Those who practice dentistry must complete extensive education and training, and building a thriving dental practice can often take years of personal and financial investment. Because of this, any issues which threaten a dentist’s professional license should be addressed as quickly as possible, since a license suspension or revocation could have significant financial consequences.
The attorneys of Williams & Nickl, LLC have more than 55 years of combined experience addressing licensing issues involving the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). We have addressed these cases from both sides; as a former Chief of Prosecutions for the IDFPR, Attorney Edward Williams provides our clients with an unparalleled understanding of the strategies that will help ensure success when defending against discipline to a professional license. We can also help dentists understand how investigations by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) of their practices of using controlled substances in their practice or prescribing these drugs to patients may affect their professional licenses.
Our firm has worked with a number of dentists and dental hygienists to address licensing issues before the Illinois Board of Dentistry, including:
We have helped a wide variety of clients in healthcare-related fields achieve success in license defense cases. In one case, we represented a surgeon with a previous criminal conviction who was accused of improperly prescribing opioids and failing to maintain patient records. We were able to obtain a simple probation order on our client’s medical license, and we were then able to restore the license to unencumbered status.
A licensee or applicant may speak to the IDFPR in response to a complaint or request for information, but before doing so, it is highly recommended to consult with an experienced attorney. If a license holder attempts to negotiate a Consent Order with an IDFPR prosecutor, this order will be likely to contain harsh consequences and negative conditions which may not be immediately apparent. Edward and Fred understand the policies and procedures followed by IDFPR prosecutors, and we can help you reach a resolution to your case that minimizes any disciplinary sanctions to the fullest possible extent.
When applying for a dental license, an applicant may receive a Notice of Deficiency Checklist, or the IDFPR may request additional background information regarding criminal convictions or previous disciplinary actions. Our lawyers can provide a free consultation in which we will help you determine the best course of action when responding to these requests. Each situation is different; in some cases, you may be able to answer questions without our assistance, but in others, we can assist in creating an explanation letter that will address any concerns and demonstrate why your license application should be approved.
There are multiple statutes, rules, and regulations that affect dental license discipline cases, and it is crucial to work with an experienced lawyer who has a full understanding of these laws. We know how statutes such as the Illinois Dental Practice Act (225 ILCS 25, et. seq.) and the Illinois Controlled Substances Act (720 ILCS 570/100, et seq.) apply to these types of cases, and we understand the procedures defined in the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act (5 ILCS 100/1-1, et. seq.) and the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois (20 ILCS 2105/2105-1, et seq.).
When you work with Williams & Nickl, LLC, you can rest assured that you will have a knowledgeable and experienced legal advocate on your side who understands how to help you achieve the best results. When you are facing any type of issue that may affect your license, you should contact us immediately to discuss your options. We will provide you with a one-hour consultation at no cost to you, and during this meeting, we will review your case and explain your legal options. No matter how serious you feel your case is, we can provide you with a quality defense, and we are often able to help our clients resolve their issues without receiving any public discipline to their license. To arrange your complimentary consultation, call our office at 312-335-9470.
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