A misdemeanor charge can be unsettling for anyone, but for nurses in Michigan, the consequences go beyond legal penalties. Even a single misdemeanor can potentially impact your nursing license and put your career in jeopardy. If you’re facing this situation, understanding how the Michigan Board of Nursing handles misdemeanor charges is critical to your defense.
At Callahan Law Firm, we are dedicated to defending healthcare professionals to secure the best possible outcome for our clients. With years of experience providing guidance to our clients, we will work to ensure a minimal impact for your career.
What Is a Misdemeanor in Michigan?
In Michigan, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less serious than a felony but more serious than a civil infraction. Misdemeanors are typically punishable by up to one year in jail, fines, probation, or a combination of these penalties. However, the implications of a misdemeanor extend beyond courtrooms for licensed professionals.
There are three classes of misdemeanors in Michigan:
- 93-day misdemeanors: Punishable by up to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine
- One-year misdemeanors: Punishable by up to a year in jail and typically carries a $1000 fine
- High-court misdemeanors: Punishable by up to two years in jail and up to a $2000 fine
Each type can trigger disciplinary review by the Michigan Board of Nursing, depending on the nature of the offense and whether it relates to moral turpitude, patient safety, or the nurse’s ability to practice safely and ethically.
How a Misdemeanor Can Affect a Nursing License
Even if a misdemeanor seems minor, it can carry serious professional consequences. Nurses in Michigan are licensed through the Michigan Board of Nursing, which oversees the conduct, discipline, and licensure of nurses across the state. The right legal help is necessary to minimize the penalties the Board is capable of administering to those licensed.
Michigan Board of Nursing and License Oversight
The Michigan Board of Nursing is part of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Its mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public by ensuring that nurses meet appropriate professional standards.
If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, the Board may open an investigation to determine whether disciplinary action is warranted. You may be required to disclose the charge on license renewal applications or when applying for initial licensure. Failure to report a conviction can itself lead to penalties.
Disciplinary Actions for Misdemeanor Charges
The Board is capable of assessing a number of penalties to those who have been charged and convicted with a misdemeanour. Disciplinary measures from the Board may include:
- Fines
- Probation
- License suspension
- License revocation
- Mandated education or treatment programs
The severity of the disciplinary action often depends on the type of misdemeanor, whether it involved patient harm, and if it's part of a pattern of behavior. By challenging the severity of the Board’s penalties without legal help, you run a greater risk of more severe penalties that will negatively impact your life and career.
Common Misdemeanors That May Impact Michigan Nurses
Not all misdemeanors are treated equally by the Board. Offenses that suggest impaired judgment, dishonesty, or endangerment of others tend to trigger the strongest responses and are among the more common reasons a license could be revoked.
OWI/DUI (Operating While Intoxicated)
One of the most common misdemeanors affecting nurses is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. A DUI conviction raises red flags about a nurse’s ability to make sound decisions and maintain patient safety. The Board may require substance abuse assessments, monitoring, or even suspend your license pending treatment.
Drug-Related Misdemeanors
Charges such as possession of controlled substances or paraphernalia are taken seriously. Drug-related charges suggest a potential substance abuse issue that could compromise the safe practice of nursing. Even off-duty drug offenses can lead to license scrutiny. Medical professionals are in constant contact with powerful medicines everyday, and the board places a heavy emphasis on ensuring individuals can be trusted around such substances.
Theft, Fraud, or Financial Crimes
Crimes involving dishonesty, like shoplifting, check fraud, or identity theft, may cast doubt on a nurse’s integrity and ethical standards. The Board evaluates whether such behavior could affect patient trust or the security of medical information.
Assault or Disorderly Conduct
Violent or aggressive behavior, even outside of the workplace, can lead the Board to question whether a nurse can safely and professionally interact with patients and colleagues. Misdemeanors involving threats or physical altercations are particularly concerning.
What Happens After a Misdemeanor Charge in Michigan?
After being charged or convicted of a misdemeanor, you may receive communication from the Board asking for information about the incident. In most cases, they will begin a formal investigation to determine the impact such charges will have on your license renewal. You will likely have to submit documentation such as:
- Court records
- Police reports
- Proof of completed sentencing requirements
The Board evaluates each case individually, considering the context, your history, and any steps taken toward rehabilitation. They may request an interview or hearing before issuing a disciplinary decision.
It’s important to secure a licensing defense attorney before then. They will help you respond honestly and thoroughly but with a strong defense that could save your career.
Protecting Your Nursing License After a Misdemeanor
If you’ve been charged with or convicted of a misdemeanor, there are steps you can take to protect your nursing license:
- Consult with a Callahan Law Firm licensing defense attorney immediately
- Gather all relevant documentation
- Be proactive and transparent with the Board
- Demonstrate rehabilitation or treatment if applicable
- Comply with all requests and deadlines
Don’t wait until the Board contacts you. Contact Callahan Law Firm so we can help you make the right choices to minimize any potential penalties or fines that may be inflicted by the Board.
When to Contact a Nursing License Defense Attorney in Michigan
Facing a misdemeanor charge as a nurse in Michigan can be a harrowing experience to go through alone. Your career, reputation, and livelihood are on the line, and it's up to you to act fast to get the professional legal help you need.
At Callahan Law Firm, we focus on helping licensed professionals navigate the complex intersection of criminal allegations and professional licensing. We understand how the Michigan Board of Nursing evaluates misdemeanor cases, and we know what it takes to present a strong, strategic defense. From preparing documentation and guiding you through Board inquiries to representing you at hearings, we provide comprehensive legal support tailored to your situation.
A misdemeanor does not have to end your nursing career. The way you respond can make all the difference. Whether you're in nursing school, facing charges, or dealing with a recent conviction, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
Contact us at (312) 209-9394 to schedule a free confidential consultation and get the guidance you need to protect your license and your future.
Your career is worth defending. Let us help you do it right.
