Anyone looking to become an occupational therapist in California must apply for the appropriate credentials before working in the field. Because of the nature of their work, all medical professionals in California are expected to meet strict professional standards.
Occupational therapist licenses are regulated by the California Board of Occupation Therapy. Their main purpose is to:
- License occupational therapists and therapy assistants
- Investigate any misconduct allegations or complaints against occupational therapists
Occupational therapists must meet rigorous standards and pass a state-certified exam in order to be granted a license. Once certified, therapists must comply with the rules of conduct.
Getting licensed is one of the final steps if you want to become an occupational therapist. Generally, a license application is submitted once you’ve finished your academic and professional training. Sadly, even after all their hard work, some applicants can be denied a license.
Common reasons for application denials include:
- Previous criminal conviction
- Failing to disclose the requested information
- Misinformation in application
- Previous administrative discipline
If you are looking to get licensed as an occupational therapist in California, you must know the application requirements to avoid a potential denial down the road.
If you think your application could be denied, consulting with an occupational therapy license defense lawyer can help rule out any concerns you have.
What to Do If Your License Is Denied
If your application was denied by the Board of Occupational Therapists, you have the legal right to appeal their decision. Sometimes, denials are unexpected. Every case is different, and receiving a letter of denial does not mean your career is over.
A denial is also called a “Statement of Issues.” You can appeal denials before a judge who will look at the evidence and issue a decision.
You have 60 days to file an appeal from the date of denial, so you must act fast.
Administrative Hearing
When you appeal your denial, your case will be given an administrative hearing, regulated by the Board of Occupational Therapists. Your occupational therapy license defense lawyer will handle this process from start to finish.
A presiding judge will review any evidence your attorney presents to determine whether your application denial should stand and make a final ruling.
Some examples of what the judge will review in an appeal include:
- Documents that prove legal resolution or expungement of criminal records
- Clarifying evidence regarding any prior convictions
- Updated information
- Expert witness testimony
- Evidence of rehabilitation
- Mitigating and exculpatory evidence
If you are successful in your appeal, the judge may request a probationary period, during which you will have to follow certain requirements.
Some examples of these conditions include:
- Complying with court-ordered requests
- Avoiding criminal activity
- Making regular appearances before the board
- Completing additional training or counseling
- Frequent communication with the board to monitor the progress
An occupational therapy license defense lawyer will assess the basis of your denial to plan the appeal process and present the best case.
Fighting Application Denials
Every license application denial has its own unique story. Contact S J Harris Law for a consultation today. Our attorneys will work with you to plan your appeal to be approved by the licensing board.
