What to do (and not do) when you become the subject of a professional licensing or disciplinary investigation:
- Do not panic.
- Do not ignore it.
- Do not hide or destroy evidence.
- Do not lie to investigators: the coverup is almost always worse than the crime.
- Do not attack – physically or in print – the client, patient, or complainant who filed the complaint.
- Do not attack – physically or in print – the board.
- Be cooperative.
- Discern the difference between the allegations that are worth contesting and the ones for which you should just apologize and show reformation.
- Find out what your rights are under the rules, regulations, and statutes of your licensing board.
- Retain counsel to protect your rights, help you comply with your board’s regulations, and represent you before the board.