Yes, the Texas Board of Nursing may still issue or renew your license after a misdemeanor, depending on the details of your case.
If you want to be a nurse with a misdemeanor, you’ll need to prove that the issue won’t affect your ability to care for patients. That takes honesty, preparation, and a clear understanding of what the Board expects from every applicant.
A Texas nurse license defense lawyer helps you present the full story, clearly, legally, and with supporting facts. One mistake shouldn’t derail your entire future in healthcare.
How Misdemeanors Affect Nursing Licenses in Texas
Texas law requires full disclosure. The Board won’t disqualify you based solely on a misdemeanor, but they will ask tough questions. Your history must reflect good moral character, responsibility, and sound judgment, particularly in high-stakes, high-trust roles such as nursing.
A Texas medical license defense lawyer helps nurses prepare their disclosures and respond to questions from the Texas Board of Nursing. Every case involves different factors, such as the recency of the offense, whether you have followed court orders, and how your actions reflect on your fitness to practice in stressful or sensitive situations.
Some misdemeanors, like shoplifting or driving under the influence, raise more concern than others. However, honest disclosure and strong documentation can make a lasting impression, especially when paired with a clear record of the offense.
Declaring a Misdemeanor on Your Nursing Application
Every applicant must report all prior criminal offenses, including dismissed cases and those resolved through deferred adjudication. The Board views failure to report as a separate violation and often treats it more harshly than the underlying charge.
You will need to submit:
- Court documents and final outcomes
- A personal statement with context and reflection
- Proof of completed community service, treatment, or education
- Character references or professional letters of support
A Texas nurse license defense attorney helps you choose what to include, what to avoid, and how to make your application as strong as possible. Even minor omissions can result in delays, denials, or disciplinary actions.
When the Board Flags Your Misdemeanor—Now What?
The Texas Board of Nursing may issue a proposed order, request a hearing, or request additional information. You still have time to respond, but every word matters and every detail counts.
They will review:
- Whether your misdemeanor relates to honesty, safety, or violence
- How you’ve acted since the incident, including compliance with any court orders
- Whether you show genuine remorse and personal insight
- Whether your statement aligns with court records and supporting documents
You can challenge the BON’s conclusions and submit additional information. A strong, thoughtful response can shift the outcome and prove that you’ve taken full accountability.
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Can Employers Deny You for a Misdemeanor?
Yes. Employers can set their own standards. Some healthcare systems may deny applicants with convictions for theft, drug-related offenses, or assault, even if the Board issues a license.
Others may ask for additional explanation or limit your scope of duties. In sensitive units like pediatrics or psych, they often apply stricter rules. Some may offer conditional employment or require supervision at first.
A Texas nurse license defense attorney helps nurses prepare job application statements that explain past offenses without damaging their credibility. You’ll walk in with the facts and confidence to answer hard questions.
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Building Your Case for Licensure or Employment
You don’t need to erase the past. You need to show that it doesn’t define your future, your judgment, or the kind of nurse you’ve worked hard to become.
Here’s how you can strengthen your position:
- Gather letters from supervisors, mentors, and peers
- Stay current on continuing education and certifications
- Show consistent employment or volunteer service
- Highlight personal growth, sobriety, or counseling efforts
The Board wants evidence that you took the experience seriously—and that you understand your duty to patients, coworkers, and the profession.
What If Your Misdemeanor Was Dismissed or Expunged?
Many nurses believe a dismissed or sealed record no longer matters. That’s not always true in Texas.
The Board may still request an explanation. If the court order doesn’t fully expunge the offense, or if the charge ties into public safety, they may view it as relevant.
Ask a Texas nurse license defense attorney to review the paperwork and check your disclosure requirements. They will ensure your application remains accurate, complete, and defensible.
When to Contact a Texas Nurse License Defense Attorney
You don’t need to wait for a denial letter or disciplinary hearing. Smart nurses ask for help early, especially when:
- A recent arrest or charge leaves questions unanswered
- The Board requests an informal conference or SOAH hearing
- You’re unsure how to describe the incident
- You feel overwhelmed or unsure how to respond
Some nurses act too late because they assume the issue will resolve on its own. It doesn’t. Early action gives you more options and better results.
Keeping Your Record Clean as a Working Nurse
Once you receive your license, your duty doesn’t end. You must continue to report certain types of criminal activity, including misdemeanors, to the Board.
That includes:
- Alcohol-related arrests
- Assault or family violence charges
- Drug possession or diversion
- Theft-related incidents
Avoid repeat offenses, even minor ones. Repeated conduct may signal a pattern of poor judgment, and that concerns both the Board and your employer. One new charge may trigger a full investigation of your entire record.
One Mistake Doesn’t Define Your Future
You became a nurse because you care. That doesn’t change because of one mistake. A misdemeanor may complicate things, but it doesn’t erase your commitment, your training, or your future.
Whether you’re dealing with an old charge or a recent one, you can still move forward. Many nurses navigate these challenges with the right support, a solid plan, and honest representation. It’s not easy, but it’s possible.
Contact Bertolino LLP to work with Texas nurse license defense lawyers backed by over 20 years of experience helping nurses protect their licenses and move forward. To schedule your consultation, please contact our Client Success Liaison today.
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