Like many states, Illinois has created a specific state agency to handle regulation of certain professions that require licenses. In Illinois, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) handles licensing and creates regulations for such medical, financial, and other professionals within the state. The IDFPR also deals with any formal complaints against the professionals in its jurisdiction.
The IDFPR Complaint Process
Complaints can arise from a number of different circumstances. An individual, such as a displeased former client, can file a formal complaint with the IDFPR. Alternatively, the Department may receive a complaint through a mandatory notification process. The IDFPR requires that prosecutors submit such notification if a professional licensed through the Department is convicted of a crime. For example, if a healthcare professional, who is required to follow IDFPR regulations, is convicted of a DUI, the prosecutor in the case is obligated to inform the IDFPR of that conviction. In some cases, a licensed professional may file a complaint against another licensed professional
If a complaint is filed against you, the IDFPR will notify you. Whether the complaint has merit or not, the Department will investigate. After the complaint is filed, a specific investigator will manage the case. This investigator’s role is to determine whether or not you violated a licensing law, or violated any other IDFPR regulations. If the investigator does not believe a violation occurred based on the evidence gathered during the investigation, he or she will close the complaint and the process ends. However, if the investigator finds evidence that points to a violation, he or she will turn the case over to a prosecutor.
Licensure Prosecution
Once the complaint moves to a prosecutor, the prosecutor will continue to investigate for evidence of any wrongdoing. The prosecutor’s investigation will determine whether or not formal administrative charges are filed. If charges are filed, the process will continue through possible penalty negotiations between the IDFPR and the licensed professional. If the parties choose not to negotiate, or cannot reach an agreement, the matter will go to a formal hearing.
Get Legal Help for Licensure Issues
If someone has filed a formal IDFPR complaint against you, you have the right to legal representation. Your attorney can work with the Department and prosecutors, will represent you at any hearings, and can be your voice during this process. An experienced attorney can protect your rights through the process while helping to protect your license.
For years, our firm has been serving clients throughout Schaumburg area. We have experience helping professional clients through licensure and other related issues. If you are concerned about an IDFPR complaint, or want to learn more about the process, contact Glasgow & Olsson today. We offer every potential client a free initial consultation, during which you can speak with one of our skilled Schaumburg professional licensure attorneys. Call us now at 847.577.8700 to schedule your free consultation today.