Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyers Blog
What does the Georgia Board of Nursing Regulate?
The Georgia Nursing Board regulates:
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs)
Registered nurses (RNs)
Nurse practitioners (NPs)
Certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs)
Clinical nurse specialists (CNSs)
Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) and Certified Nurse Specialist and Psych/Mental Health NP (CNS – PMH)
What if I have been arrested?
If you have been arrested in GA or another state, you must report it. So whether you have made a court appearance or not, or whether the charge was ultimately reduced or even dismissed your case, you still must report the arrest to the Board of Nursing when you apply to renew your license. The question generally asked, upon renewal, is something like, “Since the date of initial licensure or your last renewal, have you been arrested?” Contact us to discuss how and when to answer this properly. It is much better to answer this properly the first time.
What if I have been arrested for a DUI?
A DUI is a misdemeanor offense in GA and thus arrests for a DUI must be reported. In the context of a DUI arrest, it is also very important in your explanation that you go through detail of what occurred so that the Board can adequately address any substance abuse issues they might be worried about. Note, that again, it is super important to be careful on what is written in this narrative. A false or misleading statement to the Board can result in more problems that only exacerbate the issue.
What if substance abuse has been alleged?
If an investigation has been initiated against you because you are suspected of drug or alcohol dependency, you need to take this very seriously.
What is a crime of moral turpitude?
Being convicted of a crime of moral turpitude will automatically require the Board to get involved and potentially deny renewal of your license. The Georgia Nursing Board doesn’t specifically list out what a crime of moral turpitude is. Generally, they are cases involving violence (simple battery, child cruelty, aggravated assault…), fraud, drug possession, etc. This is not an inclusive list. Please feel free to contact us for further information.
What is the Georgia Board of Nursing Investigation Process?
(NOTE: the Board will, on its own, send investigation letters in reference to finding about unreported convictions)
Otherwise, the process generally begins by the Board receiving a complaint. It can be from a coworker sent anonymously, or an employer, or perhaps a patient. Once the Board receives the complaint, it is investigated and you are notified of the complaint and are asked for your version of the event(s).
Should you receive a letter from the board for any reason, contact us to discuss your options. Do not call the Board and ask for more detail. The call is always recorded. Also, do not just agree to a proposed consent order requiring you to do a plethora of things to keep your license, put you on probation, suspend your license etc. Contact us so we can ensure that all options are explored and all issues are properly resolved.
If things are not resolved, they may ask to meet in person in Macon. This could be an informal meeting OR the Board may request a formal Disciplinary Hearing. It is imperative to hire a lawyer at this stage.
Meg Strickler has handled many cases before the Board. She has represented nurses charged with diversion of narcotics, nurses charged with DUIs, and nurses that were under investigation for various other issues,. She has always gotten excellent results. Contact us now for more information.