CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Optometrists DUI Charges in Los Angeles

The Impact of DUI Convictions on Optometrists Licensing Status

As a professional, an optometrist is one of the many types of professionals whose license may be at risk if convicted of a DUI. Under the California Board of Optometry, optometrists must be licensed to practice. If a conviction of a DUI is issued, this authority to practice is immediately compromised. The Board possesses the mandate of enforcing disciplinary actions to licensees who have criminal charges against them.

The California Business and Professions Code Section 3110 BPC outlines the concerning activities that could lead to the revocation of an optometrist’s license. Conviction for an offense directly tied to professional responsibility and capability that renders the optometrist hazardous to the public results in a significant danger to the optometrist’s license under the California Board of Optometry’s disciplinary action.

The Investigation Process of the California Board of Optometry

In some instances, a DUI conviction can be a direct offense that affects an optometrist’s ability to practice. When an optometrist is arrested or accused of DUI, the California Board of Optometry is well within its rights to begin an investigation. In cases of a misdemeanor DUI, extremely high BAC, an automotive accident, prior DUI convictions, and narcotic use are some of the factors the Board will investigate. Expunged convictions do not shield optometrists from facing disciplinary action from the Board.

The California Board of Optometry does not take lightly offenses that impair public safety. Licensees with a pattern of alcohol and drug use are closely monitored, and if necessary, their optometry practice license may be confiscated or suspended. In addition to that, California optometry license applicants with numerous DUI convictions may have their applications denied. Licensed optometrists and applicants are subject to the same investigation process.

What are the Consequences of DUI Conviction for Licensed Optometrists?

Even when the Board does not take disciplinary action, a DUI conviction can significantly impact an optometrist’s career. When an optometrist is arrested for DUI, their license will be suspending immediately, and a notification of the driver’s license suspension will follow within ten days. Individuals with their first DUI will get a standard license suspension of four months, with the first 30 days of the suspension deemed “hard,” which precludes driving under any circumstances. After 30 days, the individual may qualify for a restricted driver’s license that allows them to travel to work and alcohol education classes exclusively.

However, an individual who refused to undergo a chemical test will receive a one-year suspension with no eligibility for a restricted driver’s license included. DUI convicts, including optometrists, are responsible for obeying the conditions of their sentences, which may consist of imprisonment, community service, drug and alcohol education classes, and restitution if an accident resulted from the DUI.

Moreover, DUI defendants in Los Angeles are obligated to install and maintain an Ignition Interlock Device in their vehicles, in adherence to the DUI Pilot Program.

The Relevance of Hiring a Los Angeles DUI Attorney

It is critical for licensed professionals, including optometrists, to seek legal representation from a knowledgeable Los Angeles DUI attorney as soon as they receive a DUI charge. Seeking competent and experienced legal representation is essential in building a standing defense against any DUI charge. Expert Los Angeles DUI lawyers possess considerable expertise and legal knowledge, including a comprehensive understanding of the California optometry laws.

Hiring legal representation from a Los Angeles DUI attorney may improve an optometrist’s chances of retaining their license and maintaining their medical practice.

Therefore, it is essential for optometrists facing DUI convictions and license-related issues to consult Todd Spodek, a knowledgeable Los Angeles DUI attorney, to protect their medical practice and professional reputation.

| Criminal Charge | Disciplinary Action |
|—————————————-|—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————|
| Optometrists charged with DUI | The Board of Optometry can investigate, and the licensee is at risk of having their license suspended, confiscated or revoked. Individuals with many DUI convictions will not be granted a license. Unrestricted and restricted license applications are subject to the same investigation. |
| Arrest or conviction for misdemeanor | Factors such as an extremely high BAC, narcotic use, previous DUI convictions, or a traffic accident will lead to an investigation. The Board can take action if the licensees involved are found to be hazardous to the public. An optometrist’s expunged conviction will not save them from disciplinary action. |
| License suspension | The suspension occurs immediately after the arrest, and the driver is guaranteed a notification of driver’s license suspension within ten days. The hard suspension extends to 30 days for first-time DUI convicts. An individual may be eligible for a restricted driver’s license after 30 days, with no eligibility for a restricted driver’s license for convicted individuals who refused a chemical test. |
| Follow-up Actions | Optometrists must be compliant with their sentence’s terms, including imprisonment, community service, alcohol and drug education classes, and restitution for accidents incurred. In addition, DUI defendants must install and maintain an Ignition interlock device as mandated by the DUI pilot program. |
| Legal Representation’s Impact on DUIs | Optometrists and other licensed professionals should consider seeking legal representation. Retaining a competent and experienced Los Angeles DUI attorney with knowledge of California’s optometry laws can improve an optometrist’s chance of retaining their license and preventing the downfall of their medical practice. |