Criminal Charges vs. Licensing Investigations: Why Nurses Need Legal Help for Both

When nurses face a criminal charge—no matter how minor—they’re usually quick to call an attorney. And rightly so. The possibility of fines, jail time, or a criminal record is terrifying. Legal representation feels like a no-brainer.

But what about when a nurse receives a letter from the state board? Suddenly, the urgency fades. Many nurses think, “I can handle this on my own,” or “It’s not that serious.”The truth? It is that serious.

A criminal attorney protects your freedom. A licensing attorney protects your career.

For nurses, your license is your livelihood. It’s your ability to work, provide for your family, and practice the profession you’ve dedicated your life to. When the nursing board opens an investigation, your entire future is at stake, and yet far too many nurses try to navigate it without proper legal help.

Here’s the difference:

• A criminal case may never even affect your license—but a licensing investigation absolutely can, even if you’ve never been arrested or charged.

• In a criminal court, you’re innocent until proven guilty. But in a licensing investigation, the board’s mission is to protect the public, not you.

• Criminal attorneys defend you from losing your freedom. Licensing attorneys defend you from losing your career.

That’s why Bridge Referral Network exists.

We understand that nurses often don’t realize how serious a licensing issue is—until it’s too late. Bridge Referral Network connects nurses with experienced, vetted attorneys who specialize in nursing board matters. These are legal professionals who know how to respond to board investigations, defend your license, and make sure your voice is heard.

🛡️ Your license is your career. Don’t risk it by going it alone.

You wouldn’t face a criminal charge without a lawyer. Don’t face a licensing investigation without one either.