How Nurses Can Defend Against Criminal Charges That Threaten Their Licenses
For licensed professionals like nurses, any legal trouble can create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the courtroom. What happens during a criminal investigation or prosecution can directly impact your ability to work, provide for your family, and maintain your reputation.
That’s where professional license defense comes in. At the Law Office of Jill Turner, LLC, in Kansas City, Missouri, I’ve worked with many nurses who suddenly find themselves in a terrifying situation—facing criminal charges that could end their careers. In Missouri, a single arrest or conviction doesn’t just put your freedom at risk.
It can also trigger a review by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and lead to suspension or revocation of your license. My job is to protect your right to practice, even while you’re facing criminal allegations. Whether the charge involves drugs, assault, fraud, or anything in between, there are ways to respond strategically and defend both your license and your future.
Criminal Charges and License Risk in Missouri
Missouri law gives the State Board of Nursing broad authority to discipline nurses for conduct that suggests a threat to public safety or a lack of fitness to practice. That includes criminal behavior—even when it doesn’t directly involve a patient or occur in the workplace.
Some of the most common charges that put a nurse’s license at risk include:
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
Possession or use of controlled substances
Theft or fraud
Assault or domestic violence
Medication errors or patient abuse allegations that lead to criminal charges
Even if a charge is eventually dropped or reduced, the Board may still initiate disciplinary proceedings. This is why professional license defense matters so much. It’s not just about fighting the charge in court—it’s also about defending your livelihood before the Board.
Reporting Requirements and Disclosure
In Missouri, nurses are required to report criminal convictions and, in some cases, arrests to the Board of Nursing when they apply for licensure or renewal. Failure to report can itself lead to disciplinary action.
If a nurse is arrested or charged, it's important to consult with an attorney promptly. Legal counsel can provide guidance on when and how to disclose legal issues in a way that minimizes unnecessary harm.
In some situations, it may be advisable to wait for a resolution before notifying the Board, while in others, early disclosure demonstrates seriousness and good faith cooperation. Even if your case is resolved with a diversion or a suspended imposition of sentence (SIS), any admission or finding of guilt must be reported the the Board.
The Missouri Board also receives reports directly from law enforcement and court systems, so it should never be assumed that a charge will go unnoticed.
Building a Defense That Protects Your License
When handling a professional license defense case for a nurse, both the criminal matter and the license issue are carefully considered. Each requires a tailored strategy, but both should work together toward the same goal—avoiding conviction and maintaining the nurse’s license in good standing.
Several key principles guide this approach:
Every detail matters: What may seem like a minor incident can escalate into a major problem if left unaddressed.
Timing is critical: Early decisions—such as plea agreements, public statements, or delays in hiring counsel—can significantly impact the case’s outcome.
Being proactive is essential: Waiting for the Board to initiate contact is risky. In many cases, legal counsel will reach out to the Board first, submit supporting documentation, and work to resolve concerns before a formal hearing becomes necessary.
By integrating careful attention to detail, timely action, and proactive communication, this approach maximizes the chances of protecting both the nurse’s freedom and professional reputation.
How Criminal Cases Trigger License Reviews
The Missouri State Board of Nursing doesn’t need a conviction to take action. Under Missouri statutes and Board rules, any conduct deemed “unprofessional” or “detrimental to the welfare of the public” may be grounds for discipline.
Some nurses are surprised to learn that deferred judgments or suspended impositions of sentence (SIS) are still reportable to the Board. Even if a conviction isn't entered, the underlying conduct can be reviewed.
This is why professional license defense isn’t just about clearing your name in court. Even if you accept a plea deal or enter a diversion program, you may still have to explain your actions to the Board. That explanation needs to be carefully prepared, supported by evidence, and focused on rehabilitation and fitness to practice.
What the Board Looks for When Evaluating Nurses
When the Missouri State Board of Nursing investigates a nurse with a criminal record or pending charge, it considers a wide range of factors. Understanding these helps me and my professional license defense team to prepare effective defenses that address what truly matters to the Board.
Here’s what the Board tends to look for:
Nature and severity of the offense – Was it violent? Was a patient involved? Does it raise concerns about your judgment?
Time since the offense occurred – Older conduct may carry less weight, especially if there has been no repeat behavior.
Evidence of rehabilitation – Completion of treatment, counseling, or community service can help show your commitment to change.
Employment history – A strong record of safe practice may work in your favor.
Honesty during the process – Attempting to cover up past charges often creates more problems than the charge itself.
Impact on public trust – The Board has a duty to protect patients and uphold standards within the profession.
By focusing on these elements, your lawyer can build a case that shows the full picture—not just the incident, but your character, your growth, and your ongoing value as a nurse.
Administrative Hearings and Settlement Agreements
If the Board initiates formal disciplinary action, the process typically includes an investigation, a notice of complaint, and the opportunity for a hearing before an administrative law judge.
In Missouri, nurses have the right to legal representation at every stage of this process. Legal counsel may assist during informal conferences, settlement discussions, and full administrative hearings. In many cases, it's possible to negotiate a resolution that avoids license suspension or revocation altogether.
Possible outcomes include:
A sealed Letter of reprimand
A public reprimand with no restrictions on the license
Probation with terms such as drug testing or counseling
Voluntary participation in the Missouri Alternative Program for impaired professionals
Every outcome depends on the specific facts of the case, but early and thorough professional license defense often makes a significant difference in how the case concludes.
When You Must Report to Employers
Along with state reporting requirements, nurses often have contractual obligations to report legal issues to their employers. Hospitals, clinics, and nursing agencies may have policies requiring immediate disclosure of any arrest or criminal charge.
Legal counsel can assist nurses in determining when and how to inform employers, minimizing the risk of job loss while maintaining compliance. This may involve drafting a letter of explanation or attending meetings with human resources. The key is preparation and consistency—making sure that statements made to employers and the Board are aligned.
How to Prepare for the Road Ahead
When criminal charges threaten a nursing license, initial reactions may include fear, shame, or denial. These feelings are natural, but it's important to act quickly and begin building a defense. Decisive steps can protect careers even in difficult situations.
Key advice for nurses facing legal trouble includes:
Don't attempt to handle the situation alone.
Don't wait until after a conviction to seek legal help.
Don't assume the Board will be lenient due to past service.
Don't hide charges from your employer or the Board—they'll be discovered.
Actions taken in the first few weeks after an arrest can significantly influence the outcome when the Board reviews the case. A strong professional license defense requires careful planning, legal experience, and a clear presentation of the nurse’s value.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you're in need of a criminal defense lawyer, don't hesitate to reach out to the Law Office of Jill Turner, LLC. I’m proud to serve Kansas City, Missouri, and surrounding areas. Call today.