, probation that will place restrictions on your practice and require you to take certain actions, formal reprimands, and/or fines. However, this may only be the beginning of the consequences that may affect your career. If you work with controlled substances, discipline to your license may lead to the loss of your DEA registration. If you are a medical provider, you may also face issues such as the loss of Medicare/Medicaid provider status, loss of hospital privileges, loss of board certification, or other sanctions that may affect your ability to continue practicing medicine. Regardless of the type of license you hold, you may also face damage to your reputation that could affect your ability to pursue career opportunities in the future.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me During Disciplinary Proceedings?

With the right attorney on your side, you can make sure you take the correct steps at each stage of the disciplinary process. We can assist with:

• Investigations - We can advise you on how to respond to requests by PLA investigators, including the types of documentation you should provide. We can also provide representation during questioning and make sure you avoid saying anything that could harm your case.
• Settlement conferences and disciplinary hearings - We can provide representation in formal hearings before licensing boards, present evidence, and advocate for a positive outcome. We can also work to negotiate settlements and resolve matters before a formal hearing will be necessary, including advocating on your behalf during a pre-hearing settlement conference.
• Appeals - If a board makes an unfavorable decision, we can help you determine whether you may be able to pursue an appeal, and we will provide you with representation in any subsequent legal proceedings.
• License reinstatement - If your license has already been suspended or revoked, we can help you take the proper steps to have your license reinstated, including providing documentation to show that you have addressed the issues that led to disciplinary action.

Contact Our Indiana PLA Disciplinary Action Defense Lawyer

You deserve to have a strong legal advocate working for you as you respond to complaints or investigations and defend against discipline to your professional license. Set up a free consultation today by contacting us at 463-219-2612.