Licensing Law Attorneys Committed To Protecting Your Livelihood

Your professional license is more than just a credential. It’s your livelihood. It’s your reputation. It’s the result of years of hard work and extensive training and education. When that license is threatened, the stakes couldn’t be higher. 

At Hurwitz Law PLLC, we get it. As employment attorneys with deep experience in licensing defense, we’ve helped professionals across Michigan protect their careers and reputations in the face of investigations, complaints and disciplinary actions.

Our law firm represents all types of professionals in licensing investigations and hearings. There is nothing more important than protecting the license you worked so hard to obtain. Quite often the licensing action is triggered by an erroneous report about your professional or personal conduct. Most professionals are not aware that such actions are very defensible and can often be resolved without the loss of license. It is critical to evaluate the following:

• What triggered the investigation
• Who is the investigator
• What is the purpose of the investigation
• What documents are being requested
• What creative solutions and compromises can be offered to limit the investigation
• Do you have any potential civil claims against an accuser
• Are there criminal law considerations to weigh
• Can a written response be submitted in lieu of an investigation interview

We can address these and other important angles to consider in building an effective defense.

Our Experience In Licensing Defense

We have extensive experience in license defense and have represented professionals before nearly every major licensing board in Michigan. We are well-prepared to handle cases involving: 

• The Michigan Board of Nursing
• The Board of Medicine
• The Board of Pharmacy
• The State Bar of Michigan
• The Michigan Department of Education
• The Real Estate Commission
• And others

We are well-versed in the regulations governing these boards, and we know how to steer through their procedures effectively.

While confidentiality prevents us from sharing specific case details, we’ve successfully resolved numerous licensing matters – often without the need for a formal hearing. Our results include dismissals of baseless complaints, negotiated settlements that avoid license suspension and favorable outcomes in administrative hearings. We’re known for our strategic thinking, creative problem-solving and relentless advocacy.

Types Of Professionals We Represent

We proudly defend a wide range of licensed professionals throughout Ann Arbor and across Michigan, including:

• Health care providers: Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, therapists and other professionals in the health care field
• Legal professionals: Attorneys, paralegals and notaries
• Real estate professionals: Agents, brokers and appraisers
• Contractors and builders: Licensed tradespeople and general contractors
• Financial services professionals: Accountants, financial advisers and insurance agents
• Educators and academic professionals: Teachers, professors and administrators
• Other licensed professionals: Cosmetologists, engineers, architects and more

If your profession requires a license in Michigan, we’re equipped to help you protect it.

Common Licensing Issues

Licensing investigations can be triggered by a wide range of events – some of which may seem minor or even unfounded. Common triggers include:

• Customer or client complaints: Even a single complaint can initiate a formal investigation.
• Competitor allegations: In competitive industries, rivals may file complaints to gain an edge.
• Criminal charges or convictions: Even unrelated legal trouble can impact your license.
• Substance abuse concerns: Allegations of impairment can lead to mandatory evaluations or monitoring.
• Documentation or reporting errors: Mistakes in recordkeeping or billing can raise red flags.
• Scope of practice violations: Performing duties outside your licensed authority can result in disciplinary action.
• Continuing education deficiencies: Failing to meet CE requirements can jeopardize your license renewal.

We handle these and other scenarios that may put your license in jeopardy.

Michigan Licensing Boards And Procedures

In Michigan, professional licensing is overseen by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) – specifically the Bureau of Professional Licensing (BPL). The BPL regulates over 700,000 professionals in a wide range of occupations. Each profession has its own board or division, with unique rules, application processes and disciplinary procedures.

Ann Arbor professionals may also face additional scrutiny due to the city’s concentration of health care institutions, academic organizations and research facilities. Local employers often have strict internal reporting policies that can escalate issues to state boards quickly.

We understand how these local dynamics intersect with state regulations – and we can use that knowledge to your advantage.

Consequences Of Licensing Actions

A licensing investigation is not just a bureaucratic inconvenience. It can have serious, lasting consequences, including:

• License suspension or revocation: You may be temporarily or permanently barred from practicing.
• Probation or monitoring: You could be required to undergo supervision, drug testing or additional training.
• Fines and penalties: Financial sanctions can be a significant setback.
• Damage to your reputation: Even unsubstantiated allegations can harm your standing in the community.
• Career limitations: Disciplinary actions may need to be disclosed to future employers or credentialing bodies.
• Mandatory reporting: Some professions require you to report disciplinary actions to national databases or other states.

We take these risks seriously, and we fight to minimize or eliminate them wherever possible.

Our Approach To Licensing Defense

Every licensing case is different, but our approach is always strategic, thorough and client-centered. Here’s how we typically handle these matters:

1. Initial consultation: We listen to your story, review any notices or documents, and assess the situation confidentially.
2. Investigation analysis: We identify the source of the complaint, the scope of the investigation and the board’s likely objectives.
3. Document review and preservation: We help you gather and preserve critical records, correspondence and evidence.
4. Strategic planning: We develop a tailored defense strategy, including potential compromises or creative resolutions.
5. Board communication: We handle all communications with the licensing board, including written responses.
6. Negotiation and advocacy: We represent you in interviews and hearings. When possible, we negotiate for reduced penalties or alternative resolutions. When necessary, we fight aggressively at hearings.
7. Post-resolution support: We help you comply with any conditions and advise on how to protect your license moving forward.

We believe in early intervention. The sooner we’re involved, the more options we have to protect your license and your future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a licensing investigation typically take?

It varies by board and case complexity, but most investigations take several months up to a year or more. Some may resolve quickly with a written response, while others may involve hearings and extended monitoring. We’ll help you understand the timeline and keep you informed every step of the way.

Should I respond to the board before consulting an attorney?

No. Responding without legal guidance can harm your case. Even well-meaning statements can be misinterpreted or used against you. Contact us first – we’ll help you craft a response that protects your rights and sets the right tone.

Can I continue practicing during an investigation?

In some cases, yes. Unless your license is suspended or restricted, you may be able to continue working. However, some employers may impose their own restrictions. We’ll help you understand your rights and obligations during this uncertain time.

How will this affect my future employment?

Disciplinary actions may need to be disclosed on job applications, credentialing forms or insurance panels. We work to minimize that impact and, when possible, resolve matters in ways that don’t require disclosure.

What documentation should I preserve?

Keep all correspondence from the licensing board, any complaints or notices, relevant emails, client records, and anything else related to the issue. We’ll guide you on what’s most important and how to organize it.

Learn How We Can Help

If you find yourself being investigated by a licensing agency, don’t wait. Contact us by calling 844-HURWITZ or complete our online form. We can help.

At Hurwitz Law PLLC, we know how much your license means to you – and we’ll fight to protect it with the same bold, responsive advocacy that defines everything we do.