Texas Attorneys Providing Optometry License Defense
Texas licensed optometrists are given the charge of determining contact lens and glasses prescriptions, performing corrective laser surgery, and even working with patients through troubling and painful eye diseases. It is the responsibility of the Texas Optometry Board, through powers granted by state legislation such as the Texas Optometry Act, to make sure that all licensed, practicing optometrists in Texas are engaged in professional conduct at all times. If a complaint has been filed against you and your work is in jeopardy, you need to seek an attorney immediately to guide you through the process.
Once a complaint is filed about an optometrist, usually by a patient, the Executive Director and the Investigation-Enforcement Committee of the Texas Optometry Board will decide if the complaint falls within the legal authority of the Board. Legitimate complaints may include incompetent practice, inappropriate prescribing of medicine, criminal behavior, or drug or alcohol abuse. Personality conflicts between an optometrist and a patient are not going to be addressed by the Board. Ultimately, the optometry boards are responsible for protecting the best interest of the public in Texas.
The Disciplinary Process
If the complaint does fall under the jurisdiction of the Texas Optometry Board, an investigation will begin. When the Optometry Act is found to be violated, the Investigation-Enforcement Committee will determine an appropriate penalty. The sanction can range from a harsh letter to a suspension of your license to a termination of your practice in the state of Texas. As the optometrist whose professional future is in question, you have the right to approve of the Board's decision or request a formal hearing. If you decide on the latter option, you will find yourself in front of an administrative law judge who will review the facts of your case. of course, you will need an experienced optometry boards attorney by your side.
Texas state law gives you the right to an attorney from the moment that you become aware that a complaint has been filed against you. You want to have an administrative law attorney on your side who will know the questions to ask, the witnesses to call, and the laws that must be followed. With Austin offices in close proximity to the Texas Optometry Board, the lawyers at Bertolino LLP are experienced in board defense and ready to help you.
Contact a Texas Optometry Boards Lawyer at Bertolino LLP
If a state licensing board is conducting an investigation and your optometry license is on the line, our lawyers can help. Contact us by e-mail or call one of our offices. Call 512.476.5757 to reach our Austin office. In San Antonio, call 210.223.5553. To reach our Houston office, call 713.225.7474.
