It takes over a decade to get a medical degree and even longer to build a practice and reputation. Unfortunately, it takes only a momentary bad decision to get a DUI or DWI that might jeopardize your hard work. You could lose your medical license if you're charged with driving under the influence in NY, NJ, or PA.

Importantly, not every DUI/DWI will result in losing your medical license. An experienced professional licensed defense attorney will help you navigate the process with as little damage to your career as possible.

How Medical Licensing Boards Treat DUI/DWI

When it comes to whether a DUI/DWI will affect your license in New York or New Jersey, each medical licensing board will consider how your violation is viewed under the state-specific Professional Misconduct Code. In New York, for example, any criminal conviction is considered a violation of the medical licensing board code of conduct. While the conviction itself, or even the criminal charges, may not be enough to warrant revocation or suspension of your license, you could get in trouble for failure to report the offense. The NJ  medical licensing boards take a similar approach.

When a medical licensing board is made aware of your wrongdoing, it will investigate the matter. Ultimately, the board wants to evaluate whether the issue of drinking and driving hints at an ongoing problem that could jeopardize patient care and industry standards.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony DUI/DWI

A significant indicator of how your medical licensing board may react to a DUI/DWI is whether the crime is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. When an incident involving driving while impaired is charged as a more serious felony, it may indicate aggravating factors are at play. These factors could be reckless speed or being so intoxicated as to demonstrate a disregard for human life. Still yet, a felony charge could mean this isn't your first DUI. The board will likely take a more serious look into a felony DUI/DWI when considering how to discipline medical professionals.

Why You Need to Speak to a Professional License Defense Attorney ASAP

Professional license defense attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm have helped countless doctors defend their licenses in New Jersey, New York, and beyond.  Too many medical professionals think a defense attorney is only there to argue their innocence. While this is true, a competent defense attorney will also help you demonstrate why the licensing board should offer leniency or a second chance. Mistakes happen, and sometimes those who make those mistakes can demonstrate a desire and willingness to change. Attorney Lento and his dedicated team consider all approaches in helping clients defend their medical licenses. To learn more, call 888-535-3686 today, or contact the Lento Law Firm online.