Nursing school is notoriously challenging to make it through — so you worked very hard for your degree.
Unfortunately, a conviction for almost any criminal offense may put your license on the line faster than you may realize. Whether you have your license already or are still seeking it, there are a few important things you need to know.
The licensing board will know if you have a criminal record
Many assume that they can brush a run-in with the law under the proverbial carpet, but that’s often not possible when you seek a professional license, though. This regulatory board often performs background checks on its applicants. While a criminal conviction on your permanent record may not disqualify you from obtaining a license, it may result in the flagging of your file.
The licensing board may end up reaching out to you to ask you additional probing questions about your conviction before approving your request for a license. It’s highly likely that this will happen if a judge or jury previously convicted of abusing someone or you have a conviction for a crime of moral turpitude, such as fraud, on your record. The licensing board may also flag your application if you disclose previously dealing with substance abuse issues.
Even if you already have your license, you can’t hide a conviction
Most licensing boards require license holders to report any criminal offenses to them. License holders may face immediate disciplinary action upon notification, depending on the crime involved. You may have your license revoked. They may also permanently ban you from practicing your profession here in California.
Keeping your nursing license after a criminal conviction requires help
Your nursing license is important, so don’t let all your hard work to be for nothing. An attorney can defend you as you interact with the licensing board here in Sacramento so that you have the best chances of success.
