Nurses, if you know a complaint has been filed against you with the Board of Nursing, the first step is to take a deep breath. Before you respond the complaint by submitting a statement or agree to meet with Board of Nursing investigators immediately, consider your options:
1. You have professional liabililty insurance. Contact your insurance company to determine if your policy has a licensure defense protection benefit. If so, the insurance company will reimburse or pay the legal fees and costs associated with defending your license before the Board. CONTACT your insurer immediately even if you decide not to retain an attorney.
2. You don't have professional liability insurance or your professional liability insurance does not have a licensure defense protection benefit. Are you planning to proceed pro se (represent, counsel, and advise yourself) before the Board or are you planning to retain an attorney?
If you plan to proceed pro se, consider at least consulting with an attorney in your state who handles nursing licensure matters. If you can't afford to retain an attorney, ask the attorney if he or she is willing to review documents you submit to the Board for a flat fee.
In summary knowing your options allows you to make an informed decision.
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