Facing a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge is a serious matter for anyone, but for physicians in Texas, the stakes are even higher. A DWI conviction can not only result in criminal penalties but also jeopardize a physician’s professional life. The medical license that took years of hard work and dedication to obtain could be at risk. Understanding the specific Texas laws that apply to physicians with DWI offenses is important. Below, Price & Twine, PLLC goes over the DWI laws in the state, the special risks to physicians, and why it is important to consult with a lawyer if facing charges.
Defense Attorney for Physicians Charged with DWI in Texas
To speak with a DWI lawyer in Texas, contact Price & Twine, PLLC at (512) 354-1880. Price & Twine, PLLC is experienced in dealing with Texas laws that directly impact physicians with DWI offenses. Our aim is to help safeguard our clients’ freedoms and careers.
Overview of Career Consequences for Texas Physicians With DWI
- Grounds For Denial Or Disciplinary Action
- Prohibited Practices By Physician or License Applicant
- Required Suspension or Revocation of License for Certain Offenses
- License Denial or Suspension
- Frequently Asked Questions About Career Consequences for Physicians With DWI in Texas
- Areas We Serve
- Career Consequences for Texas Physicians With DWI Resources
Grounds for Denial or Disciplinary Action
Texas Medical Board can deny a medical license or take disciplinary action against a physician. Texas Occupations Code Section 164.051 states that if a physician is convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, this may be grounds for disciplinary action. While a DWI is typically a misdemeanor, it can escalate to a felony under certain circumstances, such as repeated offenses or when it results in harm to others. Also, Section 164.051 states that if a physician is unable to practice medicine with reasonable skill and safety due to drunkenness, disciplinary action could follow.
Prohibited Practices By Physician or License Applicant
Under Section 164.052, certain actions could result in disciplinary action against a physician. Among these is the use of alcohol or drugs in a manner that could endanger a patient’s life. A DWI charge could be interpreted as an example of this use.
Required Suspension or Revocation of License for Certain Offenses
According to Section 164.057, Texas Medical Board can suspend a physician’s license if they have been convicted of a felony, among other offenses. While a first-time DWI is usually not a felony, repeated DWI offenses can escalate to felony charges, leading to mandatory license suspension. If the conviction becomes final, the board is required to revoke the physician’s license.
License Denial or Suspension
Under Texas law, a physician could potentially have their license denied or revoked , especially if convicted of a felony DWI. A mandatory license revocation is the most severe career consequence and means that the physician will no longer be able to practice medicine in Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Career Consequences for Physicians With DWI in Texas
What Can Trigger Disciplinary Action?
Under Texas Occupations Code Section 164.051, disciplinary action can result from a physician being convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor that involves moral turpitude. The law also states that disciplinary action can be taken if a physician is unable to practice medicine with reasonable skill and safety due to drunkenness.
What Does Texas Law Say For Physicians Charged With DWI?
Texas law outlines prohibited practices by a physician that could lead to disciplinary action. One of these is the use of alcohol or drugs in a manner that could endanger a patient’s life.Is License Revocation Mandatory For Felony Convictions?
Yes, if a physician is convicted of a felony, the Texas Medical Board is required to revoke the physician’s license.What Are The Reputational Consequences Of A DWI?
While Texas law mainly focuses on legal consequences, a DWI conviction could lead to professional reputational damage. Physicians may find it difficult to maintain a successful practice or obtain employment in other medical establishments.
Areas We Serve
We service cities in Williamson County such as:
- Cedar Park
- Georgetown
- Leander
- Round Rock
- Taylor
- Hutto
- Liberty Hill
We also service cities in Bell County such as:
Resources on Career Consequences for Texas Physicians With DWI
Texas Penal Code explains what a DWI is in the state as well as the penalties for violating the law. View the following Texas laws to learn more about which actions are prohibited by physicians in the state and what could cause a physician’s license to be taken away:
Why Physicians With DWI Charges Need a DWI Lawyer
If you’re a physician dealing with a DWI charge in Texas, you want to protect your career and future. Price & Twine, PLLC DWI lawyers can provide the guidance and support you need. Reach out to Price & Twine, PLLC for a consultation about your legal rights and options. Call us at (512) 354-1880 or contact us online. With so much on the line, don’t leave your career and reputation to chance—get the professional legal help you deserve.