How Does A Criminal Conviction Affects A Medical License?
The California Medical Board evaluates criminal & DUI charges involving physicians and doctors on a case-by-case basis. Pursuant to California Business and Professions Code 2236, a conviction of any criminal or DUI offense substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of a physician constitutes unprofessional conduct and therefore, serves as cause for independent disciplinary action taken by the Medical Board. In addition to considering the criminal record itself, the Medical Board reviews underlying issues from investigation, arrest, and conviction. The following are a few of the issues the Medical Board will investigate and consider:
- Was the criminal act substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of a physician?
- The circumstances surrounding your arrest.
- Your prior criminal history.
- Have you have complied with your sentencing terms from the court?
- What steps rehabilitative measures have you taken in mitigation?
- Were you charged with a felony crime?
- Were you convicted of a felony or misdemeanor by a jury verdict or a plea of guilty or nolo contendere (no contest)?
What Are Criminal Reporting Requirements For Physicians In California?
If you’re a licensed physician and have been recently arrested for a criminal offense, you may be subject to the Medical Board of California’s physician reporting requirements. Described under B&P 802.1, physicians must report are criminal convictions, regardless of whether the conviction was for a misdemeanor of felony level offense. Furthermore, physicians charged by prosecutors by either a felony criminal complaint or indictment must notify the Medical Board within 15 days of their arraignment in court.
Speak With A Los Angeles Certified Criminal Law Specialist Today
With the enhanced consequences you face as a physician facing criminal charges, it is critical that you consult with a defense attorney is who is not only skilled in criminal defense practice but also knowledgeable with the potential administrative sanctions and reporting requirements you may be subject to. Although both legal actions occur independently from the other, the outcome in one can compromise and potentially prejudice your case in the other. Call our criminal defense firm today for a FREE consultation at (888) 579-4844 to learn more about your defense options and how we can help you. In-person appointments are also available at our main office in West LA or one of our satellite office locations in Torrance, Long Beach, Pasadena, Van Nuys, Santa Clarita, West Covina, Burbank, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Orange, or Rancho Cucamonga.
