Why Pharmacists Need a Maryland Employment Attorney When Facing Disciplinary Action

Pharmacists can unexpectedly find themselves facing disciplinary action from the Maryland Board of Pharmacy for a wide variety of reasons. When this happens, many pharmacists make two crucial mistakes: 

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. They don’t take the complaint seriously; and
            2. They decide to defend themselves in the disciplinary proceedings. 

Even a minor disciplinary issue can tarnish your reputation and jeopardize your license. If you are a pharmacist who is facing disciplinary action, the best thing you can do is contact a Maryland employment attorney with experience in responding to and resolving licensing issues. 

You Could Be Facing Very Serious Consequences

When pharmacists receive ethical complaints, it’s not uncommon that they get so focused on responding to the complaint that they overlook what may happen at the end of the process. If the Board of Pharmacy finds that you violated the ethical rules or legal obligations that govern your profession, you could face the following penalties: 

• Probation for up to 5 years
• Monetary sanctions from $250 to $10,000
• Suspension of your license from 30 days to 5 years
• Permanent revocation of your license

Even if the penalty imposed is limited to probation or a small monetary sanction, it is important to remember that disciplinary proceedings are a matter of public record. As a result, any adverse outcome could damage your reputation and limit your future employment opportunities. If you are facing disciplinary action, we, therefore, recommend that you at least speak with a Maryland employment attorney about your case. 

The Board is Not on Your Side

The Board of Pharmacy is charged with protecting the reputation of the pharmacy profession and its members. They therefore aggressively pursue ethical complaints and take firm action when violations are found. Similar to a criminal investigation, anything you can say or do may be used against you. Even a casual comment to the wrong person or at the wrong time can jeopardize your career. 

A Maryland employment attorney can serve as a filter between you and the Board during the investigation period. They can assist you in making sure you fully cooperate without potentially saying or doing the wrong thing. They can be present during any interviews with investigators, and they can review any documents or records before you turn them over. In short, your lawyer can protect you from aggressive and possibly unfair tactics that can make it difficult to avoid an adverse outcome. 

You Should Have Counsel Present at the Hearing

If the investigation determines that a violation possibly did occur, the matter will eventually be set for a hearing before the Board. While the hearing isn’t exactly a trial, you should approach it with the same mindset. You will have the opportunity to submit evidence, testify, call witnesses, and cross-examine any witnesses testifying against you. A Maryland employment attorney can provide invaluable assistance at this stage – assistance that could spell the difference between a favorable outcome and harsh consequences. 

Contact Maryland Employment Attorney J.W. Stafford for Help

Don’t risk your career by underestimating the gravity of the proceedings you are facing. Protect your reputation and your livelihood by contacting Maryland Employment attorney Jay Stafford to discuss your case and how he can help. Call us today at 410-514-6099 to schedule an appointment.