As nurses and students aspiring to be nurses in New York know, it takes a real commitment to the profession and devotion to patients to become licensed as an RN or LPN. Even more, the New York State Education Department says, you must meet education requirements, be at least 18 years old, meet examination requirements and “demonstrate that you are currently of good moral character in order to be licensed or registered as an RN or LPN.”
The Education Department poses a list of questions to applicants about character. While a “yes” answer to any of them does not automatically mean disqualification, it does mean NYSED will look at the application and decide on a case by case basis whether or not the applicant meets the state’s standards.
The questions revolve around any possible criminal charges an applicant might face or have faced in the past, as well as questions about professional conduct.
On its website, NYSED asks first whether you have been found guilty or pleaded guilty or pleaded no contest to a felony or misdemeanor in any court.
The department also wants to know if you have any criminal charges pending against you anywhere.
In addition, you’re asked if you have ever had a professional license revoked, suspended, placed on probation, etc. You also must tell the department whether you have any pending professional misconduct allegations against you anywhere.
They also want to know if a hospital or other facility has ever terminated or restricted your employment or privileges and whether you have ever resigned to avoid those kinds of restrictions or termination.
Nurses who face possible disciplinary actions related to any of these matters know that their license and livelihood can be on the line. A nursing license defense lawyer can help protect your rights and career.
