NEW JERSEY CRIMINAL LAWYERS

New Jersey dental license defense lawyers

Dental Professionals Under Investigation by the New Jersey Medical Board: What You Need to Know

Dental professionals in New Jersey hold an important position of trust as they are responsible for maintaining the oral health and well-being of their patients. To be able to work in the dental field, both dentists and dental hygienists must complete a specific level of education and obtain a state license that allows them to practice dentistry within the state. This licensing process includes taking an oath to provide safe care, maintain ethical behavior, and comply with laws both in and outside of the dental office.

While most dental professionals adhere to these strict expectations, there are instances when formal complaints are lodged against them by patients or their families, employees, or vendors. When this happens, an investigation is initiated by the New Jersey Medical Board to determine whether any legal or ethical boundaries have been violated.

Complaints against dental professionals typically fall into one or more of the following categories:

– Sexual misconduct
– Substance abuse
– Insurance fraud
– Malpractice
– Criminal conviction
– Professional misconduct

Upon receipt of a complaint against a dental professional in New Jersey, an investigation is conducted. However, just because a complaint is filed does not necessarily mean it will result in discipline for the accused individual. In fact, many complaints are dismissed when they do not violate any legal or ethical standards.

If a complaint is deemed significant enough to warrant further investigation, a notice is sent by the Medical Board informing the dental professional about its nature and what may lie ahead. An attorney should be consulted immediately upon receiving such notification since a board determination that wrongdoing has occurred could lead to suspension of one’s professional license pending outcome of investigations.

The investigative process can be lengthy and stressful for all involved parties; therefore it pays to have an experienced attorney on your side representing you retrospectively as well as proactively throughout this complicated journey.

Potential disciplinary actions that may be taken against those found guilty of violating legal or ethical standards can include monetary fines, prison time, or loss of professional licenses in extreme cases. Insurance fraud, for example, carries both state and federal legal implications that could result in years-long prison sentences and hefty fines levied against the individual or dental practice.

On the other hand, some formal complaints are settled before any disciplinary action is imposed. Should patients seek financial compensation rather than pursue invoking legal action against the dental office, they might accept a settlement offer that addresses their concerns.

The table below provides an overview of potential disciplinary actions for different types of offenses committed by dental professionals:

| Discipline | Type of Offense |
| — | — |
| Fines | May begin at $10,000 per count and exceed $500,000 total |
| Prison Time | Can range from five years’ minimum to life imprisonment depending on type/number of offenses |
| Restitution Payments | This includes money stolen from insurance providers as well as reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses patients incurred |

It’s important to work with professional licensure attorneys who know how the law works to protect your interests while representing you during investigations before New Jersey Medical Board disciplinary panels if dentists are under investigation. These attorneys should have detailed knowledge not only of the nuances involving statutory requirements but also with ethical conduct standards accepted throughout the profession. Rest assured knowing that you will receive the highest level of representation when working with such attorneys who have years of experience working specifically with dental professionals facing litigation or licensing issues.