The duration of your nursing license suspension or revocation will vary based on your licensing state and other case specifics. Generally, there is no fixed timeline for a suspension, and a revocation is considered permanent. However, you may be eligible for reinstatement depending on the specifics outlined in your state’s law.
Factors like the severity of the violation and the jurisdiction in which it took place will affect your case’s outcome. You can get some idea of the timeframe for a suspension period or length of time before you can seek reinstatement after revocation by referring to your state’s laws, agency rules and the disciplinary actions your regulatory agency has taken in similar matters.
If you are currently facing potential suspension or revocation of your license as a nurse, a Texas nursing license defense lawyer can evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
What Is the Nursing License Suspension Process?
If you are in Texas, the Board of Nursing (BON) is responsible for initiating an investigation when an individual files a complaint against a nurse. The purpose of the investigation is to assess whether disciplinary action is warranted in response to the allegations.
Review Process
The first step in the process involves the board receiving and reviewing documents related to the case, such as medical records, any signed affidavits or other credible evidence. In some circumstances, an investigator may conduct an onsite interview with the involved parties.
BON Decision
Once all relevant information has been considered, the BON will decide whether the evidence shows a serious enough violation of the law to support suspension or revocation of your license as a nurse. Action taken can include temporarily suspending your license due to circumstances demonstrating an immediate threat to the public health, safety and welfare until further opportunity for a hearing, suspending your license for a period of time at the conclusion of the regulatory process or revoking your license after completion of the regulatory process if evidence supports doing so.
In cases involving temporary suspension, it may be possible for your attorney to demonstrate that you have taken steps to mitigate or rectify the situation, and further disciplinary action may be avoided or minimized. You may also challenge a suspension or revocation imposed by the BON through different legal processes depending on your specific situation.
How Hard Is It to Restore a Revoked Nursing License?
In broad terms, the potential for reinstatement exists if you can show that you have resolved the issue, that you do not present a threat to public health or safety and are presently able to practice competently.
The process of reinstating your license might include the following stages:
- Assessing your eligibility for reinstatement: You must meet the licensure requirements of the state nursing board for your jurisdiction.
- Fulfilling any mandatory restorative actions: This can encompass activities like attending counseling sessions, completing a rehabilitation scheme, or attaining additional educational or training credentials.
- Submitting an application for reinstatement to the state nursing board: Along with your application, you must furnish documentation to demonstrate the resolution of the issues that led to your license being revoked and that you are currently fit to practice.
- Participating in a hearing or meeting with the state nursing board: This allows you to present evidence and testimony concerning the circumstances that led to revocation of your license and the measures you have taken to address the board’s concerns.
- Satisfying additional requirements outlined by the state nursing board: This could involve going through a new background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), monitoring requirements or successful completion of a new licensing examination.
Those aiming for reinstatement must meet their state’s specific regulations and requirements and provide evidence to establish their dedication to upholding the standards of the nursing profession.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Have My Nursing License Reinstated?
When your license is suspended or revoked due to criminal charges, substance abuse issues, fraud, breach of the standard of care or other misconduct allegations, seeking professional legal representation is crucial since facing the board alone can be an uphill battle that requires legal knowledge and skilled advocacy.
A nurse license defense lawyer from our firm can help you answer the allegations against you and work with the BON to obtain a favorable outcome in your case.
At Bertolino LLP, our knowledgeable Texas lawyers are available to evaluate your situation and help you determine your best course of action.
Click to contact our professional license defense lawyers today
Contact a Texas Nursing License Defense Attorney
At Bertolino LLP, we help professionals like you keep their licenses when they are under attack by a Texas regulatory agency. Whether you have recently received a complaint against your nursing license or are already facing the possibility of a suspension or revocation, our professional license defense lawyers can help you fight back and protect your career.
When your livelihood is on the line, our experienced lawyers will fight to preserve your license and reputation. If you have questions or need to speak with an attorney, call our office or fill out the online contact form for a free consultation.
Call or text (512) 476-5757 or complete a Case Evaluation form