Last Updated on: 13th October 2023, 01:44 am

New Jersey Nurse License Defense Lawyers – Protecting Your Career and Livelihood

Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system. They work long, grueling hours caring for patients and saving lives. However, even the most dedicated nurses can find themselves facing accusations of misconduct or negligence. When your nursing license is on the line, you need an experienced lawyer in your corner.The New Jersey nurse license defense lawyers at the Spodek Law Group have extensive experience representing nurses in investigations and disciplinary hearings. Led by founder Todd Spodek, our legal team fights to protect the careers and reputations of nurses statewide.This article provides an overview of common disciplinary issues nurses face, how investigations work, and how an experienced lawyer can defend your license.

Typical Disciplinary Issues Facing Nurses

With the high-stress nature of nursing, even minor mistakes can snowball into license investigations. Some common issues include:

• Medication Errors – Giving the wrong medication or dosage, even accidentally, can bring scrutiny from the Board of Nursing.
• Documentation Issues – Failing to properly document treatment or sign off on charts violates recordkeeping rules.
• Substance Abuse – Addiction and diversion of medications warrants discipline.
• Boundaries Violations – Developing inappropriate relationships with patients crosses ethical lines.
• Negligence – Failing to provide adequate care by not monitoring patients, ignoring symptoms, etc.
• Criminal Charges – Arrests for DUI, theft, or assault raise red flags with the Board.

Even if the allegations seem minor or unfounded, you cannot afford to ignore an investigation. The consequences for your career could be severe.

How Investigations of Nurses Work in New Jersey

Disciplinary investigations typically start with a complaint filed against the nurse. Common sources include:

• Patients or their family members
• Colleagues, supervisors, or co-workers
• Healthcare facilities
• Licensing boards
• Law enforcement

Once a complaint is filed, the New Jersey Board of Nursing launches an investigation. They have legal authority to subpoena medical records, interview witnesses, and collect evidence.If they feel disciplinary action is warranted, you will receive formal notice of the charges against you. Possible penalties include fines, probation, limitations on your license, suspension, or full revocation.You have the right to challenge the charges at an administrative hearing. That’s where a skilled nurse license defense attorney can make all the difference.

How Can a Lawyer Defend Your Nursing License?

Facing the loss of your livelihood is scary. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process and build the strongest defense. Here’s how we fight for our nurse clients:

• Reviewing Evidence Thoroughly – We dig into the records, reports, and witness statements. Flaws or inconsistencies can undermine the case against you.
• Conducting Our Own Investigation – We independently gather facts, locate supporting witnesses, and reconstruct timelines.
• Negotiating with the Board – We work to reduce charges or agree to less harsh punishments prior to a hearing.
• Preparing a Persuasive Defense – We identify the weaknesses of the allegations and present evidence of your innocence.
• Examining and Discrediting Witnesses – We question the credibility of witnesses and reveal biases during cross-examination.
• Highlighting Your Background – We showcase your training, credentials, awards, and years of ethical service.
• Presenting Character Witnesses – We have colleagues, employers, etc. testify to your skills and integrity as a nurse.

With an aggressive defense focused on the facts, we can achieve the best possible outcome for your career.

Potential Penalties Nurses Face

If allegations are proven true, the New Jersey Board of Nursing has broad authority to impose discipline. Depending on the severity, possible penalties include:

• Fines – You may face civil monetary penalties starting at $500 up to $5,000 per violation.
• Probation – The Board can impose a probationary period including conditions like counseling, remedial training, supervised practice, etc.
• License Limitations – They may restrict your nursing license by reducing hours or imposing additional oversight.
• License Suspension – Serious cases can result in the temporary loss of your license for weeks, months, or years.
• License Revocation – In the most egregious cases, the Board can permanently revoke your license, ending your nursing career.

Even if you made a mistake, punishment should fit the circumstances. An attorney can argue for leniency, or even challenge unjust discipline.

Act Quickly to Protect Your Livelihood

Nursing investigations move swiftly, so time is of the essence. The moment you become aware of a complaint, consult with a nurse license defense lawyer.At the Spodek Law Group, our first priority is protecting your career. Founder Todd Spodek is a fierce litigator with decades of experience defending professionals like you.We have successfully represented nurses facing discipline statewide, from Newark to Jersey City. Mr. Spodek and our attorneys are compassionate patient advocates who understand the unique pressures you face.Do not leave your career in the hands of the Board alone. With an aggressive legal defense, we can avoid unnecessary penalties and get you back to serving patients.To schedule a free case review, call us 24/7 or contact us online. Let our nurse license defense lawyers fight to protect your livelihood.