Doctors and DUIs … a Real Emergency!
July 27, 2021
At The Town Law, we frequently get calls from doctors who recently got charged with a DUI. Doctors who get charged with a 1st or subsequent DUI are at a great risk of facing disciplinary action from the PA board of medicine. It is essential that a doctor who is charged with a DUI hires an experienced DUI attorney who knows what steps needs to be taken, aside from dealing with the criminal charges, in order to avoid unnecessary problems that could jeopardize their license.
Notifying the Appropriate Licensing Board/ Commision of Your DUI
Under Act 6, their is a requirement of licensees, registrants and certificate holders to report any disciplinary conduct by any licensing board OR any charge of a misdemeanor (DUI) or felony. When a doctor receives his/her DUI charges, they have 30 days to notify the board of the situation. Furthermore, if you are convicted of DUI, or are placed on ARD you also have 30 days from sentencing or placement on ARD to notify them *failure to notify the board of your charges and/or disposition may result in loss of license.
Potential Medical Board Investigation
Once the appropriate medical board or commission is made aware the DUI charge/disposition, they may begin their own investigation and request an interview with the doctor in order to determine whether or not their license should be suspended or taken away entirely. It is essential that you have an experienced DUI attorney when facing this stage of the process. The interview should be handled with great caution in terms of what is disclosed. Moreover, the board may also suggest that the doctor enter a voluntary alternative treatment program. While at first glance it may seem like the appropriate option to take, an individual should never go forward with this process without seeking the advice of an experienced DUI attorney.
I’m a Doctor and I Got a DUI, Who Can I Call?
At The Town Law, we understand just how stressful facing criminal charges can be. With our vast experience handling criminal cases throughout Bucks County, Delaware County, Chester County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County in Pennsylvania, we are well-equipped to ensure you get the best result possible with seasoned DUI attorneys by your side throughout the process. Contact our firm today for a free consultation. Our staff of criminal defense attorneys is dedicated to the best outcomes for all of our clients.