FL BON and DUI -- Anyone with info?

remotefuse · Dec 23, 2014

Really sorry to hear that happened to you. Have you viewed the FL BON conviction guidelines?

http://floridasnursing.gov/forms/convict-record-guidelines.pdf

I have had to call about something in my background and they have told me that this is a general guideline and not to rely on it exclusively because the board will look at everything on a case by case basis.

RNsRWe, ASN, RN · Dec 24, 2014

I cannot speak with any authority concerning the FL BoN, but I can comment on the situation in general. If you have a pending court case, I cannot see your initial license being approved. I would think the decision to grant the license would depend on the outcome of the court case, and the FL BoN's opinion of same.

What I'm wondering now is whether they would give you the ATT at this time, knowing you might not be eligible for a license......or if they'd NOT grant the ATT until disposition of the case.

Honestly, it seems like your only reasonable action at this point is to talk to someone at the BoN and ask directly if an open/pending charge will affect your ability to test....or your ability to become licensed. Save yourself and the person who answers the phone the aggravation of spelling out the whole thing (they won't be interested in details, remorse, etc etc) and all you really need to know right now is whether or not you should apply to take the NCLEX.

The rest will all come out later.

twinsmom788 · Dec 29, 2014

Totally agree with this post. Two pieces of advice. You have separate issues here and will be better served to have two separate attorneys. Your criminal attorney will serve you best by having your charge reduced to reckless driving. Once that is accomplished you may not have a roadblock to testing and licensure. If you are required to appear before the board either hire a local attorney who is familiar with licensure cases or represent yourself. Please don't have representation who is not familiar with board procedures. Usually, a first time DUI is not a roadblock to licensure IF you are not still under probation. I can appreciate your guilt and remorse, but perhaps, placing this behind you and working positively to make certain this never happens again will benefit you more. My sincere best wishes for success.

Equin · Dec 30, 2014

I honestly wouldn't be too worried by the fear mongering particularly amongst people that may have never been placed in this situation. I can tell you from personal experience and from many friends and coworkers who have gone through issues like this that it will likely be a non issue. A nursing school class mate actually had a a reckless driving and a dui and the board didn't even call her in to talk about it. I personally was on probation when i was applying for my nursing license for a reckless driving alcohol related and the board of nursing also did not even bother to ask me anything about it and just put all my paper work through. I know many others that either had pending litigation or were found straight up guilty and did not have any issue whatsoever getting their license. Granted this is all in the north east area and i do not know about the florida BoN specifically. But I highly doubt you will run into issues. Just be open and honest about everything on the application. Also make sure to really reflect on the experience so it never happens again.

twinsmom788 · Dec 31, 2014

I am happy that you were able to cruise through your process to receive your license. However, some states take these matters a little more seriously. It is much better to be prepared than to take these criminal charges lightly. And yes.... I do know since I sat on the BON.

Rebecrn · Jan 2, 2015

I also have the same issues, I am awaiting for the court case to happen. My attorney says I don't have to disclose any information since I have not been found guilty and most likely won't but I don't want to lie to the Bon. I don't know If I should apply and disclose everything. I feel like I should tell them because of the background check, I know this process will take a long time. I need advice

JamesC18 · Sep 11, 2015

UPDATE: Just figured I'd stop in and give everyone an update as to what occurred for me, as the process and time period was by far the most anxiety filled and stressful period I've ever had in my life. I know others may be in a similar situation and I'd like to help, as there is light at the end of the tunnel. Just PLEASE LEARN from your (and my) mistake! So, here's what happened: I pled nolo contendre for DUI. Completed all the terms the court required (fines, community service, classes, victim panel etc.) and then applied to the BON. I was honest, included my letter to BON explaining the circumstances of my criminal charge/conviction. I heard back within a couple weeks and was approved to sit for NCLEX. I'll always carry the charge with me, which could cause an issue with other state BON or hospitals. But...I am on the road to becoming an RN! So, hang in there.

nocturnallife, ASN, RN · Sep 4, 2016

So happy for you! Did you have to send them 3 professional refferal letters?