Illinois Doctors Arrested for DUI Must Also Defend Their Medical Licenses

 Posted on November 15, 2021 in Medical License Defense

The winter holiday season is usually made up of get-togethers with family and friends, holiday work parties, and other celebrations. There is often alcohol involved in many of these gatherings and sometimes people can over imbibe. When an intoxicated individual gets behind the wheel, they may face charges for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI). The consequences of a DUI conviction in Illinois can have a significant impact on anyone’s life, but if you are a doctor, a DUI conviction can also have an impact on your medical license and professional reputation.

DUI Penalties for Conviction

Anyone who is arrested for DUI in Illinois must face both the criminal justice system and the Secretary of State’s office in an administrative hearing. A person who refuses to submit to a chemical test faces an automatic loss of driving privileges under the Illinois implied consent laws. Failure of chemical testing also can result in automatic loss of license.

If a person is found guilty in the criminal process, they face a minimum revocation of driving privileges for one year for their first offense, five years for a second offense, 10 years for a third offense, and a lifetime revocation for a fourth or subsequent conviction. There may also be jail time and hefty fines imposed.

DUI Consequences for Medical License Holders

If a doctor or other medical professional is arrested and convicted for DUI, in addition to the above penalties, they also face loss of their medical license. The Illinois Medical Board takes drunk driving arrests and convictions very seriously, especially if the medical professional is on their second or subsequent offense, which could indicate an alcohol abuse issue. While a conviction will not necessarily mean the end of a doctor’s career, there should be an expectation of some punishment from the board, such as required participation in an alcohol treatment program.

If you are arrested on a DUI, it is critical to report the arrest to the Medical Board right away. Failure to report the arrest could result in revocation of your medical license, regardless of the outcome of the criminal charges against you. Once the board receives your notice, they will conduct an investigation and determine what – if any – action should be taken against you.

Contact an Illinois License Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been charged with a DUI, do not delay in contacting an Illinois medical license defense attorney immediately. Your attorney can help prepare your statement to the board, as well as navigate you through any investigation and hearings. It is important to realize that this action is separate from the actual DUI charges you face in criminal court, however, the consequences can be just as dire to your future. Call The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc. at 630-310-1267 to schedule your free consultation.

Source:

https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf