New York City Psychologist Defense Lawyers

Psychologists are amongst the most trusted medical professionals, as a person’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. When a psychologist makes a mistake or blatantly ignores appropriate moral conduct, his or her patients may be left in the dark. It is not easy for patients who trust their medical professionals so much to start over with a new doctor, which may have to happen if their psychologist gets investigated by the Office of Professional Discipline. When a medical professional is investigated by the Office of Professional Discipline, their career is in jeopardy. If the claims are found to be accurate, the psychologist may have their license suspended or revoked altogether. These claims can be very severe and can end a once very successful career. For this reason, you should strongly consider speaking with our team of seasoned New York City psychologist defense lawyers today.

Common Accusations Made Against Psychologists

Psychologists face a wide range of allegations that can threaten both their professional reputation and their ability to practice. Many of these accusations stem from sensitive interactions with patients, administrative oversights, or misunderstandings that quickly escalate into formal complaints. Some of the most common accusations include:

• Boundary Violations: This can range from claims of inappropriate sexual relationships to allegations of overstepping professional roles with patients or their families. Even the appearance of a boundary issue can lead to serious scrutiny.
• Improper Recordkeeping: Psychologists are required to maintain accurate treatment notes and documentation. Allegations of falsifying records, losing patient files, or failing to adequately document treatment can lead to OPD investigations.
• Substance Abuse Concerns: Accusations that a psychologist practices while impaired by drugs or alcohol are taken extremely seriously, as they call into question both judgment and patient safety.
• Financial and Billing Disputes: Claims of fraudulent billing, overcharging, or lack of proper insurance coverage are common grounds for complaint and can be treated as ethical or legal violations.
• Failure to Maintain Confidentiality: Psychologists are entrusted with highly sensitive information. Allegations of disclosing patient information without consent can be devastating to one’s career.
• Negligence or Incompetence in Treatment: Patients may allege that a psychologist failed to provide appropriate care, misdiagnosed a condition, or otherwise acted in a way that caused harm.

How Walker Medical Law Can Defend You

When your career is at stake, you need an attorney who not only understands the law but also the unique challenges psychologists face in New York State. At Walker Medical Law, we take a strategic and comprehensive approach to defending psychologists before the Office of Professional Discipline. Our defense includes:

• Thorough Case Evaluation: We begin by carefully reviewing the OPD’s allegations, the evidence presented, and your professional history. Understanding the full scope of the accusations allows us to craft a tailored defense strategy.
• Protecting Your Rights During Investigation: The OPD process can be intimidating and adversarial. We ensure that your rights are protected during interviews, hearings, and all stages of the investigation.
• Challenging Weak or Unsubstantiated Claims: Many complaints are based on misunderstandings, incomplete information, or false accusations. We work to highlight weaknesses in the evidence and bring forward facts that support your professional conduct.
• Mitigating Consequences: Even if a mistake occurred, there are often opportunities to resolve the matter without the loss of your license. We negotiate with the OPD to pursue outcomes such as remedial education, treatment, or probationary measures instead of suspension or revocation.
• Preserving Your Professional Reputation: Beyond the immediate risk to your license, an OPD investigation can tarnish your reputation. We work diligently to minimize damage to your standing in the professional community.

Contact Our Psychologist Defense Lawyers

If you are a psychologist who practices in New York State and you receive a letter from the Office of Professional Discipline, you need to understand the severity of the situation and should take action immediately. Once you receive a letter from the OPD, they will conduct the investigation into the claim, and then you will be required to attend a hearing where the disciplinary actions are determined. It is crucial that you retain the services of an experienced medical law attorney who can help you put together a case and work towards saving your medical license and ultimately, your career.

If you’re a psychologist who has received a letter from the OPD, contact Walker Medical Law today to see how our psychologist defense lawyers can help.