Driving under the influence is illegal in all 50 states. While penalties vary by jurisdiction, typically, you'll face license suspension and probation. You may also be required to attend alcohol counseling.

If you're a medical professional, though, a DUI can cost you far more than your driver's license. Most medical boards have policies in place regarding DUI offenses, which means one DUI could put your medical license in jeopardy.

The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team works with healthcare professionals facing disciplinary action. If your medical license is in jeopardy due to a DUI, give us a call at 888-535-3686 or use our online form to request a consultation.

DUIs and Medical Licensing Boards

Your medical license was a hard-won achievement, requiring years of education. To keep the license, you'll be expected to uphold certain professional standards, overseen by your state's medical board.

Any number of things can put that license at risk, including substance abuse. A medical board's top priority is keeping patients safe, and substance abuse can put that in jeopardy. Even if your DUI was an isolated incident and you have no issues with drugs or alcohol, a DUI serves as a red flag that problems might be present.

Post-DUI Next Steps

After a DUI, your first instinct may be to just let it ride. Maybe your medical boards will never find out. But that's a bad idea. Chances are, your state has policies in place that require you to notify the board if you've had a DUI. Failure to notify could put your license in further jeopardy than it would be if you're upfront about it.

Before you reach out, though, there's one step to consider. An attorney can advise you on the specific steps to take to protect your license. The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team has experience helping medical professionals defend their licenses after a DUI, and we can walk you through the process. We'll also represent you in front of your medical licensing board when you're required to face them in person.

Managing Disciplinary Action

What happens if you follow the board's notification requirements and still face disciplinary action? Don't panic. In many cases, a board won't permanently revoke your license. You may face a temporary suspension, at which point you'll need to complete alcohol counseling or take other steps to prove you're serious about rectifying any damage.

If your license is fully revoked, our attorneys can work with you on appealing the decision. We'll review your options and come up with a plan to demonstrate to the board that not only do you not pose a risk to the public, but you're an asset to healthcare in your state.

A DUI is a serious offense, but it doesn't have to be a death sentence for your career. Having the right attorneys on your side can help you navigate the challenges of facing the medical board. If you have a DUI on your record, reach out to the Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or use our online form to request a consultation.