As a licensed medical professional, you’ve worked hard to earn your credentials. Your license is more than a title—it’s your livelihood. But criminal charges, whether related to your personal conduct or professional duties, can threaten everything you’ve built.
The consequences are serious if you’re a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or healthcare provider facing criminal allegations in Pennsylvania. You could face criminal penalties and disciplinary action from the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine, Nursing, or another licensing body.
At Fienman Criminal Defense, we help medical professionals protect their licenses, reputations, and futures. We understand the criminal justice process and the professional disciplinary system, and fight to defend you in both.
Why You Need a Lawyer Who Handles Criminal Defense and Licensing Matters
Many criminal defense attorneys focus solely on courtroom outcomes and overlook the collateral consequences that criminal charges have on professional licenses. On the other hand, professional licensing attorneys may not be equipped to handle criminal trials or negotiations with prosecutors.
This disconnect can be costly.
At Fienman Defense, Attorney Michael Fienman offers integrated representation. He understands how criminal cases impact medical licenses and vice versa. You don’t need to hire multiple lawyers—he’ll handle both sides of the case, protecting your interests at every stage.
Common Criminal Charges That Endanger Medical Licenses
Criminal charges against healthcare professionals can stem from off-duty conduct or allegations tied directly to patient care. In Pennsylvania, these are some of the most common charges that can trigger licensing board investigations:
- DUI or drug-related offenses
- Assault, domestic violence, or harassment
- Healthcare fraud or insurance fraud
- Drug diversion or illegal prescribing
- Theft or shoplifting
- Medicare/Medicaid billing violations
- Sexual misconduct or boundary violations
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony, the stakes are high. Even without a conviction, a single charge can lead to scrutiny by your licensing board.
What Happens If You’re Convicted?
If you’re convicted of a crime, licensing boards in Pennsylvania are required to review the case. Depending on the facts, they may take disciplinary action, including:
- License suspension or revocation
- Probation or practice restrictions
- Public reprimands or fines
- Mandatory education or treatment programs
In some cases, convictions must be reported to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), which can affect your ability to work in hospitals, clinics, or across state lines.
Don’t Plead Guilty Without Understanding the Consequences
Accepting a plea deal might seem like a quick way to move forward, but it can backfire. A guilty plea is a legal admission that your licensing board can use to justify disciplinary measures.
Before entering any plea, speak with a defense attorney who understands how criminal proceedings intersect with professional licensing issues. The right strategy could mean the difference between continuing your career or losing your ability to practice altogether.
How an Experienced Attorney Can Help
You need more than just a general criminal defense lawyer when your future is on the line. You need someone who:
- Understands the Pennsylvania licensing process
- Knows how to communicate with licensing boards
- Can negotiate or fight your criminal charges in court
- Works to preserve your license while addressing the criminal case
At Fienman Criminal Defense, we take a proactive approach. We work to frame your case in the best possible light, advocate for leniency where appropriate, and pursue every opportunity to protect your license and career.
Contact a Philadelphia Medical License Defense Lawyer Today
If you’re a medical professional charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, don’t wait. Legal and professional disciplinary actions can move quickly, and your response must be carefully coordinated to protect your rights.
At Fienman Criminal Defense, we’ve helped doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania fight criminal charges and navigate complex licensing issues. We’ll stand by your side every step of the way.
Call (215) 839-9529 or contact us online to schedule your free and confidential consultation today.
View All Blogs