Dentists, like other medical professionals, are at risk for having medical malpractice claims filed against them. They may also be required to be reviewed by the dental board if they are believed to have engaged in certain violations. Whether it is a medical malpractice claim or a letter from the dental board, both are equally frustrating and can make a dentist feel quite uneasy and uncertain. Knowing that either of these could jeopardize your ability to continue to practice or have a lasting negative impact on your dental business is less than ideal.
If you have received a letter from the California dental board, that does not always guarantee that discipline will follow. The issue could be a minor one or one that is deemed to be much more serious. The best thing to do is stay calm and connect with a Los Angeles dental board defense attorney. Your attorney will at the very least be able to prepare you for appearing before the board while supporting you throughout your hearing. In the best cases, your attorney may be able to be an active participant in your hearing.
Should I Respond to a Letter from the Dental Board?
It can be pretty alarming to receive a letter from the dental board in your mail but yes, some response is most likely necessary. Of course, if you have experienced legal counsel on your side, you will have effective and sound support to guide you on exactly how to proceed. Your attorney can inform you of the most advantageous actions to take, or in some situations, your attorney will be able to act on your behalf and respond to the letter.
All in all, sometimes just a comprehensive response to a letter will suffice. If your attorney gives reasons and an accurate description of what happened in a certain circumstance, this may be good enough.
There are times when the letter specifically requests that you attend a hearing. While you may feel annoyed at having to take the time and expense to do so, brushing off these petitions by the board could come with considerable repercussions. Your attorney will be able to advise you on what steps are necessary to take. The first thing is to submit the required documentation supporting your position.
After the board reviews your documents, they will have a better understanding of the issue in question. The board will then decide if punishments should take place or that the case be dismissed. Meeting with the California dental board is not always a bad thing especially if it means confirming that you will not be disciplined. But sometimes, it could be to gather more information, and what you say will have a direct impact on the outcome of your case. This is where your attorney becomes so valuable because it will be the coaching and preparatory work your attorney will do with you that will help you navigate your meeting with the dental board.
Speak with a Los Angeles Dental Board Defense Attorney Today
A lawyer can help you through the process of appearing before the dental board. The good news is that most cases do not result in harsh punishments but there are situations that could. Meeting in person with the board is a proper response to a letter for many reasons. Doing so with a Los Angeles business litigation attorney’s assistance can make a big difference. The best thing that can happen is that no case is opened, but if the issue is not handled properly there is the risk of a loss of license and other serious ramifications. Call the Los Angeles dental board defense lawyers at Leiva Law today to learn more at (818) 519-4465.