Understanding the Criminal Justice System
In many cases, a person who holds a professional license and is convicted of a crime in Indiana won’t necessarily lose their license as a result of the conviction. In fact, Indiana law provides that someone who holds a professional license won’t automatically have their license refused, revoked, or suspended because of the conviction – though the circumstance of the conviction can be “considered” when the licensing body determines whether to allow the person to have or keep their license.
There are exceptions to this provision, however. When a doctor or other licensed professional is convicted of certain crimes, their license can be revoked (or refused if they’re applying for it) because of their conviction. Among the list of serious crimes that can cause a doctor to lose their professional license are Sex Crimes, as defined by Indiana law.
The revocation or denial of the license isn’t automatic, even if the doctor is convicted of a sex crime. Indiana law only states that the licensing body “may suspend, deny, or revoke a license” if the doctor is convicted of certain serious crimes and the licensing body “determines, after the person has appeared in person, that the offense affects the individual’s ability to perform the duties of the profession.”
There is an extensive list of sex crimes that can result in a doctor losing their license. These include rape, sexual battery, and various sexual offenses involving children. Most are felonies, but some can be misdemeanors.
If you’re a doctor who has been accused of a sex crime in Indiana, you know your future is in jeopardy in more ways than one. A conviction can mean a prison sentence and, as explained here, the loss of your license to practice medicine. Your conviction does not have to be a felony sex crime for you to lose your license. For example, a conviction of inappropriate communication with a child, a Class B misdemeanor, is still considered a sex crime that can lead to the loss of your medical license.
When you’re facing sex crime charges, you need the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the laws, rules, and procedures that govern criminal cases in Indiana. You also need help protecting your professional license from the consequences of any plea bargain or guilty verdict that may result.
At Razumich & Associates, we have the experience you need when the stakes are so high. We’ve defended clients against serious criminal charges of all types, including sex crimes, in courts across Indiana. We’re ready to fight for your rights and to defend you against charges that could ruin your personal and professional lives.
Call us today at 317-983-5333 or use our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys. Tell us about your case, and let us tell you how we can help.
