Countless licensed professional across Cook County and Illinois are required to obtain their licensure from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). These professionals come from numerous industries, including the nursing, banking, and medical fields. Because these professionals rely on the IDFPR to grant their licenses, their careers are inextricably tied to this department. This means that the IDFPR can investigate licensed professionals for alleged misconduct, and penalized those found in violation of this Department’s rules. If you are facing an IDFPR complaint, you should consult with an attorney immediately.
Defending Against a Complaint
There are numerous ways to initiate a formal IDFPR complaint. An individual, such as a former client, can file a complaint against someone licensed by the IDFPR. Other times, a complaint may arise through a mandatory notification process. For example, if a licensed professional is convicted of a crime, such as a DUI, the case prosecutor is obligated to notify the IDFPR of the conviction. Regardless of who begins the process, the IDFPR is legally required to investigate every single complaint.
At the outset of this investigation, the professional will be notified that a complaint has been made. If you receive such a notice, you should contact an attorney immediately. Your attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, and advocate for you during any disciplinary hearings. This field of law is known as administrative law, and can be quite complex. You have legal rights that should be protected. Hiring an attorney who understands licensure regulations is the best step you can take once an issue arises.
Potential Impact on Your Career
Because you need an active professional license to continue practicing in your field, facing a disciplinary action from the IDFPR can create obvious issues. Whether you work for someone else, or own your own practice, a revoked or suspended license could severely harm your career. Without the ability to practice in your field, you could face a steep loss in immediate income. Furthermore, losing your license, even temporarily, could irreparably damage your future career opportunities. The IDFPR releases monthly reports containing all enforcement orders against licensees. These reports contain information about violations professionals committed, and the subsequent penalties. This kind of public notice is unfortunately permanent, even if the actual penalty was temporary (i.e., short-term license suspension or fine).
How a Defense Lawyer Can Help
With decades of combined legal experience, our skilled Schaumburg defense attorneys at Glasgow & Olsson have the knowledge it takes to help our professional clients. Our lawyers understand the stress a licensing issue can cause, both for you personally and your business. Attorney Thomas Glasgow is a former Chief of Medical Prosecutions of the IDFPR, so we know how to successfully defend you in front of the department, and communicate with their attorneys about your matter. If possible, we will strive to reach an agreement with the department to help you avoid severe penalties. If you live in Schaumburg or the Chicago area and are facing a licensure or related issues, contact us at 847.577.8700 today.