South Carolina Speech, Occupational, and Physical Therapy Professional License Defense Lawyers
In South Carolina Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy Licenses are all regulated by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation (LLR). When it comes to professional licenses, license defense is very important.
Speech Pathologists and Audiologists, Occupational Therapists, and Physical Therapists all must adhere to statues and regulations set forth by the LLR. Anyone in any of the three professions may be subject to disciplinary actions if he/she is accused of engaging in behavior including, but not limited to:
- Criminal Conduct
- Practicing beyond the authorized scope of practice
- Negligence
- Practicing while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or while impaired due to a mental disability
- Drug Abuse or addiction
- Alcohol Abuse or Addiction
- Allowing professional duties to be performed by unauthorized staff
- Sexual Misconduct
- Failure to maintain proper records
- Fraud
If you are found guilty of any charges you may be at risk of facing public reprimand, license suspense, or the revocation of your license.
A complaint may be filed with LLR by a patient, employee, or other professional. Just because a complaint is filed does not imply that you are guilty. What the complaint does mean is you will need a professional licensing defense attorney to assist you in your matter. A professional licensing attorney will ensure that your legal rights are protected before it is too late.
Handling a Complaint with the LLR
Once a formal complaint is filed, an investigator with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation will contact you. The investigator may simply say they want your side of the story to close the case. Be cautious when talking to the investigator because anything you say may be used against you. You have the right to decline further contact until you talk to your attorney.
A professional license defense attorney can assist you in your matter. An attorney will help outline the steps you need to take to avoid losing your license. Complaints with the LLR can have serious legal, financial, and personal implications. Do not hesitate in calling an experienced professional licensing defense attorney who can help you.
Handling a Referral to the RPP
If a speech professional, occupational therapist, or physical therapist is found guilty of an offense relating to drugs and/or alcohol they may be referred to the South Carolina Recovering Professionals Program (RPP). The RPP works jointly with LRADAC and the LLR. Once a referral is made, you will be subject to an assessment by the RPP. The RPP will then determine whether you need treatment and/or continued monitoring. You may be subject to monitoring by the RPP for a specific amount of time.
Remember the RPP is there to help you. They want to ensure your safety and get you back to working professionally.
If you believe you are under investigation by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation call the experienced professional licensing defense attorneys at the Strom Law Firm, LLC. We will provide you with a free consultation. Contact us today at 803-252-4800.
