Can a DUI or Criminal Charge Affect My Healthcare License in Illinois?

 Posted on September 04, 2025 in Professional License Defense

Healthcare professionals in Illinois work hard to earn and maintain their licenses. Whether you are a nurse, pharmacist, physician, or another licensed provider, your career depends on your ability to stay in good standing with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). What many professionals do not realize is that a DUI or other criminal charge can put your license at risk, even if it happens outside of work.

With over 20 years of legal experience and as a registered pharmacist himself, our Illinois professional license defense lawyer Jay Bogdan understands both the professional and personal impact of these situations. If you are a healthcare practitioner facing criminal charges, before you talk to investigators from IDFPR or the state prosecution’s office, meet with our team. 

How Do Criminal Charges Start an IDFPR Review?

When a healthcare worker is arrested or charged with a crime such as DUI, drug possession, or battery, the IDFPR may view the conduct as evidence that the individual is unfit to practice safely. In many cases, the agency learns of the charges through background checks, mandatory reporting, or public court records.

Once IDFPR is aware of the situation, the agency may open an investigation into whether your conduct violates the Illinois Medical Practice Act, Nurse Practice Act, Pharmacy Practice Act, or other relevant laws. The focus is not just on whether you were convicted, but whether your actions suggest unprofessional or unsafe behavior.

Can a DUI Lead to Suspension or Revocation of My Medical License?

A single DUI charge does not automatically mean you will lose your healthcare license, but it can have serious consequences. The outcome often depends on factors such as:

• Whether the incident was a first offense or repeat occurrence

• If alcohol or substance abuse is suspected to affect your ability to practice

• Whether a conviction results from the charge

• Your level of cooperation and response to the IDFPR inquiry

Possible disciplinary actions include probation, mandatory treatment programs, fines, suspension, or even permanent revocation. For professionals in safety-sensitive positions, such as pharmacists, nurses, and anesthesiologists, the board may be especially strict.

Do Physicians Charged with a DUI Need Both a Criminal Defense Lawyer and a License Defense Attorney?

A criminal defense lawyer focuses on protecting your freedom and record in court. A professional license defense attorney focuses on protecting your career before the IDFPR. While the two areas overlap, they require different strategies.

For example, pleading guilty to a reduced charge may seem like a good outcome in criminal court. But that same plea could give the IDFPR grounds to take disciplinary action against your license. An attorney who understands both healthcare law and professional discipline can help you navigate these issues in a way that minimizes damage on both fronts.

If you are a healthcare professional facing criminal charges, our experienced Illinois license defense attorney will represent you during IDFPR investigations and hearings and talk to investigators and licensing boards on your behalf. This will help you avoid mistakes that could trip you up and make your problem more serious. 

Once we have a full understanding of the scope of the situation, our team will build a defense that shows you remain capable of practicing safely and negotiate for alternatives to suspension or revocation, such as treatment or monitoring agreements.

Whatever the situation calls for, you can trust in our experience, discretion, and professionalism. The earlier you involve us, the better your chances of protecting your career and reputation.

Call an Illinois Professional License Defense Attorney Today

A criminal charge like DUI does not have to end your career, but ignoring the impact on your professional license is a bad idea. With over two decades of legal experience and firsthand knowledge as a registered pharmacist, The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc. provides skilled, dedicated representation for healthcare professionals throughout Illinois.

For a free consultation, call our Chicago professional license defense lawyer at 630-310-1267 today.