What Can Lead to License Discipline for Social Workers?

 Posted on November 19, 2024 in Psychologist/ Social Worker License Defense

Social workers often work intense jobs that require them to operate in tense situations with a variety of people. Cases can be volatile and place the participants under emotional strain. This can sometimes lead to mistakes and errors that put a social worker at professional risk. Certain behaviors can jeopardize a social worker’s license by resulting in professional discipline. Whether you are facing allegations that threaten your license or you want to know how best to avoid such a scenario, speak with an experienced Illinois professional license defense attorney.

What Behaviors Can Lead to License Discipline for Social Workers in Illinois?

Here are some common cases that can cause disciplinary action by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) against a social worker:

• Breach of confidentiality: Laws about patient privacy and confidentiality are strict, and a social worker who violates them may be accused of HIPPA violations. Breaches of client confidentiality sometimes happen inadvertently and a professional may not realize he or she is disclosing client data. Nevertheless, it can trigger not only license discipline but even criminal charges.

• Failure to report abuse: Social workers are bound by law to report certain cases to law enforcement. These might include instances of abuse, neglect, or someone who is a threat to public safety Failure to report such cases can be a serious violation that can lead to disciplinary action.

• Unprofessional conduct: Social workers are held to high professional and ethical standards. If a social worker does not meet those standards, it can pose a threat to his or her license to practice. Sexual misconduct, disrespectful behavior, and inappropriate language are all examples of conduct that can trigger an investigation.

• Poor record-keeping: Keeping adequate records is an essential part of social work. Failing to properly document cases can cause major issues for clients and other involved professionals, which can translate to discipline against the license.

• Boundary violations and relationship issues: Social workers are required to remain objective and avoid conflicts of interest. Forming outside relationships with clients — such as sexual or business connections — can be seen as a breach of the ethics code. The same can be said about working with clients who already have an existing relationship with the social worker, whether romantic, familial, or financial.

What Disciplinary Actions Can the IDFPR Take Against a Social Worker?

If professional allegations are made against a social worker, the IDFPR’s Illinois Social Work Examining and Disciplinary Board may launch an investigation. Following that investigation, the board will deliberate what disciplinary action, if any, to take. This may include:

• Reprimand: This is a formal warning that becomes public record.

• Probation: The social worker may practice but only under certain conditions and restrictions.

• Suspension: The social worker is forbidden from practicing for a specific period of time.

• Revocation: The license is revoked and the social worker may no longer practice.

Contact an Illinois Social Worker License Defense Attorney

The best way to defend yourself against professional allegations is to hire a qualified Illinois social worker license defense lawyer. At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc., we have many years of experience defending professionals against disciplinary action and we are ready to provide you with hands-on, personalized legal services. Schedule a free consultation by calling 630-310-1267 now.