You Received a Notice of Violation or Complaint, Now What?
Responding to a license board disciplinary complaint requires careful attention to detail, as it can significantly impact your professional license and career. Here are the steps you should follow to address the complaint effectively:
- Review the Complaint Thoroughly: Read the complaint carefully to understand the specific allegations against you. Note the deadline for your response and any other important dates.
- Gather Relevant Documents and Evidence: Collect all documents, records, and evidence that relate to the complaint. This may include emails, contracts, logs, witness statements, and any other relevant materials. Organize this information chronologically and categorically to support your defense.
- Understand the Regulations and Laws: Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the laws, regulations, and professional standards that govern your profession and are relevant to the complaint. License board violations are heavily rule based. You must consult the North Carolina General Statutes and the North Carolina Administrative Code.
- Consult an Attorney: If possible, seek advice from an attorney who specializes in professional license defense. An attorney can provide invaluable guidance on how to respond, help draft your response, and represent you in any proceedings. An attorney is familiar with the rules and regulations a licensee will be expected to know, including the procedures that govern board disciplinary actions and the licensee’s rights to appeal.
- Draft Your Response:
- Introduction: Acknowledge receipt of the complaint and briefly state your intention to cooperate fully with the investigation.
- Factual Background: Provide a clear and concise account of the relevant facts from your perspective. Include dates, events, and other pertinent details. It is important to disclose all facts, good and bad.
- Response to Allegations: Address each allegation specifically. Present your evidence and arguments that counter the claims made in the complaint, and present your evidence of mitigation.
- Conclusion: Summarize your key points and reiterate your commitment to professional standards and compliance with regulations.
- Submit Your Response: Ensure that your response is submitted by the deadline specified in the complaint notice. Follow the submission guidelines provided by the licensing board (e.g., method of submission, format requirements).
Each response to a disciplinary complaint or notice of violation is unique. Certain allegations warrant different strategies. Contact an attorney experienced in representing clients before professional licensing boards to discuss your case and to develop an effective strategy to defend your license.
