Paramedic or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Board License Defense Lawyers

Helping Paramedics and EMTs When Their Licenses are at Risk

As a lawyer who regularly represents paramedics and EMTs, I know how scary it is when your license is being investigated. Your career is on the line, and you need someone in your corner who understands the system and how to defend you. In this article, I want to explain the process in plain language, talk about common accusations, and give you a sense of how an experienced attorney can help.

How California’s EMS Authority Oversees Licenses

In California, the Emergency Medical Services Authority is in charge of licensing paramedics and EMTs. They issue three levels of EMT certificates plus paramedic licenses. To get licensed in the first place, you have to meet strict education and training requirements, pass exams, and clear background checks. To keep your license, you need to take regular continuing education classes and follow ethical rules.

If a complaint comes in, the EMS Authority will investigate and can take disciplinary action against your license. This can range from citations and fines for minor issues up to probation, suspension, or full revocation for more serious problems.

Common Reasons People Get in Trouble

In my experience, some frequent accusations that trigger EMS Authority discipline include:

• Mistakes in patient care
• Errors in documentation
• Unprofessional behavior on the job
• Ambulance driving violations
• Substance abuse
• Criminal offenses
• Going outside your scope of practice
• Not finishing required continuing ed

Complaints come from different places. Sometimes it’s an unhappy patient or family member. Your employer or a hospital might file a report. Even routine audits of patient care records can raise red flags that lead to an investigation.

How a Lawyer Fights to Protect Your License

When you’re facing license discipline, having a lawyer on your side who knows the system is so important. Here’s how an experienced attorney can help:

First, we start gathering information as soon as you know there may be an issue. The sooner we can get involved, the better we can build your defense strategy.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

If the EMS Authority formally accuses you, we contest the charges by filing a Notice of Defense. Then comes discovery – we dig into the facts through witness interviews, documents requests, and more.

In some cases, we may be able to negotiate a settlement to resolve things without a hearing. If we do have to go to a hearing, I’ll be right by your side, cross-examining witnesses, presenting evidence, and making arguments to prove your innocence.

And if the outcome still isn’t in your favor, I can file an appeal to fight it through the legal system.

How We Challenge Different Types of Accusations

Here are some examples of how an experienced lawyer like me defends against common allegations:

Patient Care Issues

I thoroughly investigate any incident – interviewing witnesses, poring through medical records, consulting experts to evaluate if care met standards.

Record-Keeping Problems

I review the records to identify errors but also look for benign explanations, like a chaotic emergency scene. And I highlight steps you’re taking to improve documentation.

Unprofessional Conduct

I make sure policies were clear, differentiate minor versus serious, and present evidence of your otherwise solid reputation.

Ambulance Violations

I dig into DMV files, ambulance telemetry, and witness statements to prove the alleged violations were unwarranted or mitigated.

Substance Abuse

I verify the allegations, provide proof of treatment/recovery, and use drug tests and work evaluations to demonstrate sobriety.

Criminal Offenses

I scour police reports and court records for extenuating circumstances. Rehab efforts and a clean background show good character.

Scope of Practice Issues

I analyze regulations and protocols to prove you acted within proper authority and didn’t endanger patients.

Lacking Continuing Education

I provide proof you’re addressing any shortfalls in classes. And emphasize there were no public safety impacts.

As you can see, an experienced lawyer has the skills and knowledge to challenge disciplinary accusations. I know how to stand up for your rights and show you deserve to keep your EMT or paramedic license.

If your career is on the line, please don’t go it alone. You need someone who knows this complex system. Call me to discuss your situation in a free consultation.

With an attorney’s help, we can get through this difficult time together. My goal is keeping you in the profession you love – providing life-saving care when people need it most.