Professional & Health Licensing Jennifer Speas

Defends Professionals and Health Licensed Individuals

Investigations | Conferences | Hearings | Judicial Reviews

Most states license Health Care and other professionals. Minnesota is no exception. When a client or patient files a compliant with a licensing board, they take action. This action might be limited to sending the licensee a letter requesting an explanation or it could escalate to a judicial review.

Since your state license is necessary for you to continue your profession, it is imperative that any compliant against you be handled quickly and professionally. If your explanation to the licensing board doesn’t settle the issue, then you will most likely need legal advice as to how to proceed.

At this stage, it is imperative that you consult with an attorney who is experienced in dealing with licensing issues and the various licensing boards. Jennifer Speas has the skills and knowledge necessary for dealing with these issues.

The licensing boards are generally comprised of members of the profession and members of the public. The governor appoints them. The boards have the authority to investigate complaints filed against licensees. There is due process for license holders and applicants and the Board’s decisions are subject to appeal in certain circumstances.

Of all the complaints to the Board of Medical Practice, some 10 to 15% are investigated by the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office. Once the Attorney General’s Office has the case, one of the following will happen:

• The case could be dismissed and closed
• The case could be sent to a medical coordinator for a conference
• The case could be sent to the Board for a Conference
• The case could be scheduled for a contested court hearing (these are rare)

An Administrative Law Judge will hear the case and then make a recommendation to the Board. Your right to appeal this decision is limited. Depending on the type of case, some aspects of the matter can be confidential while others are subject to mandatory reporting. Drug and alcohol problems are eligible for voluntary assistance from the Health Professionals Services Program (HPSP). This is a confidential diversionary program. Your attorney will be able to advise you about confidentiality issues.

In licensing board matters, attorneys play an important, cost effective, and helpful role. Your attorney will help you prepare for any appearances you are required to make in front of the board. If the issue reaches the Conference level, your attorney will help you to prepare for questioning and make an introductory statement. Your attorney will assist you in clarifying the issues and preparing your response. When you appear before the Board, you will understand the process. Your attorney will assist you in brokering the best possible resolution to the matter. Your malpractice insurance will cover your legal fees.

The Board of Medical Practice governs Physician Assistants, Acupuncture Practitioners, and Respiratory Therapists. Also licensed are Athletic Trainers, Chiropractors, Dieticians and Nutritionists, Midwives, Nurses, Optometrists, Physical Therapists, Psychologists, and Social Workers under Minnesota laws relating to medical and public health occupations.

Many other occupations are also subject to state licensing procedures.

• Accountants
• Architects
• Attorneys
• Barbers
• Cosmetologists
• Dentists
• Engineers
• Podiatrists
• Pharmacists
• Pilots
• Pipe fitters
• Plumbers
• Private Detectives
• Security Guards
• Teachers
• Veterinarians

Jennifer Speas has experience in representing members of these various professions before their respective boards.