Protecting Your Nursing License After A DWI Arrest: What NY Nurses Need To Know

Facing a DWI arrest as a nurse in New York is a serious matter. Not only do you have to deal with potential criminal charges, but your nursing license and career could also be at risk. As a nurse, the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions (NYSED) holds you to high ethical standards, and a DWI arrest could trigger disciplinary action against your license, depending on the nature and ultimate disposition of the charge or charges.

How A DWI Arrest Affects Your Nursing License

Nurses are held to strict standards on and off duty. A DWI arrest can lead to serious consequences, not only in the criminal courts but also in front of NYSED’s Office of Professions. Depending on the circumstances of your arrest and whether it leads to a conviction, you could face penalties ranging from probation to suspension or even revocation of your nursing license. When an arrest occurs the totality of the facts surrounding the crime and whether you have been through the process before, dictate.

Your license may be at risk even if you have not been convicted. NYSED may investigate and initiate proceedings that could affect your ability to practice. Oftentimes the mere arrest, particularly if it is a crime where you are fingerprinted, can result in the Office of Professions being notified (triggered by your fingerprints) and sometimes that of your employer. This is why it is essential to take immediate steps to protect your license.

Why Acting Quickly Is Crucial

While not all arrests require immediate self-reporting to NYSED, it is vital to understand your obligations and options early. An experienced attorney can help you decide the best course of action in the criminal courts and prepare for the possibility of administrative disciplinary proceedings against your license. Taking swift action may help mitigate the consequences of your arrest and demonstrate your commitment to maintaining your professional standards.

How Randall F. Inniss And The Inniss Firm, PLLC Can Help

Randall F. Inniss, principal attorney at The Inniss Firm, PLLC, brings a unique perspective to defending nurses facing DWI charges . With over 22-years of experience as a New York State Trooper and investigator before becoming a criminal defense attorney, Mr. Inniss has handled countless DWI arrests from both sides of the law. This insight and experience gives him a deep understanding of how DWI cases are prosecuted and how to build strong defenses. He has defended nurses, physicians, teachers, police officers and other professionals charged with crimes. He can defend you.

Mr. Inniss also understands the personal impact that a DWI arrest can have, especially for nurses. His late mother was a Registered Nurse, and he has successfully defended nurses facing criminal charges and disciplinary actions. With offices in Rockland and Orange counties, The Inniss Firm, PLLC is well-positioned to assist you in those areas as well as neighboring Westchester, Dutchess, Ulster, Putnam and Sullivan counties.

Steps To Take After Your DWI Arrest

1. Contact An Attorney Immediately – Before making any statements or decisions, consult with an attorney who has experience in both criminal defense and professional license defense. Your attorney will help you understand your rights and obligations.
2. Gather Documentation – Collect all relevant documents related to your arrest, such as police reports and sobriety test results.
3. Do Not Speak Without Legal Counsel – Avoid making any statements to the police, NYSED, or other authorities without your attorney providing advice beforehand or preferably being present.
4. Consider A Treatment Program – Depending on the circumstances, an attorney may recommend that you participate in various forms of treatment. Proactive treatment recommendations (or not) are made on a case-by-case basis, after counsel learns of the particular facts. Undertaking proactive measures such as an educational program can demonstrate your commitment to a disposition that can benefit your defense in both the criminal and disciplinary processes.
5. Cooperate With Investigations – Work with your attorney to ensure you meet any requests from NYSED, but always with legal guidance to protect your rights.

Why You Need A Skilled Defense Attorney

When your nursing license is at stake, having an attorney with experience in defending professionals is essential. The legal and disciplinary processes can be complicated and intimidating, but a skilled attorney will know how to navigate both. Randall F. Inniss and his team at The Inniss Firm, PLLC, have the legal expertise to defend your rights in court while also protecting your license before NYSED.

Your career and livelihood depend on maintaining your license. If you are facing DWI charges, do not risk going through the process alone. Contact The Inniss Firm, PLLC for a free defense strategy consultation. The sooner you act, the better your chances of defending your license and career.

Second chances exist! Call us today at (845) 533-0265 for a complimentary consultation.